Moraira’s eight-kilometre coastline stretches around a traditional fishing harbour. El Portet and Les Platgetes have different beach profiles; there are also hiking trails at Cap d’Or and reminders of the coast’s defences. When choosing a destination, you can therefore consider the coast, trails and culture together.
Coast and coves
The Cap d’Or peninsula shelters El Portet beach. It is a semi-urban beach about 300 metres long and around 10 metres wide. Conditions at El Portet are suitable for kayaking. From there, trails lead to the Torre del Cap d’Or and the flora micro-reserve of the same name. There is an access channel for small boats. Parking and kayaks are also available; services may vary seasonally. Restaurants at El Portet serve fideuà and rice dishes with fish. Restaurant availability and menus may change.
Les Platgetes consists of two small coves with clear water and alternating sandy and rocky areas. The beach has a promenade with a viewpoint, a garden and parking. Near L’Ampolla lies the Marjal del Senillar, a coastal wetland designated as a wildlife refuge. L’Ampolla itself is close to Moraira town centre. The beach coves and wetland thus offer distinct coastal destinations, each with its own features.
Hiking trails at Cap d’Or
Moraira has signposted hiking routes. The route over Cap d’Or offers views of the bay. From El Portet, trails lead to the Torre del Cap d’Or and the flora micro-reserve of the same name. The SL-CV 51 route to the watchtower is about 1.5 kilometres long; the round trip takes approximately one hour. The SL-V 51 starts near Portet de Moraira and leads directly to the watchtower. The distance and duration information applies to the SL-CV 51; no time estimate is given here for the SL-V 51.
Coastal history at the castle and watchtower
The Torre del Cap d’Or was built in the 16th century at the behest of Felipe II and was part of Moraira’s coastal surveillance system. The Castillo de Moraira was built later: in the 18th century, it was constructed to protect the coast from attacks by pirates and Barbary corsairs. The two structures therefore represent different periods in the history of coastal defence.
The Castillo de Moraira houses a permanent exhibition about the watchtowers of Felipe II’s time. A multilingual audiovisual presentation explores the sea and piracy. The visit thus connects the history of the castle with coastal surveillance, which also included the Torre del Cap d’Or.
Sailing, diving and landscape
Moraira’s Mediterranean waters are suitable for sailing and scuba diving during much of the year. The Moraira Nautical Club runs a recognised sailing and rowing school with courses for beginners and for those looking to improve their dinghy sailing. Course schedules vary by season; if you are planning lessons, check the dates before your trip. The club also has a dive centre.
Distinct geographical features also shape the landscape on land: pine trees and vineyards characterise Moraira’s Mediterranean scenery. Together with the coves, wetland, hiking trails and historic buildings, they offer a range of different ways to enjoy your stay.
For the broader travel overview: Teulada.
