Cala dels Frares BeachSpain Beach Guide
Rocky cove escape with turquoise water near Lloret
About
Cala dels Frares is a compact rocky cove on the southern Costa Brava, tucked just minutes from the busier sands of Lloret de Mar. The mixed sand and rock shoreline gives the beach a raw, natural feel, and the turquoise water catches the Mediterranean light in a way that makes it easy to linger. It sits within the commune of Lloret de Mar, with the small island of es Frare Gran visible offshore adding a focal point to the seascape. The vibe here is genuinely relaxed — fewer visitors, slower pace, and a sense that you've stepped just far enough off the main strip.
How to get there
The easiest approach is on foot from Lloret de Mar beach — a roughly 5-minute walk that makes this cove very accessible for anyone already staying in town. You can also arrive by car via the GI-682 road, or catch a bus from Lloret de Mar. Paid parking is available nearby at Parking Sa Caleta, so if you're driving, factor that cost into your plan.
Who it's for
For couples
The relaxed pace and compact size of Cala dels Frares make it a natural choice for couples wanting to escape the noise of Lloret de Mar without going far — find a flat rock, watch the turquoise water shift colour through the afternoon, and walk back to town for dinner.
For families
Families should note the rocky seabed and absence of lifeguards before settling in — this is better suited to older children who are comfortable around rocks and can follow water safety guidance. The short 5-minute walk from Lloret de Mar beach means you can easily retreat to more supervised sands if needed.
Our take
There are no lifeguards at Cala dels Frares — that's the first thing to know, and it shapes how you should approach the water. Rocky seabed, protruding rocks, and a moderate swimming rating mean this is a place for calm, aware swimmers, not a spot to drift off on an inflatable. That said, for anyone who respects those conditions, this cove delivers something the main Lloret de Mar beach simply can't: quiet, turquoise water, and a pace that feels genuinely unhurried. It's a five-minute walk from Lloret de Mar, yet it reads like a different world. Worth the short detour — just go in with your eyes open.
What to do
The cove's rocky character and clear turquoise water make it well suited to snorkelling along the submerged rocks and exploring the shoreline at your own pace. When you're ready to stretch your legs, the observation point at Punt d'observació is about 1.4 km away. El Gurugú, also around 1.4 km out, offers another local landmark worth adding to a half-day loop around this stretch of the Costa Brava.
The rocky outcrops at the cove's edges frame the turquoise water and the offshore island of es Frare Gran perfectly — shoot from low down on the rocks for maximum impact.
The mixed sand and stone shoreline itself photographs well in the soft light of early morning, before the sun climbs high enough to bleach the colours out.
Where to eat
Il Pomodoro, a pizza spot just 0.3 km from the beach, is the closest option for a quick post-swim meal. Vela Mar sits about 0.4 km away, and Plan B — serving Mediterranean dishes, pasta, and pizza — is within 0.5 km. Sa Mariscada is a short walk at 0.7 km, with El Relicario rounding out the options at 0.9 km.
Where to stay
Athene Neos and ALEGRIA Mariner are both within 0.5 km, putting you within easy walking distance of the cove. Montanamar is slightly further at 0.6 km, while Castella and Hotel Maremagnum are both under 1 km away.
Photography
The best shots come from the water's edge at low sun angles — early morning light picks out the turquoise water against the mixed sand and rock in a way that midday glare flattens entirely. The island of es Frare Gran offshore gives you a natural focal point worth framing in your compositions.
Good to know
No lifeguard services are present at Cala dels Frares, so swim within your own limits and keep a close eye on children in the water. The seabed is rocky, and some rocks protrude above the surface — water shoes are a smart call, especially when entering or exiting the sea. Swimming is rated moderate, meaning calm conditions are generally fine for confident swimmers, but the rocky hazards demand attention. Arrive early in the day during June through September to claim a spot before the crowds build.
Map
Nearby places
Il Pomodoro
Vela Mar
Plan B
Sa Mariscada
El Relicario
Athene Neos
ALEGRIA Mariner
Montanamar
Castella
Hotel Maremagnum
Punt d'observació
el Gurugú
Frequently asked
The information on this page is provided for guidance only and may evolve. Access conditions, safety and infrastructure can change without notice. Always check official sources before traveling.
Nearest beaches
Other relaxed beaches in Spain
Reviews of this beach
- No reviews yet, what a shame — leave yours and share your experience.
Photo credits
Sources and licenses for the photos shown above.