Family holidays on the Costa de Almeria

Playa de los Muertos

The Coastline of Almeria province runs from Adra right up to San Juan de Terreros. Stretching between the provinces of Granada and Murcia, this corner of Spain has plentiful sunshine throughout most of the year. With more than 170 kms of coast, there are plenty of beaches and coves to discover on a family holiday on the Costa de Almeria.

Whether you choose to stay in Roquetas de Mar or in Cabo de Gata the places of interest are just an easy drive away. The motorway lies just inland from the coastal villages.

As well beaches there are many other things to enjoy in this less visited region. Used over the years to film many movies and TV shows. Almeria´sdesert landscapes and traditional villages in the area are pleasing landscapes to discover.

Fort Bravo

Wild West Theme Park

Almeria has been a destination for Film producers for years due to the geographical variety in a small radius. The Tabernas desert, natural beaches and coves as well as a monumental capital Almeria with its Alcazaba fortress all provide great movie sets. The Spanish wild west even has its own theme park. To the east of the city in the Tabernas desert is the Oasys Mini Hollywood. This theme park includes a small zoo and is a great day out for the family.

More information at Oasys Mini Hollywood 

Eat at Los Albaricoques

Enjoy a Wild West experience in the small village of Los Albaricoques. This village was used to film several western films in the 60´s. The Alba restaurant at the entrance of Los Albaricoques serves a great daily menu. The interior is covered with photos, and props used in those films.

Aqualand Torremolinos

 

Almeria Water Parks

For a fun day out in summer months, enjoy one of the Water Parks in Almeria province.

  • Mario Park in Roquetas de Mar 
  • Parque Acuático Vera on the Ctra. Vera/Garrucha - Villaricos Road

 

Roquetas Aquarium

The Aquarium at Roquetas de Mar has Piranas and other tropical fish. There is also a ´Nemo´ or a clownfish, which will thrill Disney fans. Once a day the divers drop down into the large pool to feeding the sharks in the aquarium.

A more hands on section of the visit is towards then end where visitors can gently touch the manta rays and even hold starfish and hermit crabs. This is an interesting activity for all ages and will take no longer than 2 hours to visit.  

Address: Av. Reino de España, 04740 Roquetas de Mar, Almería

The old Moorish town gate.

Mojacar Old Town

This white village perched high above the coast is a quaint old town with several squares and viewpoints over the coast. Looking across the landscapes of Mojacar beach and the surrounding countryside and quite impressive.

Some of the typical streets are cobbled and have historic arab style gates. The Plaza Parterre is quiet spot to have a drink and contemplate the historic setting and colourful plants.  

Carboneras

Discover Cabo de Gata

A Road trip around Cabo de Gata Natural Park will take you back in time. The route includes old Windmills, water cisterns and Arab waterwheels made from wood. Along the way are several fishing villages such as Isleta del Moro or Las Negras where you can savour fresh seafood. Some of the viewpoints along the coast are breath taking. Mirador de la Amatista or Mirador de las Sirenas at Faro de Cabo de Gata are particular highlights. There are also Fortresses and watchtowers to spot along the coast road reminding us of the pirate attacks, which would have threatened this area in the past.

Catamaran from Carboneras

Ride aboard a Catamaran from Carboneras Port to visit Cala del Plomo or to the Cala San Pedro. These trips are 2 or 3 hours depending on the trip. Sometimes if there are a windy days the trips may be cancelled to avoid choppy waters. (More Information from Ola 21 in Carboneras port)

Carboneras and view to Isla San Andres

Kayak outing

 

For older children a kayaking activity along the coast can be great fun. These routes of 2-3 hours visit some of the smaller coves along the shoreline. The turquoise waters allow you to see fish as you skim across the water in your canoe. Some tours include a break to swim and snorkel in one of the coves.

You will be spoilt for choice with the selection of beaches in Almeria. Whether you prefer the large beaches of Roquetas de Mar and Aguadulce or a secluded rocky cove Almeria has it all. Why not mix it up and visit different beaches during your stay.

Alcaba de Almeria

A day in Almeria town

In the Capital city of the province, Almeria has good shopping along several tree-lined avenues. The Paseo de Almeria and the Rambla Obispo Obera are the streets where most of the shops are located. If you prefer history to shopping the grand Alcazaba Fortress overlooks the city and port will be of interest. Soon to be featured in the next series of Game of thrones there are Epic views and photo opportunities here. (Free entry)

Another interesting monument is the Structure that lies at the foot of the Paseo de Almeria. This loading platform moved minerals onto cargo ships in the 19th century, from local mines in the region. Built by Gustave Eiffel this interesting monument is lit up at night, reminding us of the industrial past of the region.

For some pampering and relaxation, try the Arab baths in Plaza Vieja.  Aire de Almeria recreates the typical Hammam experience. (booking required)

Alpujarra rugs

Typical Almeria souvenirs

Great gifts to find in the area of Almeria are local handicrafts such as pottery in the local designs, raffia baskets and home accessories. Brightly coloured rugs called Jarapas, especially in the Nijar region. Gourmet fans will love the local olive oil and locally made pastries.  Other ideas are glossy books with photos of the dramatic landscapes or souvenirs with the Indalo figure (also known as the Mojacar man). This prehistoric symbol is now the region´s logo. Said to protect you from evil this is painted on the front of houses. Seen originally in a cave in the Almeria village of Cuevas de Almazora.