Cala Taballera Beach

There are two ways in, and neither involves a car. The main route is a 120-minute hike from El Port de la Selva along the GR-11 trail — wear proper footwear and carry water, because the terrain is unforgiving. If you'd rather skip the trail, a boat from El Port de la Selva takes around 30 minutes and runs on demand. Vehicle access to the beach is not permitted, so there is no parking to plan around.

The beach sits inside Cap de Creus Natural Park, a protected landscape of dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and serious hiking opportunities that extends right to the cape itself. A short boat ride or drive away, the Far del Cap de Creus lighthouse rewards with some of the most exposed, elemental scenery on the Iberian Peninsula. Further inland, the Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes — a 10th-century Benedictine complex perched on Verdera mountain — offers panoramic views that put the whole coastline in perspective. And just 6.8km away, Salvador Dalí's former residence at Portlligat in Cadaqués is one of the most singular house-museums in Spain.

There are no restaurants at Cala Taballera — pack a proper picnic before you set out. Back toward civilisation, Compartir in Cadaqués (5km) is the standout choice, with a reputation that punches well above the region. Restaurant Nord Est at 5.3km is another strong option if you want a sit-down meal after the hike.

Cala Montjoi, rated 4.4/5 across nearly 4,000 reviews and sitting 8.8km from the beach, is the closest base and suits those who want to stay deep in natural-park territory. For more comfort, Hotel Spa Mediterráneo Park (4.5/5, 10.2km) and Almadraba Park Hotel (4.6/5, 10.5km) both offer polished stays within reasonable striking distance of the trailhead.

Shoot from the rocky headland at either end of the cove in the early morning, when the turquoise water catches the low eastern light and the golden sand glows without a footprint on it. Late afternoon is equally rewarding — the warm light hits the cliff faces directly and the natural-park backdrop turns amber.

The hike is multi-hour and over rough natural-park terrain — it is not suitable for visitors with mobility impairments, and the trail is not wheelchair accessible. Cala Taballera is a naturist zone, so clothing-optional bathing is the norm here; respect that culture if you visit. Bring everything you need — food, water, sun protection — because there are no facilities on the beach. Swimming is safe, but the remoteness means no lifeguard is present, so don't swim alone.