The Costa Brava is a haven for families seeking fun and adventure. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or a mix of ages, there’s a park for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top five children-friendly theme parks in and around the Costa Brava, complete with tailored recommendations.
Gnomo Park – Lloret de Mar
Gnomo Park, located in the peaceful woods near Lloret de Mar, is an idyllic destination for families with small children who love a mix of outdoor fun and imaginative play. This gnome-themed park is designed to captivate young minds with its playful ambiance, featuring interactive activities, colorful installations, and climbing structures that encourage exploration and creativity. The Adventure Park area is a highlight for energetic kids, with rope bridges, climbing nets, and even a mini-zip line that provides just the right amount of challenge for little adventurers. Toddlers and younger children are not left out, thanks to a soft play area with padded zones for crawling, sliding, and exploring safely. Mini-golf adds an element of family competition, while the manageable size of the park makes it easy for parents to supervise and relax.
Practical considerations make Gnomo Park even more appealing for families. The theme park is small enough to avoid the overwhelming crowds of larger attractions, and there are shaded picnic areas where parents can unwind while the kids play. Outside food is not allowed, but the on-site café serves kid-friendly options like sandwiches, pizza, and healthy snacks such as fruit cups and yogurt. The park is best visited in the morning or early afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day and potential crowds. Overall, Gnomo Park provides a stress-free and engaging environment for families looking for a slower-paced but thoroughly enjoyable outing.
Marineland Catalunya – Palafolls
For families wanting a mix of thrills and learning, Marineland Catalunya in Palafolls is a standout choice. This unique park combines a water theme park with a marine zoo, making it a versatile destination that appeals to kids and parents alike. Young animal lovers will delight in the dolphin and sea lion shows, where these intelligent creatures perform tricks and interact with trainers in ways that are as educational as they are entertaining. The park’s enclosures also feature exotic birds and penguins, providing an opportunity for kids to learn about wildlife in a fun, accessible way.
The water park section is perfect for cooling off in the summer months. While older kids and adventurous parents might enjoy the larger slides and wave pools, younger children will love the gentle splash areas and smaller slides designed for their safety. The theme park is well-laid-out, allowing families to move easily between the animal exhibits and water attractions without feeling rushed. With picnic areas available, families can bring their own meals, although there are plenty of on-site dining options that cater to both quick bites and more substantial meals. Plan to spend a full day here to enjoy the variety of activities, but be sure to arrive early to grab a shaded spot and catch the best showtimes.
Water World – Lloret de Mar
Water World in Lloret de Mar is a water park that truly caters to families, offering an impressive range of attractions suitable for kids of all ages. For families with small children, the park provides safe, shallow splash zones and mini slides where toddlers can play while parents watch nearby. The wave pool is a family favorite, offering a gentle introduction to the fun of water parks without the intensity of high-speed slides. Older siblings can enjoy more thrilling rides, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
The themepark’s thoughtful design includes plenty of shaded lounging areas, making it comfortable for families to spend the entire day. Outside food is allowed, so families often take advantage of the picnic spots to enjoy homemade meals. However, the on-site eateries also offer a range of options, from quick snacks like ice cream and sandwiches to healthier meals like salads and grilled chicken. Visiting during weekdays or early in the morning helps avoid long queues and allows younger kids to enjoy the theme park in a more relaxed atmosphere. Water World’s balance of excitement and family-friendly features makes it a must-visit destination for families looking to beat the heat.
Catalunya en Miniatura – Barcelona
Catalunya en Miniatura, located near Barcelona, offers a different kind of adventure for families with young children. This charming themepark is home to detailed miniature replicas of Catalonia’s most iconic landmarks, from castles and churches to natural wonders. Kids love walking through this tiny world, exploring the intricate models while learning about the region’s history and culture in an engaging and interactive way. For those who want more action, the theme park also features an adventure zone with zip lines and rope courses suitable for kids as young as three, making it a great blend of educational and physical activities.
The park is stroller-friendly, with wide, paved paths that make it easy for parents with little ones to navigate. Shaded picnic areas provide a great spot for families to take a break, and outside food is allowed, adding to the convenience. If you prefer to dine on-site, the café offers simple, fresh options that cater to both adults and kids. Catalunya en Miniatura is perfect for families who want a quieter, more educational outing that still keeps kids entertained and engaged.
Tibidabo amusement park – Barcelona
Tibidabo Amusement Park, perched on a hill overlooking Barcelona, is a magical experience for families with small children. This historic themepark combines vintage rides with modern attractions, offering something for every family member. Younger kids adore the classic carousel and Ferris wheel, while the iconic Avió airplane ride provides a gentle thrill. For families with slightly older kids, Tibidabo’s small roller coasters and interactive shows ensure a balanced mix of fun and excitement.
What sets Tibidabo apart is its breathtaking setting. The Sky Walk area offers panoramic views of Barcelona and the Mediterranean, creating a serene atmosphere that complements the theme park’s attractions. Families can enjoy a slower pace here, with plenty of opportunities to take breaks between rides and soak in the scenery. Outside food is allowed, and there are several picnic spots with unbeatable views. Alternatively, the on-site restaurants serve a mix of Catalan dishes and kid-friendly meals, making it easy to refuel during your visit. Tibidabo’s blend of nostalgia, charm, and family-friendly fun makes it a top choice for a memorable day out with young children.
Unforgettable Family Adventures at Costa Brava’s Theme Parks
These parks combine fun, accessibility, and charm, ensuring that even the smallest visitors have a magical time. Whether you’re splashing around at a water theme park, exploring tiny landmarks, or soaring on a Ferris wheel, the Costa Brava truly delivers on family-friendly fun.
And while these theme parks are fantastic in their own right, if you’re willing to explore just a little beyond the Costa Brava, a truly extraordinary adventure awaits. Don’t miss out on this final tip—perfect for families seeking something extra special to make their trip unforgettable!
PortAventura World – Salou
If you’re willing to venture just outside the Costa Brava, PortAventura World, located in Salou (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car), is an unforgettable destination that’s well worth the trip. As one of Europe’s most renowned theme parks, PortAventura offers a diverse range of attractions for families, from heart-pounding roller coasters to gentle rides perfect for young children. Its size, variety, and attention to detail make it a must-visit for those looking to add a big adventure to their holiday.
The park is divided into six themed areas, including Mediterranean, Far West, and Polynesia, each offering unique attractions, live shows, and dining options. For younger children, Sesame Street Adventure is a dream come true, with gentle rides, colorful play areas, and opportunities to meet their favorite Sesame Street characters. Families with a mix of ages will appreciate how the theme park caters to all levels of excitement, allowing older siblings to enjoy adrenaline-pumping coasters like Shambhala and Dragon Khan, while younger kids can splash in water play areas or take a spin on the gentle Magic Fish ride.
Plan for a full day—or even two—to fully explore everything PortAventura World has to offer. It’s recommended to book tickets in advance to save time and money, and families may want to consider staying overnight at one of the themed hotels within the park for a truly immersive experience. With its world-class attractions, engaging themes, and wide range of activities for every age group, PortAventura is the perfect bonus adventure for families traveling near the Costa Brava.
