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Discover the Best Time to Visit Costa Dorada: A Tourist’s Guide

When to Visit Costa Dorada: A Guide to the Best Time for Tourists

If you’re planning a trip to Costa Dorada, Spain, you’re probably wondering when the best time to visit is. With its gorgeous beaches, lively towns, and mouth-watering cuisine, Costa Dorada is a top destination for tourists. In this guide, we’ll help you plan your trip by sharing information about the weather, tourist seasons, and attractions in La Pineda and Salou.

Costa Dorada Weather: When to Go

Costa Dorada has a sunny Mediterranean climate, meaning it’s warm for most of the year. If you’re looking for a beach vacation, the summer months of June through August are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. During this time, temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C. Just be prepared for large crowds and higher prices during this peak tourist season.

For milder weather and fewer crowds, visit Costa Dorada during the spring months of March through May, or the fall months of September through November. During these times, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

La Pineda and Salou Tourist Seasons

La Pineda and Salou are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Costa Dorada, so it’s important to plan your visit according to the tourist seasons. The high season is from June through September, when attractions and beaches are packed with tourists, and prices are at their highest. If you visit during this time, be sure to book your accommodation and activities in advance to avoid disappointment.

The low season, from March through May and from October through November, offers a great balance between mild weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices. During this time, you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and visiting the many parks and gardens in the region. Some popular attractions, such as PortAventura World and Aquopolis Water Park, are open during this time, but with reduced hours and fewer visitors.

La Pineda and Salou Openings

Most of the attractions in La Pineda and Salou are open year-round, with the exception of some water parks and theme parks, which may close during the low tourist season. It’s always best to check the opening hours and schedules of the attractions you’re interested in before you plan your trip. Additionally, many restaurants and shops may have reduced opening hours during the low tourist season, so plan accordingly.

Activities During High and Low Seasons

During the high tourist season, La Pineda and Salou are bustling with visitors from all over the world. In addition to sunbathing and swimming, tourists can enjoy water sports such as parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boating. Theme parks and water parks such as PortAventura World and Aquopolis Water Park are also open and offer a range of rides and attractions for all ages.

During the low tourist season, La Pineda and Salou offer a more relaxed and peaceful experience. The beaches are less crowded, making it perfect for a peaceful stroll, and the streets are less busy. The nearby towns and villages offer plenty of cultural experiences, such as visiting the Tarragona Roman ruins, seeing the Reus modernist architecture, or the wine country of Priorat. In addition, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and cycling in the nearby mountains or exploring the Ebro Delta Natural Park. The low season also offers a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine by visiting local markets, trying traditional dishes, and attending local festivals. Overall, visiting Costa Dorada during the low season can be a great way to experience the best of what the region has to offer in a more relaxed and affordable setting.

In conclusion, Costa Dorada is a fantastic destination for tourists looking for a beach vacation, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. The best time to visit depends on your preferences, but generally, the summer months of June through August offer the warmest weather and plenty of water activities, while the spring and fall months of March through May and September through November provide milder weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices. La Pineda and Salou, the two most popular tourist destinations in the region, have different tourist seasons, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Regardless of when you visit, there are plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy, from theme parks and water parks to historical sites and cultural experiences.

Interview with a British expat

Introduction: 

Travelling to a new place can be a wonderful experience, but there’s something truly special about getting to explore it like a local. That’s why the team at Costa Dorada travel blog decided to seek out the insights of people who have lived in the region for an extensive period of time. These locals will share their knowledge, offering insider tips and highlighting some of the lesser-known gems of the region. In this interview, we’ll be chatting with Clara, a British expat who has lived in the area for 14 years and worked as a customer helper for 5 years. Clara will provide insider tips, recommend lesser-known spots to visit, and share her favorite things about living in the Costa Dorada region. So, if you’re planning a trip to this beautiful region, read on to discover Clara’s insights and make the most of your visit!

Picture of Clara 

Meet Clara, a 64-year-old British woman from Birmingham who took a sabbatical to learn Spanish and better herself. Clara rented her house, bought an old caravan and car, and drove to France and then to Salou in Spain, where she wanted to work and learn Spanish. She lived on a campsite and found the Spanish people welcoming, even though she could not speak Spanish. She only had a dictionary, but still managed to communicate with the Spanish people. Clara ended up getting a job washing dishes, earning less than in England but with fewer responsibilities. She liked the job because it was less stressful than her previous university job in England, where she had to work a lot of hours and take work home for the weekends. After nine months in Salou, Clara decided to stay and worked various jobs, including owning a successful bar that she eventually sold when the holiday industry began offering all-inclusive packages in hotels. She then started driving jeeps for a jeep safari, became a team leader, and loved the job, but she realized it was becoming too hard as she got older. Clara applied for a job with a British holiday company that has an office in Salou, where she still works. Clara says she loves living in Spain, she loves the food, the proximity to the sea and mountains, and being surrounded by greenery. She thinks she has a great job and great relationships with people in her apartment complex and can see herself growing old in Spain.

Clara’s Recommendations:

Hotels in Salou and Cap Salou:

As a customer helper, Clara has visited many hotels in Salou. For couples with children, Clara recommends Dorado Palace in Salou, which has a nice splash park for kids and good food. She also recommends H10 Mediterranean Village in Cap Salou, which has a big splash park for kids. Furthermore, Clara recommends Hotel Belvedere for families with younger children. She also recommends H10 Salauris Palace. Medplaya Hotel Calypso is also great for families with children, as it has great entertainment options and a good all-inclusive package. For adults only, Clara recommends H10 Delfin, a beautiful hotel, and Hotel Olympus Palace, which is also beautiful. Hotel Olympus Palace has a rooftop pool and bar. For adults only Clara recommends Hotel Blaumar. The last hotel Clara recommends for adults is the Hotel Las Vegas. All the hotel mentioned are in Salou except H10 Mediterranean Village which is located in Cap Salou. 

Restaurants in Salou:

Clara recommends Hollandaluz for both traditional Spanish and international food. For traditional Spanish food, she recommends El Rinconcito De Manel, which is a bar that serves small portions of food. Petit Bar is a good option for  traditional tapas. The place is a little pricy, but the food is great. Oliver’s Restaurant in Salou serves international food for visitors looking for a more diverse cuisine. Fu Lin is a budget option, serving Chinese food and a daily menu. If visitors are looking for traditional English food, Clara recommends the Guinness Tavern.

Transport around the Costa Dorada region:

For those looking to get around the area, Clara suggests buying a T10 bus pass, which can be purchased at the bus station in Tarragona or at local tobacco shops. The card offers ten trips that you can use and even share with your family members, making it a convenient and cost-effective option. Even if you plan to stay in the region for an extended period, you can still add more trips to your T10 card as needed. Clara recommends buying the cards as a single ticket costs 2.50 euros, but for a single trip with a T10 card, it costs 1.60 euros. Visitors must be aware that the single ticket is only valid for one journey with the bus. Additionally, you cannot pay with a credit card on the bus, and the driver may not have a lot of change, so it is important to have the exact fare ready. Clara also recommends using the bus system to visit nearby towns such as Tarragona, Reus, and Cambrils, as it is a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the area.

Best time to visit Salou:

The best time to visit Salou is during the spring and autumn months, according to Clara. She advises against visiting during the summer months due to high temperatures and humidity, which can be uncomfortable for some visitors, especially those from northern Europe who are not used to high temperatures. August is peak tourist season, and the area can become crowded with tourists, making it difficult to find parking and a good spot at the beach.

When asked about how to avoid crowds and tourist traps, Clara suggests being brave and exploring. She recommends avoiding the end of July and August as these months are peak vacation time for both the French and Spanish, resulting in large crowds and scarce parking. Clara emphasizes the importance of research and encourages visitors to get a map and explore side streets to discover hidden gems. She suggests that visitors can easily find what they want to do by researching the area they are coming to.

Beaches in Salou:

Clara recommends a couple of beaches for visitors to explore during their stay in the area. One of her favorites is Playa Llarga, located in Salou. This beach is known for its safety, with calm waters and a shallow depth, making it perfect for families with young children. For those looking to escape the crowds of Salou’s main beach, Clara suggests walking to Playa Llarga. While there are not many facilities available, the gradual slope of the beach makes for a pleasant experience. If visitors are willing to drive a bit further, Clara also recommends a nudist beach located in L’Hospitalet, though she herself does not partake in the practice. The beach is located in the town of Hospitalet de l’Infant and is called Playa El Torn Naturist Beach. It is located 25 km from Salou, which takes around 25 minutes by car.

Local festivals in the Costa Dorada region: 

Three Kings Day:

Clara recommends that visitors attend the Three Kings celebration, which takes place on the 6th of January. The festival commemorates the day when the three kings visited Baby Jesus and brought gifts to him. Clara suggests that this festival is similar to Christmas, but with more emphasis on January 6th. People in Cambrils and Salou celebrate this festival by watching the three kings come through, usually on horses or a big display on the back of a tractor. 

Cós Blanc:

The next festival Clara recommends is Cós Blanc, which takes place on the first weekend of February in Salou. This festival is a big street party with music, confetti, floats, and a lively atmosphere. There are big sound systems all along the streets and cannons blowing confetti into the air, and people throwing confetti and sweets at each other. It’s a family-friendly event, and there are even tents with techno music for adults.

San Juan: 

The third festival Clara recommends is San Juan, which takes place on June 23rd, the day of the summer solstice. This is another big party, with fireworks and picnics on the beach. There is a big stage set up in Salou where famous Spanish groups sometimes attends to play their music. The festival ends with a massive firework show at midnight and a ritual where people run into the sea and wash off the badness.

Final travel tips for visiting: 

Clara emphasizes the importance of researching the places people want to visit in order to get the most out of their holiday. Depending on one’s preferences, Salou can be a great place to use as a base. If tourists want to relax and spend the day at the beach, Salou is perfect for this. On the other hand, if they want to explore the greenery and historical sites, they can easily access many exciting places like Tarragona, Siurana, and Miravet, all within an hour’s drive. Clara also highlights the convenience of traveling to Salou, as it only takes an hour by bus from Barcelona airport and just 30 minutes from Reus airport.

Discover the Best Tourist Attractions in Costa Dorada

If you’re planning a trip to the Costa Dorada region of Spain, then you should definitely consider visiting Salou, La Pineda, Cambrils, and Sitges. These four destinations offer a variety of activities and attractions that are perfect for tourists. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the top things to do in each of these cities.

Salou:

Salou is a popular tourist destination in Costa Dorada, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. Here are some of the top things to do in Salou:

Visit the PortAventura World Theme Park: This theme park is one of the most popular attractions in Salou, and it’s not hard to see why. With thrilling rides, live shows, and plenty of food and drink options, it’s a great place to spend a day with family or friends.

Relax on the Beaches: Salou is home to several beautiful beaches, including Llevant Beach, Ponent Beach, and Capellans Beach. These beaches offer plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Explore the Salou Lighthouse: The Salou Lighthouse is a historic landmark that dates back to 1858. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the coast and surrounding area.

La Pineda:

La Pineda is a quieter and more laid-back destination than Salou, but still has plenty to offer tourists. Here are some of the top things to do in La Pineda:

Visit Aquopolis Water Park: This water park is perfect for families with young children. With a variety of water slides and pools, it’s a great place to cool off on a hot day.

Take a Stroll Along the Beach Promenade: La Pineda has a lovely beach promenade that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars along the way, where you can stop for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.

The Ermita de la Mare de Déu de la Pineda: This is a beautiful church that dates back to the 18th century. The church is located in Vila-Seca around 3 km from La Pineda. 

Cambrils:

Cambrils is a charming fishing village that’s known for its delicious seafood and beautiful beaches. Here are some of the top things to do in Cambrils:

Visit the Cambrils Castle: This medieval castle dates back to the 12th century, and it’s a great place to learn about the history of Cambrils. Visitors can explore the castle’s towers, walls, and gardens, and take in the beautiful views of the sea and surrounding area.

Try the Local Cuisine: Cambrils is famous for its fresh seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants where you can sample the local dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include suquet de peix (fish stew), arrossejat (rice dish), and fideuà (noodle dish).

Relax on the Beaches: Cambrils has several beautiful beaches, including Playa del Regueral, Playa de l’Esquirol, and Playa de Vilafortuny. These beaches offer plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Sitges:

Sitges is a charming coastal town that’s known for its beaches, nightlife, and cultural attractions. Here are some of the top things to do in Sitges:

Visit the Cau Ferrat Museum: This museum was once the home and studio of the artist and writer Santiago Rusiñol. Today, it’s a museum that showcases his work and the work of other artists of the Modernist period.

Relax on the Beaches: Sitges has several beautiful beaches, including Playa de la Bassa Rodona, Playa de San Sebastián, and Playa de la Ribera. These beaches offer plenty of opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Explore the Old Town: Sitges has a charming old town that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visitors can admire the architecture, browse the shops and boutiques, and stop for a coffee or a bite to eat in one of the many cafes and restaurants.

In conclusion, Salou, La Pineda, Cambrils, and Sitges are four must-visit destinations in the Costa Dorada region of Spain. Whether you’re looking for theme parks, beaches, cultural attractions, or delicious food, you’re sure to find something to suit your interests in these four cities. So start planning your trip today, and get ready to experience the best of Costa Dorada!

When to Visit Costa Dorada Waterparks: The Ultimate Guide

Planning a trip to Costa Dorada, Spain, and looking for some fun and excitement? Well, look no further than the waterparks in the region! The waterparks in Costa Dorada offer a wide range of attractions, including rides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and more. The waterparks in Salou and La Pineda offer endless entertainment for visitors of all ages. However, to ensure you have the best experience, it’s crucial to factor in the weather and the parks’ opening hours when planning your visit. In this blog post, we’ll provide a detailed guide to the best months to visit the waterparks in Costa Dorada, allowing you to make the most of your trip.

Best Months to Visit the Waterparks in Costa Dorada:

Costa Dorada has a fantastic Mediterranean climate that can be hot and humid during the summer months. As a result, the peak season for waterparks in these regions is between June and September, when the weather is sunny and warm. During this time, most waterparks are open every day and welcome a large number of tourists from all over the world.

During peak season, the parks are open every day, and you can expect a large influx of tourists from all over the world. While this means longer queues and crowded attractions, it also means a lively and energetic atmosphere that’s perfect for those seeking adventure and fun.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience during the peak season, we recommend visiting on weekdays instead of weekends. Weekends tend to be busier, with more locals visiting the parks, while weekdays tend to have fewer crowds.

To make the most of your stay during peak season, we recommend arriving early in the morning when the parks first open. This way, you can enjoy some of the most popular attractions with shorter queues before the crowds arrive. Additionally, consider purchasing your tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in line at the ticket booth.

Waterpark opening hours in Costa Dorada:

Before planning your trip to the waterparks, it’s essential to check their opening hours, as they can vary depending on the season and weather conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the opening hours of the four most popular waterparks in Salou and La Pineda:

PortAventura Caribe Aquatic Park: This park is open from May to September, with longer opening hours during the peak season from June to August. During the other months, the opening hours may vary, so it’s best to check their website for the latest information.

Aquopolis Costa Dorada: This park is open from June to September, with shorter opening hours in June and September and longer hours during the peak season from July to August.

Aqualeón: This park is open from June and closes in September, with shorter opening hours from mid-June to mid-July.

Aquum Spa and Wellness: Unlike the other locations, Aquum Spa and Wellness is open year-round, with longer opening hours during the peak season from June to September and shorter hours during the rest of the year.

It’s essential to remember to check the park’s website or other sources of information for the most up-to-date opening times before planning your visit. This way, you can ensure that you don’t miss out on any of the park’s attractions or have to cut your visit short due to unexpected closures.

To sum up: 

In conclusion, a trip to Costa Dorada, Spain, is incomplete without visiting the waterparks in the region. With a wide range of attractions, from thrilling rides to lazy rivers, the waterparks in Salou and La Pineda offer endless entertainment for visitors of all ages. However, to make the most of your trip, it’s crucial to factor in the weather and the park’s opening hours.

Peak season for waterparks in Costa Dorada is between June and September, when the weather is sunny and warm. During this time, the parks are open every day, and you can expect a lively and energetic atmosphere. To avoid long queues and crowded attractions, we recommend visiting on weekdays instead of weekends. Additionally, arriving early in the morning and purchasing tickets online in advance can help you make the most of your stay during peak season.

Before planning your visit, be sure to check the opening hours of the waterparks as they can vary depending on the season and weather conditions. With this information, you can plan your trip and ensure that you don’t miss out on any of the park’s attractions or have to cut your visit short due to unexpected closures.

Overall, visiting the waterparks in Costa Dorada is an experience that you don’t want to miss. With the right planning, you can have a fun and exciting adventure that you’ll remember for years to come.

Costa Dorada travel guide: Getting to the best destinations

When visiting Costa Dorada, the beautiful coastal towns of Salou, La Pineda, Cambrils, and Sitges are a must-see. If you’re arriving at either the Barcelona or Reus airport, there are several transportation options available to get you to these fantastic destinations.

Getting from Barcelona Airport to Salou

One of the easiest and most convenient ways to get from Barcelona Airport to Salou is by taking a taxi. Taxis are readily available at the airport, and the ride to Salou takes around 1 hour and costs approximately €130-€150.

Another option is to take a bus. The Plana bus company operates a regular service from the airport to Salou, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes and a cost of approximately €14. The bus departs from Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of the airport.

Getting from Reus Airport to Salou

If you’re flying into Reus Airport, getting to Salou is a breeze. The easiest way to get there is by taking a taxi, which takes around 20 minutes and costs approximately €25-€30.

Another option is to take a bus. The Plana bus company operates a regular service from Reus Airport to Salou, with a journey time of around 30 minutes and a cost of approximately €3.

Getting from Barcelona Airport to La Pineda

If you’re visiting La Pineda and arriving at Barcelona Airport, taking a taxi is the most convenient option. The journey takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes and costs approximately €120-€140. Taxis are readily available at the airport, and you can easily book one at the taxi rank outside the terminals.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from Barcelona Airport to La Pineda. The Plana bus company operates a regular service from Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of the airport, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes and a cost of approximately €14.

Getting from Barcelona Airport to Cambrils

If you’re arriving at Barcelona Airport and want to explore Cambrils, taking a taxi is the most convenient option. The journey takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes and costs approximately €150-€170.
Taxis are readily available at the airport, and you can easily book one at the taxi rank outside the terminals.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from Barcelona Airport to Cambrils. The Plana bus company operates a regular service from Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of the airport, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes and a cost of approximately €14.

Getting from Barcelona Airport to Sitges

If you’re looking to explore the beautiful town of Sitges, the easiest and most convenient way to get there from Barcelona Airport is by taking a taxi. The journey takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately €60-€70.

Another option is to take a train. The R2 Sud line runs from the airport to Sitges station, with a journey time of around 30 minutes and a cost of approximately €4. From the station, it’s a short walk to the town center.

Renting Cars at Barcelona and Reus Airport

Renting a car is a great way to explore Costa Dorada at your own pace. Both Barcelona and Reus airports have several car rental companies with a wide range of vehicles to choose from. Some of the popular car rental companies include Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and Budget.

To rent a car at Barcelona or Reus airport, you will need a valid driver’s license and a credit card in your name. It’s a good idea to book your rental car in advance to ensure availability and to get the best rates. You can do this online or by contacting the car rental company directly.

The cost of renting a car in Costa Dorada varies depending on the type of vehicle you choose and the duration of your rental. On average, a compact car rental can cost around €25-€30 per day or €150-€180 per week, while a larger vehicle like a van can cost around €60-€80 per day or €400-€500 per week. It’s important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary based on factors like the rental period, demand, and additional insurance options.

Booking Transfers for Bigger Groups of People

If you’re travelling in a bigger group and prefer not to take public transportation or rent a car, you can book a transfer service to get you to your destination. Many transfer companies offer private transfers for groups of varying sizes, from small families to large groups of friends or colleagues.

Some of the popular transfer companies in Costa Dorada include Suntransfers, Ziptransfers, and Shuttle Direct. You can easily book your transfer online in advance, providing your flight details and the number of people in your group. The cost of booking a transfer service in Costa Dorada depends on the number of passengers, the type of vehicle, and the distance to your destination. On average, a private transfer for up to four passengers from Barcelona Airport to Salou can cost around €90-€100, while a transfer for up to eight passengers can cost around €110-€120. Similarly, a private transfer for up to four passengers from Reus Airport to Cambrils can cost around €35-€45, while a transfer for up to eight passengers can cost around €45-€55. Again, it’s important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary based on factors like the distance, demand, and additional services requested.

Final thoughts
Costa Dorada is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone, from its stunning beaches to its historical landmarks and theme parks. When it comes to getting around, visitors have several options, including taking a taxi, renting a car, or booking a transfer service. Taking a taxi is the most convenient option for those visiting Salou, La Pineda, Cambrils, and Sitges from Barcelona or Reus airport, while renting a car is a great way to explore the region at your own pace. Visitors travelling in bigger groups can book a transfer service to get them to their destination comfortably and conveniently. It’s important to note that prices for all these transportation options may vary based on factors like distance, demand, and additional services requested, but there are plenty of options available to fit a range of budgets. With these options available, visitors can easily get to their destinations and enjoy all that Costa Dorada has to offer.

The Best Waterparks in Costa Dorada

Introduction to Costa Dorada’s water parks:
Looking for a fantastic vacation destination on the Mediterranean coast of Spain? Look no further than Costa Dorada! This popular holiday spot is famous for its stunning beaches, warm climate, and lively atmosphere. Costa Dorada is also home to some of Spain’s most exhilarating water parks, featuring a variety of aquatic thrills and pampering spa treatments. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast seeking high-speed slides or a couple looking for a tranquil escape, the waterparks in Costa Dorada has it all. In this post, we’ll explore the top water park options in the area, including PortAventura Caribe Aquatic Park, Aquopolis Costa Dorada, Aqualeón, and Aquum Spa and Wellness. We’ll also share the best water park experiences for families with young children, older children, and couples. So, pack your swimwear and get ready for a thrilling and unforgettable adventure in La Costa Dorada!

PortAventura Caribe Aquatic Park: Overview, Attractions, and Tips:

PortAventura Caribe Aquatic Park is located within the PortAventura World resort in Salou. The park opened in 2002 and has since become one of the most popular water parks in Spain. With an area of 50,000 square meters, the park features 17 water rides and attractions inspired by the Caribbean, including the highest free-fall slide in Europe, the King Khajuna.
The park features a wide range of water attractions, such as wave pools, lazy rivers, water slides, and splash pads.
PortAventura World is divided into several themed areas, including the Caribbean, Polynesia, and Mexico, however, the Carribean is the only area with water rides.
The park has many different restaurants, bars, and snack bars, and the park attracts around 1 million visitors per year.
Children of all ages can visit the park, and children from 0-3 years old can enter the water park for free.

Use this link to buy your tickets! Buy your PortAventura tickets at the best price online (portaventuraworld.com)

Tips:
Book online: It is often better to purchase your tickets online through the PortAventura World website. The park sometimes offers special discounts when you buy tickets online. You also won’t have to worry about waiting in long queues at the entrance when buying tickets online.

Consider a Multi-Day Ticket: If you’re planning to visit PortAventura Caribe Aquatic Park and the other theme parks at PortAventura World, consider buying a multi-day ticket. This option can save you money and give you more time to explore everything the resort has to offer. If you’re short on time, you can easily buy a 1-day ticket to one of the park’s areas.

Arrive Early: In order to avoid the crowds and maximize your day’s enjoyment, plan to arrive at the park before it opens at 10 am. This way, you’ll have more time to explore the attractions and enjoy shorter waiting times.
If you want to take the bus, be aware that buses in the Costa Dorada area often arrive and depart late, so it’s a good idea to take an earlier bus so you can arrive at the park at least 20 minutes earlier.
If possible, it’s a good idea to visit the park on a weekday rather than a weekend, as weekends tend to be busier.

Follow Safety Guidelines: Always follow the safety guidelines provided by the park, and check the height restrictions for the attractions before getting in line.

Aquopolis Costa Dorada: Overview, Attractions, and Tips:

Located in La Pineda, Aquopolis Costa Dorada is another popular waterpark that’s perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.
The park opened in 1986 and has since undergone several renovations and expansions. With an area of 110,000 square meters, the park features a variety of rides and attractions for all ages, including the Kamikaze, a high-speed slide, and the Black Hole, a dark slide with special effects. The park also has a children’s area with a pirate ship and smaller slides.
Aquopolis Costa Dorada has a wide variety of attractions, such as giant water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a children’s play area.
There are plenty of different restaurants, cafes, and snack bars in the park.
Children of all ages can visit the park and babies under 100 cm can enter for free.

Use this link to buy your tickets! Aquópolis Costa Dorada – Waterpark (aquopolis.es)

Tips:
Buy Your Tickets Online: Often time the easiest and most convenient way to purchase your tickets is through the Aquopolis Costa Dorada website. Buying your tickets in advance can help you save time and money, and usually you’ll also avoid long queues at the entrance.

Visit Early or Late: To avoid the crowds, plan to visit Aquopolis Costa Dorada either early in the morning or later in the afternoon. These times tend to be less busy, which means shorter waiting times and more opportunities to enjoy the park’s attractions.

Follow Safety Guidelines: Always follow the safety guidelines provided by the park, and make sure to check the height restrictions for the attractions before getting in line.

Aqualeón: Overview, Attractions, and Tips:
This water park is another option, it is located in the picturesque town of Albinyana, located about 36 km from Tarragona.
Aqualeón was opened in 1986 and covers an area of approximately 100 hectares, Aqualeón offers a wide range of water activities for visitors of all ages. The park features a variety of water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and splash pads, making it the perfect destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
One of the most notable attractions at Aqualeón is the Kamikaze, a high-speed water slide that sends visitors plummeting down a steep drop at speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour. For those looking for a more relaxing experience, the park’s lazy river is the perfect place to unwind and float along in the sunshine.
In addition to its water activities, Aqualeón also offers a variety of dining options, including different restaurants, a snack bar, and an ice cream parlor. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of international and local cuisine, as well as refreshing beverages to keep them cool throughout the day.
Use this link to buy your tickets! Aqualeón – Costa Daurada (aqualeon.es)

Keep in mind that children under 3-years of age are not welcome in the waterpark.

Tips:
Buy Your Tickets Online: Often time the easiest and most convenient way to purchase your tickets is through the Aqualeón website.

Arrive Early: To avoid the crowds and long queues, it’s best to arrive at the park early in the morning. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy all the attractions without feeling rushed.

Dress Appropriately: Make sure to wear comfortable and appropriate clothing for a day in the waterpark. It’s recommended to wear a swimsuit, comfortable shoes, and bring a change of clothes for after your time in the water.

Aquum Spa and Wellness: Overview and Attractions:
This option is not a waterpark, but we thought it deserved to be included.
Aquum Spa and Wellness is located in the heart of Salou, just a few minutes’ walk from the beach. The spa opened in 2009 and covers an area of 4,000 square meters.
It features a wide range of hydrotherapy pools, saunas, and steam rooms, as well as a heated indoor pool and outdoor pool with massage jets.
The facility also offers a variety of spa treatments, such as massages, facials, and body wraps.
There are several food and beverage options available, including a poolside bar and a restaurant.
The spa also has a fitness center and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Mediterranean. Aquum Spa and Wellness attracts around 50,000 visitors per year and is open year-round.

It is important to note that children who are under 5 years of age are not allowed in the spa, also minors under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult (maximum 3 minors per adult).
Use this link to buy your tickets! Aquum Spa

Tips:
Make a Reservation: To ensure that you have a spot at the spa, it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance. You can book your treatments and access to the facilities online or by phone.

Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the spa at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment. This will give you time to check in, change into your robe, and relax before your treatment.

Bring Swimwear: Aquum Spa and Wellness has an indoor and outdoor pool, so bring your swimwear if you plan to take a dip.
Remember to bring a swimming hat, if you don’t have one you can buy one at the spa for 3 euros. Also remember that you can visit the spa for a maximum of 3 hours.

Best Water Park Experiences for Families with Young Children, Older Children, and Couples:

If you’re traveling with your family and looking for a fun waterpark in the area, there are several great options to choose from. PortAventura Caribe Aquatic Park, Aquopolis Costa Dorada, and Aqualeón Water Park are some of the best parks in the region.
These waterparks offer a wide range of attractions suitable for children of all ages, from shallow pools and play areas for younger children to high-speed water slides and wave pools for older children and adults. You can enjoy a day of fun in the sun, splashing around with your family, and experiencing the excitement of these amazing waterparks. It is important to remember that PortAventura Caribe Aquatic Park is the only water park that children of all ages can visit, the other water parks have age restrictions.

For couples or families with older kids who want a more luxurious and relaxing experience, Aquum Spa and Wellness is an excellent choice. Although it is not a water park, it offers a range of spa treatments, saunas, and hot tubs in a serene and upscale environment.
Overall, whether you’re looking for a fun family day out, an exciting experience with friends or a relaxing experience in a luxurious spa, the Costa Dorada offers a diverse selection of water parks that are sure to provide hours of fun and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

General Tips for Visiting the Water Parks in Costa Dorada:

It’s important to keep in mind that Spain has industrial holidays in August, which leads to a significant number of Spaniards going on vacation during this month. Consequently, the water parks tend to be more crowded during this time.

Arrive Early: To beat the crowds and make the most of your day, plan to arrive at the park before it opens. This way, you’ll have more time to explore the attractions and enjoy shorter waiting times. If you’re taking the bus, keep in mind that buses in the Costa Dorada area can sometimes arrive and depart late, so it’s a good idea to take an earlier bus so you can arrive at the park at least 20 minutes earlier.

Visit on a Weekday: If possible, it’s a good idea to visit the park on a weekday rather than a weekend, as weekends tend to be busier. This means longer waiting times and more crowds.

Follow Safety Guidelines: Always follow the safety guidelines provided by the park and check the height restrictions for the attractions before getting in line. This will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience at the water park.

Bring Appropriate Clothing: Be sure to bring appropriate clothing for the water parks, such as swimwear, a towel, and waterproof sunscreen. It’s also a good idea to bring a change of clothes and a plastic bag to keep your wet clothes separate from your dry ones.

BEST RESTAURANTS IN SALOU

There are a wide range of different restaurants in Salou, and luckily there are an equal as wide range of taste buds. So, what are the best restaurants in Salou? We have divided it into two categories, so you have something for everybody. 

ZARA SALOU

Salou is a great cost city, with a lot of nice restaurants and shops. And we do understand why you would love to have a Zara in Salou, we would to. But the shops mainly sell the typical holiday stuff. Sometimes you can be lucky to find some clothing in these shops or in more local shops in Salou. But if you are looking specifically for a Zara, then you need to go either to Reus or Tarragona, which is the larger cities next to Salou.

THE ROADHOUSE SALOU

There is no denying that you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out in Salou. Almost all types of cuisine are readily available in the many great restaurants and bars. From fast food to multi course dinners, it’s all here waiting for you. And The Roadhouse Salou is definitely one of the restaurants we can recommend you to visit on your holiday.