Playas del Arco y el Esparto

Playas del Arco y el Esparto

Playas del Arco and El Esparto, situated in the Los Escullos area, offer a diverse landscape combining a main sandy beach with more rocky coves. Playa del Arco, the most accessible, is characterised by its length and its fossilised dune. Further along, the Calas del Embarcadero and other smaller coves towards Punta del Esparto feature interesting seabed for diving, with Posidonia meadows and rocky formations. The setting is natural and sparsely developed, ideal for those seeking tranquillity.

How to Get There

From San José, take the ALP-822 road towards Los Escullos. Once in Los Escullos, Playa del Arco is located at the entrance to the village, next to the hotel and campsite. For the El Esparto coves, follow the track parallel to the coast from Playa del Arco.

Parking and Facilities

Playa del Arco has parking, although it may have restrictions in summer and fill up quickly. There are no services on the beach (beach bars, showers, etc.). The El Esparto coves do not have specific parking or services.

Beach Characteristics

Playa del Arco: 350 metres long by 40 metres wide. Fine golden sand. Gradual entry into the water. Generally calm swell.

Calas del Embarcadero: Combination of rocky seabeds and Posidonia meadows.

Cala de la Piedra Galera: Scarcity of sand, predominance of gravel and a very rocky seabed.

Other coves (Cala Cortada, Cala las Hermanicas, Cala Tomate): Steep descent from the road, complicated and long access routes.

Recommended season: Low attendance outside July and August.

What to Do

• At Playa del Arco: Swimming, walking along the shore, sunbathing.
• At Calas del Embarcadero: Snorkelling and diving (good visibility and marine life).
• At Cala de la Piedra Galera: Coastal observation, fishing (with a licence).
• Exploration of more remote coves: Hiking and enjoying wild landscapes (requires good physical fitness).

Practical Tips

• 💡 Bring your own food and water as there are no facilities. If visiting the more remote coves, wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for challenging access. Avoid July and August if you prefer fewer crowds.

Location

More to see in Los Escullos