Medes Islands Spain, Costa Brava’s Marine Paradise
You know, the Costa Brava is one of Spain’s most spectacular coastal regions. The vibrant city of Girona, the glamorous seaside town of Cadaqués, the picturesque harbor of Calella de Palafrugell, or the night life of Tossa de Mar are just a few examples of what this region has to offer. But beyond its most popular and lively destinations, the Costa Brava is also home to extraordinary natural beauty, as the Medes Islands perfectly illustrate.
What Are the Medes Islands?
The Medes Islands are a small archipelago consisting of seven uninhabited islands located about one kilometer off the coast of L’Estartit, in the province of Girona. Despite covering less than 23 hectares of land, the islands are internationally famous for the extraordinary richness of their surrounding marine ecosystem.
Since the early 1990s, the area has been protected as one of the Mediterranean’s most important marine reserves. Strict conservation measures have allowed marine life to flourish, creating one of Europe’s finest destinations for underwater exploration.
Because the islands are protected, visitor numbers and activities are carefully regulated, helping preserve this exceptional natural environment for future generations.
What to Do on the Medes Islands
The Medes Islands are ideal for water sports enthusiasts, families with children, nature lovers and even couples looking for unique outdoor experiences. Here are a bunch of activity to enjoy while visiting the archipelago.
Underwater Activities in the Marine Reserve
Of course, the Medes Islands Marine Reserve is the archipelago’s greatest attraction. These protected waters have become a sanctuary for Mediterranean marine life, making every visit an opportunity to observe thriving underwater ecosystems rarely seen elsewhere in Europe. You may encounter large schools of fish, sea stars, octopuses, colorful sponges, and the famous giant groupers that have become symbols of the reserve.
Since the visibility often exceeds 20 meters, the reserve is particularly attractive for scuba diving, snorkeling and underwater photography.
When it comes to scuba diving, you can choose among more than a dozen dive sites around the archipelago, catering to every experience level. Underwater caves, dramatic rock walls, swim-through tunnels, and vertical cliffs create exciting conditions for certified divers. Many local diving centers in L’Estartit offer guided dives, equipment rental, and certification courses for beginners. Guided snorkeling excursions are also available for families and first-time visitors.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
A great way to explore the Medes Islands is by taking a glass-bottom boat from L’Estartit.
These excursions circle the islands while offering underwater viewing through large observation windows, allowing you to observe marine life without entering the water.
Many tours also provide fascinating commentary about the area’s geology, wildlife, and conservation efforts.
Kayaking and Exploring Sea Caves and Cliffs
The rugged limestone cliffs surrounding the Medes Islands have been sculpted by wind and waves over thousands of years.
Several sea caves, arches, and hidden grottoes can be explored by kayak or during guided boat excursions, providing spectacular views of the islands from sea level.
Paddle boarding is definitively another great way to appreciate the dramatic coastline while minimizing environmental impact. Guided tours from L’Estartit allow visitors to paddle around the islands, explore hidden coves, and access quiet snorkeling spots unreachable by larger boats.
Birdwatching
Although best known for marine life, the Medes Islands also provide important nesting sites for numerous seabird species.
If you are into birdwatching, you may observe cormorants, gulls, peregrine falcons, and various migratory birds throughout the year.
Hiking in the Montgrí Natural Park
If you are not a fan of activities that involve water, you can enjoy a walking excursion.
The Medes Islands form part of the larger Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park, which combines coastal cliffs, forests, wetlands, and mountain landscapes into one of Catalonia’s most diverse protected areas. Hiking trails offer panoramic views over the islands and surrounding coastline.
How to Get to the Medes Islands
The Medes Islands are accessible only by boat from the coastal town of L’Estartit, located approximately 45 kilometers from Girona and around 140 kilometers from Barcelona.
Numerous local operators offer daily departures during the tourist season, or you can rent a private boat. Just remember that the marine reserve has strict environmental regulations, so independent boating and diving activities require compliance with local conservation rules.
The best time to visit the islands is between May and October, when sea temperatures are warmer and underwater visibility is at its highest.
What to See Near the Medes Islands
The area surrounding the Medes Islands is rich in cultural, historical, and natural attractions that make it easy to extend your visit.
The charming seaside town of L’Estartit offers beautiful beaches, a lively marina, seafood restaurants, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. It serves as the perfect base for exploring the islands.
Moving inland, a great place to visit is the beautifully preserved medieval village of Pals, with its cobbled streets, the Gothic architecture, and some panoramic viewpoints that offers wonderful glimpses of the Empordà countryside.
Nature lovers should also explore the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park, one of Catalonia’s most important wetlands and an excellent destination for birdwatching. Another must-visit destination is Cap de Creus Natural Park, where dramatic cliffs meet the Mediterranean in one of Spain’s most spectacular coastal landscapes.
If you have extra time, head to Girona, one of Catalonia’s most beautiful historic cities. Its medieval walls, colorful riverside houses, Gothic cathedral, and well-preserved Jewish Quarter make it one of the region’s cultural highlights.
