Playa del Grau is a tranquil beach of fine sand in Pals, ideal for families and for enjoying the nature of the Empordà. It offers a serene setting with views of the Illes Medes.
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La mayoría de la arena de playa son diminutos fragmentos de cuarzo y feldespato, erosionados de rocas terrestres durante milenios.
About this beach
Table of contents
Introduction
Today we delve into one of those corners that, without making too much noise, steal our hearts on the Costa Brava. We are talking about Playa del Grau, a hidden treasure in the municipality of Pals, in the province of Girona. Far from the hustle and bustle of other more crowded beaches, Playa del Grau offers us a haven of peace, a stretch of golden sand where time seems to stand still and the only rush is to enjoy the present moment. It is one of those Girona beaches we highly recommend to those seeking an authentic and relaxed experience.
This jewel of the Empordà stands out for its family-friendly atmosphere and its connection with nature. Here, the landscape merges with agriculture, with the characteristic rice fields of Pals stretching almost to the shore, creating a unique picture. The view is lost on the horizon, where the silhouettes of the majestic Illes Medes rise from the sea, inviting us to dream of underwater adventures. If we are looking for a Pals beach that allows us to truly disconnect, Playa del Grau is, without a doubt, a wise choice.
How to get to Playa del Grau
Getting to Playa del Grau is relatively straightforward, although its somewhat more secluded character helps maintain its charm. If we come by car, which is the most comfortable and recommended option for exploring the area, we should head towards the town center of Pals and, from there, follow the signs to 'Platja de Pals' or 'Platja del Grau'. The road will take us through rural landscapes, flanked by the famous rice fields of Pals, an experience in itself.
By car
From Girona, the journey takes approximately 50-60 minutes, taking the C-65 and then turning off towards Pals. From Barcelona, the trip is about 1 hour and 45 minutes, via the AP-7 and then the C-31. Once in the beach area, we will find nearby parking areas, some paid during the high season, but always with options to leave our vehicle a short distance from the sand. It's important to remember that, in the middle of summer, it may be a good idea to arrive early to secure a good spot.
Public transport
Public transport to Playa del Grau is less direct. We can take a bus to the town of Pals from Girona or Palafrugell, but from the town to the beach, the distance is considerable (about 4-5 km). During the summer months, there are sometimes shuttle bus services connecting the old town of Pals with the beach area, but it is advisable to check the updated schedules, as they are not very frequent. For greater flexibility, the car remains our best bet.
The sand and the water
Playa del Grau is a delight for the senses, and much of its charm lies in the quality of its sand and the clarity of its waters. We are faced with a beach of fine sand, of a golden hue that invites us to walk barefoot, build sandcastles with the little ones, or simply spread out a towel and feel its soft texture under our feet. It is clean, well-maintained sand that guarantees a comfortable and pleasant experience.
The predominant type of ground is, as it could not be otherwise, sand, which makes it ideal for bathing. The waters of Playa del Grau are generally calm and shallow near the shore, especially in the part closest to the Gola del Ter. This makes it a safe and perfect place for families with young children, who can splash and play without worries. The water quality is good, and its clarity allows us to see the sandy bottom, which is always a plus. The temperature of the Mediterranean in this area is very pleasant during the summer months, inviting us to take a good dip to cool off from the Catalan sun.
Services and facilities
Despite its tranquil and natural atmosphere, Playa del Grau does not forgo offering us a series of essential services that make our stay much more comfortable and pleasant. We know that when we go to the beach, especially with family, having certain amenities is fundamental.
Among the services we can find, we highlight:
- Lifeguard service: During the high season, the beach has lifeguard services, which provides us with additional peace of mind when enjoying a swim, especially if we are with children. Safety is always a priority for us.
- Showers: After a day of salt and sand, good showers are always welcome to wash off the excess salt before heading home or continuing with our activities.
- Toilets/WC: Essential for any self-respecting beach, at Playa del Grau we will find public toilets, often associated with the chiringuitos or designated service points.
- Chiringuitos: The Mediterranean essence could not be missing. Playa del Grau usually has one or two chiringuitos where we can have a cool drink, snack on a tapa, or enjoy a light meal with sea views. They are perfect for escaping the midday sun or for enjoying a sunset with a drink in hand.
- Sun umbrellas and sun loungers: For those who prefer not to carry their own equipment, there is the possibility of renting sun umbrellas and sun loungers, allowing us to relax comfortably in the sun without worries.
- Parking: As already mentioned, there are parking areas near the beach, facilitating access for those coming by car.
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