Here’s a guide to the 7 best beaches for snorkelling on the Costa Brava:
The 7 Best Beaches for Snorkelling on the Costa Brava
1. Punta Santa Anna
Located in the Blanes area, its crystal-clear waters make it ideal for snorkelling. This is an easy-level dive with a depth of 16 metres. The route is divided into two zones—the seabed around the Santa Anna islet and the rocky slab—though they connect underwater.
Situated just outside Blanes, this sheltered cove lies between two large islets. It’s a rocky beach with no sand, nestled in a small bay with an irregular coastline. Its location ensures calm waters, making it perfect for snorkelling without strong waves.
3. Fenals Beach
Found in Lloret del Mar, this is the municipality’s second-largest beach. It features multiple snorkelling spots: two shallow areas in the north (at the start and end of the beach) and an islet to the south for a second snorkelling route.
4. Medes Islands
A marine reserve in L’Estartit, the Medes Islands boast abundant marine life and are part of the Montgrí Natural Park. With numerous snorkelling spots, this archipelago of 7 islets is one of the Mediterranean’s most important marine reserves—and a top destination for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. Access is restricted to boats.
Tucked into a small bay in Calella de Palafrugell, this hidden sandy beach (75 metres long) is flanked by cliffs. The cove’s coarse sand and surrounding cliffs—along with nearby coves along the coastal path—are ideal for snorkelling.
6. Illa Roja Beach
Also known as Cala Moreta (located in Begur), this beach is named after its distinctive reddish rock formation. Its remote location keeps tourist numbers low, making it perfect for uninterrupted snorkelling.
7. Cape of Creus
A protected area in Roses, its translucent waters simplify snorkelling. Famous for its cliffs and coves, it lies within the Cap de Creus Natural Park—Catalonia’s first maritime-terrestrial park—in the Alt Empordà region.
