Things to Do in Castelldefels
Castelldefels sits on the Costa Garraf, just 20 kilometres from Barcelona. Most people know it for its long, golden beach. However, this relaxed town offers much more. You can explore a pirate-themed castle, paddle on an Olympic canal and hike in a wild natural park. Read on for the best things to do in Castelldefels.
Planning a longer stay? Take a look at our Castelldefels town guide. You can also read our tips on where to stay in Castelldefels.
Castell de Castelldefels
Start your trip at the Castell de Castelldefels. This hilltop castle dates back to the 10th century. It once protected the coast from invaders and, later, from pirates. Today, it is the town’s best-known landmark.
Inside, you can wander through the noble hall and the fencing room. Then climb up to the terrace. From there, you can see Barcelona, the sea and the Garraf hills. The gardens are lovely too, so take your time strolling around them.
Families will enjoy Piratia, an interactive pirate attraction inside the castle. You step into the shoes of a cabin boy on a pirate ship. You can even fire cannons and dress up. It lasts about 30 minutes and suits children from six years old.
Opening times change with the season, and guided tours have limited places. For that reason, it is smart to buy tickets in advance. Already in Spain? Get directions.
Castelldefels Beach
Next, head down to Castelldefels Beach. This is the star of the town, and it is easy to see why. The golden sand stretches for around five kilometres. In places, it is up to 200 metres wide. As a result, you rarely struggle to find a spot for your towel.
The water is shallow and calm near the shore. Therefore, it is a great choice for families with young children. There are showers, toilets, playgrounds and sports areas along the way. You can also rent equipment for water sports.
A wide promenade runs behind the sand. It is perfect for a walk, a cycle or an ice cream. Beach bars line the route, and many stay open until late. Better still, the beach faces the sea in a way that gives you lovely sunsets. Bring a drink and watch the sky turn orange.
The beach is also pleasant in winter. Long, quiet walks here feel far away from the busy city. Get directions.
Canal OlÃmpic de Catalunya
Sport fans should not miss the Canal OlÃmpic de Catalunya. Builders created this huge artificial lake for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. It hosted the canoeing events. The canal is about 1,200 metres long and 130 metres wide, and pine trees surround it.
Today, anyone can enjoy it. You can hire kayaks, canoes, pedaloes and windsurf boards. You can also try stand-up paddleboarding or take a course. Meanwhile, children love the inflatable water park. Teenagers usually head straight to the wake park, where a 650-metre cable pulls riders across the water.
Prefer to stay on dry land? A road circles the canal, so it works well for cycling, skating and running. There is also a pitch and putt course and a padel area. It makes a great full-day outing, especially for active families.
Activity times can change with the weather, particularly in summer. So, check the details before you go. Get directions.
Garraf Natural Park
When you want a break from the sand, visit the Garraf Natural Park. This rugged park rises just beside Castelldefels. It is a world away from the busy beach. Instead, you will find limestone hills, Mediterranean scrub and wide sea views.
Walkers can choose from many marked trails. Some are gentle, while others are quite steep. Cyclists also love the park, and mountain bikers will find plenty of routes. Take plenty of water and sun cream, because shade is scarce in places. Sturdy shoes help too.
Early morning is the best time to go, especially in summer. The light is soft and the air is cooler. In addition, the views over the coast look fantastic at sunrise. Curious about the wider area? Our guide to Garraf has more ideas. You could also read about nearby Olivella. Get directions.
Port Ginesta
Along the coast, you will find Port Ginesta. This is one of the largest marinas in Spain. Rows of yachts and sailing boats fill the harbour. Even if you do not sail, it is a lovely place for a stroll.
The marina has restaurants and bars with harbour views. Consequently, it is a popular spot for a relaxed lunch or an evening drink. Many people come here for the nightlife as well. Cocktail bars and pubs stay lively after dark.
On the western side, there is a small beach. Surfers sometimes ride the winter waves here. You can also join a trail that climbs from the end of the marina up into Garraf Park. So, it is easy to combine a walk with a coffee. Get directions.
Paella and Seafood by the Sea
No trip to Castelldefels is complete without a big Catalan meal. The town sits right on the coast, so seafood is a must. Look for grilled prawns, fresh fish and calamari. Many restaurants along the seafront serve them straight from the kitchen.
Rice dishes are also a highlight. Try a classic paella, or order fideuà . This tasty dish uses short noodles instead of rice. Share a plate of escalivada too, which is roasted vegetables with olive oil. To finish, order crema catalana. This creamy custard has a crisp, caramelised top.
Lunch in Spain often starts late, so book a table if you plan to eat at 2 pm or later. You will find lots of ideas in our guide to where to eat in Castelldefels.
Day Trip to Barcelona
Barcelona lies only about 20 kilometres away, so a day trip is easy. Regional trains connect Castelldefels with the city. They run often, and the journey is short. Check Train Schedules & Buy Tickets on Omio.
Once there, you can explore GaudÃ’s buildings, the Gothic Quarter and the busy food markets. Our guide to the things to do in Barcelona will help you plan your day. You can then return to the quiet beach in the evening.
Would you rather explore at your own pace? You can hire a car and drive along the coast. Hire a car with Discover Cars. If you are already in Spain, you can click here to get directions from your current location.
For more ideas, read our list of the best day trips from Castelldefels. If you have a few days to spare, try our 3-day itinerary for Castelldefels.
Final Thoughts on Castelldefels
Castelldefels gives you the best of the Catalan coast without the crowds of Barcelona. You can explore a pirate castle in the morning and relax on the sand at lunchtime. Then, you can paddle across an Olympic canal or hike above the sea. Finally, you can end the day with fresh seafood and a lovely sunset. Whether you visit for a day or a week, this friendly town is easy to love. So, pack your swimwear, bring your walking shoes and enjoy every minute.