The 11 most beautiful beaches of the Costa Calida

The Costa Cálida – the “warm coast” of Spain – is a hidden gem for those who love sun on their face, feet in the sand and a refreshing dip in crystal clear water. During our summers and winters in Murcia we discovered dozens of beaches, but these eleven we return to again and again. From natural bays to child-friendly beaches on the Mar Menor: you really want to have been here. We are building up to our absolute favorite.

And yes, we usually don’t go to the beach until the evening. The heat is softer, the light becomes magical, and the atmosphere is wonderfully relaxed – no parasol needed, and always a spot available.

Practical: these eleven beaches are spread all over the Costa Cálida – a rental car is actually indispensable here to combine them all.

Ten minutes from the center of Cartagena is this small but beautiful bay – easily accessible, with toilets and a nice restaurant. It’s popular with locals, so go early if you want a good spot. Especially along the rocks, snorkeling is worthwhile here.

Have you already been to Cartagena itself? Read our guide to Cartagena in 1 day – Cala Cortina is one of the places we also recommend there for day 2.

This unique beach is located in the border area between Murcia and Andalusia, surrounded by rock formations and natural caves that used to serve as salt and fishermen’s storage. It feels a bit like a secret cove – there’s something magical about this place. Top location for sunset photos with an Instagram-worthy view – we always grab our action cam here.

On the Mar Menor, near the center of Santiago, lies this beach with remarkably calm water – ideal with children. In the summer, an extra layer of atmosphere is added in the evening: a night market on the dike. Feel free to combine your visit to the beach with a stroll along the stalls and a snack on the boulevard. Exactly something for those who, like us, only go to the beach in the early evening.

Here it is really bustling with life: palm trees, fine hiking trails, cozy beach bars and a warm, shallow sea. There is even a wooden pier where you can walk on the water. In the evening, the beach really comes alive, with families, music and balmy summer evenings – one of the few places on this list where it stays worthwhile even after sunset.

Between Los Nietos and La Manga lies this perfect family beach: calm sea, fine sand and a wide shore. Our son likes to play in the shallow water here, while we look out over the Mar Menor. Ideal for water sports, or just for doing nothing.

Right next to the salt flats and mud baths is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region, overlooking the nature reserve where flamingos roam. Here you can walk, swim and muddle – the natural mud baths are free to enter. Ideal for a combi day: hiking, smearing mud, and rinsing in the sea.

On the border between Murcia and Valencia is this cosy, child-friendly place with calm waters and gentle surf. Less known to tourists, and therefore often just a bit quieter than the other beaches on this list. Nice to walk along the coast or eat an ice cream at one of the beach bars.

In the fishing village of Portmán lies this small bay, surrounded by rocks and hills, with dark sand and calm waters – ideal for families with children, or just to completely unwind. There is a simple beach bar where you can have a drink with a view of the sea, against a beautiful mountain backdrop. We thought it was a nice place for a short beach stop or a relaxing afternoon with a book. Plenty of parking nearby, and lovely walks nearby.

Overlooking the iconic lighthouse of Cabo de Palos, this is a lively beach, popular with families, sportsmen and surfers alike. There are usually some people, but the atmosphere remains relaxed. Beach bars, showers and a beautiful promenade complete it. Linger until sunset – the sky often turns fiery red here.

A small bay where you can snorkel beautifully, eat delicious food at the chiringuito, or just enjoy the view. Beautiful hiking trails towards Calblanque also start here – perfect for those who want to combine beach and nature. Bring your hiking boots and trek the coastal paths of the natural park.

And then, our absolute favorite. Near La Manga and Los Belones is this dream place for nature lovers: golden dunes, clear water, and above all – silence. No concrete, no beach bars, no sunbeds. Only nature in its purest form.

In the summer you drive the shuttle bus from the parking lot at Los Belones; Out of season you can just go to the beach by car. Be sure to bring a snorkel mask . Put your phone in a waterproof bag – with this clear water, you’ll want to keep it close at hand.

Also read our separate blog about Calblanque, with walking routes and more insider tips.

A recurring theme on this list: we deliberately choose beach moments after 5 pm. It is no longer too hot, the atmosphere becomes cozier, and the light is at its best. No parasol needed, and there is always a spot available.

Follow our trip and tips via @pure_world_explorers for more inspiration about southern Spain, traveling with children, hidden places and slow travel. Prefer to have your feet in the sand rather than among the tourists? Then the Costa Cálida is your place to be.