Open Water Swimming Route: Calarreona Beach ¿ Higuerica Beach (Águilas)

A transition route between a semi-urbanised environment and an unspoilt coastline, connecting Calarreona Beach with Higuerica Beach. An attractive and progressive swim that combines a protected start, open sea conditions, crystal-clear waters and some of the most beautiful natural landscapes on the Águilas coastline.

Detailed Description

The Calarreona Beach – Higuerica Beach open water swimming route offers one of the most interesting landscape transitions along the Águilas coastline, combining an accessible start within a buoyed area with a gradual approach to a completely natural and undeveloped environment.

The route begins at Calarreona Beach, officially designated as a sports beach, where swimmers benefit from a comfortable and protected entry point before progressively leaving the buoyed area and heading towards the small headland that separates the main beach from Higuerica Beach.

During the crossing, the character of the coastline gradually changes. The semi-urbanised surroundings of Calarreona give way to a much more rugged and natural shoreline, dominated by rocky formations, crystal-clear waters and an increasing sense of isolation from developed areas.

The main geographical landmark of the route is Cueva de las Palomas (Dove Cave), located on the small headland that must be rounded before reaching Higuerica Beach. This striking formation provides a strong visual identity to the route and serves as an important navigational reference throughout the swim.

The final section leads to Higuerica Beach, a small unspoilt cove considered one of the most attractive natural sites in the municipality of Águilas. Its crystal-clear waters, extensive Posidonia seagrass meadows and rich marine biodiversity make this area particularly valuable from both an environmental and scenic perspective.

This route perfectly illustrates the transition from an easily accessible coastal area to a much wilder and more natural Mediterranean shoreline. For more experienced swimmers, the route can be extended by approximately 400 additional metres to La Carolina Beach, further enhancing the open water experience.

The return journey can be comfortably completed on foot using the coastal paths that connect the various coves in the area.

Points of Interest (POIs)

• Calarreona Sports Beach
• Cueva de las Palomas (Dove Cave)
• Higuerica Beach
• Crystal-clear waters and Posidonia seagrass meadows
• Rich marine biodiversity
• Optional extension to La Carolina Beach
• Coastal trails connecting the coves

Accessibility

Road and public transport access are available to Calarreona Beach. Parking is available in the surrounding area.

Restaurants, showers and other tourist facilities are available at the starting point.

Water entry is easy and comfortable at Calarreona Beach. Higuerica Beach offers a more natural setting with fewer facilities and services.

Recommendations / Safety

Navigation is straightforward, following the coastline throughout the route. The headland and Cueva de las Palomas serve as the main reference points.

The initial section within the buoyed area allows for a gradual departure before entering the more exposed open-water section.

The best conditions for this swim are generally found on days with calm seas, good visibility and light winds.

Early morning usually provides the most stable conditions and fewer visitors in the coves.

This route includes sections outside buoyed swimming areas. Previous open water swimming experience and the ability to manage changing sea conditions are required.

The use of a high-visibility safety tow float is mandatory.

Swimming accompanied is strongly recommended, preferably with kayak support, especially for groups or organised activities.

Basic Safety Rules – Open Water Swimming Routes in the Region of Murcia

1. This route does not have a dedicated lifeguard service: you swim at your own risk.
2. Be aware of boats and watercraft, especially when swimming outside buoyed areas.
3. Check sea conditions, weather forecasts, water temperature and currents before starting.
4. Choose a route difficulty level appropriate to your swimming ability and always swim with a companion.
5. Stay hydrated, apply sunscreen and use appropriate equipment (goggles, brightly coloured swim cap, tow float and wetsuit if necessary).
6. Respect the sea and marine wildlife; do not disturb or collect any organisms.
7. Minors must always swim under the supervision of an adult.
8. In case of emergency, call 112.