Golden beaches, hidden coves, a palm-lined seafront and PortAventura World on the doorstep. Everything you need to plan your trip to Salou, on the Costa Daurada near Tarragona.
Why visit Salou
Salou is one of the most popular resorts on Spain's Costa Daurada, about 10 km from Tarragona. Its long sandy beaches with calm, shallow water make it a favourite for families, while the coves around Cap Salou attract couples and anyone looking for quieter corners of the Mediterranean.
The town is compact and easy to explore on foot. The Passeig Jaume I seafront connects the main beach with the port, the illuminated fountain and the old town, and the coastal path leads to the coves in less than an hour's walk.
Best beaches and coves in Salou
Playa de Llevant is the big urban beach: golden sand, calm water and every service close by. Playa de Ponent, next to the port, is just as convenient, and Playa Capellans offers a more sheltered bay. Towards La Pineda, Playa Larga is long and open.
If you prefer smaller spots, follow the coast to Cala Crancs, Cala Font, Cala Vinya, Cala Penya Tallada and Cala Llenguadets. Several have pine trees down to the water and clear water for snorkelling. Arrive early in July and August, as they are small.
Walk the Camí de Ronda, the coastal path that links the beaches with the coves of Cap Salou. Visit the Torre Vella, a historic defence tower, and stroll along Passeig Jaume I to the Font Lluminosa, the illuminated fountain that comes alive in the evening.
PortAventura World, with its theme park, water park and Ferrari Land, is right next to Salou and is the main reason many families choose the town. Boat trips, water sports and day trips to Tarragona or Cambrils complete the plan.
Mediterranean cuisine, rice dishes, seafood and beach bars line the seafront and the streets behind it. Hotels range from large family resorts with pools to seafront and boutique options close to the beaches.
Use our free trip planner to build a day-by-day itinerary based on how many days you have and who you are travelling with, and check the events calendar before you go. Detailed listings are currently written in Spanish, but names, maps and links work in any language.
Salou is on the Costa Daurada in Catalonia, Spain, about 10 km from Tarragona and next to PortAventura World.
Is Salou good for families?
Yes. Its main beaches have calm, shallow water, the seafront is easy to walk and PortAventura World is right next to the town.
What are the quietest beaches in Salou?
The coves around Cap Salou, such as Cala Font, Cala Vinya or Cala Penya Tallada, are usually quieter than the central beaches, especially early in the day.
Build your Salou itinerary
Choose your days and travel style and get a personalised plan in minutes.