The small volcanic islands of the Isla de Terreros and Isla Negra Natural Monument lie directly opposite San Juan De Los Terreros. The beaches offer different experiences: Mar Rabiosa has shallow, calm waters, while Cala El Invencible – Los Lagartos has sandstone cliffs in a distinctive ochre hue. When choosing where to go, consider the swimming conditions, scenery and history.
Islands and Coastal Landscape
The natural monument consists of small volcanic islets close to the coast of Almería. Salt-tolerant vegetation, typical of Mediterranean cliffs, grows on the islands. They also provide habitat for several seabird species to settle and breed.
The seabeds around the islands are also part of the natural landscape: Posidonia oceanica forms one of the finest meadows in the province of Almería there. Thus, the focus is not only on the visible islets, but also on the underwater habitats. The islands and their vegetation give the natural monument a distinctive focus, separate from the specific swimming facilities at the beaches.
Beaches and Swimming Conditions
Mar Rabiosa is a 250-metre-long urban beach. The water is shallow and calm; sea conditions can vary. Step-free access at beach level makes it easier to get around. As accessibility facilities may change, it is best to check locally before your visit.
Cala Cerrada – Playa Cocedores is 150 metres long and forms a natural swimming pool. It is therefore shorter than Mar Rabiosa. Swimming conditions can vary seasonally. Cala Cerrada is also known as Playa de los Cocedores; its name comes from a natural esparto-grass cooking oven that operated there in the early 20th century.
At Cala El Invencible – Los Lagartos, sandstone cliffs in a distinctive ochre hue meet calm, crystal-clear, shallow water. These general water characteristics give the cove a distinctly family-friendly feel; swimming conditions can vary. Playa Calypso has good access to the sandy beach. Lifeguard services and public toilets are also available there.
The promenade at Playa Mar Serena occasionally hosts municipal summer activities. If these events matter for your travel dates, check the schedule in advance: the programme is seasonal and may change.
Coastal History and Traces of Esparto Craftsmanship
Castillo San Juan de los Terreros was built in the second half of the 18th century as part of the coastal defence system promoted by Charles III. It was completed in 1764. The castle therefore offers a historical point of interest alongside the area’s natural and beach attractions.
The interpretive exhibition in the castle covers the region’s history as well as the geology, flora and fauna of the coastal area. Visitors interested in the connections between cultural and natural history will find both themes represented here. The exhibition ranges from the region’s historical context to the coast’s natural features.
Further traces of coastal use can be found along the coast by the Isla de Terreros and Isla Negra Natural Monument: old esparto-grass cooking ovens and dwellings dug into the cliff faces, known as “Terreros,” can be seen there. Esparto craftsmanship is no longer widespread. Together with the name Playa de los Cocedores, these traces recall the former processing of esparto grass along this coast.
For the broader travel overview: Pulpí.
