A calm Mediterranean coastal town with a working fishing port, fresh seafood restaurants, and 9km of sandy beaches near Spain's Costa Dorada wine region.
Walk along Cambrils' port at 4:30 PM to watch fishing boats return with their daily catch, explore the medieval streets around the 14th-century watchtower, or swim at Playa del Regueral where calm waters meet golden sand. You can cycle the 7-kilometer seafront promenade, stop at a chiringuito beach bar for grilled fish, or try traditional Catalan seafood at one of 150 restaurants near the marina.
Life at the Port
Watch fishing boats return to Cambrils' port around 4:30 PM each day, followed by the daily fish auction. Walk along the Moll de Ponent pier to see fishermen repair their nets or visit the Far Vermell lighthouse. Look for maritime-themed sculptures around the marina, including the Nen Pescador - a bronze statue of a young boy holding his catch. The 18th-century Torre del Port stands near the harbor, its cannon once used against pirates.
Beaches and Swimming
Nine beaches stretch along Cambrils' coastline, with fine sand and shallow waters ideal for swimming. Playa del Regueral near the yacht club has showers, lifeguards, and beach sports areas. Choose Playas del Dorado or Playa de la Llosa for quieter spots to swim. Stop at chiringuitos (beach shacks) for grilled fish and shade. Cycle or walk the dedicated path that runs parallel to all nine beaches.
Inside the Old Quarter
Walk through the Nucli Antic gate to reach Cambrils' medieval quarter, 1 kilometer inland from the beach. Visit the 14th-century Torre I Ermita de la Mare de Deu del Cami to see both the religious sanctuary and defensive tower. Learn about local farming at the agriculture museum, set in a building designed by one of Gaudí's students, with displays of traditional tools and farming methods.
Local Food and Restaurants
Local chefs prepare fresh seafood caught each morning, often using traditional recipes like romesco sauce - a blend of tomatoes, garlic, and nuts. Find seafood restaurants along the port's edge, while the old town's streets contain traditional Catalan eateries. Try calçotada (grilled spring onions with romesco sauce) or fish stews made with local cod.
Green Spaces
Take children to Parc del Pescador's playgrounds and fountains next to the marina. Play sports or walk through Parc del Pinaret's paths. Visit Parc Sama, 14 hectares of gardens with colonial buildings and a lake where peacocks walk freely. Look for early examples of Antoni Gaudí's architectural style throughout the park's design.
Transportation and Nearby Sites
Rent a bike near the port to cycle the 7-kilometer coastal path to Salou. Take a 15-minute bus ride to Port Aventura theme park or travel 30 minutes to see Tarragona's Roman ruins. Catch regular trains from the beachside station to Barcelona (90-minute journey). Follow the GR 92 coastal hiking trail to reach Tarragona or L'Hospitalet de l'Infant.
