Platja d'en Ballesta, Mediterranean beach in Cadaqués, Spain.
Platja d'en Ballesta is a small beach on the Costa Brava coast made up of coarse sand mixed with pebbles and backed by rocky cliffs. The cove opens directly to the sea, offering views of the rugged shoreline typical of this stretch of northeastern Spain.
This small cove served as a natural harbor for fishing boats since medieval times, with local fishermen using such sheltered spots along the coast. The setting remains largely unchanged from those earlier centuries, retaining its original character as a simple working beach.
The beach sits near local restaurants offering fresh seafood preparations tied to generations of fishing tradition in the area. Walking through the narrow streets nearby reveals how the Mediterranean way of life remains woven into daily routines.
The beach has very few facilities, so bring water, food, and sun protection before heading down. Parking is available just a short walk uphill from the shore, making access straightforward for most visitors.
The mountains visible from this beach inspired works by Salvador Dalí, who lived and painted in Cadaqués and often included the surrounding landscape in his compositions. Sitting here, you see exactly what the artist saw when looking outward from the village toward the sea.
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