CAPE OF PALOS

• Latitude: 37.6322
• Longitude: -0.701604
• West Mediterranean
• Marina in Spain

Location: Cartagena Murcia Spain

Cabo de Palos is located in the Murcia region of southeastern Spain and is renowned not just as a seaside village but also for its maritime significance and lighthouse. However, it's important to note that Cabo de Palos doesn't have a commercial port of the size and specifications you might find in larger industrial or cargo-focused ports. Instead, it primarily functions as a fishing village and holds significant attractions for scuba divers due to its rich underwater landscapes.

Cape of Palos Overview

Geographic Location:

• Coordinates: 37.6378° N, 0.7034° W
• Region: Murcia, Spain

Main Features:

• Lighthouse: The Cabo de Palos Lighthouse, dating back to the 19th century, is a key landmark for maritime navigation.
• Marine Reserve: The nearby Islas Hormigas Marine Reserve, known for its excellent diving conditions and underwater biodiversity.
• Fishing Village: Primarily a fishing community with a small number of boats and piers designed to accommodate fishing vessels and local boats.

Port Specifications & Facilities:

Given its nature, Cabo de Palos does not have extensive commercial or cargo-handling facilities. Here are the main features related to the port area:

1. Mooring Facilities:

   • Type: Small-scale jetties and docks.
   • Capacity: Limited to small fishing boats and pleasure craft.

2. Depth:

   • The depths around the docking areas are generally shallow, suitable for small vessels.

3. Navigation Aids:

   • Lighthouse: Provides critical navigation aid for vessels in the Mediterranean Sea.

4. Services:

   • Fueling Stations: Minimal, primarily serving small local boats.
   • Repair Facilities: Limited and mainly for minor repairs of fishing and small pleasure boats.
   • Bait & Tackle Shops: Available for local and visiting fishermen.
   • Restaurants and Shops: Several seafood restaurants and shops catering to tourists and locals.

5. Recreational Activities:

   • Diving and Snorkelling: The marine reserve offers excellent opportunities for diving. Various diving centers operate in the area, providing equipment rental and guided tours.
   • Tourism: The area is also popular for its beautiful coastal views, beaches, and seafood cuisine.

6. Security and Safety:

   • Lighthouse Operations: Managed to ensure safe navigation.
   • Coast Guard: Limited presence, primarily focused on search and rescue and maritime safety.

Accessibility:

• Road Access: Accessible via local roads from nearby La Manga del Mar Menor or Cartagena.
• Public Transport: Limited, mainly serviced by buses from larger neighboring towns.

Conclusion

While Cabo de Palos is not a significant commercial port, its maritime charm, historical lighthouse, and exceptional diving conditions make it a notable location on the southeastern coast of Spain. Its primary function serves tourism, local fishing, and recreational activities rather than large-scale shipping or industrial operations.