The most photographed beach in the cape. At its centre rises La Peineta, a large eroded lava rock, and behind it stretches a moving dune. Spielberg filmed an Indiana Jones scene here.
Mónsul is the iconic image of Cabo de Gata: an inlet of dark sand presided over by La Peineta, a lava flow eroded by the wind into the shape of a breaking wave, and backed by a large moving dune that the wind slowly shifts. The whole setting is volcanic in origin, formed millions of years ago.
Its lunar scenery drew filmmakers: Steven Spielberg shot a scene here for "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" (1989) — the one in which Sean Connery’s character scares off a flock of seagulls with an umbrella to bring down a Nazi plane. It is reached by the track from San José, about 4 km away.
Highlights
- La Peineta, a spectacular eroded lava rock
- A living moving dune that shifts with the wind
- Real filming location of "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade"
- Unique volcanic landscape, clean and open water
The beach in detail
Key facts
- 300 m Length
- 50 m Average width
- High Occupancy
- Calm waters Swimming
- No Naturist
Facilities
- Toilets Not available
- Showers Not available
- Foot showers Not available
- Litter bins Available
- Cleaning service Available
- Parasol hire Not available
- Sunbed hire Not available
- Watersports hire Not available
- Restaurant Not available
- Beach bar Not available
- Diving area Not available
- Lifeguard service Not available
- Accessible access Not available
Map
Good to know
- In summer arrive very early: parking spaces are limited and paid, or use the bus from San José
- No facilities or natural shade: bring water, a parasol and sun protection
- Open beach: watch for waves and the westerly wind
- Walk out to the dune and La Peineta for the best views
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