Salou is perhaps best known for its great climate, the lovely sea breeze and its fine, sandy beaches, all of which are a major part of the identity of this small seaside town. Situated just 6.2 miles from Tarragona, Salou received a certificate in recognition of its role as a quality family tourist destination in 2003. It is no coincidence that it has become the Costa Dorada's main tourist resort, as its extensive range of activities means guaranteed fun for all the family.

If you like amusement-park excitement, PortAventura will delight children and adults alike, while those who prefer outdoor adventure will find it at Bosc Aventura or in the many water sports on offer. Let's not forget those who are looking for a relaxed plan. Salou's long promenade, which runs alongside the town's magnificent beaches, is ideal for a gentle stroll. All you need to do now is make your mind up which of these 10 family-friendly plans in Salou you want to include on your holiday.

  • 1

    Spend an adrenaline-packed day at a go-kart circuit

    A different idea for lovers of speed

    Spend an adrenaline-packed day at a go-kart circuit
    • Adventure
    • Families

    Spend an adrenaline-packed day at a go-kart circuit if you're looking for something different but exciting to do on your next holiday in Salou. Don't miss the chance for your kids to have 4-wheeled fun in a go-kart that makes them like a proper Formula One driver. At Karting Salou, there is a circuit where you can release all your pent-up adrenaline.

    The youngest drivers, aged 4 to 7, are given specially adapted karts that ensure their safety. Two-seater karts are also available, as is a circuit for adults. That's not all there is here, either. After racing, visit the amusement arcade, try the simulators or go on the Bungee Rocket. You're bound to find what you're looking for and have an unforgettable day with your family.

    Location: Autovía Reus-Salou, km 2,1, 43840 Salou, Tarragona, Spain

    Open: Prices vary depending on the season. Check opening times on the circuit's website.

    Phone: +34 977 38 53 17

    Map

    photo by Evgeniy Metyolkin (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified

  • 2

    Join a Gastrotour to visit the town's best tapas bars

    Sample Salou's local cuisine

    Join a Gastrotour to visit the town's best tapas bars
    • Families
    • Food

    Join a Gastrotour to visit the town's best tapas bars if you love Mediterranean cuisine and find delicious tapas hard to resist. You won't want to miss Gastrotour, a tapas route around Salou where you can enjoy the local gastronomy at numerous establishments.

    This is a tour for all palates, so children and adults can try a bite to eat at each bar. It doesn't matter which you prefer, sweet or savoury, you will find speciality tapas for all tastes at each establishment. The youngest in the family can sign up for the Baby Tour, a route designed to allow them to take part in their own culinary adventure.

    Location: 43840 Salou, Tarragona, Spain

    Map
  • 3

    Experience a different side to Salou on horseback

    Enjoy the countryside from the saddle

    Experience a different side to Salou on horseback
    • Adventure
    • Families

    You can experience a different side to Salou on horseback while having a lovely day with family in the countryside. You will love this chance to discover the fascinating area around Salou on an excursion on horseback. It doesn't matter if you're an expert or a beginner, you will be able to go on a route especially planned for you depending on your level of experience, while the youngest are introduced to the equestrian world on ponies.

    It is clear that if you want to discover incredible countryside from the back of these noble animals, this is the plan for you. Wear comfy shoes or boots and have an unforgettable experience.

    Location: 43840 Salou, Tarragona, Spain

    Map
  • 4

    Spend a fun-filled afternoon at Bosc Aventura

    An exciting experience for the most adventurous at this leisure park

    Spend a fun-filled afternoon at Bosc Aventura
    • Adventure
    • Families

    A fun-filled afternoon at Bosc Aventura is ideal for those with an adventurous spirit who want to spend an unforgettable day with family. Situated in the centre of Salou, this multi-adventure park is a perfect adrenaline release through its circuits, zip wires and games.

    The youngest, when accompanied by an adult, can enjoy a green circuit, on which they will find a wide variety of bridges and zip wires to take their first steps on a fun-filled adventure. If you love team games and are looking for an intense experience, paintball is just the thing. Show off your concentration and good aim with activities such as mini-golf and archery. All of this takes place in a safe, protected setting, ensuring the fun never stops.

    Location: Calle de Barbastre, 15, 43840 Salou, Tarragona, Spain

    Open: Hours vary by season

    Phone: +34 877 05 04 44

    Map
  • 5

    Have a fun day on the beach with your family

    Fall in love with Salou's beaches and coves

    Have a fun day on the beach with your family
    • Budget
    • Families
    • Photo

    It's easy to have a fun day on the beach with your family with the crystal-clear waters, fine sand and sea breezes that make Salou one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Mediterranean coast. Thanks to wonderful locations like the wide Llevant beach, Salou is a magnet for those wanting to spend a relaxing day with the family.

    Situated on the Paseo Marítimo de Jaume I promenade, this beach offers a large number of services along its 1,200 metres, such as showers, toilets, play and sports areas and car parks. If you would like to go for a swim in a quiet area surrounded by lush vegetation, Crancs Cove is what you're looking for. Its spectacular views and shallow waters make this a beach that is suitable for both adults and children. Everybody who comes here can't wait to return.

    Location: 43840 Salou, Tarragona, Spain

    Map
  • 6

    Do some water sports

    Enjoy a wide variety of water sports on Salou's beaches

    Do some water sports
    • Adventure
    • Families

    If you enjoy doing some water sports, the Costa Dorada's beaches and coves with crystal-clear waters and fine sand are perfect not only for sunbathing and swimming but also for adventure. Salou offers a wide range of water sports that will ensure that you and your family feel like fish in water.

    The bravest among you can release their adrenaline going windsurfing and waterskiing. If your curiosity is such that you would like to explore the beauty of the sea bed, snorkelling and scuba diving are your best option. It's time to dive into an experience in the water that nobody will forget easily.

    Location: 43840 Salou, Tarragona, España

    Map
  • 7

    Take your family to an auction at the fish market

    Discover the fishing tradition in the heart of the Costa Dorada

    Take your family to an auction at the fish market
    • Budget
    • Families
    • Food
    • History

    Be sure to take your family to an auction at the fish market in Cambrils when you visit the Costa Dorada. This port town, just 5 miles from Salou, is the stage for a centuries-old tradition that takes place every afternoon, Monday to Friday – the fish auction. Here, you can experience firsthand what it's like to be a fisherman on the high seas as you drink in the sea-going culture of this beautiful fishing village.

    Our suggestion is great for the whole family, as it will pique the curiosity of your children as they feel what it's like to be a Cambrils fisherman. You will also witness the visual spectacle of the seagulls circling expectantly as they await the boats coming into port full of fish ready for market.

    Location: Moll Ponent, 0, 43850 Cambrils, Tarragona, Spain

    Open: Monday–Friday from 9 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 7 pm (closed on weekends)

    Phone: +34 977 36 00 52

    Map
  • 8

    Take a trip to Tarragona to see the Roman amphitheatre

    Travel back in time and find out the history of ancient Tarraco

    Take a trip to Tarragona to see the Roman amphitheatre
    • Couples
    • Families
    • History
    • Photo

    A trip to Tarragona to see the Roman amphitheatre is great for families and history buffs. The Roman city of Tarraco, now known as Tarragona, is famous for its archaeology and was declared a World Heritage Site in 2000. In the south of Catalonia, next to the mouth of the River Francolí, Tarragona's Roman remains make it one of the most important historic towns today. Tarraco's history has witnessed the evolution of the city over the centuries, becoming the foundation that defines Tarragona today.

    A clear example of this is its amphitheatre, which staged numerous spectacles during the days of the Roman Empire, such as gladiator contests and animal fights, hunting and athletics exhibitions. Thanks to its privileged location alongside the sea, you can enjoy the wonderful views of the coast as you walk through the city's fascinating history.

    Location: Parque de l’Amfiteatre, s/n, 43003 Tarragona, Spain

    Open: Tuesday–Friday from 9 am to 7 pm, Saturday from 9.30 am to 6.30 pm, Sunday from 9.30 am to 2.30 pm)

    Phone: +34 977 24 25 79

    Map
  • 9

    Take a boat trip along the coast from Club Náutico

    Enjoy the Costa Dorada from the sea with all the family

    Take a boat trip along the coast from Club Náutico
    • Adventure
    • Families
    • Food

    The great location of Salou's Club Náutico makes it the ideal place to enjoy the Costa Dorada's natural beauty and Tarragona's wide range of shopping, entertainment and cuisine. Situated in the city's marina, Club Náutico offers all kinds of activities for children, from workshops to table football, table tennis and fishing competitions.

    If you prefer to sail the seas like a real deckhand and explore the Costa Dorada, don't miss the catamaran excursions to feel the sea breeze on your face. With beautiful beaches with fine sand, crystal-clear waters and the Mediterranean sun, what more could you ask for

    Location: Puerto de Salou, 43840 Salou, Tarragona, Spain

    Open: Daily from 8 am to 6 pm

    Phone: +34 977 38 21 66

    Map
  • 10

    PortAventura

    Embark on an exciting, unforgettable experience

    PortAventura
    • Adventure
    • Families

    PortAventura is a hugely popular theme park that's been attracting visitors from all over the world since it opened in 1995. Situated between Vilaseca and Salou, the park's 6 theme-based areas are pure fun for both children and adults.

    If this is your kids' first visit to PortAventura, don't miss SésamoAventura to see Bert and Ernie. You will find endless activities and attractions that all the family can enjoy here. The bravest can ride famous roller coasters like Dragon Khan and Shambhala. After so much excitement, if you fancy something more relaxing, visit one of the park's theme restaurants or take in one of its shows with music, acrobatics and colour.

    Location: Avenida del Batlle Pere Molas, km 2, 43480 Vilaseca, Tarragona, Spain

    Open: Hours vary by season

    Phone: +34 902 20 22 20

    Map