El Descargador
Andalusia, Spain — Excellent water quality
Gross Sand is an urban beach in a quiet residential area near Piedra Villazar, just north of Mojácar on the road to Garrucha. Buses run every 30 minutes between town and the beaches, making it easy to reach.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to El Descargador
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is El Descargador?
Gross Sand is an urban beach in a quiet residential area near Piedra Villazar, just north of Mojácar on the road to Garrucha. Buses run every 30 minutes between town and the beaches, making it easy to reach.
It sits alongside Blue Flag beaches in Andalusia, part of a broader network of Blue Flag certified beaches across Spain certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
El Descargador faces E toward Mediterranean Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in June. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 12°C | 9°C | Low |
| Feb | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Mar | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| Apr | 16°C | 13°C | Low |
| May | 20°C | 17°C | Low |
| Jun | 24°C | 21°C | Med |
| Jul | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Aug | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Sep | 24°C | 21°C | Med |
| Oct | 20°C | 17°C | Low |
| Nov | 16°C | 13°C | Low |
| Dec | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
The best time to visit El Descargador is June. Air temperatures peak around 26.7°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 23.7°C in July.
How crowded does El Descargador get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Spain, El Descargador sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is El Descargador open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (15-06 – 15-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at El Descargador
Is El Descargador safe to swim?El Descargador is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at El Descargador?Peak water temperature at El Descargador reaches around <span class="inline-stat">23.7°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 12°C.
What is the beach like at El Descargador?El Descargador is a sandy beach on the Andalusia coast of Spain. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does El Descargador have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, El Descargador meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season. Showers are available. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
El Descargador sits on the Mediterranean Sea — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Mediterranean.
Planning a trip to Spain? Blue Flag Beaches Spain 2026 — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to El Descargador
How do I get to El Descargador by car?El Descargador is approximately 2.02 km from Mojácar. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to El Descargador?The nearest airport is Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC), approximately 169.8 km away.
Can I get to El Descargador by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Mojácar.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✓ Available during season |
| Toilets | ✓ Available during season |
| Official Season | 15-06 – 15-09 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 37.1369°N, 1.8285°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Spain |
Frequently Asked Questions
El Descargador FAQ
Is El Descargador suitable for children?
El Descargador is a Blue Flag certified beach in Andalusia, Spain. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season, providing an important safety layer for families. Shower facilities are available. The EU Excellent water quality rating means the water is safe and clean for all swimmers, including children. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is El Descargador free to access?
Yes, access to El Descargador is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Parking is available nearby; check local signs for any parking charges. Facilities including showers and toilets are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit El Descargador?
The best time to visit El Descargador is June. Water temperature peaks at around 23.7°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 26.7°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at El Descargador?
El Descargador is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to El Descargador?
El Descargador is located in Andalusia, Spain. It is approximately 2.02 km from Mojácar. The nearest airport is Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC), 169.8 km away. Parking is available at or near the beach. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
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