🌿 A tranquil treasure between the sea and the palm trees
Let’s be clear from the start: Cala de los Toros is not just any beach. There are no beach bars, no showers, no parasol rental. And that’s precisely why it’s so very worthwhile.
Located between La Isleta del Moro and Rodalquilar, this wild cove is in the heart of the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, in a small valley surrounded by pine trees, palm trees and rock formations. It is perfect for those seeking tranquillity, nature and total disconnection.
📍 Where is Cala de los Toros?
On the road to San José, about 1 km after the Amatista viewpoint, you’ll find Cala de los Toros on the left, easily recognised by its palm oasis.
There are usually a few cars parked on the left side of the road heading towards San José. After parking, follow the path traced through the scrubland that leads you down to the beach.
Truly beautiful, with wild palm trees forming a little oasis. Note: it’s a pebble and coarse gravel beach, but it doesn’t spoil the experience.
It is only 1.3 km from La Isleta del Moro, and can only be reached on foot, which keeps it away from mass tourism. It is small in size (about 110 metres), but its beauty is immense.
📍 Just search for ‘Cala de los Toros’ on Google Maps, between La Isleta and the Amatista viewpoint.
🥾 How to get there: a short walk and very charming
- 🅿️ Parking: small, next to the road. Free, but no shade. It fills up quickly in summer.
- 🚶 Access on foot: between 10 and 15 minutes’ walk along a dirt track. It’s not difficult, but it’s best to avoid flip-flops.
💡 Practical tip: travel light. The path is short but not suitable for lugging around cool boxes and huge umbrellas.
🏖️ A wild cove, with no facilities (but with soul)
Cala de los Toros is nature in its purest form. Stone, rock, a little coarse sand, crystal-clear water and lots of opportunities for snorkelling.
There is no mobile phone coverage, no toilets, no bars. Just you, the sea and the sound of the wind in the trees.
🌊 What to do in Cala de los Toros?
1. Spectacular snorkelling
The cove has seabeds full of life. If you like snorkelling, this is an ideal place. There are colourful fish, rock formations and good visibility.
⚠️ Warning: at certain times of the year (especially September), there may be jellyfish. Find out before you jump into the water.
2. A quiet swim (with caution)
The water is transparent and usually calm, but there are no lifeguards, and there may be currents. Enter carefully and always wear water shoes: there are many stones.
3. Relax, read, contemplate
Cala de los Toros is perfect for spending a couple of hours in peace. Ideal for meditating, reading a book or simply looking at the horizon. And on many occasions… you will be almost alone!
🧭 Recommended itinerary
🚗 By car:
From Carboneras, San José or Rodalquilar, drive to La Isleta del Moro and continue towards the Amatista Viewpoint. Look for a small parking area by the road.
🚶 On foot:
From the car park, follow the dirt track (about 700 metres) down the hillside. There are pine trees, palm trees and beautiful views before you reach the cove.
📅 Best time to visit
- 🌸 Spring (April – May): ideal, without excessive heat.
- 🌞 Summer (June – August): spectacular, but walk early (before 11:00).
- 🍂 Autumn (September – October): the sea is still warm and there are fewer people.
- ❄️ Mild winter: perfect for hiking and disconnecting, less so for swimming.
💡 Avoid the hottest hours of the day: there is no natural shade on the beach.
🎒 What to bring, no ifs or buts
✅ Water (minimum 1.5 L per person)
✅ Food or snacks
✅ Goggles and snorkel
✅ Water shoes or closed sandals
✅ Hat or cap
✅ Sunscreen
✅ Bag for rubbish (essential!)
✅ Camera or mobile (flight mode 😉)
🚫 And please: don’t leave rubbish. Many visitors already do, and it breaks the charm of the place.
👪 Who is this cove for?
✔️ Couples looking for tranquillity
✔️ People who enjoy snorkelling
✔️ Lovers of nature and silence
✔️ Hikers and explorers
✔️ Dogs (allowed, if well controlled)
❌ Not recommended for people with reduced mobility
❌ Not ideal for families with very young children or pushchairs
❌ Not suitable for those looking for amenities or services
💬 Real opinions from travellers (and I can confirm this)
“A short but beautiful trail, and a secluded cove. A real gem!”
“Crystal-clear water, perfect for snorkeling. Water shoes are a must.”
“Very quiet, we were almost alone at the end of July.”
“There are no services, but that’s what makes it special.”
“Wish people took better care of places like this…”
✅ Ficha práctica – Cala de los Toros
| 🏝️ Useful Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Between La Isleta del Moro and Rodalquilar |
| Access | On foot only (10–15 min walk) |
| Parking | Small, next to the road |
| Beach type | Rocks, stones, some coarse sand |
| Services | None |
| Shade | None |
| Activities | Snorkeling, relaxing, photography |
| Dogs | Allowed (with responsibility) |
| Recommended for | Couples, adventurers, naturists, hikers |
| Best time | From April to October |
✉️ Nico’s word
Cala de los Toros is one of those places that has to be earned. It’s not in the top 10 on TripAdvisor, nor does it have selfies everywhere. And that’s why it’s unique.
If you do decide to go, be well prepared, respect the environment, and take only memories (and photos if you want).
To get the route, tips and advice, feel free to contact me.
I’ll be happy to help you discover this hidden gem of Cabo de Gata.
Because as you’ve probably realised: it’s not just about renting a place to sleep — it’s about truly living Andalusia.
Some of our photos
| Other beaches we recommend (click on the beach name) | Advantages of this beach |
|---|---|
| Playa del Algarrobico | A spectacular, vast, quiet, and little-visited beach |
| Playa de las Marinicas | The beach at the foot of both apartments, the favourite of local families and children |
| Playa Cala del Enmedio | A lost paradise, reserved for those who truly seek it… a short hike required! |
| Playa del sombrerico | A beach at the end of the path… yet close to everything |
| Playa de La Galera | A haven of peace near Carboneras |
| Cala San Pedro | Lose yourself in its unique turquoise waters in Cabo de Gata Natural Park |
| Cala del Plomo | A hidden treasure in Cabo de Gata Park |
| Playa Sopalmo | Our favourite landmark spot near Mojácar |
| Cala de los Toros | An oasis… and then the sea! |
