Águilas

A relaxed coastal town famous for its colorful carnival and unspoiled coves along the Mediterranean. Its hilltop castle and clear waters make it a favorite for diving and quiet beach escapes.

Things to do

• Castillo de San Juan de las Águilas — Climb to this hilltop 18th-century fortress for sweeping views over the port and the Mediterranean coastline.
• Explore Cala Cocedores — A tucked-away rocky cove with crystal-clear water, ideal for a quiet swim away from the main beaches.
• Snorkel or dive at Isla del Fraile — This small offshore islet has calm, transparent waters and rich marine life popular with divers and snorkelers.
• Stroll the Paseo de Parra — Walk the palm-lined seafront promenade connecting the town's two main beaches, Poniente and Levante.
• Visit Calabardina and Cabo Cope — Take a short trip to this quiet fishing village beneath the Cabo Cope headland for dramatic cliffs and quiet coves.
• Experience Águilas Carnival — If visiting in February, catch one of Spain's most vibrant carnivals, declared of International Tourist Interest.

Food to try

• Caldero de Águilas — The town's signature dish, a rich rice cooked in fish broth and served with a garlicky alioli-style sauce called all i oli.
• Gazpacho de pescado — A hearty local fish stew thickened with flatbread, quite different from the cold Andalusian gazpacho despite the name.
• Mojama de Águilas — Cured, salted tuna sliced thin and served with olive oil, a classic tapa in the region's fishing towns.
• Paparajotes — Lemon-leaf fritters dusted with sugar and cinnamon, a sweet Murcian treat worth seeking out for dessert.
• Fresh grilled seafood on the port — Sit at one of the harborside restaurants for the day's catch, often gambas, sepia, or dorada grilled simply with sea salt.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect siesta hours — Many small shops close in the early afternoon and reopen later, so plan errands around this local rhythm.
• Book carnival accommodation early — During Carnival week the town fills up fast with visitors, so reserve rooms well in advance if traveling then.
• Dinner starts late — Locals typically eat dinner from 9pm onward, so restaurants may be quiet earlier in the evening.
• Cover up at the castle and churches — Modest dress is appreciated when visiting the Castillo de San Juan and the town's historic churches.