What to see and do in Cabo de Gata: a comprehensive guide to making the most of it

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The Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, in Almería, is a paradise that combines volcanic coves, otherworldly landscapes, desert, salt flats, and charming villages. It is the largest protected maritime-terrestrial area in the western Mediterranean, with over 60 km of virgin coastline. Here you will find everything worth seeing and doing to make the most of your visit.

🌞🌞 Essential Beaches and Coves 🌊🌊

The journey usually begins at the legendary Playa de los Muertos, in Carboneras, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain for its turquoise waters and spectacular cliffs. Some of the most famous coves are concentrated in San José: Los Genoveses, a wide, unspoiled bay surrounded by dunes, and Mónsul, famous for its fossilized dunes and volcanic rock formations.

In the Rodalquilar area, you'll find El Playazo, watched over by the Castle of San Ramón, while near Agua Amarga, the Cala de Enmedio and Cala del Plomo stand out, perfect for those seeking a quieter environment. Not to be forgotten are La Isleta del Moro or Los Escullos, with their clear-water coves and the Castle of San Felipe guarding the coast.

⛰️⛰️ Viewpoints and Volcanic Landscapes 🌞🌞

Cabo de Gata is not just about beaches. Its volcanic origin has left spectacular landscapes that can be enjoyed from several viewpoints. The most iconic is the Arrecife de las Sirenas (Mermaid Reef), next to the Cabo de Gata lighthouse, where ancient volcanic chimneys emerge from the sea. Also worth a stop are the Mirador de la Amatista, with views of the Rodalquilar cliffs, and Mesa Roldán, a volcanic caldera crowned by a lighthouse and a defensive tower. Each of these spots offers a different panoramic view and helps to understand the grandeur of the park.

🏜️🏜️ Tabernas Desert and Salt Flats ⛰️⛰️

A short distance from the cape is the Tabernas Desert, the only one in Europe. Its arid landscapes and canyons have been the setting for dozens of films, especially from the Western genre. There you can visit film sets like Fort Bravo or tour the area in a 4x4.

At the southern end of the park are the Salinas del Cabo de Gata (salt flats), a perfect place for bird watching, especially flamingos. The mix of lagoons, dunes, and walkways makes it an ideal plan for nature lovers.

🏝️🏝️ Charming Villages 🌞🌞

The coastline is dotted with white villages full of character. Carboneras, in the north, is a good base for exploring the area. Agua Amarga stands out for its charming town center and its urban beach. Las Negras, with its bohemian vibe, is ideal for diving and for taking a boat to Cala San Pedro. Rodalquilar preserves the memory of its gold mine and has reinvented itself with cultural initiatives. La Isleta del Moro, with its rocky promontory, is one of the most photogenic spots. And San José is the liveliest town in the park, perfect for accommodation and with quick access to the beaches of Genoveses and Mónsul. Inland, Níjar surprises with its Arabic-style layout and its artisanal rugs (jarapas), while Mojácar, a bit further north, combines a white historic quarter with a wide stretch of beach.

🏰🏰Castles and Defensive Towers 🏞️🏞️

The history of pirate attacks left a legacy of fortifications along the coast. Among the most interesting are the Castle of San Ramón, next to El Playazo; the Castle of San Felipe, in Los Escullos; the Tower of Mesa Roldán; the Torre de los Lobos; and the Torre de los Alumbres, in Rodalquilar. All of them are reminders of the strategic importance of this coastline and also offer spectacular views.

How to Explore and What to Do

The best way to get to know Cabo de Gata is by car, although some coves have shuttle services in the summer. Ideally, you should dedicate at least three days: one for the area of San José, Genoveses, Mónsul, and the lighthouse; another for Rodalquilar, La Isleta, and the salt flats; and a third for Agua Amarga, Carboneras, and Playa de los Muertos.

Besides visiting coves and viewpoints, you can go on kayak or snorkel excursions from San José, Las Negras, or Los Escullos, take boat or catamaran trips, or even go caving in the Cuevas de Sorbas. For the more adventurous, renting a small boat to explore the coves inaccessible by land is an unforgettable experience.

Gastronomy

Cabo de Gata can also be savored on a plate. In the coastal towns, there are plenty of tapas bars where, with every drink, you can try local dishes. In Garrucha, the star is the red prawn, but it is also worth trying the gallopedro (John Dory fish), red seabream, or the typical seafood rice dishes of the area. Mojácar and Carboneras are also excellent options for enjoying fresh, Mediterranean cuisine.

Practical Tips

The wind sets the tone for the day: with a strong easterly wind (Levante), it is best to look for more sheltered coves. In summer, some access points are regulated, and it's advisable to get up early to find parking. Many beaches do not have beach bars or services, so bring water, an umbrella, and a bag for your trash. And remember: this is a protected area, so take care of it as it deserves.

Where to Stay

Within the park, towns like San José, Agua Amarga, Las Negras, or Rodalquilar offer charming accommodation options. If you prefer a strategic and well-connected location with access to both the coast and the interior, the B&B HOTEL Almería Vícar is an excellent alternative, with modern rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, a 24-hour reception, and easy access to the A-7 motorway.