Our list of the best family things to do in Salou shows the wealth of kid-friendly activities here, from swimming and snorkeling to adrenaline-pumping adventure parks and astonishing magic shows. While the vibrant seaside town on the Costa Daurada draws visitors with its long white beaches and clear Mediterranean seas, there's enough to do on land to keep the little ones entertained.

Many of the Salou’s amenities are built with families in mind, like play areas on the main beaches and restaurants with kid-friendly menus. The gentle waves along this sheltered coast are easy to swim in and there are lifeguards stationed all along the popular beaches. With so much entertainment on offer, it can be hard to choose, but we've picked out some of the best things to do with your family in Salou.

  • 1

    Aquopolis Costa Dorada

    Slides, rides and lots of splashing fun

    Aquopolis Costa Dorada
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    If the beach just isn't exciting enough, Aquopolis Costa Dorada might give you enough thrills during your vacation in Salou. The waterpark has thrilling slides like the Hurricane and Kamikaze, snaking flumes and the sinister-sounding Black Hole. There are ziplines, monkey rings, a treasure island to explore, as well as gentler rides for little ones.

    Parents won’t feel left out at Aquopolis Costa Dorada. The relaxing Aloha Beach is modeled after Hawaii and makes for an oasis of calm in the middle of the park. 

    Location: Passeig de Pau Casals, 65, 43480 Platja de la Pineda, Tarragona, Spain

    Open: Mid-May–June from 11.30 am to 6 pm. July–August from 11 am to 7 pm. Early September from 11.30 am to 6 pm. Mid-September–mid-October from 11.30 am to 5 pm

    Phone: +34 977 371 640

    Map
  • 2

    Bosc Aventura Adventure Park

    Active pursuits for little daredevils

    Bosc Aventura Adventure Park
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    It's quite impossible to feel bored at Bosc Aventura, which offers all kinds of fun for adventurous families in Salou. Fly past towering trees on 4 different zipline circuits of varying difficulty, test your tactical skills on a 2,000-meter paintball circuit, or join in an exciting game of archery tag (using foam arrows, of course).

    If you prefer a more relaxing activity, try a round of mini-golf along the 14-hole course. There's a small cafe if you want to grab a coffee or a beer after your game. The park is also conveniently located in the center of town, with plenty of bars and restaurants within walking distance.

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

    Open: April–October from 10 am to 2 pm and from 4 pm to dusk (closing time varies by month)

    Phone: +34 682 848 784

    Map

    photo by Jordiferrer (CC BY-SA 4.0) modified

  • 3

    Take a boat trip along the coast

    See the best of the Costa Daurada on a relaxing cruise

    Take a boat trip along the coast
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    The gorgeous coastline is one the best things about Salou, so see as much of it as possible by getting out on the water. Boat tours can take you on an exploration of the coast, stopping at delightful villages and local ports. Lunch is usually a delicious barbeque on the boat or a nearby beach.

    Unwind on deck with a drink, sunbathe on idyllic beaches, dive from the boat, or go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Alternately, get a front-row seat for the stunning sunsets and summer firework displays on a moonlight cruise.

    Open: Most trips leave between 9 am and 10 am and return between 4 pm and 5 pm

  • 4

    Camino de Ronda

    Stretch your legs amid the spectacular natural beauty

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    The historic Camino de Ronda was originally used by the coastal guard to prevent smugglers back in the 19th century. Connecting Els Pilons to Cap Salou Lighthouse, it’s open to those looking to enjoy a relaxing walk with amazing views across cliffs and coves, as well as the sparkling Mediterranean.

    The section that passes through Salou takes you past nearby beaches and out to the lighthouse. The 2-km path from Pilons to Replanells is a flat wooden walkway that makes for an easy walk. Getting to the lighthouse from Replanells is slightly more challenging as you’ll be walking on a natural dirt path. Grab a pair of comfy shoes and a pair of binoculars – this is a great place to spot shearwaters, puffins and razorbills.

    Location: 17300 Girona, Spain

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  • 5

    House of Illusion

    Experience an evening of magic and mystery

    • Families

    Salou has plenty of nightlife for adults, but if you're looking for something child-friendly, you can't beat House of Illusion. Clever mind-reading tricks, incredible sleight of hand and mind-blowing feats of escapology are all part of the fun at this swanky magic show. It also has stand-up comedy and a cabaret performance as part of the evening's entertainment.

    Adults and kids will love the close-up magic tricks performed by conjurers at your table before the show. The performers love audience participation, and most kids get the chance to pick a card or come up onstage. Drinks are all-inclusive and served at your seat, so you don't need to worry about anything except enjoying the show.

    Location: Calle Espigo del Moll, 43840 Salou, Tarragona, Spain

    Open: Monday–Tuesday and Thursday–Friday at 6.30 pm and 10 pm, Wednesday and Saturday at 9 pm (closed on Sundays)

    Phone: +34 977 38 09 40

    Map
Victoria Hughes | Contributing Writer