Pretty town centre with cafés, cocktail bars and souvenir shops
Beaut coastal path leading right into the centre
Only an hour's drive from Barcelona - day trip, anyone?!
What are the best beaches in Salou?
Just like most places in Spain, holidays to Salou are all about the beach. Even if you're just in it for the balcony views rather than the sandy skin, you won't be short of coastal spots to gawp at here. Whether you're after swapping your office chair for a deckchair, or just getting some cheeky Insta snaps - here's where to do it:
Llevant Beach - the star of the show, stretching over 1,200m (that's a lot, btw), and decked out with all the facilities - from volleyball nets to cafés and even a playground for the kiddos
Ponent Beach - another whopper of a beach, conveniently located right next to Llevant Beach but a bit further from the main hotel resorts, which usually means it's a bit quieter. It's a fave spot for families thanks to the gentle waves and shallow waters.
Cala Font - our fave sandy spot when we stayed at Best Negresco hotel (because it's literally 5 mins away). It's a small section of sheltered coast that tends to stay on the quiet side - we went after breakfast and were the only ones there!
Playa Llarga - if the name hadn't already given it away, this is the biggest beach in Salou, with gorg golden sands and surrounding pine trees for a bit of shade. It's also backed by the Cami de Ronda coastal path, perfect for a seafront stroll.
Cala Crancs Cove - a cute little cove that's located close to a lighthouse (so you can't miss it), surrounded by cliffs and natural landscapes, and decked out with showers, public loos, a lifeguard and a beach bar dishing out pizzas and cold beer
Capellans Beach - one of the most popular urban beaches in Salou, backed by cliffs and kitted out with a beach bar and fine sands that slope gently into the sea - ideal for little ones looking to paddle
Cala Penya Tallada Cove - follow the steps down to this tiny hidden cove and you'll be greeted by a little sliver of sand (enough for a few groups of towels), with golden cliffs on either side and the sea stretching out right ahead. There are no amenities (it's all natural, baby!), and it's pretty unknown, meaning it's usually empty apart from the odd local!
What are the top hotels in Salou?
Beach days, waterpark thrills, and an epic nightlife scene? That's a triple threat if we've ever seen one, so we completely understand wanting somewhere cute and cosy to crash after all that action. Thankfully, Salou holidays understood the assignment. Whether you're craving cheap and cheerful vibes or splashing out for something extra, these popular hotels in Salou will get your holiday search well and truly started:
PortAventura Hotel PortAventura & Theme Park - if unlimited access to PortAventura Theme Park sounds good to you (and if it doesn't, check yourself), then that's exactly what you get at this hotel - along with two pools to dip into, a poolside terrace restaurant and gorg rooms
H10 Mediterranean Village - this place is the definition of multiple choice, with two pools to dunk into, a bunch of restaurants to eat at (including a little Italian number dishing out fresh pizzas), and plenty of activities to keep the kiddos busy
Salou Sunset Hotel by Pierre & Vacances - a budget-friendly beaut that's just a 5-minute walk from the beach, with a freeform swimming pool, a chilled rooftop terrace with Jacuzzis and sun loungers, and entertainment for the whole fam
Best Negresco - we stayed at this one and had a whale of a time! It's not exactly beachfront (although you're only a walk away), but it's definitely seafront, with a huge half-moon pool overlooking the water, a buffet restaurant packed out with all the goodies, a poolside bar, nightly entertainment (from bingo to fire-breathers), and easy access to the Cami de Ronda coastal path that leads right into town
Sol Costa Daurada Hotel - tucked in the outskirts of Salou with a lagoon-style pool, delish food served right by the pool and a mini club for the kiddos and entertainment in the ev ening
Mansion de Lucy - go all-out at this 5-star stunner, decked out with swanky rooms, an international restaurant and - most importantly - unlimited access to PortAventura Theme Park!
Need a holiday? Grab a last-minute deal and get yourself off for some sun, sand and sea. Adios!
Popular Salou hotels
Weather in Salou
JAN
13°C
FEB
15°C
MAR
16°C
APR
18°C
MAY
21°C
JUN
24°C
JUL
27°C
AUG
27°C
SEP
25°C
OCT
20°C
NOV
16°C
DEC
13°C
Alright, hold onto your sun hats because here's the scoop on Salou weather! 🌞
Rolling from May to September, Salou is pretty much in its prime time. This Spanish coastal gem serves up a sun-soaked blend with temperatures lounging between 20°C and 30°C. Beach days? Absolutely! Whether you're splashing in the waves or building sandcastles, it's A+ weather all the way.
October to April? Salou takes it down a notch. Things get a tad cooler, but still pleasantly mild, as temperatures dip between 10°C and 20°C. It's sweater-weather, but with a Spanish twist. Perfect for those breezy walks along the promenade or sipping on a café con leche at a streetside café. ☕
So, breaking it down: Salou weather? Pretty much a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're planning a splashtastic day at PortAventura or a lazy afternoon at Llevant Beach, Salou's got the climate that just keeps giving. Pack your sunnies, maybe a light jacket for those cooler months, and get ready to soak up everything Salou has to offer. Beach vibes and Spanish charm? Sign us up!
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Salou?
It takes about 2 hours to fly to Salou from the UK/Ireland - one cheeky nap and you're there!
What’s the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Salou?
Salou is one hour ahead of the time in the UK/Ireland, so you shouldn't have to worry about too much pesky jetlag.
What currency do they use in Salou?
The official currency of Salou is the Euro.
What language do they speak in Salou?
The main language spoken in Salou is Spanish - hola!
Go for a seafront stroll
Try looking for things to do in Salou without the Cami de Ronda coastal path coming up. We dare you. You can't, because this iconic pathway is the jewel in Costa Dorada's crown, weaving all the way from the more remote coastal towns, right up into the centre of Salou. Some parts are trickier than others, but once you get closer to the town centre, the pathway is a fully-paved seafront promenade with signs along the way to keep you on track. You'll know you've reached Salou when you see it in big, colourful letters by the sea - the perfect photo op!
Find the fountains
The Fountains of Salou might not be anything on a Bellagio scale, but they're still a top tourist attraction in the town centre. In fact, this place is home to not one, but four fab fountains - Font Lluminosa - which is the oldest of the bunch, Fonts Ornamentals, Font Cibernètica and Font Laberint. During the summer season you can watch all four burst into life with colourful light and music displays after dark.
Hop on the tourist train
No, literally. We know exploring a bunch of local landmarks isn't gonna fly with the kiddos, so this handy little train is the perfect way to get your fill and make it fun for the little ones. It's essentially an open-door tourist bus that looks like a toy train (total Thomas the Tank vibes), and it departs from Salou's tourist office roughly every 30 mins, chugging along a circular route to the town's most iconic attractions. Tickets are only 6€ for adults and 4€ for kiddos over 3, and audio guides are available so you can learn a thing or two along the way. Winner!
Feel the magic in the House of Illusion
Regular dinners are so last season - this place is your key to spicing things up a bit (and we don't mean the food). This venue is known for its interactive magic shows, where you'll be entertained at your table by close-up magicians (think card tricks and sleight of hand) while you're served food from a delish menu, progressing into a theatrical performance of shadowography, manipulation and mind-blowing illusions. Date night just got a whole lot more interesting...
Shop 'til you drop in the town centre
If shopping is your cardio, then you'll have plenty to go at in Salou, whatever you're in the mood for. If you stroll on over to Avenida Jaume I which runs parallel to the iconic Llevant Beach, then you'll find a lush walkway lined with trees and fountains, plus plenty of craft and souvenir shops full of unique finds. And for you lot who love a good bargain (who doesn't?), the weekly Salou market is the place to be. Open-air stalls take to the town centre, selling everything from clothes to household bits and bobs. Don't forget your euros!
Take a day trip to Barcelona
Barcelona is just over an hour's drive from Salou, which makes it the perfect chance to add a bit of city to your beach break! Who said you can't have both? There are loads of different tours you can book, most of which depart from the centre of Salou for ease. You can choose a tour that works for you, from completely guided to DIY, or something in between. We opted for something in between, stopping off at a couple of iconic landmarks but then having a couple of hours to explore the city ourselves and grab some tasty tapas before heading back. If you've got the kiddos with you, then we recommend going for the more DIY option so they don't get too restless at the different stop-offs.
What events can I go to in Salou?
Salou's always ready for a fiesta, with an events calendar that promises fun, whenever you go. Whether you're looking to dip your toes into the Spanish culture or just party like there’s no mañana, here are some of the top events you won't want to miss:
Cos Blanc (February) - watch the streets come alive with parade floats, bangin' tunes and a rainstorm of confetti for Salou's winter carnival
Sabor Salou Fair (March/April) - an event for the foodies, where restauranteurs flock to Paseo Maritimo (next to the Nautical Club), to showcase their best dishes, paired with themed activities, cocktails and cooking workshops
Festa Major de Sant Pere (June) - a festival in honour of Saint Peter, the patron saint of fishermen, with traditional dancing, human towers and fireworks over the marina for the grand finale
Festival of the Virgen del Carmen (July) - a heartfelt tribute to the sea with a procession followed by fireworks (because if there's one thing Salou knows how to do, it's a firework display!)
International Music Festival (July - August) - a series of summer concerts, ranging from swish classical tunes to modern beats
Golden Nights (August) - 10 days of concerts, fireworks and beach parties to send summer off with a bang
King Jaume I Festival (September) - a historical bash with medieval markets, knight tournaments and street theatre that'll have you fully immersed
Salou Rally (October) - cars zoom through the streets in an adrenaline-pumping race as part of the Spanish Rally Championship. It’s fast, it’s furious, and it’s a proper good time!
Salouween (October) - prepare to be thrilled with a spooky selection of halloween-themed activities, music, entertainment and tasty food on the streets of Salou
Where is the best nightlife in Salou?
Nightlife on Salou holidays is like diving headfirst into a pool of partying. It's glitzy, it's buzzing, and it's unforgettable (depending how many cocktails you have). Whether you're after a cheeky drink or you just want to dance 'til dawn, here are the top spots where Salou's night scene really pops off:
Flash Back - a go-to dance spot, with multiple floors playing thumping electronic beats and international hits
Chaplin's - good ol' British fun, with a rotation of tribute acts to enjoy - starting with shows for the kiddos early on, and finishing with pop bangers at midnight. We stopped by during our stay and managed to catch a Greatest Showman performance and a Little Mix tribute. 10/10, if you even need to ask.
Snoepy's Club - an iconic venue that turns every night into a festival, with an outdoor terrace, themed parties and a lively atmosphere
Koko Beach Club - a beachfront beaut serving sunset cocktails, with chilled house music to dance the night away to
La Cage - think extravagant drag shows and dance performances that dazzle - it's camp, it's fun and it's one you won't want to miss
Tropical Salou - a club that brings reggae beats, Latin flavour and a dancefloor that's always busy
Danny Boy - a classic Irish bar for your taste of home - think cosy pints and live sports on the TV
Pacha La Pineda - a top-notch venue for glam nights just a short hop from Salou's centre, with crackin' DJs and themed nights
The Victoria Pub - can't go wrong with a good ol' pub, and this one's got live music, quiz nights and a delish menu to tuck into
Slammers - prepare for a fun-filled night of karaoke, dance-offs and the most creative cocktails in town - every night's a Saturday night here
What’s the food like in Salou?
Food in Salou is all about the Spanish tapas. Think fresh-as-it-comes seafood, tomatoey patatas bravas and huge platters of delish paella. If that sounds up your street, here's a bit of that plus even more tasty dishes to try on your holiday to Salou:
Patatas bravas - you can't go wrong with these saucy, spicy fried potatoes - a staple on any Spanish tapas menu
Calçots with romesco sauce - tender, grilled spring onions dipped in a nutty, peppery sauce - super tasty, but maybe one to avoid on date night!
Fideuà- paella's noodly cousin, bursting with seafood and cooked to perfection
Esqueixada - a light and refreshing salad made with shredded salt cod, tomatoes, onions and olives
Crema catalana - Spain’s answer to crème brûlée - it’s creamy, it’s dreamy, and the burnt-sugar top is just the cherry on the cake
Churros con chocolate - fried, crispy doughnut sticks dipped in oozy chocolate sauce? We're sold.
Got the menu sorted, but wondering where to tuck in? Don't worry, we've got you covered with these top restaurants in Salou:
Luna Grill - tucked right near the beach (just our style), this place offers gorg views and a 10/10 meny to match, featuring everything from succulent grilled meats to that bangin' fideuà we mentioned earlier
Restaurant Deliranto - perfect for something a bit more boujee, this restaurant serves dishes that are as theatrical as they are tasty - it's fine-dining with a twist
Xantar - a cosy spot known for its home-style Catalan cooking - their patatas bravas are the star of the show (the best in town, we've heard!)
The Grapevine - you'll have laidback vibes and a killer wine list to explore here, plus an epic selection of Spanish tapas
Club Nàutic Salou - dinner with a view is always on the table here, thanks to their menu of fresh seafood which you can tuck into while looking out at the marina
Places to visit
PortAventura World Theme Park
Buckle up adrenaline junkies, because PortAventura World Theme Park is here to show you all kinds of fun. It's one of Europe's most iconic parks (no biggie), and it's an absolute whopper - with six different worlds to explore, all packed out with countless teeth-clenching rides, including rollercoasters, water rapids, race tracks and waterslides. Phew. There are also plenty of places (21, to be exact) to grab a drink or a bite to eat, so you can stay fuelled between rides. We recommend the TukTuk Splash for a bit of fun in the 'Polynesian jungle' (just bring your waterproofs), or Red Force for the daredevils - the tallest 'coaster in Europe that soars to 112 metres and accelerates from 0 to 180km in 5 seconds. Wowser. Maybe eat after that one, yeah?
Xalet Bonet
What's the fun of looking at some random old building, you say? Well, we'll tell you. This is one of the most iconic buildings in Salou, built way back in 1918 and used as a shining example of Modernist-style architecture. It's essentially a really pretty mansion located right along the walk between Cambrils and Salou, with the beachfront and harbour nearby so you can make a day of it. While you sadly can't venture inside the villa, you can admire it and snap pics from the outside - make sure to have a peek over the fence at the gardens and the impressive tiled steps!
Parque Municipal de Salou
You can't go wrong with a walk in the park, and this place has everything you could possibly want in one: pretty pathways, a water feature, and even a café so you can drink coffee while you people-watch, or kick back with a cold beer. It's on the small side so won't take long to wander, but there are benches where you can plonk yourself down, and there are plenty of shaded areas thanks to all the trees, so it's a great place to stop by for a cool.
Key facts about Salou
Flight Time
2hrs 15mins
Time difference
+1 hr
Currency
Euro
Language
Spanish
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Salou?
We recommend checking with your healthcare provider for all of the up-to-date vaccination info before booking your holiday.
Do I need to pay tax on my holiday to Salou?
Customers will be required to pay a sustainable tourist tax when staying in Salou. This is usually between €0.65-€2.25 per person per night, depending on the season and star rating of the hotel. This is usually payable in local currency to the hotel.
