- Águilas was once a critical export hub for esparto grass, a resilient plant used for centuries to manufacture ropes, footwear, and baskets.
- The city's Carnival is declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest, dating back over two centuries and featuring elaborate hand-sewn costumes.
- During the 19th century, the city experienced an economic boom fueled by English-owned silver and iron mines, leaving behind significant industrial architecture.
- The town sits on a unique geological site where volcanic rocks meet sedimentary deposits, creating the protected natural landscape found in the Cuatro Calas area.
- Águilas was originally established as a Roman port known as 'Aquila,' reflecting its ancient history as a strategic coastal settlement.
About Águilas
Águilas is a historic Mediterranean port town in the Region of Murcia known for its protected coastline and deep maritime heritage. The town is dominated by the strategic Castillo San Juan de las Aguilas, which overlooks the bay and the bustling Águilas square. Visitors can explore local traditions at the Museo y Centro de Difusión del Esparto Águilas or venture to the geological landscape of Cuatro Calas. The area maintains a distinct character preserved by its mining history and proximity to pristine natural beaches like Playa de la Higueríca.
Highlights of Águilas
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Historical places
This 18th-century fortress offers panoramic views of the entire bay and houses a local museum.
Parks
This protected area features unique fossilized dunes and geological formations along the coastline.
Places of interest
Explore the historical impact of the esparto grass industry that defined the local economy.
Beaches and ponds
A secluded, scenic beach known for its fine sand and calm, clear waters.
Historical places
The central plaza serves as the social heart of the city, surrounded by traditional architecture and palm trees.
Beaches and ponds
This beach is highly regarded for its family-friendly environment and views of the Cope natural area.
Top things to do in Águilas
The 122 highest-rated places in Águilas, ranked by travellers.
1
Parks
Cuatro Calas is a protected landscape in Águilas, Murcia, comprising four distinct coves: Calarreona, Higuerica, Carolin...
2
Parks
AquaVera Parque Acuático is a seasonal water park located in the coastal town of Vera, Almería, Spain. The facility feat...
3
Historical places
The San Juan de los Terreros Fort, or Castillo de San Juan de los Terreros, is an 18th-century coastal fortification sit...
4
Beaches and ponds
Playa Nudista Vera is a renowned naturist-exclusive area situated on the coast of Almería, Spain, recognized as one of E...
5
Places of interest
The Fuente Pública de Mojácar, also known as the Fuente Mora, serves as the traditional water source for the white-washe...
6
Historical places
Castillo San Juan de las Aguilas is a 16th-century fortress built to defend the coast of Murcia against Berber pirate ra...
7
Parks
Cala Cristal is a secluded, rugged cove situated along the coastline of Cuevas del Almanzora in Almería, Spain. The beac...
8
Parks
Playa del Sombrerico is a secluded, semi-urban cove located within the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park transition zone i...
9
Beaches and ponds
Playa Percheles is a secluded Mediterranean beach located in the municipality of Mazarrón, Murcia, characterized by its...
10
Historical places
The Castillo del Marqués de los Vélez is a 16th-century fortress located in Cuevas del Almanzora, constructed to defend...
11
Historical places
Plaza de España, locally referred to as Águilas square, serves as the primary urban center and green lung of the coastal...
12
Places of interest
Rincón del Hornillo is a historic coastal area in Águilas, Murcia, primarily known for the industrial heritage site of t...
13
Historical places
Pirulico’s Tower, also known as Torre del Peñón, is a coastal watchtower located on the cliffs of the Cabo de Gata-Níjar...
14
Beaches and ponds
Playa de la Higueríca is a secluded, crescent-shaped cove located within the protected landscape of Cuatro Calas in Águi...
15
Places of interest
Cala del Peñón Cortado is a distinct geological formation characterized by a massive limestone rock that has been pierce...
16
Beaches and ponds
17
Museums
18
Parks
19
Historical places
20
Places of interest
21
Beaches and ponds
22
Museums
23
Venues
24
Beaches and ponds
25
Places of interest
26
Historical places
27
Beaches and ponds
28
Beaches and ponds
29
Temples
30
Temples
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Águilas on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Águilas
May to June or September to October offers warm Mediterranean weather perfect for coastal activities while avoiding the peak July and August crowds.
3 days, which provides enough time to balance visiting the historical town center, exploring the surrounding beaches, and taking a short nature hike.
The town center is highly walkable, while the surrounding beaches and nature spots are best accessed by car or the local seasonal bus service.
Staying near the town center provides easy access to historical sites and restaurants, while the Calabardina area is better for those prioritizing quiet beach proximity.
Mid-range; the city offers affordable local dining and accommodation options compared to larger Spanish tourist hubs.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 122 curated attractions in and around Águilas, ranked by traveller ratings.
Cuatro Calas - Águilas is the highest-rated place to visit in Águilas right now.
The largest category is historical places, with 23 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Madrid, Vigo, Barcelona.
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