Blanes Holidays

Blanes is a well-established resort at the southern end of the Costa Brava, where the coastline begins to change from long sandy beaches to rocky coves and pine-backed headlands. It has a more lived-in feel than some purpose-built resorts, with a working harbour, a traditional town centre and a seafront that suits relaxed beach holidays without feeling too remote.

The main beach, Platja de Blanes, sits close to the town centre and is handy for cafés, shops and restaurants. To the south, the long stretch of S’Abanell offers plenty of space for sunbathing and seaside walks, while smaller coves such as Cala Sant Francesc provide a more scenic setting, especially for those happy to travel a short distance from the centre. The beaches are generally shingle-sand rather than powder-soft sand, so beach shoes can be useful.

Away from the seafront, Blanes has pleasant streets to explore, a daily rhythm shaped by local life, and plenty of places to eat. Seafood is a strong feature on menus, along with tapas, rice dishes and Catalan specialities. Evenings are typically relaxed, with bars, terraces and casual restaurants rather than a large clubbing scene. For livelier nightlife, nearby Lloret de Mar is the better-known option.

One of Blanes’ standout attractions is Marimurtra Botanical Garden, set above the coast with Mediterranean planting and impressive sea views. The harbour area is also worth a wander, and the Sa Palomera rock, just off the beach, is a local landmark often described as marking the start of the Costa Brava. In summer, Blanes is known for its fireworks competition, which brings a particularly lively atmosphere to the seafront.

Blanes also works well as a base for exploring. You can visit other Costa Brava towns, take coastal walks, or travel towards Girona and Barcelona for a change of scene. The resort is practical as well as attractive, with good local amenities and transport links, including a train station just outside the centre. Overall, Blanes suits holidaymakers looking for beaches, local character and a gentler pace than the Costa Brava’s busiest party resorts.