Roquetas de Mar is one of the most popular sun-and-beach destinations in the province of Almeria. Located around 25 kilometres west of the provincial capital, it offers more than 15 kilometres of coastline, an exceptionally sunny climate with over 300 days of sunshine a year, and a well-rounded mix of beaches, nature and leisure activities.
Here you will find wide urban beaches with good facilities, protected natural areas such as the Punta Entinas-Sabinar Nature Park, the Castillo de Santa Ana, the marina at Aguadulce, and family-friendly attractions including an aquarium and a water park. Roquetas de Mar is ideal both for a classic beach holiday and for visitors who want to combine sea, walks and a touch of history.
From Malaga or the Costa del Sol the drive takes a little over two hours via the A-7 motorway, making Roquetas de Mar an excellent choice for a day trip or a longer stay on the western coast of Almeria.
The origins of Roquetas stretch back a long way. The Phoenicians used this stretch of coast as a trading post, and later the Romans established the settlement of Turaniana in the area of Ribera de la Algaida. From the Moorish period comes the defensive Torre de los Cerrillos, which still stands today.
After the Reconquista (the Christian reconquest), the area lived mainly from fishing and salt production. The present town centre began to take shape in the 18th century when people from nearby settlements established permanent homes here. The Church of El Rosario dates from that period. The real expansion came from the 1950s onwards, first through intensive greenhouse agriculture and later through tourism.
Today Roquetas de Mar is one of the most dynamic and populous municipalities in Almeria, with a clear focus on sun-and-beach holidays.
The range of attractions is varied: beaches, historical heritage, nature and family activities. These are the main highlights:
The symbol of Roquetas de Mar. The present structure is a reconstruction completed in 2001 on the foundations of a 16th-century fortress destroyed in 1804. Standing beside Playa de la Bajadilla, it offers fine views over the Mediterranean and towards Cabo de Gata. Inside there are exhibition spaces, and in summer open-air concerts are held here.
One of the most important marinas in the province. It has berths for leisure boats and yachts, and the waterfront is lined with restaurants and bars. The marina is lively for much of the year and is a pleasant place for a stroll, a meal or simply watching the boats. Nearby you will find the Club Nautico and several water-sports operators.
Built in 1863 on a 32-metre cliff and taken out of service in the 1940s. Today it functions as a cultural centre hosting photography and art exhibitions. Its silhouette is one of the most recognisable images of the town.
One of the most valuable natural areas on the Almeria coast. Dunes, marshes and lagoons provide habitat for a wide variety of birds, including flamingos. It is ideal for walking, cycling and birdwatching. The historic Torre de los Cerrillos stands within this landscape.
This 18th-century church forms part of the historic centre. It is a good starting point for exploring the older parts of Roquetas.
The municipality has more than 15 kilometres of coastline. Some of the best-known beaches are:
The main celebrations in Roquetas de Mar include:
Roquetas de Mar lies approximately 185–200 kilometres from Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport. The drive along the A-7 (Autovia del Mediterraneo) usually takes between 2 hours 15 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on traffic. It is one of the most convenient and direct links between the Costa del Sol and the western coast of Almeria.
Collecting a hire car at Malaga Airport allows you to drive straight to Roquetas de Mar and then move freely between the different beaches, Aguadulce and the Punta Entinas-Sabinar Nature Park.
Hire a car at Malaga Airport
If you prefer not to drive, you can book a private transfer from Malaga Airport or from your accommodation on the Costa del Sol to Roquetas de Mar. Ideal for families or when travelling with luggage.
Book a transfer from Malaga Airport*No credit-card details or advance payment are required. We recommend booking in good time.
There are bus services from Malaga to Almeria and onwards to Roquetas de Mar, but the total journey time is usually more than three and a half hours. A hire car or private transfer remains the most practical choice.
By car on the A-7 the distance is approximately 185–200 kilometres. The journey usually takes between 2 hours 15 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on traffic. It is one of the quickest links between Malaga and the Almeria coast.
Playa Serena and Playa de las Salinas are among the most popular and best equipped. Aguadulce is also an excellent choice, especially if you prefer a lively promenade with restaurants. The areas near the nature park are quieter and more natural.
The main sights include the Castillo de Santa Ana, the lighthouse, Aguadulce marina, the Punta Entinas-Sabinar Nature Park, the Aquarium Costa de Almeria and the Mariopark water park.
Yes. The beaches are wide and relatively gentle, there is an aquarium and a water park, and the facilities are well geared towards families. Roquetas de Mar is one of the most family-friendly destinations on the Almeria coast.
A hire car is highly recommended, especially if you want to move between the different beaches, Aguadulce and the nature park. There are local bus services within the tourist area, but a car gives you far more freedom.
Summer is the high season with the full range of activities available. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds and often better prices. Even in winter the climate is mild and ideal for walks along the coast.
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