Cala Granadella Javea
A postcard-perfect pebble cove in Javea, Spain, boasting crystal-clear turquoise waters and lush green surroundings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure parking & beat crowds
Cala Granadella Javea
Best Time
Secure parking & beat crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A postcard-perfect pebble cove in Javea, Spain, boasting crystal-clear turquoise waters and lush green surroundings.
"Incredibly beautiful bay with amazingly clean and cool water."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive before 10 AM or after 6 PM to secure limited parking. Otherwise, use the beach bus (€5 pp).
🥾 Essential Water Shoes
Pebble beach requires water shoes for comfort. Smooth rocks can hurt your feet!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Turquoise Waters
The main cove
Dive into incredibly clear, cool turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Scenic Kayak & Paddleboard Adventures
Along the coastline
Explore hidden coves, sea caves, and nearby islands by kayak or paddleboard.
Charming Seaside Restaurants
Beachfront
Enjoy delicious local cuisine with breathtaking sea views at beachfront eateries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Arrive Early!
Footwear is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive before 10 AM or after 6 PM to secure limited parking. Otherwise, use the beach bus (€5 pp).
🥾 Essential Water Shoes
Pebble beach requires water shoes for comfort. Smooth rocks can hurt your feet!
🛶 Kayak & Snorkel Gear
Rent kayaks or bring snorkel gear to explore the clear waters and caves. 
☀️ Sun Protection
Bring an umbrella or hat; limited sunbeds are pricey. Seek shade in coves.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive before 10 AM or after 6 PM to secure limited parking. Otherwise, use the beach bus (€5 pp).
🥾 Essential Water Shoes
Pebble beach requires water shoes for comfort. Smooth rocks can hurt your feet!
🛶 Kayak & Snorkel Gear
Rent kayaks or bring snorkel gear to explore the clear waters and caves.
☀️ Sun Protection
Bring an umbrella or hat; limited sunbeds are pricey. Seek shade in coves.
💧 Rinse Off
Showers are available, a great amenity after a day at the beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cala Granadella's breathtaking beauty, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and picturesque cove setting. It's considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain. However, the extremely limited parking and the pebble nature of the beach are common drawbacks, requiring strategic planning and appropriate footwear.
"This is an incredibly beautiful bay with amazingly clean and cool water. I am very happy that we found this place. But there was one unpleasant moment. Before going down, there is a worker who says that there is no space in the parking lot. We must turn around, drive 5 km back, and take a bus. The bus costs 5 euros per person. The parking also costs 5 euros.
We still asked her to let us go, because she let other cars pass. In the end, we found a parking space in one minute. There was more than one space. The parking actually costs 9 euros.
The beach is clean, with pebbles, and there is a café."
Oksana Sosnitska
"Absolutely amazing! Early October, not too busy but still good weather and warm! Worth a visit."
Juliana Soriano
"Although a pebbly beach, it was very beautiful and not windy. The water was warm. There were jellyfish in the water the day that we came here, but it was still possible to find nice spots for a swim. There are rocks under water so need to watch out not to kick your foot. Toilet facilities are near the beach and free.
There is a long road car park near the beach, but we parked before the access control on the road for free and trekked to get here for about 25-30 min. It was a nice hike so if anyone else is willing, it is an option, but you would have to follow the road to get down to the cove so I dont recommend doing that with children or a lot of bulky luggage. Plan ahead and take a backpack instead of a trolley or big hand bags."
Olivia Ch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most direct way is by car, but parking is extremely limited. If the main parking is full, you'll be directed to a shuttle bus service that costs €5 per person round trip. Alternatively, you can park further away and hike down, but this is not recommended with children or heavy luggage.
Yes, there is a parking area near the beach, but it fills up very quickly, often by 10 AM. The parking fee is around €9.
Yes, a shuttle bus service operates when the main parking is full. It costs €5 per person for a round trip and takes you directly to the beach.
The road down to the beach is steep. If you park further up the road, the walk can be 25-30 minutes and is not ideal for young children or those with mobility issues.
The best strategy is to arrive very early in the morning, ideally before 10 AM, or later in the afternoon after 6 PM when parking starts to free up. Visiting during the off-season also significantly reduces parking challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to access Cala Granadella itself. You only pay for parking or the shuttle bus if you use them.
Cala Granadella is a natural beach and is accessible at all times. However, access by car and parking are restricted during peak hours due to capacity.
There is no entry fee for the beach. The costs associated with visiting are for parking or the shuttle bus service.
The main restriction is parking capacity. During busy periods, access by car to the beach road is controlled, and visitors are directed to use the shuttle bus.
To avoid crowds and secure parking, aim for early mornings (before 10 AM) or late afternoons (after 6 PM). Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, and the off-season offers a more tranquil experience.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Cala Granadella is a beautiful pebble beach, not sand. The pebbles are smooth, but water shoes are highly recommended for comfort.
Yes, the water is exceptionally clear and turquoise, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Popular activities include swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. You can rent equipment or join guided tours.
Yes, there are toilet facilities near the beach, and showers are available, which is a great convenience.
Yes, sunbeds are available for rent, but they can be quite pricey and there aren't many, so arriving early is advisable.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a few restaurants located right on the beach, offering a variety of dishes with stunning sea views.
The restaurants typically serve local Mediterranean cuisine. One popular spot, La Bandideta, is noted for its 'Barbie' decor and delicious food.
Prices can be on the higher side due to the prime beachfront location, but many visitors find the experience and food quality worth it.
While not explicitly stated, bringing your own snacks and drinks is generally permissible, but be mindful of waste and keeping the beach clean.
La Bandideta is frequently mentioned for its unique decor and tasty menu, making it a popular choice for a post-swim meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire cove offers stunning views, especially the clear turquoise water against the green cliffs. Look for elevated spots for panoramic shots.
Early morning light offers soft, beautiful illumination, while late afternoon provides golden hour hues. Midday sun can be harsh but highlights the water's clarity.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be mindful of other visitors' privacy before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive cove. Waterproof phone cases or action cameras are ideal for capturing underwater shots.
The dramatic cliffs, the vibrant blue water, and the boats anchored in the bay all make for iconic shots. The view from the road leading down is also picturesque.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parking is the biggest hurdle. Arriving very early (before 10 AM) is your best bet to avoid the shuttle bus and potential disappointment.
💰 Budget Travelers
Renting kayaks or paddleboards can add up, so if you're on a tight budget, focus on swimming and snorkeling, which are free activities. couples
In the evening, enjoy a sunset dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants, like the charming La Bandideta, for a memorable dining experience with breathtaking views. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Parking and Access
Understanding the parking control system is key. A worker at the entrance will inform you if parking is full and provide information about the bus. Be prepared for this scenario and consider it part of the adventure. Alternatively, visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) or on weekdays can significantly improve your chances of finding a parking spot closer to the beach.
Remember that the parking fee itself is around €9 if you do manage to get a spot. For those who prefer to avoid the parking hassle altogether, consider arriving after 6 PM when the crowds thin out and parking spots often become available. This also offers a more relaxed atmosphere as the day-trippers depart.
The Pebble Beach Experience
Despite the pebbles, the beach is incredibly picturesque, with the stones creating a unique texture against the vibrant turquoise water. The clarity of the water is a major draw, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
If you're planning to set up an umbrella, be aware that it can be a bit more challenging to get them to stand firmly in the pebbles compared to sand. Bringing a sturdy umbrella or opting for a spot near the rocky edges might be helpful.
Adventures on the Water
+1 Several local operators offer rentals and guided tours, providing a fun and active way to experience the area. Snorkeling is another must-do activity here, thanks to the exceptionally clear waters. You can easily spot a variety of marine life just a short distance from the shore.
+1 The cove itself is beautiful, but venturing out by kayak or paddleboard reveals even more secluded spots and breathtaking natural formations. For those seeking a more immersive experience, consider a guided kayak tour that might include visits to places like Cala Caló or the Llop Marí cave. These excursions often last a couple of hours and provide a comprehensive way to see the diverse marine environment and dramatic coastal scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit