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About Costa Dorada
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A whopping 50 miles of pristine sands set the scene for a classic beach holiday on the oh-so golden Costa Dorada. Taking centre stage is the ever-popular resort of Salou with its Blue Flag strips and a string of attractions. And then there’s the world-famous, all-singing all-dancing theme park, PortAventura World, pulling in the crowds for its unforgettable rides, spectacular shows and thrilling entertainment for all ages. Good old-fashioned fun is on the menu in Salou’s quieter neighbours, Cap Salou and La Pineda, while Cambrils ticks the box for a sophisticated stay with a traditional twist. Looking to squeeze in some sights between sunbathing? You've got a variety of culture-packed cities to explore including Tarragona and Reus, and
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Hotels in Costa Dorada
Hotel ID
73046
Hotel ID
87959
Hotel ID
88313
Hotel ID
70145
Hotel ID
75832
Hotel ID
71866
Hotel ID
68989
Hotel ID
70941
Hotel ID
82247
Destination Page
https://main--holidays--jet2-plc.aem.page/destinations/spain/costa-dorada
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Information

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Language

Spanish

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Currency

Euro (€)

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Time difference

+1hr

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Local beer

£1.90

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Meal for two

£38.50

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Average flight time

2.5hrs

Golden stretches

It’s not surprising Costa Dorada means ‘golden coast’. The brilliant beaches here are to die for, and more than 26 of them have a Blue Flag planted in the grains for cleanliness. You’ve got rocky coves and verdant headlands to explore by these staggering bronzed stretches too.

Go your own way

If you’re looking for a laid-back vibe, Cambrils is ideal, with scenic walks and soft sandy beaches on offer. La Pineda has the PortAventura World on the doorstep, packed with legendary rollercoasters and six worlds to discover. And Cap Salou’s all cosy coves this and relaxed dining that. Whereas Salou’s a vibrant mix of family fun and lively nightlife.

Culture-packed cities

With plenty of cities just a stones throw from this Costa, you’ll never be short of exploring opportunities. Don’t miss Tarragona’s wealth of Roman ruins or the interesting architecture in Gaudí’s hometown of Reus. Barcelona’s close too, which makes for a perfect day trip.

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Discover holiday inspiration on the Jet2Blog

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Want to find out more about Costa Dorada? Head over to our jam-packed Jet2Blog for all your holiday inspiration...
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Family guide to the Costa Dorada

With its all-ages attractions, sun-kissed sands and history-heaped sights, the Costa Dorada’s storybook stuff for families...

From tiny tots to hard-to-please teens, children of all ages are catered for in this popular costa.

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Hidden gems in the Costa Dorada

Want to uncover more about the Costa Dorada? You’re in for active adventures, fabulous food and captivating culture while you hunt down its hidden gems...

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Get active in the Costa Dorada

Looking to explore and keep active on your next holiday? In the sun-soaked Costa Dorada, it couldn’t be easier. Let’s take a look…

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Beaches

For family fun, water sports in Salou and Cap Salou are excellent – especially if you’re a thrill seeker! Out of the way, you’ll even stumble across unblemished beaches which are surrounded by woodlands just a few kilometres from Tarragona. If it’s golden coast you’re after, this is the place.
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Sights

Tarragona, a port city and the province’s capital, has epic Roman remains to get to know. Remarkable Reus is in easy reach, too. Take a stroll around Prim Square, head to the shops and explore the Gaudí Center.
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Activities

The Costa Dorada is activity central. Not only have you got PortAventura World right on your doorstep, there’s the Aquópolis waterpark and paintballing at Bosc Aventura. Add seven beautiful golf courses, downhill biking and 4x4 safaris, and you’ll always find something to keep you busy.
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Eating and drinking (beaches)

Freshly caught baby squid and octopus are some of the specialities here. Look out for Suquet de Peix – tasty fish stew – and romesco sauce made with red peppers. Some of Spain’s best vineyards are on the Costa Dorada, so make sure you try some of the local wines as well as sparkling Cava.
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Shopping (beaches)

Reus is the commercial city of Costa Dorada, where you can find an exciting array of styles and the most prestigious brands. There’s lots of souvenir shopping in the resorts too. What’s more, markets are held all over – the biggest on Sunday mornings. Haggle over lace, ceramics, shoes and more.
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Nightlife

The ‘Slammers’ area of Salou, with its bars and clubs, has the liveliest nightlife in the region. But for something a little quieter, the chiringuitos – bars that line the long beach in Cambrils – make ideal venues for cocktail-sipping after hours. Whatever your tipple, there’s a place perfect for you.
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FAQs
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Why is it called the 'Golden Coast'?

The name derives from the fine, golden-coloured sand found on its beaches. Unlike the rocky coves of the northern Costa Brava or the white sands of the Costa Blanca, the sand here has a distinct warm, honey-gold hue due to its high mineral content. This colour, combined with the shallow, calm waters, makes the coastline particularly striking during sunrise and sunset.

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What is the best time of year to visit?

The peak season for a Costa Dorada holiday is between June and September, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. However, late spring (May) and early autumn (September/October) are increasingly popular, offering pleasant weather with fewer crowds. The region also hosts several cultural festivals in spring and autumn, making it a year-round destination.

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Is the Costa Dorada suitable for families?

Yes, it is widely regarded as one of the most family-friendly destinations in Spain. The beaches generally have a gentle slope into the sea, creating safe paddling areas for children. Furthermore, the coastline is dotted with resorts offering kid-friendly amenities, and the world-famous PortAventura World theme park is located just outside Salou, providing entertainment for all ages.

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Is the water clear and clean?

Yes, the beaches of the Costa Dorada are known for their high water quality. Many hold the Blue Flag certification, awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) for meeting strict standards regarding water quality, safety, and environmental management. The sea is generally calm and not as rough as the Atlantic coast of Spain.