Family Holidays · Costa Brava travel guide
The Costa Brava is a wonderful place for families who like a little of everything: beach time, short outings, colourful seaside towns and quiet moments together. Around Calonge and Platja d’Aro, you can plan enjoyable days without spending hours in the car.
Thinking about where to stay? Explore our holiday homes for families on the Costa Brava while you plan the details of your trip.
Choose a beach that suits your family
A beach day is easier when the access is straightforward and there are places to find food, toilets or shade nearby. Young children may prefer playing at the water’s edge, while older children might want to swim. Check local conditions on the day: waves, currents and wind can change, even in sheltered coves.
Before you unpack all the beach gear, check three practical things: how far you must walk from the car, whether there is shade or a place to take a break, and how easy it is to leave when the children have had enough. The most beautiful cove is not always the easiest family beach.
An easy afternoon in Platja d’Aro
Platja d’Aro combines a broad beach with shops, cafés and places to stop for ice cream. Rather than planning several activities, let one outing be the centre of the day. Calonge and nearby Sant Antoni have a different, more relaxed character, which can be ideal when everyone needs a slower afternoon.
A low-key morning by the water in Sant Antoni de Calonge, followed by a stroll along the seafront, can be a whole day out for younger children. On another day, try Platja d’Aro for a change of scenery, an ice cream and a short wander. You do not need a packed itinerary to enjoy the area.
Explore the coastline on foot
Sections of the camins de ronda coastal paths have beautiful views of the sea and smaller coves. Not all sections are suitable for a pushchair, and some have steep steps. Choose a short stretch matched to the age of your children, bring water and comfortable shoes, and return before everyone gets tired.
Older children may love looking down into rocky coves from a section of the coastal path, while younger ones might prefer a shorter, flatter route. Check the terrain before you set off; some paths have uneven steps and exposed sections that are not suited to pushchairs.
Leave space for downtime
A busy holiday itinerary can feel exhausting with children. A quiet morning at the accommodation, lunch together and one short excursion may be more enjoyable than a full day of sightseeing. If you are travelling with toddlers, see our tips for visiting the Costa Brava with young children.
Keep an unplanned afternoon in every few days. Board games, a slow lunch or simply playing in the shade can feel much more like a holiday than driving from one attraction to the next. These quiet hours also help everyone enjoy an evening out together.
Does a pool make sense?
A pool can be a convenient extra, especially when you would rather stay at home for part of the day. Check whether the pool is private, how it can be accessed and whether there are safety barriers. Adults must actively supervise children near any water. Our holiday-home pool checklist covers the key questions.
When you are ready to find accommodation, browse our holiday homes for families on the Costa Brava. You can also view all holiday homes on the Costa Brava to compare locations and facilities.