OK, we’ll admit it; the Costas can be a little confusing. Is Costa del Sol really the sunniest region in Spain? Does Costa Blanca really have the whitest beaches? Which Costa should I visit next? Well, we can answer the last question: Costa Calida. The often overlooked holiday resort is bustling with things to see and do and we reckon it’s about time we showed the region some love.
Where exactly is Costa Calida?
Costa Calida, which translates as “warm coast”, is located in the Spanish region of Murcia in the south eastern part of Spain. The name is said to have originated due to the warm waters surrounding this area, which are up to 5°C warmer than the surrounding Mediterranean.
Popular resorts in the region include La Manga and Cartagena and flights take around 2.5 hours from the UK.
Who goes to Costa Calida?
Whether you want to spend your holiday lying on a sun lounger by the beach, keeping active with watersports or indulging in a pampering session at a local spa, Costa Calida has just what you need. Popular with sun seekers of all ages, (the region boasts 300 days of sunshine a year), sport lovers also flock here to enjoy the wide range of activites on offer.
Why should you go to Costa Calida?
Beaches
Owing to its own micro climate, there really isn’t anything like relaxing on a beach in Costa Calida. La Manga boasts a whole range of beaches – for a more laid back experience, head for the east side of the town where the shallow waters make this the perfect place for a family break. To the west you’ll find livelier beaches with bigger waves – perfect for watersports. The 252km of coast also includes 5 other resort including Mazarron and Aguilars.
Culture & Festivals
It doesn’t take long for you to appreciate the richness and diversity of Costa Calida, particularly in Cartagena, a city with over 3,000 years of history. The friendly locals enjoy life in the slow lane resulting in a chilled out and generally laid back atmosphere. Many festivals take place throughout the summer, including the popular La Mar de Musicas (The Sea of Music).
Sports & Activities
One of the biggest attractions on a trip to Costa Calida is the endless lists of sports on offer. Take advantage of the four diving areas and two marina reserves with a diving session where you’ll discover fauna and flora as well as numerous shipwrecks.
If you’d prefer to stay dry, the region is also home to 22 signature golf courses; all of which were designed by renowned players. Other activities include kite surfing, sailing, scuba diving and stand up paddle boarding.
Relax & Unwind
Treat yourself to some ‘you’ time at one of the many health resorts the region is home to. Enjoy a deep tissue massage, take a refreshing dip or visit the famous Mar Menor mud baths – something you won’t forget in a hurry. Costa Calida is also home to the largest saltwater lagoon in Europe.
When is the best time to visit Costa Calida?
Spring and autumn are the perfect seasons to visit Costa Calida, with temperatures often reaching the 20s. Visitor numbers are also slightly lower during these times of year so you can take advantage of the quieter beaches and enjoy a more laid back holiday.