Platja de Riells
A large, sandy beach with calm waters and a vibrant promenade, Platja de Riells is a family-friendly hub in L'Escala, Costa Brava.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Platja de Riells
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A large, sandy beach with calm waters and a vibrant promenade, Platja de Riells is a family-friendly hub in L'Escala, Costa Brava.
"This is the largest beach at L'Escala. Plenty of restaurants and souvenirs all around."
🎯 Explore Historic L'Escala
Don't just stick to Platja de Riells; the historic town offers stunning rocky boardwalks and beautiful views.
🏖️ Try Les Planasses Beach
For a more spectacular beach experience, especially in autumn, Les Planasses is highly recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Platja de Riells Promenade
Along the main sandy beach
A lively promenade lined with bars and eateries, perfect for a stroll with sea views.
Calm Waters for Swimming
Platja de Riells
Enjoy a refreshing dip in the clear, calm waters, ideal for families and casual swimmers.
L'Escala's Historic Charm
Historic center of L'Escala
Discover rocky boardwalks and beautiful water views away from the main tourist hubs.
Les Planasses Beach
Near L'Escala
A spectacular beach, especially in autumn, offering a more dramatic coastal landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Explore Beyond the Sand
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore Historic L'Escala
Don't just stick to Platja de Riells; the historic town offers stunning rocky boardwalks and beautiful views.
🏖️ Try Les Planasses Beach
For a more spectacular beach experience, especially in autumn, Les Planasses is highly recommended.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Playground
The beach has a playground visible from nearby cafes, great for families.
🛥️ Admire the Little Harbor
The small harbor is lovely for viewing yachts and sailing boats.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore Historic L'Escala
Don't just stick to Platja de Riells; the historic town offers stunning rocky boardwalks and beautiful views.
🏖️ Try Les Planasses Beach
For a more spectacular beach experience, especially in autumn, Les Planasses is highly recommended.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Playground
The beach has a playground visible from nearby cafes, great for families.
🛥️ Admire the Little Harbor
The small harbor is lovely for viewing yachts and sailing boats.
🎶 Festival Vibes in March
Check out the #itacacultura festival in late March for free concerts on the beach! +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Platja de Riells is a sizable, family-friendly beach with calm waters and a lively promenade offering many dining options. While it can be crowded in peak season and some find it average, its amenities and proximity to L'Escala's historic charm and other beautiful beaches make it a worthwhile visit. Off-season visits might find parts of the town closed.
"Beach is very average in the off season, not a view to look at and almost the whole town closed in this area. Not recommended in October. However, had a fantastic time once we headed up to the historic part of city to walk the boardwalk there, which was full of rocks and beautiful water. Also the beach, Les planasses, was spectacular in October, although I wish we tried parking closer there than to the center of the beach here."
Tania Uruchima
"If you get to visit, look for the little prince, the fox and the rose. Each one of them is looking at the other. If you get a chance to visit in the fall make sure to carefully pick up and eat a fugue from the tree. Gorgeous peaceful place off season."
Aleksandr Khusid
"Way too many people like everywhere in this region, Costa Brava is a bit too crowded. This beach is not the best, water is not so clear."
Ben Heine
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Platja de Riells is the main beach in L'Escala, easily accessible by car or public transport. Parking can be challenging during peak season, so consider arriving early or using local buses.
L'Escala is located on the Costa Brava and is accessible via major roads. The nearest airports are Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO) and Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN).
While Platja de Riells is central, exploring the historic part of town and other beaches like Les Planasses is best done on foot or by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Platja de Riells is a public beach and is free to access.
Beaches are generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, amenities like restaurants and shops along the promenade have their own operating hours.
Yes, the beach has hosted events like the #itacacultura festival with free concerts in late March. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim in the calm waters, relax on the sand, stroll along the promenade, and enjoy the views of the small harbor. There's also a playground for children.
Yes, the calm waters and the presence of a playground make it a great spot for families with children.
The water is generally calm and clear, making it pleasant for swimming.
Natural shade is limited on the sandy beach itself. You can find shade at the promenade's cafes and restaurants, or consider bringing your own umbrella.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the promenade is lined with numerous restaurants and eateries offering various cuisines.
L'Escala offers a range of dining options, from local Catalan cuisine to seafood and international dishes.
Yes, you'll find souvenir shops along the promenade surrounding Platja de Riells.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lively promenade, the calm sea, and the boats in the small harbor. The historic part of L'Escala also offers picturesque views. +1
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers beautiful light for photography. Early mornings are also great for capturing the beach before it gets crowded.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring L'Escala's Diverse Beaches
For those seeking a more dramatic coastal experience, the beach of Les Planasses is highly recommended, particularly during the off-season. Travelers have noted its spectacular scenery, offering a stark contrast to the more urban feel of Platja de Riells.
Navigating L'Escala: Beyond the Beach
For those who enjoy a bit of maritime scenery, the little harbor adjacent to Platja de Riells is a pleasant spot to admire yachts and sailing boats.
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