Sandy Bay, Rosia Bay Travel Guide

4.5 (493)

Discover Sandy Bay: Gibraltar's tranquil escape with golden sands, clear waters, and stunning Mediterranean views.

Sandy Bay, nestled on Gibraltar's eastern coast, is a picturesque beach known for its golden sands and tranquil atmosphere. Refurbished in 2014 with sand from the Western Sahara, it offers a serene escape with clear, shallow waters perfect for families and sunbathers alike.

A brief summary to Sandy Bay

34 Sir Herbert Miles Rd, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sandy Bay.

Arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak season, to secure parking.
Bring snorkeling gear to explore the marine life around the rocky reef.
Check bus schedules for convenient public transportation to and from Sandy Bay.
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, utilizing the shaded areas and picnic tables.

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Explore Sandy Bay on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Sandy Bay, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Catalan Bay, walk south along Sir Herbert Miles Road for approximately 10 minutes. The beach will be on your left, just past the residential area. Note that the descent to the beach is steep and may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Public Transport

Take Bus No. 4 from the city center towards 'Both Worlds' (Sandy Bay). The bus will drop you off near the beach entrance on Sir Herbert Miles Road. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the beach. A single bus fare is approximately £1.50.
Taxi

From the Gibraltar International Airport, a taxi to Sandy Bay will take approximately 15 minutes. Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. Expect to pay around £15-£20 for the trip.

Discover more about Sandy Bay

Sandy Bay, a charming village, bay, and beach, graces the eastern Mediterranean coast of Gibraltar, offering a unique coastal experience away from the bustling city center. Situated south of Catalan Bay, it's easily accessible via Sir Herbert Miles Road.In 2014, Sandy Bay underwent a significant transformation with a substantial public investment aimed at revitalizing the beach. Approximately 50,000 tons of sand, sourced from Layounne in the Western Sahara, were brought in to enlarge the beach. To protect the shoreline from erosion, two curved groynes and a frontal breakwater were constructed, effectively trapping shifting sands. A submerged breakwater connects the ends of both groynes.Historically, the slopes above Sandy Bay were home to Gibraltar's Water Catchments, which are no longer in use. These catchments, built between 1903 and 1961, consisted of corrugated steel sheets and concrete, designed to capture rainwater flowing into the reservoir system inside the Rock. Today, the area has been restored to its natural state, showcasing vegetation native to Gibraltar.Sandy Bay provides a tranquil setting for relaxation, swimming, and family outings. The clear, shallow waters are ideal for sunbathing and wading. While it can get crowded, especially on weekends, its beauty and peaceful ambiance make it a worthwhile destination.