Cartagena beaches: Playa de la Barra, Cabo de Palos

Bathing on the seafront but no beach in this urban area of Cabo de Palos

Like many of the beaches of Cabo de Palos, the Playa de la Barra is unusual. Technically, it's not a beach, as there is no sand or even pebbles between the seafront promenade of Paseo de la Barra and the Mediterranean except at the south-western end, but concrete steps down to the water make it possible for bathers to enjoy a dip in the clear water which makes Cabo de Palos such a popular destination for divers and snorkelers.

The water here is not only clean but also shallow and tranquil (the rocks around 50 metres offshore act as a natural breakwater), and a summer dip here is an attractive option for those enjoying a walk along the spectacular coastline of Cabo de Palos. However, due to the urban nature of the Playa de la Barra and the residential area immediately behind it, there are no specific beach services such as foot showers or beach bars: the western side of the marina, where the church, medical centre and visitors’ centre are located, is just a few yards away, but to get to the shops it’s necessary to walk all the way around the marina to the eastern quayside.

To the south the promenade peters out in the area of Cala Abellán.

Recommended parking for visitors to this part of the coastline in Cabo de Palos is by the church in the marina (see map).

Click for further information regarding the beaches of Cabo de Palos or the town of Cabo de Palos.

Beaches in Cabo de Palos:

Cabo de Palos lies at the eastern end of the municipality of Cartagena on the headland of the same name which juts out into the Mediterranean, and as a result the beaches and coves face south, east and north, depending on their location. 

It is also at the southern end for La Manga del Mar Menor, which acts as the land barrier between the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean, and just outside the town is "kilometre 0" of La Manga.

The beaches of Cabo de Palos range from tiny coves to long stretches of golden sand, many of them dominated by the imposing lighthouse or cliffs. There is also a marina, which is bustling with life all year round as it doubles as a fishing port. 

The coastline of Cabo de Palos lies on the edge of the Islas Hormigas marine park, one of the most important areas of protected coastline in Europe, teeming with marine life and hugely popular with divers, and the regional park of Calblanque.

Click for further local information about Cabo de Palos or Cartagena, or for an overview of the beaches of Cartagena.