Picture this: you’re standing on a pearl-white beach, sunlight caressing your skin, a gentle sea breeze rustling your hair. In the distance, sailboats dance on azure waters. That’s the magic of the Costa Calida, a place where the mild climate and an average of 320 sunny days per year guarantee an eternal summer sensation.<\/p>\n
The Costa Calida stretches across the southeast of Spain, in the region of Murcia. This idyllic coast, literally translating to the ‘Warm Coast,’ spans from El Moj\u00f3n in the north, near the border of Alicante province, to \u00c1guilas in the south, bordering Andalusia. The coastline is a blend of breathtaking cliffs and vast sandy beaches, embraced on one side by the glistening Mediterranean Sea and on the other by the unique lagoon of Mar Menor.<\/p>\n
The Costa Calida is essentially the tourist name for the Murcia region. Compared to other Costas, it’s a relatively undiscovered slice of Spain due to its rugged coastline and absence of large resorts like Almeria or Benidorm. Nevertheless, its popularity has been rapidly growing in recent years. Tourists are increasingly seeking serene and authentic destinations, and the Costa Calida perfectly fits the bill. More and more people are also investing in second homes here.<\/p>\n
See also:\u00a0https:\/\/www.ro-spain.com\/en\/live-la-vida-loca-why-now-is-the-time-to-find-your-dream-home-on-the-costa-blanca-and-costa-calida\/<\/a><\/p>\n From the historic Cartagena to the vibrant La Manga and the tranquil Mar Menor, this is a place where you can truly unwind and relish life. In this blog, you’ll discover the 7 most captivating spots on the Costa Calida:<\/p>\n 1. **Cartagena**<\/p>\n Step into the footsteps of Romans in Cartagena, the gem of the Costa Calida. As the largest port city in the region, nestled between five hills and the Mediterranean Sea, Cartagena offers an irresistible fusion of history, culture, and contemporary allure. Explore the old town with its ancient city walls, shop along Calle Mayor, visit the bustling Plaza Bolivar, and make sure not to miss the San Pedro Claver Cathedral and the Teatro Romana (an ancient amphitheater). Delight in local gastronomy on a sunny terrace and wrap up your day with a stroll along the harbor, where luxury yachts and old fishing boats coexist. The city is surrounded by five hills, each crowned with a castle that provides breathtaking views of the city and sea.<\/p>\n 2. **La Manga**<\/p>\n La Manga, a dazzling peninsula stretching over 21 kilometers along the Costa Calida. So narrow that you can gaze from one side to the other. La Manga is an ultimate haven for sun, sea, and sand lovers. Here, you can revel in two seas – the tranquil Mar Menor on one side, the expansive Mediterranean Sea on the other. Start your day at Playa Barco Perdido, a haven for sunbathers and watersports enthusiasts, where you can ride the waves of the Mediterranean. Then, head to the iconic Avenida Gran V\u00eda de La Manga, surrounded by boutiques, bars, and restaurants. Treat yourself to fresh seafood at\u00a0Restaurant Escuela de Pieter<\/a>, renowned for its exquisite paella. Visiting the Tom\u00e1s Maestre marina is a must, offering stunning views of luxury yachts while sipping local wine. End your day at Trips Summer Club, a lively nightclub with live music and DJs, where you can dance until the sunrise.<\/p>\n 3. **Playa de Calblanque**<\/p>\n This secluded and unspoiled beach is nestled within the Calblanque Natural Park, just a short drive east of Cartagena. Surrounded by rugged hills and pine forests, it’s a haven for nature lovers and tranquility seekers. Playa de Calblanque is a vast golden sandy beach, separated from the hinterland by magnificent sand dunes and salt pans. The beach is perfect for a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean Sea and sunbathing on the soft, pleasant sand.<\/p>\n This is not a touristy beach with typical amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, or beach bars. However, this is precisely what makes Calblanque Beach pristine and authentic. Note: In July, August, and September, cars are not allowed into the natural park. During this time, you can reach the beach only by shuttle bus.<\/p>\n 4. **Puerto de Mazarr\u00f3n**<\/p>\n Puerto de Mazarr\u00f3n is an enchanting coastal village on the southeastern edge of the Costa Calida. Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Sierra de la Almenara, the village boasts both sea and mountain landscapes.<\/p>\n The village has a rich history dating back to the Phoenicians and Romans, who once managed the flourishing fishing industry of the region. Explore the underwater archaeology museum, where you can admire the remains of a 2700-year-old Phoenician ship, a rare piece of ancient maritime history. Other attractions include the town hall, the 16th-century San Andr\u00e9s church, and Castillo de los V\u00e9lez, a 15th-century fortress. Active holidaymakers can indulge in endless hiking and cycling. Puerto de Mazarr\u00f3n is also cherished by divers who come here for encounters with dolphins and sperm whales. But you can also simply relax here. Popular beaches include Playa de la Isla and Playa del Rihuete. You’ll find plenty of charming small-scale all-inclusive resorts<\/p>\n nearby.<\/p>\n 5. **\u00c1guilas**<\/p>\n \u00c1guilas is the southernmost town on the Costa Calida. The city is situated at the foothills of the Sierra de Almenara. One of the essential highlights is Castillo de San Juan de las \u00c1guilas. This 18th-century fortress, perched atop a hill above the city, offers fantastic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains. You can explore the castle’s interior as well.<\/p>\n Just south of the town, you’ll find Cala de la Cocedores, an idyllic cove with a sandy beach surrounded by impressive rock formations and crystal-clear water. A perfect spot to spend a day at the beach and go snorkeling.<\/p>\n Complete your visit to \u00c1guilas with a stroll through the historic center, where you can discover the neoclassical San Jos\u00e9 church and the charming Plaza de Espa\u00f1a (a stunning square with an adjacent Gaudi garden), surrounded by stately 19th-century buildings. Are you a fan of hiking? A delightful hiking trail begins at the Cabo Cope tower.<\/p>\n