La Playa de Regla

La Playa de Regla is a beautiful beach situated in the coastal town of Chipiona, Spain. Known for its Blue Flag status awarded by the European Foundation for Environmental Education, the beach is a popular destination for families, especially during the summer months.

The beach features a wide sandy shoreline, shallow waters, and calm waves, making it suitable for both adults and children. Stretching over a kilometer in length, La Playa de Regla is the busiest and most urban beach in Chipiona. It is bordered by the walls of the Humilladero del Santuario de la Virgen de Regla on the east, extending towards the Sanatorios and the Santa Clara, a children's residence. The beach ends at the lighthouse, where a breakwater alters the direction of the coast.

One of the unique features of La Playa de Regla is the changing nature of the beach depending on the tide level. At high tide, the water rises, and the sea appears ordinary. However, during low tide, the beach expands, revealing the Los Corrales, ancient artificial reefs used for fishing. These reefs trap fish and other sea creatures, providing a sustainable method of fishing. The low tide also uncovers various sandpipers, ibises, and great egrets that blend in with the reef.

La Playa de Regla offers various amenities to its visitors. Several bars line the Costa de la Luz promenade, offering a chance for visitors to enjoy local gastronomy. The beach is equipped with toilets, showers, waste bins, access walkways, and a cleaning service. Umbrellas and hammocks are available for rent, and lifeguards are present for safety. During the off-peak season, water sports enthusiasts can rent motorboats, pedal boats, and windsurfing boards.

The beach can get very crowded, particularly during low tide when the beach area expands. Visitors who enjoy long walks can take a stroll along the beach, extending up to 16 km, ending in Rota. However, they are reminded to consider the distance of their return journey. The beach is surrounded by various restaurants, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere.

In terms of accessibility, La Playa de Regla is adjacent to the country's highest built lighthouse, standing over 60m high, and the striking ocher yellow church, the Sanctuary of the Virgen de Regla. This proximity to prominent landmarks makes the beach easy to find for both locals and tourists.