Playa de Balerma

Introduction

Today we delve into the heart of the Almería coast, specifically the vibrant town of El Ejido, to discover one of its most cherished beaches: Playa de Balerma. This coastal corner, bathed by the warm waters of the Mediterranean, presents itself as an idyllic destination for those seeking a perfect combination of tranquility, quality services, and a genuinely family-friendly atmosphere. Upon arriving in Balerma, we are greeted by a feeling of calm and hospitality, a place where the pace of life slows down to allow us to savor every moment.

Playa de Balerma is not just a stretch of sand; it is a meeting point, a temporary home for summer visitors, and a treasure for its residents. With its extensive coastline and a promenade that invites long sunset walks, this beach reflects the essence of Andalusia: sun, good food, and the joy of living. We love how this beach manages to maintain a balance between being a popular spot while also offering spaces for tranquility, making it a versatile option for all types of visitors. Its dark sand, infinite horizon, and sea breeze invite us to disconnect from the very first moment.

How to Get to Playa de Balerma

Getting to Playa de Balerma is relatively straightforward, which adds to its appeal. If we come by car from anywhere on the peninsula, the A-7 motorway (Autovía del Mediterráneo) is our main ally. We should take exit 409 or 411 towards El Ejido/Balerma. Once on the local road, the signage is clear and will guide us directly to the urban center of Balerma and its beach.

Transport Options

• Private Car: This is the most comfortable and flexible option, especially if we plan to explore the surrounding area. The zone has various parking areas, both free on the streets near the promenade and some designated parking lots during high season. However, in July and August, finding parking may require a bit of patience, especially during the middle of the day.
• Bus: From the El Ejido Bus Station, there are regular lines connecting to Balerma. If we arrive in Almería city by train or plane, we first need to get to El Ejido and from there take the local bus. It's an economical and sustainable option, although it can be less direct.
• Plane: The nearest airport is Almería Airport (LEI), about 60-70 kilometers away. From there, we can rent a car, take a taxi, or combine public transport (bus to Almería city, then to El Ejido, and finally to Balerma).

The Sand and Water

One of the aspects that most catches our attention at Playa de Balerma is its characteristic sand. Don't expect to find the white, fine sand of other coasts; instead, it's sand of a dark hue, often described as mixed. It's a blend of fine sand with some small pebbles or gravel, especially near the shore. This composition gives it a particular charm and makes the water appear even more crystal clear by contrast. Despite the pebbles, walking barefoot is a pleasant experience and the feeling underfoot is very comfortable.

As for the waters, they are one of the greatest treasures of this beach in El Ejido. We encounter the Mediterranean in its most peaceful version: calm waters, shallow near the shore, that descend gently. This makes it an ideal place for safe swimming, especially for children or those who enjoy swimming without worries. The water quality is excellent, a fact endorsed year after year by the Blue Flag that flies on the beach, a mark of environmental quality and services. The water temperature is pleasantly warm during the summer months, inviting us to spend hours immersed in it. The clarity is such that, on calm days, we can see the seabed a short distance from the shore, a natural spectacle that connects us with the richness of the Mediterranean.

Services and Facilities

Playa de Balerma stands out for the complete range of services and facilities it offers, designed to ensure a comfortable and pleasant stay for all its visitors. As an urban beach, it has a very well-developed infrastructure that caters to all our needs.

Amenities for Bathers

• Showers and foot-washing stations: Spread along the entire promenade, they are essential for freshening up and removing sand after a day at the beach.
• Restrooms/WC: Available at various points, clean and well-maintained, which is fundamental for family comfort.
• Full Accessibility: The beach has wooden walkways that facilitate access to the sand for people with reduced mobility, as well as access ramps from the promenade. Furthermore, there are usually assisted bathing points during high season, with staff and amphibious chairs, making it an inclusive and accessible beach for everyone.
• Sun loungers and umbrellas: There are rental services for sun loungers and umbrellas in several sections of the beach, perfect for those who prefer not to carry their own equipment and enjoy a day of relaxation under the sun.

Leisure and Gastronomy

• Promenade: This is the true heart of the beach. An extensive promenade that borders the entire Balerma coast, ideal for walking, running, skating, or simply enjoying the sea views. It is dotted with benches for resting and landscaped areas.
• Chiringuitos: Along the promenade and on the sand itself, we find numerous 'chiringuitos' (beach bars). These establishments are perfect for enjoying a soft drink, a coffee, or, of course, the excellent local gastronomy. They offer everything from classic 'pescaíto frito' (fried fish) to paellas and fresh seafood, all with the sound of the waves in the background.