The Costa de Almeria gleams with golden grains, so it’s primed for a beach break. There’s a perfect stretch of sand for every situation, from the buzzing to the blissful. Wondering where’s best to lay out your towel? Check out our roundup of the region’s top sunbathing spots…

Playa Aguadulce

Unspoilt sands and a go-slow vibe are the hallmarks of Playa Aguadulce. Although it gets busy in the summer months, there’s usually plenty of space to sprawl. Take a dip in the sea, flake out in the sunshine or wander along the palm-fringed promenade. Stay until sundown and make the most of golden hour in the selection of tapas restaurants and beach bars.

Playa del Zapillo

This popular patch has everything you could need for those lazy days in the rays. It’s a great choice for families, with loungers and parasols for hire, as well as showers and toilets nearby. The beach is lapped by clear and calm waters – perfect for mini paddlers! Active types can get stuck into windsurfing and kiteboarding too.

Playa de los Genoveses

Backed by eucalyptus groves and surrounded by mountains, Playa de los Genoveses is a little bit of heaven. Located within the Cabo de Gata Natural Park, this is the ultimate pick if you like your lounging with a side of nature. There are coastal paths and mountain trails to explore, but if you just want to sit back and soak up the scenery, we won’t judge! Be sure to bring water and food with you, as there are no amenities at this beach.

Playa de la Marina de la Torre

Proudly flying the Blue Flag, Playa de la Marina de la Torre in Mojacar has your R&R covered. The water is nice and clear, so grab your snorkel and see what you can spy under the waves. Feeling peckish? There are lots of fantastic restaurants just a stone’s throw away. Look out for the catch of the day on the menu.

Playa de las Salinas

The pebbly sands seem to stretch for miles and miles at Playa de las Salinas, which means finding a peaceful patch is a doddle. It’s perched on the edge of an old fishing village, where the local dish of espetos de sardinas (wood-fired sardines) is a must-try! Watch out for windsurfers skimming across the water too.

Playa Serena

Another Blue Flag beauty, Playa Serena’s got charm by the bucket-and-spade load. At nearly two kilometres long, you can spread out to your heart’s content. Or why not hire a paddleboard and view the coastline from a unique perspective? When evening falls, head along the promenade to a chiringuito (beach bar) for some freshly caught fare and a cocktail or two.

Playa Cala de Enmedio

Another of Cabo de Gata Natural park’s golden treasures, this beach is only accessible by foot or boat. It’s around a half-an-hour hike from the village of Agua Amarga, but it’s off-the-beaten-track postcode is just the ticket for those seeking sun and solitude. Recharge to the sounds of the sea splashing against the shore or hire a kayak and cruise along the coastline.