Platja de l'Arenal, located in Vandellòs i Hospitalet de l'Infant, is a large and significant beach within the urban core of this municipality in Tarragona, Spain. This beach is notable for its considerable length, being the longest in the Costa Daurada resort at 1,800 meters. It is characterized by its fine golden sands and clear waters, offering a calm and pleasant environment for swimming.
The beach is divided into two distinct sections. The northern sector is an urban beach with shallow waters, easily accessible from the promenade, while the southern part is a natural beach that can be reached via a designated Blue Trail footpath. This southern part is particularly noteworthy for its dunes with Mediterranean vegetation, white pine woodlands, and marshland with reeds. On both parts of the beach, visitors can admire the posidonia meadows, which are perfect for snorkeling and other sustainable water sports like scuba diving.
Platja de l'Arenal offers a wide range of amenities and activities, making it suitable for families with children. The beach features a Water Sport Resort (Base NĂ utica), which provides information and reservations for various water and land sports, including kayaking, dinghy sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddle surfing, and mountain biking. Additionally, there is a sports zone on the beach with basketball and volleyball courts, football pitches, fitness machines, and a calisthenics area.
The beach is well-equipped with basic facilities, such as wooden walkways, showers, and accessible toilets. It also offers assisted bathing with amphibious wheelchairs for people with reduced mobility. There are beach bars available, serving a variety of food options.
As for parking, the beach provides free parking spaces, accommodating a large number of visitors, including those arriving in campervans.
Platja de l'Arenal is easily accessible on foot, by car, or by boat. For those choosing to drive, the nearest motorway options are N-340 and A-7.
The beach has been recognized for its excellent environmental and tourist quality, receiving certifications such as the Blue Flag, Ecoplayas, ISO 14001, and EMAS.
Despite its size and popularity, Platja de l'Arenal is known for its cleanliness and spaciousness. It is particularly enjoyable outside of the tourist season, when visitors can freely walk and run around without the crowds.
