DISCOVER CARBONERAS SPAIN: GUIDE TO A SPANISH COASTAL GEM!
DISCOVER CARBONERAS SPAIN: GUIDE TO A SPANISH COASTAL GEM!

INTRODUCTION: DISCOVER CARBONERAS SPAIN!
Discover Carboneras Spain, a picturesque town located on the stunning Almería coast of Spain! Directly on the Mediterranean, its known for its pristine beaches and local culture, Carboneras is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Did you know that Carboneras is home to the famous Los Muertos Beach in Cabo de Gata Natural Park, often hailed as one of Spain’s most beautiful beaches? Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a sun worshipper, Carboneras on the Costa Almeria offers something for everyone.
As someone who has lived in the area for over a decade, I’m happy to share my inside tips and knowledge of this beautiful beach holiday destination. Let’s dive in and find out what makes this coastal town so special!
(To find out more about this region see our post on the Costa Almeria, our Guide to the Mediterranean Coast of Spain, and our Guide to The Mediterranean Coast Lifestyle and Travel )
WHAT IS THERE TO DISCOVER IN CARBONERAS SPAIN?
Carboneras
The town is located directly on the Mediterranean shore with beautiful sand beaches, surrounded by rugged mountains, and with an incredible natural park right on its doorstep. The location of the town provides for a range of activities and sports to keep you busy on your holidays but it is also just far enough from the main tourist destinations to give you a chance to just relax on the beach, do nothing and just unwind. Below you will find information on things to do and see in Carboneras and the surrounding area.

Explore Playa de los Muertos
In 2017, this beach was rated by the Spanish newspaper ‘20 Minutos’ as the most beautiful beach in Spain. In 2019 ‘The Guardian’ included this beach among the 40 most outstanding beaches in Europe. We visited the beach and it definitely is beautiful (but a little hard to access – see note below). The scenery however is beautiful and the water is crystal clear.
Swimming conditions are excellent during the summer and it can get quite crowded. There is a sharp drop in the shoreline so kids should always be accompanied by an adult. When conditions are windy there are many waves generated making it dangerous to swim. Make sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a camera.
Note: The Beach is located directly below a cliff and access is only by foot and is difficult. From the parking lot, It is about a 700m walk down a long steep hill on a rocky goat trail. This is not wheelchair accessible nor is it recommended for the elderly.

Carboneras Beach
The beach in town is great for swimming with crystal clear waters and golden sand. There is a promenade along the beach and amenities like showers, lifeguards, toilet facilities, and bars.

Visit Castillo de San Andrés
This fortress was built in the 16th century as a defense against pirate attacks along the coast. It is a prime example of military architecture for this time period. The castle is now open to tourists where you can get excellent views of the town and sea.

Exploring Local Cuisine
When visiting the area be sure to try some of the local Spanish dishes of this region:
- Paella: A classic Spanish dish, often featuring a mix of seafood, chicken, and rabbit, cooked with saffron-infused rice. It’s a must-try for its rich flavors and cultural significance.
- Gazpacho Andaluz: This refreshing cold tomato soup is perfect for the warm climate. Made with fresh tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and olive oil, it’s a delicious way to cool down.
- Tapas: Enjoy a variety of small dishes, such as patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and gambas al ajillo. Tapas are a great way to sample different flavors and enjoy a social dining experience.

Experience Carboneras’ Cultural Events and Festivals
- San Antonio Festival
Held in June, this festival honors the patron saint of Carboneras. It features parades, traditional music, and dance performances, alongside local cuisine and crafts. The event is great for both locals and visitors, showing the town’s rich cultural heritage and community spirit. - Carnival of Carboneras
This takes place in February and is filled with elaborate costumes, street parties, and parades. A great event for the whole family, where participants of all ages join in the festivities, celebrating with music, dance, and traditional Spanish entertainment. - Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen
Celebrated in July, this event is held in honor of the patroness of sailors. The event includes a maritime procession where a statue of the Virgin is carried to the sea, with boats and traditional music. This festival highlights the community’s connection to the sea.
Explore Outdoor Adventures in Carboneras
With Cabo de Gata Natural Park and excellent beaches nearby, including the highly rated Playa de los Muertos, there is virtually no limit to the activities available. In summer especially, the calm waters are perfect for snorkeling, paddle boarding, and kayaking.
For some activities listed below, consult local tour operators for schedules and fees. Equipment for many activities can be rented at the beach, local shops, or from tour operators. Here are some top outdoor activities and adventures around Carboneras:

- Hiking in Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park
The park covers a large area and a long section of coastline, with trails, rugged landscapes, and incredible views. Perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. - Snorkeling at Playa de los Muertos
Dive into the crystal-clear waters of this beautiful beach, famous for its vibrant marine life and underwater beauty. A must-visit spot for snorkeling fans. - Kayaking Along the Almería Coast
Paddle through the waters and see the rugged coastline from a different perspective. Consider joining a kayak tour which will take you to hidden coves and secluded beaches. - Cycling Routes with Coastal Views
Take a cycling tour of the park along routes with stunning ocean views, perfect for both casual cyclists and experienced riders. - Horseback Riding Excursions
Experience the natural beauty of Carboneras on horseback, with guided tours that traverse beautiful beaches and scenic trails. - Visit Castillo de San Andrés
Immerse yourself in history with a visit to this iconic fortress, offering insights into the region’s past and panoramic views of the town and sea. - Participate in Local Festivals
Join in the lively cultural festivities, such as the San Antonio festival, where you can experience local traditions, music, and cuisine. - Boat Tour of the Almería Coast
A boat tour is a great way to see the park and its rugged coastline, beaches, hidden coves, and caves. (Tip: find a tour that also includes snorkeling. The tour operators know the area and will take you to the best snorkeling places). - Birdwatching in Salinas de Cabo de Gata
Observe a diverse range of bird species in this protected wetland area, a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. They have specially made observation shelters that allow you to see the birds up close without disturbing them. - Rock Climbing Adventures
Challenge yourself with rock climbing activities on the coastal cliffs, offering exhilarating experiences and spectacular views of the Mediterranean.

Day Trips
Cabo de Gata Natural Park:
Carboneras is located right on the boundary of the Cabo de Gata park so you won’t have to go far out of your way for this day trip. The park is known for its volcanic landscapes, salt flats teeming with birdlife, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Ideal for hiking, bird-watching, kayaking, and snorkeling. (Note: bring lots of water, sunscreen, and a camera)

Mojácar Pueblo
Visit this white-washed hilltop village, known for its narrow streets, charming plazas, and spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. Cultural attractions include exploring the historic old town, visiting the Plaza del Parterre and the Church of Santa María, and enjoying the vibrant local art scene. Enjoy local crafts and traditional Andalusian architecture.

Tabernas Desert
Take a trip to Europe’s only desert, famous for its unique landscapes and as a filming location for many Western movies. Popular activities include guided tours of the desert, visiting the famous film sets, and exploring the Oasys MiniHollywood theme park, which offers live shows and a zoo. (Tip: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes, and consider starting early in the day to avoid the midday heat – You know, because of that “desert” thing).

Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips
Peak Tourist Season
The peak tourist season in Carboneras and the surrounding area is during July and August when most regions of Northern Europe have their school breaks. With everybody heading to the Mediterranean coast at the same time, it does get busy so be prepared, plan ahead, and book accommodations, rental cars, plane tickets, and tours well in advance.
Tip: If you are looking for a less hectic experience, you might want to consider traveling in May/June or in Sept/October. The weather is still exceptionally nice and you can escape the large crowds.
Transportation options
- Flying: Almeria Airport is located just outside the city center of Almeria (about 50km away). The next nearest options are Murcia Airport (about 150km away), Malaga Airport ( about 270km away), and Alicante Airport (about 230km away)
- Driving: You can reach Carboneras by using the A-7 highway that runs through the region going east towards Murcia and west towards Malaga, or the A92 which heads north-west towards Granada and Seville.
- Train: The nearest train station is in Almeria. From Almeria, you can reach Madrid by train in about 6 hours.
Accommodations
The tourist infrastructure is well developed so there is no shortage of accommodations in the area. These range from luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly youth hostels and guesthouses. However, as mentioned above, summer is the busiest time in the area so I recommend that you book well in advance. Your best bet is to check online for available places and book as soon as you can. Check out the link further below for places available right now.

FINAL THOUGHTS: DISCOVER CARBONERAS SPAIN!
Carboneras is an excellent holiday destination in Spain. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on its idyllic beaches or savoring local flavors, this coastal town promises an unforgettable experience. Ready to explore Carboneras on the Costa Almeria? Pack your bags and get ready to explore this Almerían gem today!
“Don’t Just Dream It! Do it!”
How about experiencing the Mediterranean firsthand? Use the map below to inspire you and plan your next Mediterranean vacation right now!
Reg Auge
Reg holds an MBA, is a former Captain in the Canadian military and has worked as a consultant in industry for over 20 years. From his home in Spain, he has spent the last 10 years traveling throughout the Mediterranean, exploring the various countries and regions. He also regularly runs, windsurfs, and kite surfs, maintaining a healthy and active way of life. Captivated by this Mediterranean lifestyle, he began a Blog last year to inspire like-minded souls to learn about and discover this unique region for themselves.