Costa Brava, Catalonia, Spain
The Costa Brava's most popular resort beach β golden, lively, and beautifully Mediterranean.
Location
Platja d'Aro, Costa Brava
Sand Type
Golden
Water Clarity
Clear
Facilities
Full facilities, Water Sports, Restaurants
Best Season
June β September
Nearest Airport
Girona-Costa Brava (GRO) / Barcelona El Prat (BCN)
Platja de Aro β officially "Platja d'Aro" in Catalan β is a sun-soaked resort town on the southern Costa Brava, roughly 100 km northeast of Barcelona. Its main beach stretches nearly two kilometres in a broad, gentle arc of golden sand, backed by a lively promenade lined with restaurants, bars, ice cream shops, and water sports hire. It is consistently one of the most-visited beaches on the Costa Brava.
The flat, sheltered bay and clean waters make it particularly well-suited for families with children. Pedal boats, kayaks, jet skis, and parasailing are available throughout summer, while lifeguards patrol the beach from morning until evening. The beach earns Blue Flag status regularly, a testament to its water quality and environmental management.
Beyond the beach, Platja d'Aro has a side street network of boutiques, traditional restaurants serving locally caught fish, and a summer nightlife scene that's lively but not overwhelming. Nearby is the medieval castle town of Castell d'Aro, perched in the hills just a few kilometres from the coast β a fascinating contrast to the resort atmosphere below.
The promenade is fully flat and accessible. Beach access ramps are in place for wheelchair users, and adapted beach wheelchairs are available on request at the beach office during peak season.
From Barcelona, take a RENFE train to Girona then a connecting bus or taxi to Platja d'Aro. By car, take the AP-7 motorway and exit at junction 7 (Platja d'Aro). Parking is available along the seafront and in pay car parks nearby.
π° Castell d'Aro
Medieval hilltop castle village with panoramic views
π Cala Rovira
Small rocky cove to the south, ideal for snorkelling
π PalamΓ³s Port
Authentic fishing port with world-famous local prawn
πΏ Gavarres Nature Park
Protected forest massif ideal for hiking and cycling