As you enter El Cotillo you can either take a left turn toward an enormous expanse of golden beach of Playa del Costillo with breakers that on some days will challenge the toughest and most accomplished of surfers. Further south are the remote and wild beaches of Playa del Ajibe de la Cueva and Playa del Aguila, but access to these is off road and suitable only for 4 wheel drive and there are sharp descents walking to the beach itself. Alternatively, you can turn to the right, heading for the lighthouse and the lagoons, which have created a barrier by molten lava that protects swimmers.

The forteleza del Tostón (fortified tower) situated by the new harbour was constructed in 1797 to defend against English pirates, but functions today as a cultural information and art exhibition centre. A few restaurants and bars overlook the cliff top bay, which meanders as far as the eye can see.Some of the best sunsets to be seen anywhere can be viewed from the old harbour in El Cotillo.