La Azohía: Coastal Scenery and Fishing Tradition

La Azohía lies in the eastern part of the Bay of Mazarrón and faces west. This location offers exceptional sunsets. The character of the town is also shaped by almadraba fishing, a striking coastal landscape, and a range of activities on foot and on the water.

Coastal Scenery and Nature

La Azohía lies next to the protected natural area of La Muela–Cabo Tiñoso–Roldán and the Cabo Tiñoso Marine Reserve. The Cabo Tiñoso–La Azohía area has steep terrain and Triassic limestone and dolomite cliffs. They rise from the seabed to heights of between 20 and 200 metres. Bottlenose dolphins can be found in these waters.

Another distinctive feature is the Neptune grass meadow near La Azohía: it is the only one on the coast of the Region of Murcia to bloom every year. Together with the cliffs and protected marine areas, it shapes the natural coastal environment. Those interested in geology or marine nature will find different aspects of the same landscape here—from underwater areas to the heights of the cliffs.

Almadraba Fishing and Fishing Tradition

Almadraba fishing is still practised in La Azohía, from March to August. The local almadraba is classified as an “almadraba de vuelta.” Visitors can watch the almadraba catch being unloaded at the quay and buy freshly caught bonito at the auction in the Chanca. The beach also retains a predominantly fishing character: local fishermen moor their boats there.

The season gives the fishing tradition a clearly defined timeframe. At the same time, it is part of the townscape at the beach and quay. A visit offers the chance to learn both about the fishing tradition and about some of the experiences associated with it.

Torre de Santa Elena and Paths by the Water

The hexagonal watchtower Torre de Santa Elena dates from the late 16th century, during the reign of Philip II. It was built to protect the fishermen of La Azohía and warn of pirates along the coast. An easy walking path leads from La Azohía to the tower; the tower itself is not open to visitors.

The Sendero de Iglesia a Iglesia runs from the port of La Azohía to the church in Isla Plana, following a seafront promenade. Another option on the water is the kayak route from La Azohía to Cala Cerrada. It takes less than three hours and offers the opportunity to swim or snorkel in a sheltered bay. Accredited diving schools and clubs also offer dives for different levels of experience.

The activities differ in format: the Sendero follows the coast between two named places, a duration is given for the kayak route, and dives are available for different levels of experience. If you are looking for a hotel in La Azohía, these local highlights can help you choose where to stay—for example, the seasonal fishing tradition, the coastal path or activities on the water.

Discover more destinations: Islas Menores, Los Urrutias, Playa Honda, Cabo De Palos, Los Belones, Pozo Estrecho, Los Nietos, Isla Plana

For the broader travel overview: Cartagena.