When you have children it can be difficult to decide where to go on holiday. Somewhere that will suit everyone; relaxing and enjoyable for mum and dad and fun for the kids. You want to be close to all the amenities, not so far away from the beach and only a short walk or taxi ride away from the nearest town centre. You also want to stay in a well-facilitated, practical hotel where the children can be entertained but that also provides an escape so that you can enjoy some well-deserved shut-eye. But, is it too much to ask?

The answer is no. Not in the Costa Dorada in eastern Spain, south of Barcelona. Amongst the 216km of coastline, made up of 20 inland and coastal municipalities, the perfect Costa Dorada accommodation, location, facilities and activities can be found to suit your family. Here are some suggestions:

Salou

In the province of Tarragona, Salou is the most popular tourist resort in the Costa Dorada. It is on the coast, complete with large, soft sandy beaches and coves and facilitated with an extensive range of water sports and activities. Due to its popularity there is a lively nightlife scene within the town itself and along the seafront promenade. Lined with palm trees, it is full of terrace bars and restaurants that can be enjoyed both day and night. Salou is sure to keep the children entertained but, the only question is, will such a touristy area suit you?

Cambrils

Cambrils is a typical Spanish seaside style town due to its warm, relaxed atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, lying south of Tarragona. It is in a more relaxed setting than Salou and is popular with families.  It has a fishing harbor and marina and is appreciated for its local quality gastronomy, especially sea food, caught locally and served in the many specialist seafood restaurants. It is surrounded by peaceful countryside and has a number of cultural sites. Its main draw however, is its long sandy beach and calm, clear waters, perfect for family fun.

La Pineda

La Pineda beachside resort is a very popular area, in part due to its close proximity to PortAventura, Spain´s most visited theme park. The theme park is a fun day out for every member of the family with themed areas and rides to suit all ages. Another one of its plus points is its beaches. La Pineda Beach has received the Blue Flag Award for water quality, public services and respect for the environment. The resort is catered towards tourists, looks to conserve its environment such as its coastal Pine Tree species and is home to the Roman Ruins of Callipolis, an historical tourist site.

Whichever resort you choose, the Costa Dorada is sure to be a trip that both you and your children won´t forget.