Cala Morelló/Cove del Morelló Calpe

Cala Morelló, also known as Cove del Morelló, is a small urban cove situated on the Paseo Marítimo Infanta Elena between Arenal-Bol and Cantal Roig.

Although only approximately 60 metres long, the cove has one of the most distinctive settings on Calpe’s coastline. It lies beside the Roman remains of the Baños de la Reina and takes its name from the nearby 19th-century Torre del Morelló.

The combination of fine sand, rocky areas, calm water and visible archaeological remains makes this more than an ordinary place to swim.

Images by @reineaudu44 and @the_big_gay_foodie

A beach surrounded by Calpe’s history

Cala Morelló stands beside one of Calpe’s most significant archaeological areas.

The Baños de la Reina, or Queen’s Baths, contains structures dating from the Roman period. Despite the popular name, the rock-cut pools were connected with ancient fish farming and other coastal activity rather than being a private royal bathing complex.

Visitors can see pools and channels cut into the coastal rock. These remains should be viewed carefully and respectfully: do not climb onto protected structures, move stones or leave rubbish around the archaeological area.

The cove also takes its name from the nearby Torre del Morelló, a 19th-century coastal tower that adds another layer to the area’s history. Calpe’s official tourism information specifically highlights both the tower and the Baños de la Reina as defining features of the cove. 

What is the beach like?

Cala Morelló has fine sand, although rocks form an important part of the shoreline and surrounding bathing area.

It is considerably smaller than Arenal-Bol Beach, so the available space can fill quickly during summer. The compact size makes it more suitable for a shorter swim or combined historical visit than an entire resort-style beach day.

The council describes the water as generally calm. Conditions can still change, and visitors should always follow the sea-condition flags and instructions from safety personnel.

Swimming and snorkelling

The mixture of sand, clear water and rocky areas can make Cala Morelló attractive for swimming and snorkelling.

Water shoes may be useful when exploring close to the rocks, although visitors should avoid standing on or damaging marine life. Take additional care around submerged rocks because surfaces can be uneven or slippery.

Never enter the water when a red flag is displayed. Snorkellers should remain aware of other swimmers and stay within the designated bathing area.

Facilities at Cala Morelló

Calpe Town Council lists the following services:

• Ecological toilets
• Foot-washing station
• Sea-condition flags
• First aid and rescue
• Boat surveillance
• Beach beaconing
• Police presence
• Waste bins
• Daily cleaning
• City-bus service
• Nearby restaurants and hotels

Service availability may vary by season, so visitors should check the situation on arrival.

Access and accessibility

Cala Morelló sits directly beside the Paseo Marítimo Infanta Elena. This makes it easier to approach than Calpe’s remote natural coves and allows visitors to include it in a walk between Arenal-Bol and Cantal Roig.

Visitors requiring amphibious chairs, supervised bathing or adapted changing facilities should use the dedicated accessible points at Arenal-Bol or La Fossa and confirm the current service before travelling.

Rocky areas around Cala Morelló and the Baños de la Reina can also be uneven and slippery.

Getting there by bus

A city-bus service is included among the official facilities, although the council’s beach page does not specify a particular route number or stop.

Visitors should check the latest Calpe bus timetable and route map before travelling.

Parking near Cala Morelló

Parking availability in the surrounding streets can vary considerably, particularly during July and August.

Drivers should:

• Follow current street signs
• Check whether spaces are regulated
• Avoid blocking hotel or residential entrances
• Allow additional time during summer
• Never leave vehicles on pavements or access routes

See our Calpe parking guide for wider information about regulated parking and busy areas.

Walking to Cala Morelló

Cala Morelló is particularly easy to include in a seafront walk.

From Arenal-Bol Beach, follow the promenade east towards the Baños de la Reina. Continuing beyond the cove leads towards Cantal Roig Beach, the fishing port and the Peñón de Ifach.

This makes Cala Morelló a useful stopping point rather than a destination that necessarily requires a separate car journey.

Food and refreshments

The official listing identifies restaurants and hotels near the cove. Additional cafés and refreshments can be found along the seafront and around Arenal-Bol and Cantal Roig.

Individual businesses and opening times can change seasonally, so visitors should check current availability rather than relying on a particular venue always being open.

Photography and sunsets

Cala Morelló’s combination of sea views, Roman remains and the historic tower makes it an attractive photography location.

Visitors taking photographs should avoid climbing on archaeological structures or obstructing the promenade. Extra care is necessary around the rock pools, particularly when surfaces are wet.

Dogs

Cala Morelló is not Calpe’s designated dog beach. Visitors wanting to take a dog onto the beach should use Cala Les Urques and check the current municipal rules before travelling.

Dogs should remain under control while walking along the promenade.

Nearby places to visit

Combine Cala Morelló with:

• Baños de la Reina
• Arenal-Bol Beach
• Cantal Roig Beach
• Cala El Racó
• Complete Calpe Beaches and Coves Guide