Mediterranean coast, city of Calahonda, Province of Almeria, Spain
Mediterranean coast, city of Calahonda, Province of Almeria, Spain

Situated on the south-east of the Iberian Peninsula, Costa de Almeria boasts 322 km of coastline and some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain. Not yet invaded by mass tourism, Almeria has kept its rugged and wild charm intact with mysterious coves luring travelers in crystal clear waters, soft-sanded beaches caressed by a generous sun, and atmospheric towns rich in historical attractions. One of the sunniest destinations in Europe, Costa de Almeria seems to be the place when the sun hides when all Europe puts on its warm winter clothes.

With a coastline adorned with idyllic towns, pristine beaches, and enchanting fishing villages, Costa de Almeria is a destination for sun worshippers, couples in love, and family looking for a tranquil summer destination…all year round. Add to this magnificent historical landmarks and the fascinating city of Almeria, and your Costa de Almeria trip will have something for everyone. 

Paella day in Velefique village in Almeria
Paella day in Velefique village in Almeria

The beaches of Costa de Almeria

Costa de Almeria is a paradise for sun worshippers and summer lovers. Wrapped in the hot embrace of the Spanish sun, the coast boasts superb beaches, waters the color of sapphires, shy coves, and sleepy little coastal towns. One of the most beautiful beaches in Costa de Almeria, Aguadulce beach awaits in the south with 2.5 km of soft sand. Delighting visitors with dark sand and calm waters, this beach has been awarded a Blue Flag and offers a variety of services for comfortable days in the sun. 

Mediterranean beach sunset in Almeria, Spain
Mediterranean beach sunset in the beach of El Zapillo in Almeria, Andalusia, southern Spain.

The beach of Los Muertos, paradoxically also known as “heaven on earth”, mesmerizes with its impossibly clear water, ideal for captivating diving and snorkeling sessions, and thin graveled sand. A part of the extraordinary Natural Park of Cabo de Gata, home to superb beaches and unworldly geological formations, the beach is loved by locals and tourists alike. However, despite its popularity, the beach has kept its virgin aura intact and the surrounding landscape untouched by civilization.

Cabo de Gata, Spain
Cabo de Gata, Spain

The most photogenic beach in Cabo de Gata is the sensational Monsul beach, unique due to the magnificent tongues of lava that frame her and its incredibly fine sand and crystal clear water. The beach is dominated by the presence of a colossal rock standing proud in the sand that creates a practical and excellent refuge for swimmers in the hot summer days.

Playa de los Genoveses
Windsurfing on the bay at Playa de los Genoveses, San Jose, Almeria Province, Spain

Another gem in the Natural Park of Cabo de Gata’s crown, Los Genoveses beach invites travelers to discover and relax on a 1.2 km of fine gold sand while admiring a spectacular view of the bay and the Morron de Los Genoveses, an impressive volcanic headland. The park also houses the pretty 850 m-long Las Negras beach caressed by crystalline waters and dressed in an attractive blend of sand and small pebbles. The beach is family-friendly and offers access to showers, a parking area, and rescue service.

The beach at Cabo de Gata, Almeria, Spain
Sunset beach. Costline Cabo de Gata, Almeria, Spain-This photo made by hdr technic

The biggest beach in the park, Las Salinas beach surprises with its mix of different types of sand, as well as with the presence of the splendid church of Las Salinas and an abundance of bird species. The superb Cala de Enmedio can only be accessed by foot or boat, but your effort will be rewarded with the sight of one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain. Hypnotizing sunbathers with blue waters and dark sand, the beach is remarkable due to its white-rock geological formation that creates a surreal setting. 

The towns of Costa de Almeria

The city of Almeria adds the historical touch to your Costa de Almeria trip. Almeria is the capital of the region, a city blessed with the warmest winters in Europe and adorned with medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and colorful markets. One of the most popular attractions in Almeria is the Alcazaba Fortress that was built during the Moorish age, at the initiative of Emir Abd al-Rahman. The castle is a majestic presence and many come here to climb the Torre del Amenahe, the fortress’ highest tower, to capture breathing views of the city. Nearby, you’ll discover the quirky village of Chunka where locals live in houses carved in rock and still rely on fishing as their main source of income. If you’re a fan of medieval architecture, also visit the city’s Cathedral, an impressive 16th-century Renaissance structure that resembles more of a castle or fortress than a holy place. 

If you want to spend your Costa de Almeria holiday in a bustling little town, choose Roquetas del Mar. A popular resort due to its sandy beach, golf courses, and variety of watersports, Roquetas del Mar awaits just 25 km west of Almeria. The town is also famous for its fishing village traditions still kept alive through the local gastronomy and festivals. 

Mojacar Beach Almeria Province
Mojacar Beach Almeria Province Andalusia Spain

Many tourists prefer to spend their summer holiday in Mojacar, Bedar or Vera, tranquil towns framed by crystalline waters and picturesque mountains. Mojacar impresses with its unrivaled position and extraordinary beauty. Perched in the Sierra Cabrera Mountains, the resort attracts both beach-goers and artists. The town’s old center boasts a Moorish charm and architecture and is lined with narrow streets that lead to local restaurants and bars with sublime views. If you want to discover more troglodytic villages and admire more caves skilfully turned into modern houses, add to your itinerary stops at Alhabia, Gador, and Benahadux. Adventurers often head to the Desierto de Tabernas Natural Area to visit Mini Hollywood, once a setting for a Wild West movie, and currently a captivating attraction where you’ll find cactus trees, double-door saloons, and that Wild West rugged ambiance. The village of Tabernas is a great base for a tour of the desert.

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