This Costa Brava beach town sits near the protected Medes Islands, known for scuba diving and marine life. The clear waters and long sandy beach draw summer visitors.
L'Estartit sits on Spain's Catalonia coast, where local fishermen still bring their catch to the harbor each morning. You can dive among octopuses and rays at the Medes Islands, swim at the 3-kilometer La Platja Gran beach, or walk through the Mediterranean Museum's maritime exhibits. The village streets lead to small cafes and weekly markets, while paths into the Montgrí Massif reveal views across the Costa Brava.
Exploring the Medes Islands
The seven Medes islets sit one mile from L'Estartit's coast. When you dive here, you'll find underwater caves where octopuses hide and coral formations where schools of fish gather. Glass-bottom boats leave the harbor every hour during summer, taking you close to the islands where you can spot fish through the transparent floor. Look up to see hundreds of herring gulls nesting on the rocky outcrops.
Beaches and Swimming
La Platja Gran's three sections each have their own character. The main beach runs along the town center, with calm waters reaching only waist-deep for about 50 meters - perfect for children. At Platja dels Griells, rent kayaks or windsurfing boards from the water sports center. Walk to the quieter Platja de la Pletera to spot herons and egrets in the adjacent Ter Vell wetlands.
Village Life and Culture
Inside the Mediterranean Museum's 18th-century stone building, interactive displays tell stories of local fishing traditions and maritime trade. Stop by during evening events to taste traditional Catalan dishes prepared by local cooks. Every Tuesday morning, market vendors set up stalls with fresh fish, locally grown vegetables, and regional cheeses. In July, watch the Festival of the Giants parade, where locals carry 4-meter-tall puppet figures through the streets.
Natural Areas
Walk the wooden boardwalks through Ter Vell wetlands to spot purple herons and little bitterns among the reeds. The trail to La Gola follows the final stretch of the River Ter to its mouth. Behind the town, a marked path climbs the limestone slopes of Montgrí Massif. After an hour's walk, you reach the summit for clear views of the Costa Brava coastline and the Medes Islands.
Water Activities
The marina has space for boats up to 25 meters long across its 687 moorings. You can rent sailing boats, windsurfing equipment, and snorkeling gear from shops along the harbor. The protected waters around the Medes Islands have visibility up to 20 meters on calm days. Five diving schools in town run PADI certification courses and daily guided dives to different spots around the islands.
