San José
The tourist capital of Cabo de Gata: beaches, services, and the best access to the natural park.
San José is the most important hub in Cabo de Gata for travelers. With a protected bay, an active marina and fishing port, and the largest offer of accommodation and restaurants in the park, it is the natural starting point to explore the entire southern coastline of the protected area.
The town has grown in an orderly manner, maintaining its characteristic white architecture, and concentrates everything necessary: supermarkets, pharmacies, car and bicycle rentals, nautical activity companies, and a good network of marked trails. The urban beach is wide and has all services during high season.
From San José, you can reach some of the park's most famous beaches in a few minutes: Genoveses, Mónsul, Los Genoveses, or El Barronal. It is also the starting point for the main hiking and kayaking routes in the southern area.
How to get to San José
- By car: From Almería via the AL-3108. About 40 km, 45 minutes. Well-signposted road from the capital.
- From Almería by bus: Regular Alsa Almería–San José line. Reduced frequency outside of high season. Check current schedules.
- Parking: Several parking lots in the town. In July and August, it is advisable to arrive before 10 am or use the entrance parking lots and walk.
In photos
