Malgrat de Mar was first populated between the 13th and 14th centuries, when it was known as Vilanova de Palafolls. However, it is known that the early inhabitants of Malgrat built their houses on the hill (named "El Castell") that is located in the middle of the town.
Traditionally, Malgrat has been predominantly an agricultural town with considerable maritime commercial activity and, since the 19th Century, an important industrial centre. The tourist activity started in Malgrat de Mar around 1960. And since then it has become a important touristic destination
