It’s no wonder the ancient Greeks landed on these shores if from the sea they saw paradises like this. They came by boat — we’ll go by foot. And it will be worth it, because at the end of the trail a virgin oasis of emerald and turquoise waters will unfold before us.
But to enjoy also means to protect. The coves of the Costa Brava are part of fragile ecosystems and protected natural areas. If we want to keep feeling moved by these landscapes, we must balance recreation and respect.
Plan your trip carefully, check access conditions (some coves have restrictions), stay on marked paths, leave no trace, and don’t take plants, stones, or seashells.
Always carry a trash bag — and if you find waste, pick that up too. Remember: the best souvenir is the one that leaves no mark.
Let’s enjoy, yes, but with respect and awareness. So Costa Brava remains wild, beautiful nature for generations to come.
Located within the protected natural area of Les Cadiretes, this cove features a rocky seabed and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling. It’s small and surrounded by cliffs, giving it a wild and untouched charm.
👉 Avoid stepping on coastal vegetation and don’t take anything with you — shells and stones are part of the natural balance. Always take your trash with you.
A little gem along the coastal path of S’Agaró, surrounded by rocks and pine trees. With coarse sand and clear waters, this cove is easily accessible on foot and offers a peaceful, intimate atmosphere—especially in the morning. Perfect for a quiet swim between nature and Noucentista architecture.
👉 Don’t leave towels or belongings on coastal vegetation. Use only marked access paths and help preserve this small, fragile ecosystem.
This cove surprises everyone with large, round, smooth rocks emerging from clear waters. Visitors climb, lie down, jump, read, and imagine shapes in the stones carved whimsically by water and wind. You can access it from both north and south via coastal paths.
👉 Don’t draw or mark the rocks — they’re unique natural formations. Only use designated paths to reach the cove.
After a short hike, you’ll spot two fine lines of sand tracing the base of the mountain and the edge of the sea. You’ve arrived at a peaceful, stunning cove with crystal-clear waters — the perfect place to spend hours away from the world. For many, it’s an ideal spot to spend the night and watch the sunrise.
👉 Camping and fires are not allowed. Enjoy the silence, and leave no trace.
Small and pebbly, nestled among pine trees, this cove requires a short hike but rewards the effort with cool, transparent waters. A perfect place to unplug and soak in the wild serenity of Palafrugell’s coastline.
👉 Don’t light fires or leave food waste behind. This is an unserviced cove, so be self-sufficient and respectful. Don’t take natural elements—the best memory is the one that leaves no trace.
Photos online might make this cove seem hard to reach, but it’s actually quite easy. Walk down to Sa Tuna beach and follow the coastal path for a few minutes to the wooden lookout and Sa Punta des Plom. Welcome to a peaceful 50-meter-long transparent haven.
👉 Keep your voice low, leave no waste, and respect the peace of both the environment and marine life.
One of the wildest and most photogenic coves on the Costa Brava, located within the Parc Natural del Montgrí, les Illes Medes i el Baix Ter. Cala Ferriol offers a dramatic landscape: two rocky walls opening like a curtain and, in the middle, a small group of stones emerging from the water.
It can be reached on foot or by kayak. The hiking trail is demanding and has no shade until the final stretch — full information can be found on the Parc’s website. It is advisable to avoid the hottest hours of the day.
The surrounding cliffs host protected species such as ensopeguera, including a local endemic that blooms in summer. The seabed features a protected Posidonia oceanica meadow, marked by buoys installed by the Parc. Anchoring is not allowed, but swimming and snorkelling are permitted — always with respect for the marine ecosystem.
👉 This is an unspoilt cove with no services: plan your trip well, leave no trace, and remember that the best souvenir is preserving the natural beauty.
The Cap de Creus coastline is dotted with small coves, and this one lies north of Cadaqués. It’s rocky, clear, and intimate — perfect for those who enjoy hiking in or parking nearby.
👉 Only park in designated areas, and avoid stepping on dune or coastal vegetation.
In the northern part of the Cap de Creus Natural Park lies a hidden cove with pebbles and crystal-clear waters — a place where time seems to stand still and nature speaks with its own voice. Pines, wind-sculpted rocks, and a deep blue horizon create a truly captivating landscape. It’s accessible only on foot, with a pleasant 30-minute walk from Cala Tamariua along a well-marked trail.
👉 Don’t catch marine life like crabs or snails. Observe respectfully and enjoy the scenery without disturbing it. Always bring a bag to carry your trash—and help clean up if you find any.
The stone walls that surround, protect, and shape this cove give it the appearance of a natural pool. An essential swimming stop.
👉 Don’t jump from the rocks, and respect the fragile marine floor. Look, but don’t touch.
Beneath a massive cliff, this cove is just 10 minutes away on foot via the coastal path. A peaceful swim and beautiful views of the bay are guaranteed.
👉 Enjoy your swim, but also observe and protect what surrounds you. If you bring a dog, keep it leashed and clean up after it.
The coves of the Costa Brava are part of a delicate natural heritage. To help preserve them:
• Plan your visit and use marked trails only.
• Leave no trace: take your waste with you, and pick up any you find.
• Do not light fires or smoke in forested areas.
• Don’t take stones, shells, or any natural items.
• Don’t feed or approach wildlife.
• Use ocean-safe sunscreen.
• Keep dogs leashed and clean up after them.
This summer, connect with nature consciously. Let today’s beauty still be tomorrow’s.
🔗 More info: espaisnaturals.cat