Costa Almeria
☀️ Why Visit Costa Almeria, Spain?
Costa Almeria, situated on Spain's stunning southeastern coast in Andalusia, is the Mediterranean's best-kept secret. This incredible stretch of coastline offers over 320 days of sunshine per year (it's officially the driest place in Europe), making it absolutely perfect for those craving guaranteed good weather but somehow it’s never attracted the same buzz as the Costa del Sol. Which means you get to enjoy straight sunshine, at great prices, without fighting for space on the beach. From dramatic desert landscapes that look like they're straight out of a Western movie to pristine beaches and charming fishing villages, Costa Almeria delivers serious wow factor without the crowds.
Top reasons to visit Costa Almeria:
☀️ Europe's best weather – over 320 days of sunshine per year with hardly any rain, even in winter!
🏖️ Pristine beaches – from family-friendly golden sands to dramatic wild coves, all with crystal-clear Mediterranean waters
🎬 Hollywood of Europe – explore the desert landscapes where countless Western movies and TV shows were filmed
🏰 Rich history – from 10th-century Moorish fortresses to charming fishing villages with centuries of maritime heritage
🦐 Incredible seafood – some of Spain's freshest fish and shellfish, caught daily by local fishermen
🏖️ Best Resorts in Costa Almeria
Costa Almeria's stunning coastline offers brilliant resort towns that each bring their own special charm, from dramatic clifftop villages to buzzing family-friendly beach hubs. There are plenty of charming smaller resorts but the main two are these big guns here...
Main Resorts
🏰 Mojacar - This absolutely stunning white village perched dramatically on a hilltop is pure Andalusian magic, with its cube-shaped houses cascading down towards seven kilometers of gorgeous golden beaches. The contrast between the historic village with its narrow cobbled streets and the modern beachfront resort below creates something really special. You've got brilliant beach clubs, water sports, and that authentic Spanish charm that makes every sunset feel epic.
🌊 Roquetas de Mar - The coast's largest and liveliest resort town, Roquetas is proper brilliant for families and couples who want everything on their doorstep. The long stretches of sandy beaches are backed by a buzzing promenade packed with restaurants, bars, and shops, plus there's a fantastic aquarium and loads of water sports. It's got that perfect mix of Spanish seaside energy and modern resort amenities that keeps everyone happy.
🏖️ Top Things to Do in Costa Almeria
Costa Almeria perfectly blends relaxation with adventure, offering everything from lazy beach days to fascinating cultural discoveries and outdoor adventures in Europe's only desert.
Beach Bliss
🏖️ Playa de los Genoveses – One of Spain's most beautiful beaches in Cabo de Gata Natural Park, with golden sand dunes and turquoise waters that look almost tropical
🌊 Roquetas de Mar – The coast's largest resort with brilliant family beaches, water sports, and a buzzing promenade packed with restaurants and bars
🏄 Mojacar Beach – Seven kilometers of stunning coastline backed by the white village perched dramatically on a hilltop
Desert Adventures
🌵 Tabernas Desert – Europe's only desert! Explore the wild west film sets, spot unique flora and fauna, and feel like you're in a proper Western movie
🎬 Western Film Sets – Visit Fort Bravo and Oasys Theme Park where Sergio Leone filmed his spaghetti westerns and Game of Thrones scenes were shot
🦅 Cabo de Gata Natural Park – Volcanic landscapes, hidden coves, flamingo lagoons, and some of the Mediterranean's clearest waters
Cultural Treasures
🏰 Alcazaba of Almeria – One of Spain's largest Moorish fortresses with incredible views over the city and sea
🏘️ Mojacar Village – Wander the narrow streets of this stunning white village with its cube-shaped houses and breathtaking views
⛪ Almeria Cathedral – A unique fortress-cathedral that had to defend against pirate attacks – proper fascinating history!
Active Adventures
⛳ World-Class Golf – Play year-round on championship courses with mountain and sea views at places like Alborán Golf
🥾 Hiking Trails – Explore dramatic landscapes from coastal paths to mountain routes in the Sierra Nevada foothills
🤿 Diving & Snorkeling – Crystal-clear waters and marine reserves make this a brilliant spot for underwater adventures
🏨 Where to Stay on your Costa Almeria Holidays
Costa Almeria offers fantastic beachfront resorts and boutique hotels that make the most of that incredible year-round sunshine, from adults-only retreats, to hotels where clothing is optional (careful at the breakfast buffet), to family-friendly resorts.
🏨 Algeria Palacio Mojacar (Adults Only) - This elegant adults-only retreat offers pure sophistication with stunning sea views and peaceful surroundings perfect for romantic getaways. The tranquil atmosphere and beautiful location make it ideal for couples seeking a refined beach escape without any distractions.
🏨 Parador de Mojacar - Perched right on the beachfront with traditional Andalusian architecture, this brilliant hotel combines authentic Spanish charm with modern comfort. You're perfectly positioned between Mojacar's historic village and the gorgeous coastline, with easy access to both cultural treasures and beach bliss.
🏨 Playalinda - Right on the golden sands with fantastic family facilities and that proper welcoming Spanish hospitality that makes everyone feel at home. The beachfront location means you can literally roll out of bed onto the beach, while the resort amenities keep everyone entertained.
🏨 Playavera (Naturist Hotel) - Spain's premier naturist resort offers a completely relaxed and liberating holiday experience in beautiful natural surroundings. The clothing-optional environment, excellent facilities, and peaceful atmosphere create a unique getaway for those seeking complete freedom and relaxation.
🏨 Protur Roquetas Hotel & Spa - This stunning beachfront property in buzzing Roquetas de Mar combines luxury spa treatments with brilliant family facilities. The location puts you right in the heart of the resort's action, with the promenade, restaurants, and nightlife all on your doorstep.
🏨 Evenia Zoraida Resort - Two hotels in one brilliant beachfront location, offering everything from minimalist elegance to colorful family fun. The variety means there's something perfect for every type of holiday, all with direct beach access and top-notch facilities.
Whether you choose the dramatic clifftop charm of Mojacar, the buzzing energy of Roquetas de Mar, or the peaceful sophistication of an adults-only retreat, Costa Almeria's combination of guaranteed sunshine, stunning beaches, and authentic Andalusian hospitality creates the perfect Spanish getaway!
🗓️ When to Visit Costa Almería
☀️ Summer (June–August) | 26–31°C
Peak season with guaranteed sunshine, warm sea temperatures (24-25°C), and the region's biggest festivals. This is when the coast buzzes with beach clubs, chiringuitos, and late-night fiestas. Book accommodation early – August is particularly busy.
🎉 Feria de Almería (22-30 August 2026) – the region's biggest celebration honouring the Virgen del Mar, with horse parades, flamenco in traditional casetas, fireworks over the bay, bullfighting at the historic 1889 plaza, and free concerts lasting well into the small hours
🎸 Cooltural Fest (20-23 August 2026) – Europe's most inclusive music festival transforms Almería city with 60+ acts across multiple stages, from international headliners like Franz Ferdinand to emerging Spanish artists
🎧 Dreambeach Festival (early August, Retamar-El Toyo) – one of Europe's largest electronic music festivals draws 120,000+ people for five days of world-class DJs, beachside stages, and Mediterranean sunrise sets
🔥 San Juan (24 June) – midsummer bonfires and midnight swimming on beaches across the coast
🌸 Spring (March–May) | 17–22°C
Perfect temperatures for exploring Cabo de Gata's dramatic coastline and the Tabernas Desert without the summer heat. Wildflowers carpet the hillsides, and you'll have beaches practically to yourself.
✝️ Semana Santa (Easter) – Almería's Holy Week processions are declared of National Tourist Interest in Andalusia, with ornate floats carried through the historic centre by hooded brotherhoods
💐 Cruces de Mayo (first week May) – streets and plazas compete to create the most beautiful flower-decorated crosses, with music and dancing at each location
🎸 Festival Flamenco de Almería (June-July) – one of Andalusia's longest-running flamenco festivals brings world-class performers to venues across the city
🍂 Autumn (September–October) | 22–26°C
The sweet spot – still-warm seas (23°C), summer crowds gone, and lower prices. September feels like a second summer, while October brings comfortable temperatures for exploring the desert landscapes and mountain villages.
⚔️ Moros y Cristianos (June, Mojacar) – four days of parades, medieval markets, beach tournaments, and spectacular re-enactments celebrating the peaceful surrender of Mojacar in 1488
🎬 Almería Film Festival (November) – celebrating the region's incredible cinematic history with screenings in the desert where spaghetti westerns were filmed
⛪ Virgen del Rosario (7 October, Mojacar) – processions and ribbon races in the stunning white village
❄️ Winter (December–February) | 15–18°C
Europe's driest corner means genuine winter sun while the rest of the continent shivers. Temperatures rarely drop below 15°C, making this brilliant for hiking in Cabo de Gata or exploring the Tabernas Desert film sets without the heat.
🎭 Carnival (February) – Almería's colourful carnival fills the streets with satirical songs, elaborate costumes, and the traditional burning of the sardine to end the festivities
👑 Three Kings (5-6 January) – spectacular parades with floats, live camels, and sweets thrown to excited children
🎄 Christmas markets – nativity scenes and festive markets throughout December, plus traditional celebrations in the mountain villages
🏝️ Nearby Destinations
🌴 Costa Tropical – Granada's subtropical coast is about 90km west, with dramatic mountain backdrops, hidden coves, and the charming resort of Almuñécar
🏰 Granada – the Alhambra, free tapas culture, and flamenco cave shows are about 90 minutes inland through stunning mountain scenery
☀️ Costa del Sol – if you fancy the buzz of Marbella or Málaga, it's about two hours west along the coast
Popular Costa Almeria hotels
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Weather in Costa Almeria
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Almeria is officially the driest place in Europe, with rainfall rare in winter and near non-existent in summer. It's mild, Mediterranean climate means that temperatures never drop dramatically in winter, and the summer's peak around the 30 degree mark, avoiding the unwanted extras of too-hot-to-walk-on sand and an endless supply of bottled agua!
Such a climate also means that Almeria is perfect for those off peak quick weeks away, escaping the often hectic rush of the school holidays and generally bringing the cheapest deals. Be on the lookout for an On The Beach last minute all inclusive deals to Costa Almeria, especially in these less popular months. The next one could just be around the corner!
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FAQs
How long does it take to fly to Costa Almeria?
How long does it take to fly to Costa Almeria?
It takes around two hours and 45 minutes to fly to Costa Almeria from the UK.
What currency do they use in Costa Almeria?
What currency do they use in Costa Almeria?
The official currency of Costa Almeria is the Euro.
What language do they speak in Costa Almeria?
What language do they speak in Costa Almeria?
The official language spoken in Costa Almeria is Spanish.
What’s the time difference between the UK and Costa Almeria?
What’s the time difference between the UK and Costa Almeria?
Costa Almeria is one hour ahead of the time in the UK.
Is Costa Almería good for families?
Is Costa Almería good for families?
Brilliant. Roquetas de Mar has calm, shallow beaches with all the facilities families need, plus a fantastic aquarium. Mojacar offers a mix of beach and village exploring. The Western film sets at Oasys/Fort Bravo are a hit with kids of all ages.
What about the naturist beaches?
What about the naturist beaches?
The region is famous for them. Vera Playa has a dedicated naturist resort area with several hotels, shops, and restaurants. Cabo de Gata also has several clothing-optional beaches in stunning natural settings.
Can I visit the desert from the coast?
Can I visit the desert from the coast?
Absolutely – the Tabernas Desert is only about 30km inland from Almería city. You can visit Mini Hollywood/Oasys and Fort Bravo where Sergio Leone filmed his spaghetti westerns, or explore the alien landscapes where Game of Thrones and Doctor Who were shot.
What's the food like?
What's the food like?
Outstanding seafood – the coast is famous for its fresh pescaíto frito (fried fish) and gambas rojas (red prawns). Inland, try migas (fried breadcrumbs with pork) and the fantastic local wines. Some traditional bars still serve free tapas with your drink, though it's becoming rarer.
Is Costa Almería good value?
Is Costa Almería good value?
One of the best-value coastal regions in Spain. Because it's less developed than the Costa del Sol, you get gorgeous beaches at great prices. A caña and tapa might cost €3-4, and beachside restaurants won't break the bank.
What's the nightlife like?
What's the nightlife like?
Roquetas de Mar has the liveliest scene with bars and clubs along the promenade. Mojacar has a more laid-back vibe with beach bars and village squares. For something bigger, Almería city has a proper Spanish going-out scene. In August, the festivals bring world-class music to the coast.
How do I explore Cabo de Gata?
How do I explore Cabo de Gata?
The natural park is best explored by car – the roads wind past volcanic cliffs, hidden beaches, and tiny fishing villages like Las Negras and San José. Playa de los Genoveses and Playa Mónsul are the headline beaches, but you'll find dozens of quieter coves. Some beaches are a short hike from the car parks.