I’m sure you’ve always dreamed of running on the beach, by the sea and at the same time as the sun rises. What if I told you that you can do it on Costa Brava, Costa Dorada or in Barcelona? Catalonia is a perfect destination for lovers of the sea and sport. With its extensive coastline, this region offers a wide variety of sporting activities that will allow you to make the most of its natural beauty. With Shuttle2Sun‘s cheap and eco-friendly shared transfer services and private transfer services you can transfer easily from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.
If you are a lover of outdoor activities, stay until the end of this article to explore some of the sports you can practice in front of the sea in Catalonia, giving you the opportunity to live an unforgettable experience.
1. Surfing
Although the coast of Barcelona, Costa Dorada and Costa Brava belongs to the calm Mediterranean Sea, if you’re lucky enough and the sea is a bit rough, you can surf. In the beaches of Sitges, Castelldefels and Gavà you can find the best conditions to glide over the waves. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there are surf schools all along the Catalan coast offering lessons and equipment hire. Immerse yourself in the thrilling world of surfing and enjoy the adrenaline rush of this exciting activity.
2. Paddle surfing
Paddle surfing, also known as stand-up paddle (SUP), has experienced a boom in recent years. This activity consists of paddling standing up on a surfboard while enjoying the views of the sea. The calm waters of the coves of Costa Brava or the river deltas are perfect places for stand-up paddle surfing, although in general, any beach on Costa Dorada or Barcelona are also ideal for this sport. You can also explore sea caves and discover remote places that are only accessible from the sea.
3. Kitesurfing and Windsurfing
With its favourable climate and wind conditions, the Catalan territory is a paradise for sailing enthusiasts. The Catalan coastline has numerous marinas and sailing clubs where you can rent equipment or join some of their courses. Especially the towns of Empuriabrava and Roses on Costa Brava have favourable wind conditions for these sports. Explore the coast from a different perspective and enjoy all that these sailing sports have to offer. If you plan to arrive at Costa Brava using Girona airport, you will be 50 minutes away from these towns.
4. Kayaking
Kayaking is a great way to explore the beautiful coastline and coves of Catalonia. You can rent a kayak and paddle on your own or join a guided tour to discover hidden spots and hard-to-reach beaches. You’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and the marine life that lies beneath the surface. An amazing place to do this is the Cap de Creus Natural Park, located on Costa Brava, where you can enjoy crystal clear waters and impressive cliffs and rock formations.
5. Diving
Diving into the depths of the Mediterranean is an experience not to be missed in Catalonia. With a rich marine biodiversity, Catalan waters offer exceptional diving opportunities. Whether you’re an experienced diver or want to try it for the first time, you’ll find professional dive centres that will guide you through colourful coral reefs, historic shipwrecks and underwater caves. Some of the most popular are Blaumar in Barcelona, Roses Sub on Costa Brava and Odysea on Costa Dorada.
6. Running
If you are not so keen on these water sports, don’t worry, there are many more sporting activities to do in front of the Mediterranean Sea. For example, you can run along the golden sand with the sea right next to you. If you want to do it in peace and quiet and with as few people as possible, we recommend that you wake up early and go jogging at dawn or wait until the last hours of sunset. In addition, during these hours you will be able to experience incredible colours that form film-like landscapes. For example, you can take advantage of the width and sea views on Barcelona‘s promenade, which runs from the Olympic Village to the Forum.
7. Bicycle
Many towns such as Cambrils, La Pineda and Salou have long promenades that are suitable for cycling. If you don’t have one, there are many shops around the coast that allow you to rent them for a few hours of the day so you can enjoy a relaxing and fun bike ride. You can even take food with you for a picnic in some of the picnic areas. Moreover, these towns are only 20 minutes away from Reus airport or the AVE Camp de Tarragona train station, so getting to the beaches will be very easy with Shuttle2Sun.
8. Beach Volleyball
Many beaches have nets for you and your friends to play beach volleyball. For example, in Barcelona, just 25 minutes from Barcelona airport, you have the beaches of Nova Icaria and Barceloneta, both of which have designated areas for beach sports. You can find areas with several volleyball nets and a young and lively atmosphere where you can have a great time.
9. Beach Soccer
Soccer is the most popular sport around the world, so why not bring it to the beach? You can organise an informal game with your friends or join the local tournaments that are organised on some beaches during the summer. On any beach on Costa Brava, Costa Dorada or Barcelona you can organise a beach football match.
10. Beach Tennis
Maybe you didn’t know it, but if you visit places like Torredembarra, Vilanova i la Geltrú or Castelldefels you can get to know this type of tennis. It is a fun combination of tennis and beach volleyball that causes a lot of curiosity among tourists. This sport even has local and international leagues where you can observe a very good level among the participants.
Which sport do you feel like playing the most? Choose the one you fancy the most and enjoy the Mediterranean climate on Costa Dorada, Costa Brava or Barcelona. Remember that you can travel with Shuttle2Sun‘s shared transfer services and private transfer services from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.