Aguamarina beach, Orihuela
A relatively quiet beach next to a protected cliffside nature reserve
The Aguamarina residential area lies between the more heavily populated urbanizations of Campoamor and Cabo Roig, and its beach is also less visited than its neighbours to the north and south.
The beach at the southern end is sandy to the south but then gradually the amount of greenery increases and it gives way to a protected “micro-reserve”, which is bordered by the Paseo Marítimo. Among the reasons for this area enjoying protection from urban development is the largest population in Spain of the plant Tribulus terrestris, commonly known in Spanish as “cat’s head”, and there have also been interesting paleontological discoveries in the tiny coves and caves down below.
However, it’s a lovely setting and is well worth a visit. Access from the N-332 is easiest by taking the exit marked Campoamor golf club heading inland, but heading away from the golf course to the coastal side of the road. The busy commercial centre and medical centre of Aguamarina lie off the road just to the north of the beach, which is clearly signposted and easy to find: just head down the hill!
Parking may not be easy, and for this reason it might be one of those beaches which beach-goers are best advised to visit out of high season. The pleasant apartments lining the cove enjoy lovely views, but there are a lot of them and finding a space can become problematic. Unfortunately there are no spaces designated for the disabled, but a ramp is provided to make access easier for those who have trouble negotiating the steps leading onto the sand.
There are also disabled toilets, and among the other facilities are foot showers, a beach bar, sunbeds and sunshades for hire and a beach volleyball court. These facilities are available only in the summer.
Apart from the summer beach bar there are no restaurants on the beach front, so those seeking eating and dining establishments will have to go back up to the Calle del Mar, which runs parallel to the N-332 on the way northwards to Cabo Roig.
Keen walkers will also enjoy a visit here, as there is a raised promenade connecting it to La Glea beach at the southern end. To the north this path borders the small protected area on the cliffs, making an enjoyable change from the residential developments and beaches which characterize most of the shore.
Click for map, Aguamarina beach
Click for beach overview of beaches within the Orihuela municipality
