Es Cau was a seawater swimming pool located between the beaches Platja de Fornells and Platja Fonda in Begur. Known to the world as Piscina natural Es Cau (the natural pool Es Cau), it was marked simply as a “Sea Pool” on Google Maps. Today, Es Cau is no longer a pool but a small cove that feels right at home on the rugged Costa Brava coast.
Es Cau sea pool history
A seemingly brilliant idea to put the naturally smooth rocks on the coast to good use occurred to the residents of a local apartment complex back in the 1970s. A pump hidden in a small stone enclosure on the side drew in and recirculated seawater in the pool. Surrounding rocks were perfect for sunbathing. Despite the fact that Es Cau was privately owned, maintained by residents, and decidedly not open to the public, keeping visitors away had been an issue throughout its existence. The pool looked so picturesque and inviting that it inevitably drew the attention of hikers strolling along Camí de Ronda, an iconic hiking route between Blanes and Portbou, who often had no idea they weren’t invited to swim in it.
Fencing Es Cau off wasn’t an option due to the municipal law prohibiting any construction within 20 meters of the sea. Private property signage didn’t help the matter. The pool fell into disrepair by 2019, and sometime during the COVID-19 pandemic, its pump was disconnected, and the manmade wall separating the pool from the sea had been removed.
Is Es Cau sea pool closed?
Yes, it is closed. Or, rather, it no longer exists as a pool but as a small lagoon that you can freely visit.
Es Cau sea pool in 2026
Sea pool Es Cau is back to its natural state and can be admired during your hike along Camí de Ronda.