It is situated about 70 mi (110 km) south of the border with France and close to the nearby inland towns of Palafrugell and Begur.

[1][2][3] The name Tamariu derives from the presence of many tamarisk trees along the promenade, which separates the beach from the narrow streets and whitewashed buildings of the town.

It is also popular as a dive site as there are many caves to explore along with the submerged mountain of the Llosa de Cala Nova.

[2][4] The GR 92 long distance footpath, which runs the length of the Mediterranean coast of Spain, passes through the town.

To the north the path takes an inland route through pine and cork oak forests to the beach at Aiguablava before following the coast to Fornells.