Cosmo Aparthotel Playa de Aro

The best overall time for most people is from late May to late June and the month of September. During these “shoulder seasons,” you enjoy the perfect balance. The weather is typically excellent—very warm and sunny, ideal for beach time, swimming, and exploring—but without the intense heat and massive crowds of peak summer. Accommodation prices are more reasonable than in July and August, and you’ll find a vibrant but less chaotic atmosphere. This is the ideal window for those seeking great weather without the peak-season drawbacks.

If you prioritize guaranteed hot weather and a bustling, energetic atmosphere, target July and August. This is the absolute peak season. The town is at its most lively with nightlife, events, and all amenities fully operational. However, be prepared for the highest prices, crowded beaches, and the need to book your rental many months in advance. For a budget-friendly, quieter trip focused on culture, hiking, or golf, consider the off-season (October to April). While too cool for swimming for most, the weather is often mild and sunny, perfect for exploring the Costa Brava’s medieval villages, hiking the coastal paths, and enjoying local life without tourists. You’ll find the lowest prices and the greatest availability by far.

Playa de Aro is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a vibrant mix of coastal and land-based activities. The obvious draw is the Mediterranean Sea, where visitors can enjoy swimming from the expansive Platja Gran, kayaking or paddleboarding to secluded coves, and snorkeling in rocky inlets like Cala del Pi. For more adventure, boat excursions, jet skiing, and diving trips to the renowned Medes Islands marine reserve are readily available. The historic Camí de Ronda coastal path provides stunning clifftop hikes with access to hidden beaches, perfect for exploration on foot.

Beyond the shore, the area caters to a wide range of interests. The lush inland terrain is excellent for road cycling, mountain biking on forest trails, and golfing at scenic courses like Golf d’Aro. Families can enjoy tree-top adventures at local rope parks, while those seeking a unique perspective can explore the landscape on guided horseback rides. Essentially, Playa de Aro perfectly combines classic beach relaxation with active adventure, making it ideal for visitors looking to balance leisure with sports and exploration.

Choosing the best restaurants in Playa de Aro depends on what you’re looking for, as the town has it all: from simple beachside snack bars to fine dining establishments. Here is a list of the best areas and types of restaurants:

If you want to enjoy classic, high-quality cuisine, the most popular spot is the Passeig Marítim (seafront promenade). This bustling street is lined with numerous restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood and traditional Catalan cuisine to international dishes like Italian, Argentinian, and Asian. The atmosphere is lively, especially in the evenings, and you can enjoy views of the beach. For a more authentic and potentially less touristy experience, venture a block or two inland from the promenade. Here you’ll find small family-run tavernes and restaurants that often cater to locals, serving hearty Catalan dishes like suquet de peix (fish stew) or arròs a la cassola (casserole rice).

To truly enjoy local cuisine, stroll through the old town behind the main church (Parroquia de Santa Maria de Playa de Aro), where charming narrow streets hide real culinary gems. For the ultimate experience, book a table at a restaurant in the surrounding hills or coves, such as in the neighboring village of S’Agaró, which boasts several renowned upscale restaurants with stunning sea views. Remember that Spaniards dine late. To soak up the atmosphere, plan to arrive after 9:00 PM.