Cartagena beaches: Cala Abellán in Cabo de Palos

Shallow rock pools west of the marina of Cabo de Palos

Cala Abellán is a curious part of the coastline on the southern side of Cabo de Palos, which lies to the west of the town centre and marina at the end of the long stretch of houses on the seafront (see map).

It consists of rocky pools rather than beaches, and is ideal for amateur snorkelers due to the tranquility of the clear, shallow water, but is far from ideal for a family day out at the beach. Access is not easy from Cala Medina to the south-west (via a footpath which takes the walker over the front terraces of some of the old seafront chalets!), while those approaching from the east will find that the Paseo de la Barra promenade peters out as it reaches the rocks of Cala Abellán. There is nothing here in the way of beach services such as foot showers or special access for those of limited mobility.

Behind Caba Abellán lies a residential area and a surprising amount of unbuilt-up land: this is a part of the coast which marks the transition from the centre of Cabo de Palos to the outlying areas of Cala Reona and Cala Flores. Shops and restaurants are far enough way to make a car useful, and this small part of the Costa Cálida receives few visitors even in the summer months. 

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.