Playa de Cerrillos

Introduction

If there's a spot on the coast of Almería that has stolen our hearts with its authentic essence and untamed beauty, it is undoubtedly Playa de Cerrillos. Located in the municipality of Roquetas de Mar, but away from the bustle of its more urbanized areas, this beach is part of the impressive Punta Entinas-Sabinar Natural Area. This is not just any beach; it's a natural sanctuary where time seems to stand still and connection with the surroundings becomes inevitable. Here, the sound of the waves and the song of birds are the only soundtrack, inviting us to an experience of relaxation and contemplation that few beaches can offer.

For us, visiting Playa de Cerrillos is embarking on a small adventure into the wild and authentic. It's the perfect place for those who, like us, seek to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in a landscape where human intervention has barely left a mark. Its extensive dunes, native vegetation, and sense of vastness remind us of the importance of preserving these valuable ecosystems. It's a destination we highly recommend to all nature lovers and those who yearn to find peace on the shores of the Mediterranean.

How to Get to Playa de Cerrillos

Getting to Playa de Cerrillos is part of its charm, as it takes us into the heart of the Punta Entinas-Sabinar Natural Area. From Roquetas de Mar, the most common way is to head west, towards El Ejido, and follow the signs to the natural area. We usually take the road that runs along the coast, which at one point becomes a dirt track. It's important to note that this access is not fully paved and may have some irregularities, so we recommend driving with caution, especially in a low-clearance car. However, this small 'detour' already prepares us for immersion in a more pristine environment.

Once inside the area, we'll find various spots to park the car naturally, without specific signage, but always respecting the environment and without invading protected vegetation zones. Don't expect an organized parking lot with barriers and painted spaces; here, everything is more organic. From these parking points, access to the sand is direct, via small paths that cross the dunes. It's a short walk, but one that already gifts us the first spectacular views of the sea and coast. It's essential to remember that we are in a protected space, so we must be very respectful of the local flora and fauna, not leaving trash and following established paths.

Access and Signage

Signage for Playa de Cerrillos within the natural area can be scarce, which contributes to its feeling of isolation. We always recommend using GPS to navigate to the entrance of the area and, once there, follow the main paths leading to the coast. It's a place where it's hard to get lost if we follow the direction of the sea, but it's easy to find more secluded spots if we dare to explore a bit beyond the most obvious access points. The beauty of the arrival lies precisely in that feeling of discovery, of finding a hidden treasure after a few kilometers of rural road.

The Sand and Water

When we talk about Playa de Cerrillos, we also highlight the uniqueness of its sand and the purity of its waters. The sand here is not the typical fine, golden sand many are used to on other Mediterranean beaches. In Cerrillos, we find a particular mix: darker sand, with grayish tones, interwoven with small pebbles and gravel. This composition gives it a rustic and natural character, very much in tune with the wild surroundings. We personally find this texture very pleasant, different, and it invites us to walk barefoot, feeling each step on the earth.

The waters of Playa de Cerrillos are, without exaggeration, a marvel. They are incredibly clean and transparent, with hues ranging from light turquoise in shallower areas to an intense blue offshore. The water quality is excellent, making it an ideal place for swimming and enjoying marine life. Being an open beach not sheltered by coves, the waves are usually moderate, although on windy days there can be more movement. However, in general, its waters are calm and safe, perfect for a refreshing dip or for spending hours floating and relaxing. The clarity of the water also allows us to observe the seabed, making it attractive for activities like snorkeling, which we'll discuss later.

The Marine Ecosystem

The transparency of the waters at Playa de Cerrillos is no coincidence; it reflects a well-preserved marine ecosystem. We have had the opportunity to observe small fish, crabs, and other marine species that inhabit its rocky and sandy bottoms. The presence of Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows nearby, although not always visible from the shore, contributes to the area's biological richness and water purity. It's a true pleasure to swim in such a lively and healthy environment, feeling that we are part of something larger and natural. We recommend bringing diving goggles to better appreciate this small underwater world.

Services and Facilities

As a beach nestled in a protected natural area, Playa de Cerrillos is characterized by offering very limited services and facilities, and that is precisely where much of its charm and authenticity lies. Don't expect to find the infrastructure of an urban beach here, with showers, foot-washing stations, wooden walkways, or lifeguard posts with flags. We visit it precisely for its charact