Playa de El Salomar

Introduction

From the moment we set foot on Playa de El Salomar, in the beautiful town of Salobreña, in the province of Granada, we are immediately captivated by its unique charm. It is not the typical fine golden sand beach one might expect from other Spanish coasts, and precisely therein lies much of its appeal. Here, the mix of gravel and dark sand speaks to the proximity of the mountains and the volcanic personality of this land, offering us a different texture underfoot and a spectacular visual contrast with the deep blue of the Mediterranean.

This beach, which stretches for over a kilometer and a half, is a true oasis of tranquility and services on the Costa Tropical de Granada. It is one of those beaches where one feels welcome, where time seems to slow down, and where daily worries dissolve with the gentle murmur of the waves. With the majestic Peñón de Salobreña and the iconic Arab castle dominating the horizon, Playa de El Salomar gifts us unforgettable postcards at every moment. It is a destination we undoubtedly recommend exploring, whether you're looking for a day of sun and sea with the family or a moment of relaxation in a naturally beautiful setting.

How to Get to Playa de El Salomar

Getting to Playa de El Salomar is relatively straightforward, making it an accessible destination for all types of travelers. Salobreña, as a jewel of the Costa Tropical de Granada, is well-connected by road, which is the most common option for most visitors.

By Car

If coming from Granada city, the journey is approximately 70 kilometers and will take around 50 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. The most direct route is via the A-44 towards Motril, and then taking the exit towards Salobreña. From Málaga, the trip is a bit longer, about 100 kilometers, and is done mainly on the A-7, the Mediterranean Highway, taking exit 327 towards Salobreña. If coming from Almería, also via the A-7, the journey is similar in distance and time.

Once in Salobreña, following the signs to the coast is intuitive. Playa de El Salomar stretches along the promenade, and we will find various parking areas, both free and paid, nearby. Generally, there is enough space, although in the high season months (July and August), it is advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot. Access from the parking lot to the sand is comfortable, with ramps and walkways at various points.

By Bus

Salobreña has a bus station that connects the town with major nearby cities like Granada, Motril, and Málaga. Once at the Salobreña station, the beach is within walking distance (about 15-20 minutes) or, if preferred, we can take the local urban bus that makes several stops along the promenade, leaving us very close to the sand. It is a comfortable and economical option if we don't want to worry about parking.

Other Means of Transport

For those who enjoy sports, arriving by bicycle is an excellent option, especially if we are staying in the municipality itself or in nearby towns like Motril. The promenade is ideal for a pleasant bike ride, and we will find areas to park our bicycles safely.

The Sand and Water

When we talk about Playa de El Salomar, one of the aspects that most catches our attention and sets it apart from other beaches in the region is, without a doubt, its particular composition. Here we will not find the fine, golden sand of other coasts, but a characteristic mix of gravel and coarse sand with a dark hue. This feature gives it a rustic and natural appeal, and a different sensation underfoot that, once we get used to it, is very pleasant. The dark sand also has the peculiarity of absorbing more heat, making it a delight to walk on in the mornings or at sunset, when the sun isn't as strong.

The Type of Ground

The type of ground at Playa de El Salomar is predominantly pebble, mixed with that coarser sand. This means it might not be the ideal beach for building elaborate sandcastles, but it is perfect for finding small stones polished by the sea, which can be a nice souvenir of our visit. The presence of pebbles also contributes to the water remaining exceptionally clear, as the sand doesn't get stirred up as easily as on fine sand beaches.

The Water Quality

The waters of Playa de El Salomar are generally calm, crystal clear, and of excellent quality. It's no wonder this beach has been repeatedly awarded the prestigious Blue Flag, a distinction that certifies the quality of its waters, the cleanliness of the sand, safety, and the wide range of services. Swimming here is a true delight; the water temperature is pleasant for much of the year, especially from late spring well into autumn, thanks to the subtropical microclimate of the Costa Tropical de Granada.

The calmness of its waters makes it especially safe for swimming, even for the little ones, although always under adult supervision. The entry into the sea is usually gradual, which facilitates access and the possibility of enjoying a relaxing dip without worries. The transparency of the water allows us to see the seabed at shallow depths, inviting snorkeling to explore the marine life near the rocks of the Peñón de Salobreña.

In summary, the combination of its unique sand and pebbles with clean, calm waters makes Playa de El Salomar an idyllic place to enjoy the sun and sea in an atmosphere