Background

Camp Bay: A Rocky Beach with a Rich History

Discover Camp Bay, Gibraltar: A unique rocky beach with clear waters, diving spots, family-friendly amenities, and historical significance.

4.4

Camp Bay, also known as El Quarry to locals, is a rocky beach on Gibraltar's west coast offering stunning views of the Bay of Gibraltar and Parson's Lodge Battery. Featuring seawater pools, a restaurant, and an artificial reef, it's a popular spot for families and divers.

A brief summary to Camp Bay, Gibraltar

  • Gibraltar, GI

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure parking, as it can get crowded, especially during peak season.
  • Bring an umbrella for shade, as there is limited natural shade available.
  • Snorkeling gear is a must to explore the artificial reef and diverse marine life.
  • Check the weather forecast, as the western beaches can be affected by the Levanter wind.
  • Take a walk through Camp Bay Tunnel and explore the nearby Little Bay for a quieter experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Bus

    From the city center, take bus routes 2, 4, or 9 towards Rosia Bay. Alight at the Rosia Plaza stop, a short walk from Camp Bay. The bus fare is approximately £2.20 for a single journey. From Eastern Beach, take bus number 2 or 3 towards the city center and remain on the bus until you reach the stop for Camp Bay.

  • Walking

    From Rosia Bay, walk past Parson's Lodge Battery through Camp Bay Tunnel to reach Camp Bay. The walk is approximately 2 minutes. From the city center, the walk to Camp Bay is approximately 30 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Gibraltar. A taxi ride from the Gibraltar International Airport to Camp Bay typically costs around £15-£20. Ensure the taxi meter is running or agree on a fare before starting your journey.

  • Car

    From the city center, follow signs for Rosia Road and Camp Bay. Parking is available near Camp Bay, but it can be limited, especially during peak season. Parking fees may apply. Consider parking at Europa Pool Car Park and walking to Camp Bay.

Unlock the Best of Camp Bay, Gibraltar

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Camp Bay, Gibraltar

Camp Bay, nestled on the southwestern coast of Gibraltar, presents a unique beach experience with its rocky shoreline and captivating views. Known locally as “El Quarry” in Llanito, it offers a picturesque setting with rocky cliffs, the bustling Bay of Gibraltar, and the historic Parson's Lodge Battery in the backdrop. Unlike the sandy beaches on Gibraltar's eastern side, Camp Bay features artificial concrete platforms and a rocky terrain. The bay boasts crystal-clear waters and is a designated marine conservation area, making it a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. In fact, Camp Bay is home to what is claimed to be Europe's first artificial reef, created by activists concerned about the scarcity of marine life. Sunken vessels now serve as a phenomenal habitat for marine life, attracting divers from around the world. Camp Bay is well-equipped with amenities, including a public swimming pool, a children's playground, a football pitch, and picnic areas. There are also showers, toilets, and a popular beach bar and restaurant. At the southern end of the beach, you'll find Little Bay, a smaller, more secluded natural cove with its own children's swimming pool. Gushing out of the cliff face above Little Bay is a man-made waterfall, which is actually salt water returning to the ocean after being processed at a water desalination plant, Gibraltar's only means of producing fresh water. Recent installations of interpretation panels around Camp Bay share the area's history and environment, covering topics such as the use of convict labor, the Camp Bay Quarries, the WWII Prisoner of War Camp in Little Bay, military installations, marine protected areas, the Spanish Period, and the social history of the Dolphin Pool.

Popular Experiences near Camp Bay, Gibraltar

Popular Hotels near Camp Bay, Gibraltar

Select Currency