Amid the excitement of the Costa Brava, this natural and secluded sandy stretch has amenities similar to the region’s more popular beaches.
Santa Cristina Beach is a hidden gem on the Catalan coast accessible only by a short, sandy path and protected from overdevelopment by locals who appreciate its beauty. Ringed by cliffs that ensure calm waters and surrounded by virgin pine forests, this sandy beach is one of the region’s most beautiful. Journey to this quiet spot to see a glimpse of the area as it was in earlier centuries.
Spend some time in the Ermita Santa Cristina, a small 18th-century chapel whose earlier 14th-century version gave the beach its name. It features wooden model boats hanging from the ceiling.
Nearby, spot a giant pine tree under which the Catalan government held a meeting in 1934. Set off down the path, which is incredibly serene. Linger in the shade of the trees as birds chirp and the ocean becomes steadily louder before you emerge onto the golden sand of the beach itself.
Get a sunbed or just lay out on a towel and run into the calm water. Ease in slowly along the shallow grade, then splash around as you look up at the cliffs on either side of the cove, covered in the brilliant green of local pine. Dry off in the hot sun. Repeat this relaxing cycle all day long. Appreciate the relative quiet, especially compared to most other beaches of the area. Take a break to snack on patatas bravas and a cool beer in the local chiringuito, or small bar, before leaving the beach.
Reach Santa Cristina Beach in less than 10 minutes by car from Lloret de Mar or Blanes. The intercity bus from Lloret de Mar has a stop a 20-minute walk away from the beach itself. The walk down to the beach takes only a few minutes. Water taxis are available leaving from the beach to nearby resorts. Park for a flat rate in a lot near the Santa Cristina chapel. Lifeguards are on duty from mid-May to mid-October, from mid-morning to evening.
