Discover the Costa Brava

Your guide to L’Estartit & beyond

Golden beaches, the beautiful Medes Islands, dramatic coastal walks and timeless Catalan villages. Discover what makes this corner of Spain so special.

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Welcome to L’Estartit

Where the mountains meet the Mediterranean

Set on the Costa Brava in Catalonia’s Baix Empordà region, L’Estartit combines the easy pleasures of a seaside holiday with some remarkable natural scenery. The Medes Islands rise just offshore, the Montgrí hills provide a striking backdrop, and the River Ter flows through a landscape of wetlands and farmland nearby.

Whether you are planning a first family holiday, a week of diving and kayaking, or a leisurely escape with day trips to historic villages, this independent guide will help you choose how to spend your time.

Beaches & covesMedes IslandsNature & activitiesPlaces to visit
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Unmissable experiences

L’Estartit beach and seaside scenery
Best for: beach days, swimming and coastal scenery

Beaches, coves & seaside days

The seafront is one of L’Estartit’s greatest pleasures. The broad main beach is convenient for families, while Griells offers a slightly quieter atmosphere and La Pletera leads towards protected dunes and wetlands. For rocky scenery, explore the Montgrí coast and its coves, including Cala Pedrosa and Cala Ferriol; access can require a hike or boat trip. Cala Montgó is another popular bay along the coast.

More details from the local tourism authorities →
Medes Islands off the coast of L’Estartit
Best for: boat trips, marine wildlife and unforgettable views

The Medes Islands: L’Estartit’s star attraction

Just offshore, the Illes Medes form a protected marine environment celebrated for its underwater wildlife. Take a sightseeing or glass-bottom boat to enjoy the islands without getting wet, or book a guided snorkelling or diving experience with an authorised operator. Activities in protected waters are regulated, so check current access rules before booking.

More details from the local tourism authorities →
Panoramic view of L'Estartit and surrounding Montgrí landscape
Best for: active holidays, photography and nature lovers

Walking, cycling & the Montgrí Natural Park

L’Estartit is much more than a beach resort. Trails cross pine-covered slopes, rocky viewpoints, coastal paths and the flatter Baix Ter landscape. A particularly memorable outing is the walk to Montgrí Castle above Torroella de Montgrí, where the views reward the climb. For gentler days, choose routes around the Ter wetlands or cycle through the countryside. Carry water and avoid exposed hikes during the hottest hours.

More details from the local tourism authorities →
Family activities and things to do with children in L’Estartit
Best for: relaxed family days and varied activities

Things to do with children

Alternate sandy beach mornings with easy-going adventures: a glass-bottom boat, a harbour stroll, an ice cream on the promenade, a short family bike ride or a visit to Espai Medes. The wider municipality also offers cultural experiences and nature activities designed for families. Book popular summer excursions ahead, especially when travelling with younger children.

More details from the local tourism authorities →
L’Estartit marina and harbour
Best for: restaurants, shopping and evening strolls

Explore the harbour, old streets & local food

Wander around L’Estartit’s marina, follow the waterfront towards the Molinet viewpoint and explore Santa Anna street for shops and local character. For meals, look for Catalan and Empordà dishes featuring fish, seafood, rice and seasonal produce. A leisurely evening walk after dinner is one of the simplest ways to enjoy the resort.

More details from the local tourism authorities →
Places to visit around L’Estartit on the Costa Brava
Best for: day trips, medieval villages and Costa Brava discovery

Places to visit around L’Estartit

Torroella de Montgrí makes an easy cultural excursion, with an attractive old centre, the Museu de la Mediterrània and the dramatic castle above town. For a longer outing, consider the medieval villages of Pals and Peratallada, the beaches and historic quarter of Begur, the coastal town of L’Escala or Girona’s atmospheric old city. Journey times depend on your starting point, traffic and transport.

More details from the local tourism authorities →
Plan a little further

Practical tips for your stay

Getting around

The town centre, harbour and main beach are walkable from many central holiday rentals. A car is useful for exploring the wider Empordà countryside and smaller villages. Check local transport timetables before relying on buses.

Markets & shopping

L’Estartit’s weekly market is traditionally held on Thursday mornings on Avinguda de Roma. Days, hours and locations may change around holidays or events, so check locally before setting off.

When to visit

Summer brings the classic beach-holiday atmosphere. Spring and autumn can be lovely for sightseeing, cycling and walking, although some seasonal activities and businesses may have reduced schedules.

Useful local contacts

Tourist office & official information

For up-to-date events, accessibility details, beach conditions, activity operators and seasonal opening times, consult the official tourism office.

L’Estartit Tourist Information: Passeig Marítim, s/n, 17258 L’Estartit, Girona · +34 972 75 19 10 · info@visitestartit.com

Official tourist informationActivities & events
Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Is L’Estartit good for families?

Yes. Its long sandy beachfront, seafront facilities and choice of boat trips and nature activities make it a practical choice for family holidays.

Can you visit the Medes Islands?

You can see the islands on organised boat trips, and authorised operators offer regulated diving and snorkelling experiences. Check current protected-area rules.

Do you need a car in L’Estartit?

Not necessarily for the beach, harbour and town centre if you stay centrally. A car can be useful for exploring inland villages and more remote coves.

What is there to do away from the beach?

Explore Montgrí Natural Park, walk to viewpoints, visit Torroella de Montgrí, cycle in the Baix Ter countryside or take day trips around the Costa Brava.

When is the best time to visit L’Estartit?

Summer is popular for swimming and beach holidays. Spring and autumn are appealing for walking, cycling and sightseeing, although services and excursion schedules can be more limited outside peak season.

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