When the Sun Takes a Break

Costa Brava is blessed with over 300 sunny days a year, but even paradise gets the occasional shower. The good news? A rainy day on the Costa Brava doesn't mean a boring day for families. In fact, some of the region's best attractions are under cover, and a change of pace from the beach can be exactly what everyone needs.

Whether you have toddlers who need to burn energy or older kids looking for adventure, this guide covers everything you need for those rare wet days on the Costa Brava. Our family penthouse is the perfect all-weather base.

1. Water World Lloret de Mar

Ages: 3+ | Distance: 10 minutes by car | Budget: Moderate

Yes, a water park on a rainy day! Water World is one of Europe's largest water parks, and even on overcast or drizzly days, the heated pools make it enjoyable. The park features slides for all ages, from gentle splash zones for toddlers to adrenaline-pumping flumes for older children and brave parents.

On cooler days, the park is significantly less crowded, which means shorter queues and more space in the pools. The heated wave pool is especially lovely when it's raining -- there's something magical about being in warm water while rain patters down.

Pro tip: Check their website for weather-related discounts. Some parks offer reduced rates on overcast days.

2. Gnomo Park

Ages: 2-12 | Distance: 15 minutes by car | Budget: Budget-friendly

Gnomo Park is a family adventure park near Lloret with both outdoor and covered play areas. The indoor sections include soft play zones for younger children, mini-bowling, and arcade games. Older kids enjoy the outdoor adventure courses, which can still be fun in light rain.

The park also has mini-golf and trampolines. For rainy days, focus on the indoor hall which has plenty of climbing structures, ball pits, and interactive play equipment. There's a cafeteria on site for snacks and meals.

Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience.

3. Barcelona Aquarium -- A Full-Day Adventure

Ages: All ages | Distance: 90 minutes by car or bus | Budget: Moderate to High

The Barcelona Aquarium (L'Aquarium) is one of the largest in Europe and makes for an unforgettable rainy-day trip. The highlight is the 80-metre underwater tunnel where sharks, rays, and ocean sunfish glide overhead -- kids are mesmerized.

The touch tanks let children handle starfish and sea cucumbers, and there's a dedicated children's area called Planeta Aqua. Plan for at least 3-4 hours, plus travel time. Consider combining it with a trip to the nearby Barceloneta neighbourhood for lunch.

Pro tip: Book tickets online in advance for discounts. The aquarium gets busy on rainy days as everyone has the same idea!

4. Shopping Centres with Play Areas

Ages: 2-8 | Distance: Various | Budget: Free to Budget

Several shopping centres in the Lloret de Mar and Blanes area have dedicated children's play zones. These range from simple soft play areas to more elaborate indoor playgrounds. Parents can take turns watching the kids and browsing the shops.

Look for centres with cafes overlooking the play areas -- you can enjoy a coffee while keeping an eye on the children.

5. Indoor Play Centres and Bowling

Ages: 3+ | Distance: Various | Budget: Budget-friendly

Lloret de Mar and nearby towns have several indoor play centres with soft play, ball pits, and climbing walls. Bowling alleys are another reliable rainy-day option that works for children from about age 4 upwards (with bumper rails). Most offer lightweight balls and adjustable rails for young bowlers.

6. Museums That Kids Actually Enjoy

Ages: 4+ | Distance: 30-60 minutes by car | Budget: Budget-friendly

Toy Museum of Catalonia (Figueres)

About an hour's drive north, this museum houses a fascinating collection of toys spanning centuries. Children love seeing what kids played with before screens existed. The museum is interactive in places, with hands-on exhibits.

Salvador Dali Theatre-Museum (Figueres)

For families with children over 8, the Dali Museum is surreal and engaging. The building itself is a work of art, and kids are often fascinated by the optical illusions and unexpected installations. Younger children may not have the patience, but older ones find it genuinely cool.

Maritime Museums

The Costa Brava has several maritime museums in towns like Lloret de Mar, Tossa de Mar, and Palamós. These offer insights into the region's fishing and seafaring history, with model ships and interactive displays that appeal to children.

7. Cinema

Ages: 4+ | Distance: 15-20 minutes by car | Budget: Budget-friendly

Local cinemas in Lloret and Blanes regularly show family films. Be aware that most films are dubbed into Spanish or Catalan rather than shown in their original language with subtitles. Some multiplexes offer "V.O." (version original) screenings -- check listings in advance.

Pro tip: Spanish cinema prices are lower than most of Northern Europe, and many cinemas have discounted afternoon sessions.

8. Creative Activities in Lloret

Ages: All ages | Distance: Walking | Budget: Free to Budget

When the rain clears slightly, the old town of Lloret de Mar is lovely for exploring. Visit the town church, walk along the covered arcades, and let the kids splash in puddles. Art supply shops sell colouring books and craft materials for quiet indoor time.

Some restaurants and cafes have board games available for guests -- perfect for a leisurely rainy afternoon.

9. Cosy Days at the Penthouse

Ages: All ages | Distance: 0 minutes | Budget: Free

Sometimes the best rainy-day plan is no plan at all. Our spacious penthouse is designed for comfortable living, making it the perfect place to relax when the weather turns.

Kitchen adventures: The fully equipped kitchen is perfect for baking with kids. Try making a simple Spanish tortilla together, or let the kids decorate their own pan con tomate. The local supermarket has all the ingredients you need.

Movie marathon: Settle into the comfortable living area for a family film session. With spacious rooms and comfortable seating, there's room for everyone to spread out.

Games and crafts: Bring a few travel games from home, or pick up a puzzle from a local shop. The dining table doubles as a brilliant craft station.

Terrace watching: If it's not pouring, the covered terrace is a wonderful place to watch Mediterranean storms roll in over the sea. Kids are often fascinated by the dramatic cloud formations and lightning over the water -- nature's own light show.

Pool in the rain: Believe it or not, the fenced pool can still be fun in warm rain. As long as there's no thunder or lightning, swimming in the rain is a unique experience that kids absolutely love. The water is usually warmer than the rain drops!

Making the Most of Rainy Days

A rainy day during your Costa Brava holiday can become one of the most memorable. Whether you're exploring a museum, splashing at a water park, or baking in the kitchen, these moments often become favourite family memories. The rain on the Costa Brava rarely lasts all day, so plan your indoor activity for the morning and you may find the afternoon clears up for a late beach visit.

Our penthouse is the perfect base for all-weather family holidays. With spacious indoor areas, a covered terrace with sea views, and a fully equipped kitchen for those cosy nights in, you'll feel at home whether the sun is shining or the rain is falling. Book your family stay →