🏖️ Paddleboarding in Spanish Catalonia: The Best Spots to Explore Along the Costa Brava, Rivers and Lakes.

Catalonia, bordering France, attracts thousands of visitors every summer with the wild beauty of its coastline, the clarity of its waters, and the richness of its coves. Between fishing villages, natural parks, and seaside resorts, the Costa Brava is a must-see destination for stand-up paddleboarding enthusiasts.

In this article, discover the best paddleboarding spots in Catalonia , as well as practical information for renting a SUP, accessing the beaches, or experiencing an unforgettable outing in postcard-worthy settings.

1 - By the Sea

🌅 1. Cadaqués & Cap de Creus – The wild essence of the Costa Brava

Located on the northernmost tip of the coast, Cadaqués is a legendary village, beloved by Dalí, surrounded by cliffs, coves, and crystal-clear waters. It's one of the best places in Spain for SUP.

• Why go there?

  Mineral landscape, clear waters, early morning tranquility. Paddling in a protected natural setting.

• Access & Rental : Small rental companies are located on the main beach or at the port. Parking is available above the village (charges apply in high season).

• Places to see : The coves of Portlligat, Salvador Dali's house, the marine reserve.

  
  

🌊 2. Tossa de Mar – Paddleboarding for everyone in a postcard setting

Tossa de Mar is a gem accessible to all levels. Its beach is bordered by medieval walls, making it both a convenient and beautiful spot.

• Why go there?

  Calm sea, ideal for families and beginners. Very photogenic spot.

• Access & Rental : Rental companies located on the main beach. Parking in the town center is 300 m away.

• Places to see : Tossa Castle, pedestrian streets, seafront bars.

  
  

🐠 3. L’Estartit & the Medes Islands – SUP and snorkeling in a marine reserve

This spot is unique: it allows you to alternate between paddleboarding and underwater exploration in one of the best-protected marine sanctuaries in the Mediterranean.

• Why go there?

  Nature reserve, rich marine wildlife. Perfect for combining paddleboarding and snorkeling.

• Access & Rentals : Numerous water sports centers are located on the main beach. Large, free parking lot near the port.

• Places to see : The Medes Islands, underwater cliffs, the village of Estartit.

  
  

🌴 4. Calella de Palafrugell – Tranquility and Catalan charm

A small village with unspoiled charm, Calella offers an idyllic setting for a paddleboarding session away from the crowds. Coves, pine trees, white sand: a vibrant picture.

• Why go there?

  Peaceful atmosphere, beautiful coves to explore by rowing.

• Access & Rental : A few rental shops near the seafront. Parking is difficult in August, so it's best to arrive early.

• To see : The coves of Llafranc, the botanical garden of Cap Roig, beachside cafes.

  
  

🏖️ 5. Lloret de Mar – For a sporty SUP session

Often known for its nightlife, Lloret also has quieter secondary beaches, ideal for a morning paddleboarding session.

• Why go there?

  Large, accessible beaches and coves. A more dynamic session is possible with light swell.

• Access & rental : Rental on site (Fenals Beach or Cala Canyelles). Parking available nearby.

• Places to see : Cala Boadella, Santa Clotilde Garden, various water sports.

  
  
  
  

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Catalonia, with its diverse landscapes and rugged coastline, is one of the most attractive regions in Spain for stand-up paddleboarding. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, each cove or beach offers a different atmosphere, somewhere between adventure and relaxation.

🏞️ 2- Paddle in inland Catalonia: Lakes, rivers and wild nature

Catalonia also offers superb freshwater spots , often less crowded, perfect for lovers of nature, peace and quiet, and paddleboarding in the mountains or deep in the forest. These spots are particularly pleasant in spring and autumn.

🚣♀️ 6. Lake Banyoles – Peaceful paddle between mountains and legends

Located near Girona, this natural lake is one of the largest in Catalonia. It is popular for gentle water sports.

• Why go? Calm water, green surroundings, ideal for a couple's or family outing.

• Access & Rental : Paddleboard rentals are available at the Banyoles Natació Club. Parking is available nearby.

• Places to see : Banyoles old town, trails around the lake, picnic areas.

  
  

🌲 7. Sant Ponç Lake – In the heart of Solsonès

In the Catalan pre-Pyrenees, this artificial body of water is a true haven of peace, surrounded by pine forests and hills.

• Why go there?

  Absolute silence, mountain scenery, very natural setting.

• Access & Rental : Rental available in summer at the nautical base. Access road well signposted from Solsona.

• Things to see : Traditional villages, hikes around the lake, swimming in the great outdoors.

  
  

🏕️ 8. The Ter River in Ripoll – Another way to explore the Pyrenees

The River Ter, especially in the Ripoll area, offers peaceful stretches for practicing SUP in very gentle white water.

• Why go there?

  Original discovery, paddleboarding in the river, forest all around.

• Access & Rental : Best suited to those who own their own equipment. Parking and boat launches are accessible.

• Places to see : Ripoll Monastery, medieval roads, local products to taste.

  
  

🧘 9. Lake Sau – SUP between cliffs and submerged heritage

Sau Lake, formed by a dam, is bordered by spectacular red cliffs. At low tide, you can even see a submerged bell tower.

• Why go there?

  A unique spot in Catalonia, with a mystical atmosphere and few visitors.

• Access & Rental : Water sports center open in summer. Route well signposted from Vic.

• Places to see : Submerged bell tower of the Church of Sant Romà, surrounding forests, bird watching.

🏄♂️ 10. The Ebro River in Flix or Miravet – SUP in the Catalan meanders

Spain's largest river also crosses Catalonia, and some of its meanders in the province of Tarragona are accessible by paddleboard.

• Why go there?

  Perfect for long-distance hiking, wild scenery, little current.

• Access & rental : In Flix and Miravet, several providers offer rental and even supervised courses.

• Places to see : Miravet Castle, red cliffs, storks and herons on the edge.

  
  

🎯 Conclusion

Catalonia is much more than a seaside destination! From the Costa Brava to the Pyrenean rivers , passing by the peaceful lakes of the hinterland, this region offers a diversity of landscapes ideal for practicing paddle all year round , whether you are a beginner, an athlete or simply a nature lover.

❓ Can you paddleboard in L'Estartit with a view of the Medes Islands?

Yes, L'Estartit is one of the best paddleboarding spots in Catalonia. You can paddle towards the Medes Islands , an exceptional marine reserve. Local rental companies offer guided SUP excursions , complete with snorkeling equipment, ideal for observing the seabed.

❓ Where to rent a paddleboard in Cadaqués to explore Cap de Creus?

In Cadaqués , several rental points (especially near Portlligat beach) allow you to go paddleboarding to the coves of Cap de Creus . The landscapes are wild, with unique rock formations. Plan your session early in the morning to avoid the wind.

❓ Is there a good quiet paddle spot in Tamariu (Baix Empordà)?

Yes, Tamariu is a peaceful cove, ideal for a family paddleboarding trip . The waters are calm, sheltered from the wind, and the beach has a nearby car park as well as several board rental shops in the immediate vicinity.

❓ Can you paddleboard on Lake Banyoles (Pla de l'Estany)?

Absolutely. Lake Banyoles is one of the few freshwater spots in Catalonia suitable for paddleboarding. The atmosphere is peaceful, and there's a water sports center with SUP rentals , showers, and a swimming area. It's ideal for beginners or for practicing away from the crowds.

❓ Which coves to explore by paddle around Calella de Palafrugell?

From Calella de Palafrugell , you can easily reach coves like Cala el Golfet or Cala Pedrosa by paddleboard. The rental companies located on the central beach offer boards by the hour, and the area is very photogenic, especially at sunrise.

❓ Is paddleboarding allowed in the Medes Islands Marine Reserve?

Yes, but under certain conditions. Anchoring is prohibited, but you can paddleboard around the islands , staying within the authorized areas. The port of L'Estartit is the best starting point for accessing them by paddleboard or kayak.

❓ Are there any paddleboarding spots near Barcelona that are accessible by train?

Yes, beaches like Castelldefels , Badalona , or Montgat Nord are accessible from Barcelona by regional train (Rodalies). These beaches have water sports centers where you can rent a SUP for an hour or more, with showers and changing rooms on site.

❓ Where to paddleboard in the Ebro Delta (Tarragona)?

The Ebro Delta Natural Park is an exceptional area for paddling in the great outdoors. In Deltebre or Riumar , rental companies offer paddleboard excursions on the lagoons or on the calm branches of the river, with birdwatching in the delta.

❓ Can you paddle at the foot of the medieval walls of Tossa de Mar?

Yes, Tossa de Mar is famous for its old walled town. From the beach, you can rent a paddleboard and glide along the ramparts, gliding across the turquoise water. It's a very accessible spot , even for beginners, with parking nearby.

❓ Are there any river paddleboarding spots in the Catalan Pyrenees?

Yes, some quieter sections of the River Ter (near Ripoll or Camprodon) are suitable for SUP or kayaking, especially in spring and summer. It's a unique alternative to the coast, with pine forests , old bridges and a mountain atmosphere.