La Costilla
The algae monitor and community reports run from May 15 to October 15. Beach information remains available outside the season.
About La Costilla
La Costilla is Rota's flagship beach, stretching over 4.5 km of fine white sand. Facing northwest toward the Atlantic, it offers spectacular sunsets and is popular with surfers, families, and beachgoers. The beach has full amenities and lifeguard service in summer. The algae season peaks between July and September when southwesterly winds push seaweed from the open Atlantic toward the coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there algae at La Costilla today?
Algae reports run from May 15 to October 15. Outside the season, no current status is displayed.
When is the best time to visit La Costilla?
The best months are April, May, June, October and November. In July and August the risk of Asian seaweed is higher.
What is the Asian seaweed Rugulopteryx okamurae?
Rugulopteryx okamurae is an invasive brown alga native to Japan and Korea that arrived in the Strait of Gibraltar around 2015. It accumulates on Andalusian Atlantic beaches when southwesterly winds push it toward the coast. It is not dangerous to health, but it hampers swimming.