Los Escullos is one of those corners of Cabo de Gata Natural Park that still preserves the essence of what this coastline was like before mass tourism. A small fishing settlement flanked by San Felipe Castle, surrounded by volcanic cliffs and near-pristine coves. The best way to discover it — and almost the only way to reach its most spectacular spots — is by kayak at Los Escullos. Here is your complete guide.
What is Los Escullos and why is it special for kayaking?
Los Escullos is a small settlement in the Níjar municipality, in the heart of Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park. Its name refers to the underwater rocks and reefs — escollos in Spanish — that characterise this stretch of volcanic coastline. The village has just a few hundred summer residents and almost none in winter: this is Cabo de Gata at its most authentic.
What makes Los Escullos an exceptional destination for kayaking in Cabo de Gata is the combination of elements rarely found together anywhere else on the Spanish Mediterranean coast: the history of San Felipe Castle, unique volcanic geology, the marine biodiversity of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and a complete absence of aggressive tourist development.
San Felipe Castle: history seen from the water
Built in the 18th century under the orders of King Charles III, San Felipe Castle was part of the extensive network of towers and fortifications protecting the Almería coast from Barbary pirate raids out of North Africa. From land, the castle is impressive. But from the kayak, with the black volcanic cliffs as backdrop and turquoise water in the foreground, the perspective is entirely different — and far more powerful.
When you push off from Los Escullos beach and turn back towards the coast, the castle's silhouette stands against the horizon with an elegance few buildings achieve from the sea. It is one of those moments that justifies the effort of picking up a paddle.
The best coves accessible by kayak from Los Escullos
The real attraction of the kayak at Los Escullos, Almería route is the series of coves that open along the volcanic coastline — many with no land access whatsoever, or with extremely difficult approaches across volcanic rock. From the kayak, you arrive directly.
Playa del Arco
A few minutes from the launch point, this small beach of black and white pebbles nestles between two fantastical volcanic formations. The water reaches intense turquoise tones over the dark stone floor — a chromatic combination that characterises this entire coastline and is particularly spectacular at midday when the sun illuminates the seabed from above.
Cala del Embarcadero
This small cove, with the remains of an old fishermen's jetty, is ideal for a snorkelling stop. The volcanic rock seabeds colonised by Neptune grass (posidonia) harbour abundant marine life: bream, silver sargo and camouflaged octopuses are regular finds.
Cala de los Toros
With no land access, this cove exists only for those who arrive from the sea. The rock formation enclosing it — great blocks of solidified lava — makes it particularly photogenic. It is a regular destination on our Los Escullos kayak tour, Cabo de Gata.
Marine wildlife you will see at Los Escullos
The marine zone around Los Escullos forms part of the reserve areas of Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, guaranteeing exceptional marine biodiversity. Through the clear water and during snorkel stops, look out for:
- Bream and sargo: the most abundant fish in the area, clearly visible through the water even without diving.
- Moray eels: they poke their heads out from crevices in the volcanic rock. Harmless if left undisturbed.
- Octopuses: masters of camouflage, hiding in rock hollows. With patience, you can spot them by the pile of empty shells they leave at their den entrance.
- Starfish: abundant in Neptune grass meadows, both red and orange species.
- Bottlenose dolphins: frequent around the cape tip, especially in summer months.
Practical tips for kayaking at Los Escullos
- Best time of year: May to October for warm water (21–26°C), though spring and autumn are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying the park in peace.
- Wind: the predominant wind is the Levante (easterly). On strong Levante days, Los Escullos bay can be choppy. Always check the forecast before heading out.
- Biodegradable sunscreen: mandatory in the Natural Park. Conventional sunscreens damage the marine ecosystems we come to admire.
- Water and food: Los Escullos has very few services. Bring enough water (at least 1.5 litres in summer) and something to eat if you plan to spend the day.
- Parking: can be difficult in high season. Arriving before 9:30 am is strongly recommended.
How to get to Los Escullos from Almería
Los Escullos is approximately 60 km from Almería city. The drive takes roughly 65–70 minutes: take the N-344 towards Níjar, then follow local roads to Los Escullos. There is no direct public transport; a private vehicle is effectively essential.
In high season, arriving early — before 9 am — is strongly recommended to find parking near the beach. After 11 am it becomes considerably more difficult.
Why kayak with a guide at Los Escullos?
Exploring the Los Escullos coastline with a local guide makes all the difference. Our guides have spent years paddling this coast and know every cave, every cove and every current. They know where the best snorkelling spots are, how to read the wind and how to adapt to sea conditions at any given moment. Most importantly, they know how to make the experience safe and memorable for everyone — whatever their level.
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