PLAYAZO DE RODALQUILAR
Cabo de Gata
As one of the best beaches in Cabo de Gata, Playazo de Rodalquilar does not disappoint. The calm azure water is perfect for relaxing, snorkeling & scuba diving. The water is shallow making it a great option for families with children. The beach is undeveloped with the exception of a small chiringuito. Parking is located right next to the beach and as a result, the beach can get busy during the high season. At the northern end of the bay is the charming Calilla del Playazo and the San Ramon Castle. Nudism is also common but not practiced by everyone.
Sitting atop of a fossilized dune is the San Ramon Castle, one of 9 fortresses that king Charles III had built in the 18th century between Almeria and Malaga. These fortifications were used to defend the Spanish coastline from Berber attacks. In 1875, the government sold the castle to a private person for 1,500 pesetas (equal to 9€!). Since 2018, it has been up for sale for 3.3 million euros.
Below San Ramon is a small 50m wide cove called Calilla del Playazo. In our opinion, it’s more beautiful than its larger neighbor, the Playazo de Rodalquilar. The cove is also more protected from the wind than the main bay.
From the San Ramon Castle it’s possible to follow a path along the oceanfront to another beautiful cove of Cabo de Gata, Cala del Cuervo.
Playazo de Rodalquilar is located 3.5 km from the village of Rodalquilar, 6 km from Las Negras and 8.5 km from Isleta del Moro in the Cabo de Gata Natural Park. There is a clear sign on the road AL-4200 showing where to turn. The parking area is right next to the beach.