Sa Boadella
Catalonia, Spain — Excellent water quality
Gross Sand is a rural beach accessible via the C-32 speedway (exit at Malgrat-Blanes-Lloret) or the AP-7 motorway (exit 9 toward Lloret). From inland, take the C-63 through Vidreres or the GI-682 connecting Blanes to Tossa.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Sa Boadella
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Sa Boadella?
Sa Boadella is a small cove beach near Lloret de Mar on Catalonia's Costa Brava coastline. This south-facing beach features coarse sand and sits in a rural setting, backed by Mediterranean vegetation. The water here is rated excellent for bathing quality, and the transparent conditions make it a popular spot for snorkeling. You'll find a beach bar on-site, and lifeguards are present during the bathing season. Access via the C-32 motorway or AP-7 makes it reachable from Barcelona in under two hours. The beach attracts visitors looking for clearer water and quieter conditions compared to busier nearby resorts.
It sits alongside certified beaches along Catalonia, part of a broader network of certified beaches throughout Spain certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Visitor Feedback
What Visitors Say About Sa Boadella
What visitors appreciate
- nudist beach|beach bar|cove|crystal clear water|snorkeling|garden|coarse sand|transparent water|blue zone|virgin cove
- Well-staffed with lifeguards during season
- Excellent EU-rated bathing water quality
Points to consider
- Can be busy during July and August peak season
- Facilities may be reduced outside peak months
Based on aggregated public visitor feedback. Themes are synthesised from multiple sources — not individual quotes. Zeach does not reproduce individual reviews.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Sa Boadella faces S toward Mediterranean Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in June. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 8°C | 5°C | Low |
| Feb | 10°C | 7°C | Low |
| Mar | 11°C | 8°C | Low |
| Apr | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| May | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
| Jun | 22°C | 19°C | Med |
| Jul | 25°C | 22°C | High |
| Aug | 25°C | 22°C | High |
| Sep | 21°C | 18°C | Med |
| Oct | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
| Nov | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Dec | 10°C | 7°C | Low |
The best time to visit Sa Boadella is June. Air temperatures peak around 24.5°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 21.5°C in July.
How crowded does Sa Boadella get?Sa Boadella remains quieter than major Lloret de Mar beaches, which is the main appeal for many visitors. As a smaller cove in a rural setting, it attracts snorkelers and families seeking clearer water and more manageable crowds. Peak summer months (July-August) do see regular use, particularly on weekends and during school holidays, but congestion never reaches resort-beach levels.
The beach draws a mixed demographic: serious snorkelers interested in marine visibility, families appreciating the cove protection and lifeguard presence, and visitors from nearby accommodations. Morning hours tend to be quieter, with crowds building through midday before thinning in late afternoon. The transparent water and blue zone status mean experienced swimmers and underwater explorers prioritize this location over nearby alternatives.
The beach bar adds social activity without creating party-beach atmosphere. Weekend visitors from Barcelona (75km away) know this location but it doesn't have the mainstream profile of central Lloret de Mar beaches. Parking is limited given the rural access road, which naturally caps visitor numbers. Weather significantly affects daily crowding—calm days bring more boats and snorkelers, while rougher conditions reduce visits.
Is Sa Boadella open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-06 – 30-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Sa Boadella
Is Sa Boadella safe to swim?Sa Boadella is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at Sa Boadella?Peak water temperature at Sa Boadella reaches around <span class="inline-stat">21.5°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 8.3°C.
What is the beach like at Sa Boadella?Sa Boadella sits in a rocky cove with coarse sand covering the seabed. The beach faces south, giving it good sun exposure throughout the day. Water clarity here is exceptional—the transparent conditions are one of the defining features that draw snorkelers and swimmers to this location. The Mediterranean marine life visible in the water, combined with the rocky formations around the cove, creates natural snorkeling routes directly from the shore.
Water temperatures follow the Costa Brava seasonal pattern. Winter months (January to March) are cold, ranging from 5.3°C to 8.3°C. Spring sees gradual warming from 10.4°C in April to 14°C by May. Summer brings peak temperatures: 18.7°C in June rising to 21.5°C in July and August. Autumn cooling is gradual, dropping to 14.4°C by October and continuing to decline through winter.
The official bathing season runs through July and August when water temperatures peak at 21.5°C, though many visitors extend this into June and September when temperatures remain comfortable for swimming. The coarse sand composition means the beach drains quickly and doesn't retain heat, so water temperature is the main factor determining comfort rather than beach conditions.
A beach bar operates on-site, providing refreshments and shelter. Lifeguards are stationed here during the bathing season. The rural location means facilities are minimal compared to larger resort beaches—bring supplies if you plan a full day. The rocky cove setting and blue zone classification indicate the water quality remains consistently high due to the protected, less-developed surroundings.
Does Sa Boadella have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Sa Boadella meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
Sa Boadella sits on the Mediterranean Sea — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Mediterranean.
Planning a trip to Spain? Blue Flag Beaches Spain 2026 — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
While You're Here
Beyond Sa Boadella
Lloret de Mar, 5 km south, offers the full resort experience with restaurants, shops, and nightlife if needed. Tossa de Mar lies north along the coast with its medieval Old Town and castle ruins. The surrounding Costa Brava region features dramatic rocky coastlines and alternative coves accessible by walking coastal paths. Blanes, 10 km north, has the Marimurtra botanical gardens and an active fishing harbor. The C-63 and surrounding roads connect multiple beaches and small villages throughout the region. Vidreres lies inland and offers traditional Catalan countryside experience. Barcelona is 75 km south via motorway, accessible for day visits or longer stays. The rural setting around Sa Boadella itself provides quiet Mediterranean vegetation and coastal landscape away from developed resort areas.
Lloret de Mar, 5 km south, offers the full resort experience with restaurants, shops, and nightlife if needed. Tossa de Mar lies north along the coast with its medieval Old Town and castle ruins. The surrounding Costa Brava region features dramatic rocky coastlines and alternative coves accessible by walking coastal paths. Blanes, 10 km north, has the Marimurtra botanical gardens and an active fishing harbor. The C-63 and surrounding roads connect multiple beaches and small villages throughout the region. Vidreres lies inland and offers traditional Catalan countryside experience. Barcelona is 75 km south via motorway, accessible for day visits or longer stays. The rural setting around Sa Boadella itself provides quiet Mediterranean vegetation and coastal landscape away from developed resort areas.
Transport
Getting to Sa Boadella
How do I get to Sa Boadella by car?Sa Boadella is approximately 1.38 km from Lloret de Mar. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Sa Boadella?The nearest airport is Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), approximately 75.7 km away. Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is 75.7 km from Sa Boadella. Most international visitors arrive here. From the airport, follow signs toward Lloret de Mar via the C-32 motorway or AP-7 highway. Drive northeast from Barcelona for approximately 90 minutes in normal traffic. Exit at Lloret de Mar or use AP-7 motorway exit 9. From Lloret town center, follow signs toward Tossa de Mar on the C-63 road heading north, then take GI-682 toward Blanes. Parking at Sa Boadella is limited due to the rural cove location; arrive early in summer months.
Can I get to Sa Boadella by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Lloret de Mar.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✓ Available during season |
| Official Season | 01-06 – 30-09 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 41.6907°N, 2.8253°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Spain |
Frequently Asked Questions
Sa Boadella FAQ
Is Sa Boadella worth visiting?
Yes, if you prioritize water clarity and snorkeling. The excellent bathing water quality and transparent conditions make this cove stand out from busier resort beaches. The coarse sand, rocky formations, and blue zone classification indicate well-preserved marine conditions. The trade-off is minimal facilities and a smaller sand area compared to main beaches. It suits snorkelers and families seeking quieter conditions over summer crowds and beach bar culture.
How do I get to Sa Boadella?
From Barcelona airport (75.7 km away), take the C-32 motorway or AP-7 toward Lloret de Mar, then exit at Lloret or use AP-7 exit 9. From Lloret town center, head north on C-63 toward Tossa de Mar, then turn onto GI-682 toward Blanes. The rural cove location means access is via smaller county roads from the main highway. Parking is limited, so arrive early in summer. No direct public transport to the beach itself.
What's the best time of year to visit?
July and August offer peak water temperatures (21.5°C) and official lifeguard coverage. June and September provide warmer water (18.7°C and 18.1°C respectively) with fewer crowds. Winter months are too cold for most swimmers (5–8°C water). May and October are marginal at 14°C. The official swim season is July–August, but experienced swimmers extend it through June and September. Weekdays and mornings are quieter than weekends.
What facilities are there at Sa Boadella?
Sa Boadella has a beach bar for refreshments and shelter. Lifeguards are present during the bathing season (July–August). The rural cove setting means no major facilities—no public toilets, showers, or equipment rental mentioned. Bring sun protection, water, and snorkeling gear if needed. Parking is limited. The beach bar provides basic food and drinks but plan accordingly for a full day. This is a minimal-facilities beach suited to self-sufficient visitors.
Is Sa Boadella suitable for families?
Yes, with conditions. The cove provides natural protection, water clarity aids safety awareness, and lifeguards are present during peak season. However, coarse sand and rocky formations require appropriate footwear. Limited facilities mean families should bring supplies. The small size and quiet atmosphere suit families avoiding crowded resorts. Snorkeling opportunities appeal to older children. Very young children may find the coarse sand and rocky entry less comfortable than larger sandy beaches.
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