Introduction
Almería is more than just sun, sand, and sea—it’s also a rising star on Spain’s gastronomic map. With its pristine Mediterranean coastline and year-round good weather, the city and its surroundings are the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood, tapas, and local wines with a view of the waves.
Whether you’re craving a casual lunch with your feet in the sand, a romantic sunset dinner by the sea, or a full-on seafood feast after a day at the beach, this guide will show you the best beachfront restaurants in Almería. From family-run chiringuitos to stylish coastal bistros, each spot offers something unique—flavor, atmosphere, and unforgettable views.
Let’s explore where to eat by the sea in one of Andalusia’s most underrated culinary destinations.
Why Almería is a Top Destination for Seaside Dining
Fresh Mediterranean Cuisine
Almería’s coastal location makes it a paradise for seafood lovers. Expect grilled sardines, red prawns, octopus, fried fish, and rich rice dishes like arroz caldoso or paella, all sourced locally. The city’s agricultural heartland also provides fresh vegetables, olive oil, and wine, making the region’s cuisine not only delicious, but distinctly Mediterranean.
Many beachfront restaurants take pride in daily catches and traditional preparation, which means you’ll taste freshness in every bite.
Dining with a View: The Coastal Experience
There’s something special about dining just steps from the sea. Whether you’re sipping a glass of white wine on a shaded terrace or enjoying tapas while the sun sets over the water, the scenery enhances every meal.
Most restaurants on this list offer open-air seating, sea breezes, and direct beach access, turning an ordinary lunch or dinner into an experience to remember.
From Tapas to Fine Dining
Beachfront dining in Almería isn’t limited to one style or price point. You’ll find everything from:
- 🍤 Casual chiringuitos serving fried fish and cold beer
- 🐟 Mid-range seafood restaurants with varied menus
- 🍷 Elegant dining spots with tasting menus and wine pairings
- 🥗 Vegan and vegetarian options in beachside cafés
Whatever your taste or budget, there’s a table waiting for you—with a view.
1. La Hormiguita (Playa del Zapillo)
What to Try
La Hormiguita is a charming, casual spot located right on Playa del Zapillo, just minutes from the city center. Known for its authentic tapas and homemade seafood dishes, it’s a favorite among locals who come for the relaxed atmosphere and affordable prices.
Must-try dishes include:
- 🐚 Mejillones al vapor (steamed mussels)
- 🦐 Gambas a la plancha (grilled prawns)
- 🐟 Fritura mixta (mixed fried fish platter)
- 🍅 Salmorejo (a chilled tomato and bread soup, ideal in summer)
- 🍮 Homemade flan or tarta de queso for dessert
They also offer a decent selection of local wines and cold draft beer, making it a great choice for a laid-back beach lunch.
Atmosphere & Price Range
The vibe is casual and family-friendly, with simple wooden tables under a shaded terrace just steps from the sand. It’s perfect for a come-as-you-are meal—bathing suits and flip-flops welcome.
💶 Price range:
- Tapas: €2–4
- Full dishes: €10–15
- Drinks: €2–3
- Lunch for two: €30–35
It’s one of the best value-for-money spots on the beachfront.
Location & Contact Info
📍 Address: Paseo Marítimo de Almería, Playa del Zapillo
📞 Phone: +34 950 62 73 10
🕒 Opening Hours: 12:30–23:00 (Closed Tuesdays)
📌 Tip: Get there before 2:00 PM in summer to avoid long waits—locals love it.
2. Restaurante Salmantice (Playa de San Miguel)
What to Try
Located just off the quieter Playa de San Miguel, Restaurante Salmantice offers a refined yet approachable take on modern Mediterranean cuisine. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something a little more elevated while still enjoying proximity to the sea.
Highlights on the menu include:
- 🦐 Arroz meloso de marisco (creamy seafood rice)
- 🐟 Tataki de atún rojo (red tuna tataki with soy and sesame)
- 🧀 Croquetas caseras (homemade croquettes, often with jamón or cheese)
- 🥩 Grilled Iberian pork with local vegetables
- 🍷 An excellent wine list, with Andalusian and Spanish labels
Ideal for long, relaxing lunches or romantic dinners, especially if you want to enjoy creative flavors by the sea.
Atmosphere & Price Range
Salmantice is a modern, elegant restaurant with a stylish indoor dining area and a shaded outdoor terrace that offers partial sea views. The service is attentive and professional, making it a great place for special occasions or slower meals.
💶 Price range:
- Starters: €6–12
- Mains: €16–25
- Wine by the glass: €3–5
- Full meal for two: €50–70
The quality of the ingredients and plating make this a great value for upscale dining.
Location & Contact Info
📍 Address: Calle Bilbao, 15, Playa de San Miguel, Almería
📞 Phone: +34 950 62 00 05
🌐 Website: restaurantesalmantice.com
🕒 Opening Hours: 13:30–16:00 and 20:00–23:00 (Closed Sundays night & Mondays)
📌 Tip: Make a reservation, especially on weekends—it’s popular with locals in the know.
3. La Ola (Aguadulce Beach)
What to Try
Right on the sand of Aguadulce Beach, La Ola is a breezy, stylish chiringuito that delivers both flavor and atmosphere. It’s known for its fusion of traditional Andalusian seafood with modern presentation, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Top recommendations:
- 🐚 Almejas a la marinera (clams in white wine and garlic)
- 🐠 Lomo de lubina a la espalda (grilled sea bass)
- 🥗 Ensalada tropical con mango y langostinos
- 🍰 Coulant de chocolate for dessert
- 🍹 Refreshing mojitos and cocktails served cold
If you’re looking for a place to eat well with your feet in the sand, this is it.
Atmosphere & Price Range
La Ola has a boho-chic coastal vibe, with white wood furniture, nautical touches, and ambient chill-out music. It’s ideal for sunset dinners, late lunches, or casual evenings with drinks. You can literally dine with the sound of waves in the background.
💶 Price range:
- Tapas & starters: €4–8
- Mains: €12–20
- Cocktails: €6–9
- Average spend for two: €40–60
The atmosphere is relaxed yet stylish, perfect for couples, small groups, or solo diners with a book.
Location & Contact Info
📍 Address: Paseo Marítimo de Aguadulce, s/n
📞 Phone: +34 950 34 78 12
🕒 Opening Hours: 13:00–00:00 (daily)
📌 Tip: Stay for sunset—it’s one of the best in the area, and tables fill up fast after 8:30 PM.
4. El Sotillo (San José)
What to Try
Located just outside the popular beach town of San José, El Sotillo blends rustic charm with high-quality local cuisine. It’s not directly on the sand but sits at the edge of the Cabo de Gata Natural Park, offering open views of the mountains and coastline—a perfect pairing with their flavorful dishes.
Must-try dishes include:
- 🐙 Pulpo a la brasa con parmentier (grilled octopus with potato purée)
- 🦑 Calamares rellenos (stuffed squid)
- 🥩 Secreto ibérico (juicy cut of Iberian pork)
- 🍚 Arroz negro con sepia (black rice with cuttlefish)
- 🍷 Pair your meal with a local organic wine from Almería
El Sotillo is seasonal and locally sourced, with specials that change depending on the day’s catch.
Atmosphere & Price Range
This is a quiet, countryside-style restaurant with a shaded garden terrace that feels both cozy and elevated. It’s ideal for diners who want to escape the beach crowds for a meal in a peaceful setting.
💶 Price range:
- Starters: €7–12
- Mains: €14–22
- House wine: €3/glass
- Full meal for two: €50–60
If you’re staying in San José, it’s well worth the short walk or drive out of town.
Location & Contact Info
📍 Address: Camino del Sotillo, s/n, San José
📞 Phone: +34 950 38 00 69
🌐 Website: hotelsotillo.com
🕒 Opening Hours: 13:30–15:30 and 20:00–22:30 (Closed Mondays)
📌 Tip: Great for lunch after a morning at Genoveses or Mónsul. Free parking and kid-friendly menu available.
5. Chiringuito La Gitana (Las Negras)
What to Try
Nestled on the edge of the beach in the charming village of Las Negras, Chiringuito La Gitana is beloved for its fresh seafood, laid-back vibe, and unbeatable views. It’s the perfect stop after a swim or a walk along the coast.
Top dishes to try:
- 🐟 Dorada a la sal (salt-baked sea bream)
- 🥘 Arroz con bogavante (rice with lobster, made to order)
- 🥒 Gazpacho andaluz for a refreshing start
- 🧁 Tarta de limón casera (homemade lemon pie)
- 🍺 Cold beer or a glass of local white wine to pair with the view
Portions are generous, and the seafood is caught locally—sometimes the same day.
Atmosphere & Price Range
La Gitana is the definition of barefoot dining. Tables are set up right on the sand, with umbrellas, sea breeze, and a soundtrack of crashing waves and mellow music. It’s relaxed, friendly, and ideal for long lunches or sunset tapas.
💶 Price range:
- Starters: €6–10
- Mains: €14–25
- Drinks: €2.50–4
- Lunch for two: €45–60
Perfect for couples, groups of friends, or anyone who values scenery as much as flavor.
Location & Contact Info
📍 Address: Playa de Las Negras, s/n, Las Negras
📞 Phone: +34 950 52 30 97
🕒 Opening Hours: 12:30–23:00 (Open daily in high season)
📌 Tip: Arrive early for a front-row table with sea views—especially at sunset.
6. El Brindi Negro (Cabo de Gata)
What to Try
Tucked away in the coastal village of Cabo de Gata, El Brindi Negro is a small, rustic restaurant with a passion for slow food, seasonal ingredients, and fusion touches. It’s just a short walk from the beach and feels more like a secret culinary hideout than a tourist stop.
Recommended dishes:
- 🧄 Tartar de atún rojo con aguacate (tuna tartare with avocado)
- 🐟 Lubina con salsa cítrica y verduras asadas
- 🍄 Risotto de setas con trufa (mushroom risotto with truffle oil)
- 🍫 Mousse de chocolate con sal marina y aceite de oliva
- 🍷 Organic and biodynamic wines from the region
El Brindi Negro excels at mixing local flavor with international flair—ideal for adventurous eaters.
Atmosphere & Price Range
This restaurant is small and beautifully curated, with just a few indoor tables and a cozy outdoor terrace. The décor is artistic and eclectic, reflecting the personality of its owners. The service is warm and personal—every dish is explained and presented with care.
💶 Price range:
- Starters: €8–12
- Mains: €18–25
- Wine: €3–5 per glass
- Dinner for two: €60–80
It’s perfect for a romantic evening or a quiet, thoughtful meal after a day exploring the Cabo de Gata beaches.
Location & Contact Info
📍 Address: Calle de la Iglesia, 3, Cabo de Gata
📞 Phone: +34 950 16 47 93
🌐 Website: elbrindinegro.com
🕒 Opening Hours: 20:00–23:30 (Dinner only, closed Mondays)
📌 Tip: Book in advance—there are limited tables and it fills up quickly in summer.
7. Restaurante Casa Puga (Almería Centro – Near the Port)
What to Try
While not directly on the sand, Casa Puga is a historic gem located just a short stroll from the port and beach promenade. Open since 1870, this is one of Almería’s most iconic tapas bars—perfect for a taste of tradition before or after your seaside stroll.
Essential dishes to try:
- 🧄 Gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp in sizzling olive oil)
- 🐷 Jamón ibérico de bellota served with local bread and olive oil
- 🍳 Huevos rotos con jamón (fried eggs over fries with cured ham)
- 🧀 Queso curado (aged Manchego-style cheese)
- 🍷 House vermouth or a cold caña (small beer)
This is the place to experience classic Andalusian tapas done right.
Atmosphere & Price Range
Casa Puga combines old-world charm with lively energy. Expect hanging jamones, traditional tiled walls, and friendly, fast-paced service. It gets busy, especially in the evenings, so grab a spot at the bar if you can.
💶 Price range:
- Tapas: €2–3.50
- Raciones (larger plates): €7–12
- Drinks: €1.50–3
- Average spend for two: €25–35
It’s a must-visit for authentic local flavor just steps from the sea.
Location & Contact Info
📍 Address: Calle Jovellanos, 7, Almería Centro
📞 Phone: +34 950 23 42 43
🕒 Opening Hours: 13:00–16:30 and 20:00–23:00 (Closed Sundays night)
📌 Tip: Combine your visit with a walk along the Paseo Marítimo or a stop at the nearby port and cathedral.
Tips for Enjoying Beachfront Dining in Almería
Make Reservations in High Season
During the summer months—especially July and August—beachfront restaurants fill up quickly, particularly for dinner. If you’re visiting popular spots like San José, Las Negras, or Aguadulce, it’s wise to book a table in advance, ideally the day before or in the morning.
For lunch, arriving early (before 2:00 PM) often guarantees better seating with a sea view.
Best Times to Go (Lunch vs. Sunset)
- Lunch: Ideal between 1:30 and 3:30 PM, when most kitchens are at full capacity and the sea breeze keeps things cool. Great for post-swim meals.
- Dinner/Sunset: 8:00 to 10:30 PM is the prime time for sunset dining. Views over the Mediterranean, golden light, and cooler air create the perfect setting for a relaxed meal.
- Tip: Choose sunset if you’re looking for a more romantic or scenic experience.
Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Spots
While many beachfront restaurants focus on seafood, several are increasingly offering plant-based options, especially in areas like Las Negras, San José, and Cabo de Gata. Look for:
- 🥗 Seasonal veggie tapas
- 🥑 Salads with tropical fruit and nuts
- 🫒 Olive oil-based dishes instead of butter-heavy cuisine
- 🌱 Restaurants labeled as eco-friendly or slow food
Don’t hesitate to ask the waiter for vegetarian versions—they’re often happy to adapt dishes.
Conclusion
Almería’s beachfront restaurants offer so much more than a place to eat—they’re a window into Mediterranean life at its best. Whether you’re sipping wine with your toes in the sand or enjoying grilled fish with a sunset view, every meal becomes part of the landscape.
From rustic chiringuitos like La Gitana in Las Negras, to stylish spots like La Ola in Aguadulce, and timeless local icons like Casa Puga, each restaurant on this list brings you closer to the flavors, rhythm, and beauty of coastal Andalusia.
So next time you’re exploring Almería, make time to dine by the sea. Because in this corner of Spain, the best memories often come with a plate of tapas, a sea breeze, and a view that stays with you long after dessert.
Buen provecho—and don’t forget to book that sunset table!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best beachfront restaurant for seafood in Almería?
La Hormiguita and Chiringuito La Gitana are top picks for fresh, local seafood right on the sand.
Are there vegetarian options in beach restaurants?
Yes, especially in Cabo de Gata and Las Negras—many spots offer salads, grilled vegetables, and can adapt tapas.
Do beachfront restaurants in Almería require reservations?
In high season, yes. It’s best to reserve ahead, especially for dinner or weekends.
Can I find budget-friendly beachfront places to eat?
Absolutely—places like La Hormiguita and Casa Puga offer excellent food at very reasonable prices.