So you’re planning a trip to Girona and want to be close to the beach? Smart choice! While Girona’s Old Town is absolutely stunning, staying near the Costa Brava beaches gives you the best of both worlds – gorgeous Mediterranean coastline right at your doorstep and quick access to Girona’s cultural gems. This guide walks you through the top beach hotels and everything you need to know about picking the perfect spot for your stay.
Why You Should Definitely Stay Near the Beach
Let’s be honest – waking up to sea views and having the beach a few steps away is pretty much vacation goals. The Costa Brava (which literally means “rugged coast”) sits about 30km from Girona, making it super convenient for day trips into the city while you enjoy that Mediterranean vibe. Whether you’re traveling with family, your partner, or solo, beach stays offer something special – sunset swims, fresh seafood dinners by the water, and easy access to water sports.
Plus, you’re not sacrificing culture for beaches. Towns like Tossa de Mar have medieval walled quarters right next to the shore, so you get history and beach time in one package.
Top Beach Towns Near Girona (Where to Base Yourself)
Lloret de Mar
The party capital of Costa Brava! Great for nightlife lovers and families who want resort amenities and long sandy beaches.
Platja d’Aro
Think shopping, dining, and a beautiful long beach. Perfect if you want that lively summer energy.
Tossa de Mar
Probably the most picturesque option – you get crystal-clear waters, a charming medieval old town, and tons of Instagram-worthy spots. This one’s our personal favorite for its character.
Sant Antoni de Calonge
Calmer and more family-friendly. Less crowds, more chill.
Blanes
Known for its botanical gardens and quieter coves. Great if you want to escape the tourist rush.
Best Hotels Near Girona’s Beaches
Luxury Picks (For When You’re Treating Yourself)
Hostal de La Gavina – This place is absolutely stunning. Located in S’Agaró with panoramic sea views, it’s got 75 individually decorated rooms with antiques and fine fabrics. Perfect for couples and anyone wanting that timeless, elegant vibe. It’s about an hour north of Barcelona and offers first-class service with innovative cuisine.
Hotel Aigua Blava – Perched on one of the most spectacular cliffs in Costa Brava, this boutique hotel in Begur combines blue waters with whitewashed houses. You get direct access to a small sandy beach and rooms start from around 161 EUR. The shower rooms and deep sunken baths are chef’s kiss.
Mid-Range Options (Best Bang for Your Buck)
Hotel Diana (Tossa de Mar) – Set right on Tossa de Mar Beach with fantastic sea views and direct beach access. This modernist boutique hotel sits in the historic center, so you’re within walking distance to everything. Highly rated by families and couples alike.
Hotel Sant Roc (Calella de Palafrugell) – A welcoming family-run hotel perched at the cliff edge with wonderful sea views. Rooms start from 279 EUR, and it’s got that intimate, personal atmosphere you don’t always get at bigger resorts.
Gran Hotel Reymar (Tossa de Mar) – Popular with travelers looking for comfort without breaking the bank. Great reviews from families.
Budget-Friendly Stays (Because Beach Life Shouldn’t Cost a Fortune)
Hostal L’Alba (Tossa de Mar) – Small, well-reviewed, and close to the beach. Perfect for backpackers and budget-conscious families.
Hostal Mediterráneo (Tossa de Mar) – Another solid budget option with good ratings and proximity to public transport and dining.
Hotel Aromar – Consistently gets love from guests for being affordable yet comfortable with beach access.
Boutique & Unique Stays
Hotel Cap d’Or (Tossa de Mar) – Small, stylish, and right on the water. If you want something with character and a more intimate feel, this is it.
Hostal Empúries – Eco-conscious travelers love this spot for its unique approach and beach proximity.
Quick Comparison: Top Beach Hotels Near Girona
How to Pick Your Perfect Beach Hotel
Location matters: Do you want a quiet cove like those near Begur or the lively vibes of Lloret de Mar? Think about your travel style.
Budget reality check: Peak season (July-August) gets pricey. June and September offer better rates with still-great weather.
Parking situation: If you’re driving, check whether the hotel has parking. Coastal towns can get crazy crowded in summer.
Family or adults-only? Some hotels like Hotel Windsor Tossa are adults-only, while others cater specifically to families.
Things to Do Near the Beaches
The Costa Brava isn’t just about sunbathing (though that’s pretty great too). You’ve got snorkeling, kayaking, and boat tours available at most major beaches. The Camí de Ronda coastal walking trail is absolutely epic – it’s a series of paths that run along the entire coast connecting coves and villages. The linear route from Sant Feliu de Guíxols to Begur is about 43km and can be done over 2-3 days.
For foodies, beachfront dining is everywhere. Fresh seafood, paella with a view, and local Catalan dishes are the move. And don’t skip day trips into Girona city center – it’s only about 30-45 minutes from most Costa Brava beaches.
Best Time to Visit
June and September are the sweet spot – warm enough for swimming (sea temps around 20-24°C), but not as crowded or expensive as peak summer. July and August are perfect if you love hot weather and don’t mind crowds, with temps hitting 30°C+.
Late May is also brilliant if you want to beat the rush – gardens are in bloom and parking isn’t a nightmare yet. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal for hiking the Camí de Ronda without melting.
Quick Tips Before You Book
Book early if you’re visiting in summer – seriously, popular places fill up fast. Look for hotels with free cancellation policies for flexibility. Check if breakfast is included – it can save you time and money. Also, learn a bit of basic Spanish or Catalan – locals appreciate the effort, and many smaller hotels are family-run, where English might be limited.
For families, look for hotels with pools in addition to beach access. Kids love having options, and sometimes the sea can be a bit rough.
Staying near Girona’s Costa Brava beaches seriously elevates your trip. You get the best Mediterranean scenery, easy access to both beach life and cultural exploration, and honestly, it’s just the vibe you want when you’re in this part of Spain. Pick from this curated list based on your budget and style, and you’re set for an amazing stay!
