This municipality in the province of Almeria is one of the main holiday destinations in Almeria, a good place to spend the day on the beach and discover a bit more of Andalusia.
Located a few kilometres (about 25) west of Almeria city, Roquetas de Mar is one of the least rainy places of Europe, here the sun shines more than 300 days each year. There are large sandy beaches surrounded by dunes, and just 80km to the west is located the Sierra Nevada, the best ski resort in Spain.
Roquetas de Mar is also well known for its golf courses, the water sports facilities and the variety of activities provided in the area.
If you are travelling to Roquetas, you can't miss Aguadulce harbour, one of the most significant modern buildings in Almeria province.
The port has many moorings for small/middle size boats and yachts. Because of Roquetas' excellent weather, there is a lot of activity during the most of the year. The port is also well complemented with fishing tackle shops, diving clubs and the Nautical Club.
Amongst the things to do in roquetas de Mar we can highlight the monuments, its festivities and its fairs. Roquetas de Mar is divided between different population cores that have their own festivities.
Amongst the most popular festivities are the Virgin Carmen of Aguadulce, the night of San Juan which is celebrated on the beach, The Bonfires of December, the holy week (Semana Santa), Santa Ana in The Port and the festivity of the Virgin Rosario in the centre of the city.
Castle of Las Roquetas
Rebuilt in 2001, it’s currently a museum and an exhibition hall.
Watchtower of Los Cerrillos
A tower built as a defensive element during the Arab reign of al-Andalus.
The Rosario church
This religious temple dates back to the 18th century.
Archaeological site of La Ribera de la Algaida
This site has been declared as an asset of cultural interest.
Santa Cruz chapel
A chapel from the early 20th century.
One of the most important religious celebrations is that held in honour of the Virgen del Carmen and Saint Ann, on 25 and 26 July, with a marvellous maritime procession with all the vessels of the area decorated all along the coast. The day ends with games, open-air dances and a great castle of fireworks. On 7 October the Patron Saint´s festivity is celebrated, in honour of the Virgen del Rosario with an open-air dance, a moto vehicle Gymkhana and prizes. Another of the tourist areas of the coast, Aguadulce, celebrates its Patron Saint´s festivity, in honour of the Virgen del Carmen, on 16 July with a peculiar sea-land procession, also with open-air dances and ludic acts.
The night of San Juan (St.John) is celebrated on 23 June, along the whole coast with bonfires that splash the crowded beaches with light and colour.
Easter in Roquetas de Mar has become one of the most important festivities in the Province. The brotherhood of the Virgin de los Dolores stands out due to the artistic quality of its images. On 28 December the traditional festivity of the "Moragas" is celebrated on our beaches, when both our people and visitors get together to enjoy typical grilled fish and meat.
The estimated time for getting from Malaga airport to Roquetas de Mar is 2 hours using the A-7 road. Those looking for the litoral road and beautiful landscapes should use the N-340, although the journey time and traffic will increase.
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