LA ZENIA IS LOCALLY RENOWNED for its beautiful Cala Bosque beach and the golden sands that attract sun-seekers year-round.
Often overlooked, neighbouring Cala Cerrada is equally special – and perhaps more so, due to the clarity of the Mediterranean waters and the vivid colours you'll find there.
Known locally as Playa Cala Cerrada, this beach in particular, has become popular since the opening of Zenia Boulevard shopping centre, which has contributed considerably to the fast-paced rapid growth of the area.
Considerably smaller than her neighbour, Cala Cerrada is a cove-shaped beach that measures 143m at the shoreline. That shape creates perfect conditions for surfing, and it's Orihuela Costa's only dedicated surfing beach.
Pure golden sands stretch from one end to the other, and the cove is flanked on all inland sides by a rocky cliff face that helps protect the beach from riptides and high winds.
But the secret to the beach's crystal clear waters lies just below the surface – a subterranean meadow of flowering plants.
Commonly known as Neptune Grass, the plants clean and oxygenate the water, and add to the unique and vibrant colour.
The ancient seagrass is unique to the Mediterranean Sea and forms large underwater meadows that are a vital component of the local ecosystem.
Estimated to be some 100,000 years old, the Neptune Grass meadows produce free-floating fruit and balls of fibrous material that wash onto the beach throughout the year.
The presence of the plant is an indicator of high water quality and one of the reasons for the beach's Blue Flag accreditation.
Orihuela Town Hall has gone to great lengths to ensure the continued protection of the sea meadows, and keep the beach in a pristine and manicured condition year-round.
Early each morning, teams from the council's Department for Beaches comb Cala Cerrada beach for litter and rake the sands to perfection. Additionally, a lifeguard service provides essential safety during the summer season.
Cala Cerrada beach in La Zenia: one of the Orihuela Costa´s finest beaches
The beach is accessed via a set of steps that lead down to the golden sands, and a ramp offers access for persons of reduced mobility.
Adjacent to the ramp and above the beach, a Chiringuito beach bar provides light refreshments, a full bar service, and a range of snacks and light bites.
Despite its diminutive size, the beach bar offers a surprisingly full menu that caters for all tastes, including a choice of pizzas, salads, and sandwiches.
Beachfront seating provides an unparalleled panoramic vista over Cala Cerrada beach, and it's a popular beauty spot for budding photographers (and holiday selfies).
The Mediterranean coastal path leads either south toward La Zenia's main beach, or north to neighbouring Playa Flamenca.
You'll find Cala Cerrada northward of Cala Bosque and the Servigroup La Zenia hotel. Click here for a Google Map with directions from your location.
Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.
Photo credit: LaZenia.com
