Empuriabrava is Europe's largest residential marina, a network of canals on the Costa Brava where many villas have their own private mooring. Built in the 1960s on marshland near the French border, it's an unusual place: part Florida, part Catalonia. The canals connect to the sea, so residents can boat from their front door to the open Mediterranean. We think it's a surprisingly fun base for families and water sports enthusiasts, though it's not a traditional Spanish village by any stretch. The surrounding Aiguamolls wetlands are a bonus for birdwatchers.
Why Stay in Empuriabrava
- Canal living: Villas here often come with a private mooring. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and small boat hire along the canals is a daily pleasure. Children love it.
- Wide sandy beach: The main beach stretches for over a kilometre and is backed by dunes. It's wide enough to absorb summer crowds without feeling cramped. Lifeguards operate in season.
- Skydiving capital: Empuriabrava is one of Europe's top skydiving centres. Tandem jumps start from around €200. Even if you're not jumping, watching the parachutes drift in over the bay is part of the daily entertainment.
- Purpose-built caveat: There's no historic centre, no winding streets, no cultural depth. The commercial area is a strip of restaurants and shops designed for the marina community. For Catalan atmosphere, drive to Castelló d'Empúries (5 minutes) or Figueres (20 minutes).
Things to Do in Empuriabrava
Get on the water. Kayak and paddleboard hire is available from several points along the canals. Small motorboat rental (no licence needed for under 6hp) lets you cruise the network and out to the bay. Prices start around €40-50 for a half day.
The Aiguamolls de l'Empordà nature reserve, right next to the marina, is one of Catalonia's most important wetlands. Walking trails, hides, and flamingos, herons, and marsh harriers depending on season. Free entry. A morning here is a genuine contrast to the marina.
Drive to Castelló d'Empúries (5 minutes) for a medieval town with an oversized Gothic church and Sunday market. Figueres (20 minutes) has the Salvador Dali Theatre-Museum, one of Spain's most visited attractions. Book ahead in summer. Entry around €14.
The Greek and Roman ruins of Empúries (15 minutes south near L'Escala) are good and right on the beach. It's one of the most atmospheric archaeological sites in Spain. Further south, L'Escala itself is known for anchovies. The small anchovy museum and the shops selling tins and jars are worth a stop. Roses (10 minutes north) has a larger beach and a seafront restaurant strip.
