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This Murcia seaside town has been named Europe's best place for a boat trip
Águilas has topped a new ranking thanks to its calm Mediterranean setting, beaches and easy access to the water
A little-known coastal town in the Region of Murcia has been named the best destination in Europe for a boat trip, putting Águilas firmly in the spotlight. The town, on the Costa Cálida, has come out top in a new report by CV Villas, which looked at factors including wind speed, water temperature, sunshine hours and the availability of boats.It is another reminder of just how much appeal Spain’s seaside towns have, especially for visitors looking for a relaxed holiday by the sea. Águilas, in the south-west of the Region of Murcia, has nearly 38,000 residents and sits close to the border with Andalusia. Its fishing port, easy access to the Mediterranean and striking coastline all helped it stand out.
The town is not short of scenic beaches either. Poniente Beach, protected by rocks on both sides, is one of the most eye-catching, while Las Delicias Beach offers views of the Castle of San Juan de las Águilas and the nearby Pico de la Aguilica. Other beaches such as Playa Amarilla and Playa del Hornillo add to the appeal of a coastline that has helped the town secure its latest recognition.
For visitors who want more than a boat trip, Águilas has plenty else to offer. Its old town is well worth exploring, and there is also local food to enjoy, along with small shops and the chance to climb up to the 16th-century San Juan fort, which sits on a promontory overlooking the area.
The town’s appeal is not just about scenery. Águilas has a long history, with traces of past civilisations stretching back to Paleolithic times. The area was also shaped by the Argaric, Phoenician, Roman and Muslim periods, and the Roman remains, including the baths dating from the 1st to the 4th centuries, are among the most notable.
As a modern town, Águilas developed under Charles III and his ministers Aranda and Floridablanca, who wanted a port to help export fruit and vegetables from the Lorca plain. It later grew into an important commercial centre, especially during the 19th century, when mining and railway links brought further growth.
Today, Águilas still keeps its strong maritime character, while continuing to build its reputation as a holiday destination.
You might also be interested in: Águilas backs maritime tourism with massive overhaul of its sailing club
Image: turismo de murcia
Address
Tourist Information Office, Plaza de Antonio Cortijos, s/n. 30880-AguilasTel: 968 493 285
Oficina de Turismo de Águilas
Águilas boasts 28 kilometres of coastline, with many fine, sandy beaches, sheltered coves and unspoilt natural beaches. It is a great summer favourite with Spanish holidaymakers, so always has a superb programme of concerts and activities throughout the summer, as well as the biggest carnival in the Region of Murcia, 40 days before Semana Santa (Easter.)
Throughout the year it also has a number of museums and historical attractions, a castle with fabulous views overlooking the bay and several other points of interest, all of which make it an good place to visit for days out. Throughout the year the tourist office runs monthly guided tours and the route of the railways, which explores the railway history of the town.
The tourist information office is located in the Plaza de Antonio Cortijos, just a short walk from the sea front and Plaza de España, a cool, shaded space in which to enjoy a coffee.
More information about Águilas including beaches, what to see, what's on and tourist information can be found on ÁGUILAS TODAY
Tourist Information Office opening times (as of 16th September 2025)
- Monday to Saturday: 10.00 to 14.00 and 17.00 to 19.00
- Sundays & bank holidays: 10.00 to 14.00
Águilas tourist information office contact details:
- Telephone: +34 968 493285 / +34 968 493173
- WhatsApp: +34 660 474477
- Email: turismo@aguilas.es
