Source: Benjamín Núñez González
Roquetas de Mar is a quiet fishing village in the municipality of Almeria province and one of the most attractive seaside resorts in southern Spain. Although it does not attract the sheer number of visitors as other similar establishments in Spain, life here moves at a much gentler pace with a plenty of room to walk around and sunbathe, or to enjoy a leisurely swim or just relax.
1. Walk Along the Lovely Stretch of Aguadulce
Playa de Aguadulce is a quiet little fishing inlet with plenty of modest bars and restaurants completed by a nice family-friendly atmosphere. It’s really a fun place with a gorgeous promenade that seems to run all the way from Roquetas de Mar. The views are wonderful which makes it pleasant to take just a leisurely walk along the seafront promenade. The village itself is so colorful and so very Spanish which is well worth a visit.
2. Sunbathe in the White Sands of Serena Beach
A lovely yet clean beach with a splendid promenade which stretches for miles making it ideal for a leisurely walk and the white sands are just perfect to enjoy sunbathing. The beach is originally a part of a continuous beach front which runs all the way from Roquetas de Mar to the Almeria Port. Dine at one of the fine beachside restaurants and cafes, or go on a gentle stroll along the walking trail that runs for about 10 kilometers.
3. Visit the Astonishing Santa Ana Castle
Santa Ana is an identifiable landmark of Roquetas de Mar with spectacular views over the lovely promenade. The castle is surprisingly modern and astonishingly beautiful with several rooms inside which host regular art exhibitions that are worth well a look. It also has a significant collection of different ship models, along with some medieval paintings, and the outside has some beautiful gardens to stroll around.
Information
- Name: Santa Ana Castle
- Address: Ctra. Faro Sabinal, s/n, 04740 Roquetas de Mar, Almería, Spain
- Phone: +34950320228
- Opening Hours: Tue-Sat 10:00 to 13:00 & 18:00 to 21:00, Sun 11:00 to 13:00
4. Have Fun at the Aquarium
On the outskirts of Roquetas de Mar is the newly opened aquarium where you can have close encounters with the wonderful marine life and enjoy watching the beautiful turtles and sharks being fed. It has different aquatic zones ranging from tropical freshwater to tropical marine housing several sharks and other marine species. There’s also a touch pool in the aquarium where the visitors are allowed to touch the wings of one of the many rays or guitarfish.
Information
- Name: Aquarium Roquetas de Mar
- Address: Av. Reino de España, s/n, 04740 Roquetas de Mar, Almería, Spain
- Phone: +34950160036
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 10:00 to 21:00
5. Enjoy the Slides of Mario Park
This quiet little water park in the province is a fun place for kids with some great slides which are sure to keep you occupied the whole day. It’s open throughout the summer season. There’s also a family pool for a little family time and lovely snack bar at the side of the pool that serves delicious grilled fish and sardines. Also, there’s a small picnic area which is just perfect for a family day out.
Information
- Name: Mario Park
- Address: Camino de Las Salinas, 10, 04740 Roquetas de Mar, Almería, Spain
- Phone: +34950327575
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 11:00 to 19:00
- Website: http://mariopark.com/
6. Enjoy Bird Watching at the Punta Entinas-Sabinar
A paradise for the nature lovers, the Punta Entinas-Sabinar is a 15km-long strip of protected coastline and nature reserve, ideal for bird watching. A steady drive through the reserve and you’ll come across the lovely pink flamingos and lots of other bird species that roam freely over the lake. It’s a lovely experience watching so many beautiful birds in their natural environment.
Information
- Name: Punta Entinas-Sabinar
- Address: Av. de los Cerrillo, Roquetas de Mar, Spain
7. Get Familiar With the Bullfighting Tradition
If the century-old blood sport fascinates you, then you’d definitely like the bull ring which is more of a museum for bullfighting with small exhibitions halls which are dedicated to the history, culture and the art of bullfighting. The collection includes some renowned paintings, sculptures and historical photographs as well as traditional costumes.
Information
- Name: Plaza Toros
- Address: Avda Curro Romero, s/n Roquetas de Mar, Spain
8. Go on a Shopping Spree
The Grand Plaza is a lovely shopping center at the heart of Roquetas de Mar with a great selection of shops including some popular names in the fashion world like Zara, Desigual, Lacoste and more. Visit the Primark to get your hands on some nice goods at great deals. You can also find the popular fast food outlets such as Burger King and MacDonald’s. It’s definitely a shopaholic’s haven.
Information
- Name: Grand Plaza
- Address: Avenida de Alicún, s/n, 04740 Roquetas de Mar, Almería, Spain
- Phone: +34950328732
- Phone: Mon-Sat 10:00 to 22:00
9. Enjoy Golfing in Roquetas de Mar
For those interested in a bit of activity along with the sightseeing, there are a significant number of golf courses around the region and numerous sports centers. Roquetas de Mar is one of the most laidback resorts in Spain with some excellent golf courses within easy reach, favored by wonderful climate, great facilities, and charming ambiance. Playa Serena is one of the best-rated golf courses in Andalusia with great views over the ocean.
10. Take Pleasure in the Open-air Concerts
The wonderful resort town of Roquetas de Mar puts on numerous open-air events and musical concerts throughout the year and for one weekend, pop music fans from all over Spain come to hear top acts like Ana Logica, Proyecto Solaz, Brighton 64, and Sexie Saide. Classical, jazz and flamenco concerts take to the stage at the Teatro Auditorio in Roquetas de Mar at times.
Have a good trip and travel!
