Cartagena beaches: Cala de las Melvas beach in Cabo de Palos

Pebbly coves just east of the marina of Cabo de Palos

The stretch of the shore which is known as Cala de las Melvas in Cabo de Palos lies on the southern side of the headland, just to the east of the port and marina, making it easily accessible from the town centre on the coastal footpath which runs from the central shops and restaurants to the lighthouse.

Cala de las Melvas is a series of rocky and pebbly coves, with easy access at the western end from the residential streets behind (this is a popular location for camper vans out of high season) but accessible only from the sea further east. Like all of the coastline in this area it’s attractive to divers and snorkelers, due to its proximity to the regional marine park of Islas Hormigas..

Behind the beach is the office of the Marine Reserve of Cabo de Palos and Islas Hormigas, which includes an outdoor interactive information screen, and of course shops and bars are close at hand. 

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.