Águilas beaches: Playa de la Galera

A small sandy isthmus ideal for swimming at the Playa de la Galera

The Playa de las Galeras, also known as La Chapa de los Pájaros, is the northernmost beach in the municipality of Águilas, so is either the first encountered when entering the municipality from Lorca, or the last if following the coast from Almería.

If choosing the latter, then it's the 36th beach in the series of 36 Águilas beaches which run along the 28 kilometres of Águilas coast, and is highly recommended for a visit despite its remote location on the east-facing coastline.

The beach consists of an isthmus which leads to a small rocky outcrop approximately 20 metres away from the shore, and this provides small sandy beaches facing in almost every direction. In addition, on either side of the isthmus the water is protected by the rocks, and bathing conditions here are therefore calm on what is generally a fairly exposed stretch of coastline.

This is a picturesque setting on a small scale compared to the grandeur of the landscape in other parts of Águilas such as Playa del Hornillo, and even the official estimate of its length at 130 metres seems rather generous. Although it is generally visited by very few people, it only takes a few families and the sand is fairly full: ideally, this would be a beach to enjoy in privacy, but those who know about it tend to return.

The main reason for the Playa de la Galera not receiving more attention is undoubtedly its out-of-the-way location. It is best reached by turning off the RM-D14 at the Bar el Pocico between Cabo Cope and Garrobillo, and taking a minor road which initially heads almost due north. After approximately 2 kilometres this road bends back inland, but the beach is reached by taking the track down the slope towards the coast. 

Don’t worry about driving through the melon fields: you’re not lost, this really is the way to one of the most attractive beaches in Aguilas!

At the shore the track joins another coastal path – unpaved but suitable for cars - which runs from the Playa de la Galera to the Rambla Elena and provides access to many of the other beaches and coves on this stretch of the Costa Cálida, including Playa de las Pulgas, Playa del Pozo, Playa Rafal and some of the beaches of Lorca. 

Unsurprisingly given its location, there are no facilities or services at Playa de la Galera: this is very much a beach to be enjoyed in its natural state, and even a waste bin would be out of place. This is about as far from the world of ice-cream stands and carpet salesmen as beaches in the Region of Murcia get, and should be appreciated for what it is: take a coolbox and a bite to eat and enjoy!

Click for full list of Águilas beaches

More information about Águilas including beaches, what to see, what's on and tourist information can be found on ÁGUILAS TODAY