Tamariu Spain Travel Guide
According to the British Telegraph newspaper, the beach at Tamariu ranks as one of the best beaches on the Costa Brava. Embraced by pine clad headlands, the horse shoe shaped beach is very pretty, family friendly and sheltered. Just behind the beach is the pedestrian promenade, where there are some cafes, restaurants and beach gear shops. Parents can happily while away a little time in the shade, sipping whatever they fancy, with their children, only yards away from them, play safely on the sand.
It probably won’t be the first time you’ve heard of it, in this neck of the woods, but Tamariu was originally a small fishing village. It has definitely retained some of its charm and identity, and its beautiful south facing sandy bay offers a romantic destination for lovers. It’s also a good choice for families seeking a quieter Costa Brava resort.
The activity in the village will peak in August, but as yet there aren’t any English bars or breakfasts. Neither are there high-rise hotels on the landscape, only a blend of greens, blues and sandy shades with pretty whitewashed buildings in the foreground.
This is my kind of a place – idyllic on the eyes, relaxing for the heart and soul, yet not too far away from more active towns. Further below I have suggested a few different ideas for day-trips, however only 5 km up the road is one of the Costa Brava’s little treasures – the lovely town of Begur.
About
Tamariu is part of the municipality of Palafrugell, which means that within a fairly short distance, you can check out the main town itself, or the delights of either Calella de Palafrugell or Llafranc.
If you happen to be there in the middle of August, you be treated to the main Festival of Tamariu (15th August), which includes the traditional watermelon launching, Habaneras singing, a foam party and a clown who performs for the children.
Things To Do
Beaches
Platja de Tamariu – Tamariu Beach
Passeig Mar s/n, 17212 Tamariu
Just north of Calella, the town of Tamariu offers another charmingly traditional taste of Catalan life. The town’s beach has fine sand and all the local amenities you could require, with boat rentals, restaurants and cafes within a few paces of the beach.
Cala Pedrosa – between Llafranc and Tamariu
GIV-6542 s/n 17200 Palafrugell
Tucked between Llafranc and Tamariu, Cala Pedrosa makes an ideal retreat if you’re looking for a secluded beach all of your own. A sheltered cove, edged by cliffs and conifers, the spot draws many in-the-know divers and snorkellers. Expect moderate waves and few other beachgoers. Approaching on foot is somewhat circuitous, so most of the visitors come by boat.
Day Trips
Love Llafranc 5.1 km
Llafranc is one of those spots that has attracted artists, film stars, the beautiful people and of course the rich people – learn more here about Llafranc
Uncork An Authentic Catalan Town – Palafrugell – 5.4 km
Uncork an authentic Catalan town, and visit the capital of Tamariu’s municipality – Palafrugell, which was well known for its cork production for centuries. More information here about Palafrugell.
Be Sure To Visit Begur – 5.5 km
Begur is a little over 5 km away from Tamariu, and is definitely one of the Costa Brava’s little jewels. Enjoy crystalline water in its coves, treat yourself to good food, and visit its striking medieval castle. Check out the Begur Travel Guide.
Come to Calella de Palafrugell – 8 km
Another gem, Calella de Palafrugell is part of the same municipality as Tamariu. Try to come to its music festival in July,if you like that kind of thing – more information here
Let’s Go To Palamos! – 14 km
Only 14 km away is the once upon a time village that is now a thriving commercial and tourist town, but yet somehow blends all of this together. Actually the port itself is a good example of this. In the old port you can still feel the fishing village vibe, but this is functioning alongside the modern commercial port, and integrated into all of this is plenty of tourist establishments. Find out more in the Palamos Travel Guide.
If You Like Fine Cities, You Won’t Want To Miss Girona – 58 km
A city that has yet is not on everybody’s radar, it is both historical and beautiful. The distance is approximately 55 km and if you’d like to know more about the city please click on to Girona Travel Guide.
Come To Cadaques – 79 km
This place is worth a visit even if you’re not a Dalí fan – although be warned the road in and out is not plain sailing (but you wouldn’t want to sail on a road anyway!). Cadaques really owns the word picturesque, and is 79km away. Check out the Cadaques Travel Collection. If you are a Dalí fan the go to the Dali Triangle to see the rest of the tour.
Buzzing Barcelona – 125 km
A fair bit further away is the buzzing city of Barcelona, around 125 km.
Where to Sleep
Camping
Camping Tamariu
La Riera de Tamariu, 17212 – Phone: 972 620 422
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tamariu.camping
Open from 1st May until 30th September, this campsite is situated in a pretty, quiet cove in Tamariu. Although dogs are allowed, animals are not permitted during the high season, which normally means July to August, however best to double check this before arrival.
There is a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, ping-pong and solarium. Wooden style bungalows are also available to rent, as well as pitches. Especially if you’re travelling during the high season, choose a pitch with plenty of shade, underneath the mature trees.
There is no doubt that this camping is in a wonderful location, close to the sea. It also has a bar, supermarket and restaurant. During the season there are some animation and leisure activities, plus there are swings on site for the younger members of the family. Do be aware that if you’re pitching a tent that the ground can be quite hard once we hit the hotter time of the year!
Visit the: Camping Tamariu Website
What a gorgeous sheltered bay, this looks like the perfect place to book in the shoulder season as with the Telegraph applauding it, it will be at it’s best at those times of year! Love the village way of life this looks like it must have!
It is just perfect isn’t it Anna? 🙂 I do agree re the time of year. The only thing with the Costa Brava is that the season is a bit shorter – just translate the name – Wild Coast!
Thank you so much.
My husband and I will be coming for a holiday in April 2017 for ten days to Tamariu. I was being warned off by a few people who said it is not a nice time to go. We do not have a choice as I can only afford this trip if I go then. I want to say thhis is the best, most basic and yet comprehensive guide to the area and it’s surrounds. I am looking forward to leaving Australia for a few weeks now.
Hi Leonie,
Thank you so much for your kind comment, it is very much appreciated. 🙂
April can be a bit unpredictable, that is true, and especially in the Costa Brava. However as you’re coming from Australia, maybe weather isn’t your first concern. 🙂 I would certainly agree with you, that it is better to make the trip at an affordable time rather than not to make it at all. Regardless of weather, you can still enjoy the beauty, culture and food and wine. I would love to know how your trip goes. I wish you a super time and luck with the weather.
Warm regards
Jackie
what is the weather like in October – planning a trip to costa bravo
thanks
Hi Pam,
October is a funny month – you could have very nice weather or you could be unlucky and get the beginning of the transition into early winter. Of course like everywhere, these days it is even more challenging to predict. A couple of years ago I was there in late October and it was lovely!! 🙂
Have a great trip
Jackie