Playa Cala Carbón

Playa Cala Carbón

Cala Carbón is an isolated cove, approximately 100 metres long, located almost 6 kilometres from San José. Unlike most beaches, its surface is made up of stone pebbles rather than sand. This composition makes it less suitable for sunbathing but excellent for water activities. Its unspoilt environment and clear waters appeal to those seeking tranquillity and direct contact with the rocky landscape of the Natural Park.

How to Get There

From San José, take the dirt track (ALP-822) that leads to Genoveses and Mónsul beaches. Drive approximately 5.5 kilometres along this track. At the end of the road, you will find a barrier blocking vehicle access. From this point, you must descend on foot along a goat path of about half a kilometre to reach Cala Carbón.

Parking and Facilities

There is a car park at the end of the dirt track, before the barrier. The cove has no tourist services of any kind; there are no beach bars, toilets, or showers.

Beach Characteristics

• Length: Approximately 100 metres.
• Surface: Stone pebbles.
• Swell: Generally calm, as it is sheltered.
• Water: Transparent, with rocky seabeds.
• Crowd levels: Low, due to its pedestrian access and lack of sand for sunbathing.

What to Do

• Snorkelling and diving: The rocky seabeds and clear water are ideal for these activities.
• Kayaking: It is a frequent stop for kayak routes along the coast from Vela Blanca to Cala Rajá.
• Hiking: The Sendero del Vela Blanca (Vela Blanca Trail) starts from the car park, ascending along the coast. You can also continue along a path from Cala Carbón to Cala Chicré and Cala de la Media Luna, where there are areas for swimming among the rocks.

Practical Tips

• 💡 Wear appropriate footwear: Both for the access path and for moving around the cove, as it is made of stone pebbles.
• 💡 Bring your own provisions: As it is an isolated beach, there are no facilities.

Location