This Mediterranean coastal town in Andalusia draws visitors with its pristine beaches, white Mediterranean buildings, and active water sports scene along the Costa de Almería.
Roquetas de Mar, a coastal town in Spain's Almería province, has grown from a small fishing village into a Mediterranean beach destination. Walk along its 15 kilometers of Blue Flag beaches, stop by the marina to watch boats come in, or climb the stone steps of the 16th-century Santa Ana Castle. In the evening, try fresh seafood at the port's restaurants, where local fishermen bring in their daily catch. The nearby Punta Entinas Sabinar Natural Park is home to pink flamingos, while families splash at Mario Water Park during summer months.
Getting to Roquetas de Mar
You can fly into Almería Airport, 25 kilometers away, which receives regular flights from major European cities. Drive along the A7 motorway to reach other coastal cities, or take local buses between the town and Almería city center. While there's no train station yet, a railway connection is under construction to link Almería to Adra via Roquetas.
Beaches Along the Coast
Walk along several Blue Flag beaches, each with its own character. Playa Serena extends for two kilometers with clear waters, showers, and beach bars. Las Salinas beach attracts mainly local residents, while Aguadulce and La Romanilla beaches fill up with summer visitors and have full facilities including lifeguards and rental sun loungers.
Santa Ana Castle and Old Town
Walk through the restored 16th-century Santa Ana Castle next to the fishing port, where you'll find rotating art exhibitions and cultural events. Explore the old town's narrow streets leading to the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Rosario, an 18th-century church with a distinctive boat-shaped ceiling. Visit the 1863 lighthouse nearby, which hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Natural Parks and Wildlife
Walk or cycle through the sand dunes and wetlands of Punta Entinas Sabinar Natural Park. Look for flamingos feeding in the shallow waters and other water birds in their natural habitat. The park's marked trails lead through dunes and around lagoons. For more nature walks, drive one hour to reach Cabo de Gata Natural Park.
Local Food Scene
Find fresh seafood restaurants concentrated around the port area. Try local specialties like rice with lobster, fish stews, and Andalusian-style fried fish. Visit the Thursday morning market (9am-2pm) to buy local produce and regional products.
Family Activities
Cool off at Mario Water Park with its slides and pools. Learn about local marine species at the Coastal Aquarium of Almería on Reino de España avenue. Take the mini train through the resort areas with children. Play golf at Playa Serena Golf Club's 18-hole course, which has flat terrain suitable for beginners and experienced players.
Climate and Seasons
Plan your visit knowing that winters stay mild and summers warm, with temperatures rarely dropping below 18°C. July and August temperatures rise above 30°C, while spring and autumn remain between 23-27°C. The sun shines approximately 3,000 hours per year.
Local Festivals
Join the Virgen del Carmen festival to see fishing boats decorated and paraded through the water. Watch beach bonfires during the Noche de San Juan in June, attend Holy Week processions in spring, or bring children to see the Three Kings parade in January.
