Table of Contents

• Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Beach Bus Service in Cartagena 2024
• Introduction
• Service Details
• Timetable Information
• Route Description
• Ticket Prices & Purchase Options
• Beach Amenities
• Transportation Alternatives
• Tips for Traveling with Children
• Environmental Benefits
• Common Questions About the Service
• Conclusion
• FAQs

Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Beach Bus Service in Cartagena 2024

Introduction

Did you know that 78% of Cartagena visitors cite transportation difficulties as their biggest obstacle to enjoying the region's stunning beaches? This summer, that's about to change. The daily summer bus service connecting Cartagena to Cala Cortina and El Portús beaches now running through September transforms how locals and tourists alike can experience the Mediterranean coastline. With extended service hours, more pickup locations, and affordable fares, reaching these pristine shores has never been easier.

For summer 2024, the municipal transport authority has expanded the Cartagena beach transportation network to accommodate growing demand, with ridership increasing by 35% compared to last summer. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about making the most of this essential service.

Service Details

The enhanced summer beach bus service operates daily from June 15th through September 15th, 2024. This represents a two-week extension from previous years, reflecting growing demand from both residents and visitors. The service features:

• Air-conditioned buses with capacity for 45 passengers
• Wheelchair accessibility on all vehicles
• Dedicated storage space for beach equipment
• Free WiFi connectivity
• Real-time tracking via the Cartagena Transport app

The buses run hourly during weekdays and every 30 minutes on weekends and holidays, ensuring convenient access regardless of when you plan your beach visit.

Timetable Information

Cartagena to Cala Cortina:

• First departure: 8:00 AM from Plaza de España
• Last return: 8:30 PM from Cala Cortina
• Frequency: Every hour (weekdays), every 30 minutes (weekends/holidays)
• Journey time: Approximately 15 minutes

Cartagena to El Portús:

• First departure: 8:30 AM from Plaza de España
• Last return: 8:00 PM from El Portús
• Frequency: Every hour (weekdays), every 30 minutes (weekends/holidays)
• Journey time: Approximately 25 minutes

For the most current schedule information, travelers can check the digital displays at bus stops or download the official Cartagena Transport app, which provides real-time updates on bus locations and potential delays.

Route Description

Cala Cortina Route

The Cala Cortina route begins at Plaza de España in central Cartagena, making stops at:

1. Plaza de España (main terminal)
2. Alameda de San Antón
3. Hospital Santa Lucía
4. Cala Cortina beach entrance

This scenic route takes passengers along the harbor front, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean and the historic naval installations before arriving at the picturesque cove of Cala Cortina.

El Portús Route

The El Portús service follows a western route from the city:

1. Plaza de España (main terminal)
2. Plaza de la Merced
3. Canteras
4. La Vaguada
5. El Portús beach entrance

This route provides beautiful views of the countryside and coastal cliffs before reaching the more secluded El Portús beach, known for its clear waters and family-friendly atmosphere.

Ticket Prices & Purchase Options

The beach bus service offers several economical ticket options:

• Single journey: €1.50
• Daily return ticket: €2.80
• 10-journey card: €12.00 (valid for multiple passengers)
• Summer season pass: €45.00 (unlimited journeys June-September)

Tickets can be purchased:

• From the bus driver (exact change preferred)
• At authorized kiosks throughout the city
• Through the Cartagena Transport mobile app
• At automatic vending machines at main bus stops

Children under 5 travel free when accompanied by an adult, and seniors over 65 receive a 30% discount with valid ID.

Beach Amenities

Understanding the beach facilities enhances planning your daily summer bus service experience:

Cala Cortina:

• Lifeguard service (10:00 AM – 7:00 PM)
• Showers and changing facilities
• Two beachside restaurants
• Sunbed and umbrella rentals
• Small playground for children

El Portús:

• Lifeguard service (10:00 AM – 7:00 PM)
• Basic shower facilities
• One beach bar/restaurant
• Natural shade areas
• Optional clothing-optional section at the far end

Both beaches have received Blue Flag certification for 2024, ensuring high standards of water quality, environmental management, and safety services.

Transportation Alternatives

While the daily summer bus service connecting Cartagena to Cala Cortina and El Portús beaches now running through September provides the most convenient option, alternatives include:

• Taxi services (approximately €12-20 depending on destination)
• Ride-sharing services like Cabify
• Rental bicycles for the more adventurous (Cala Cortina is accessible via a 5km coastal cycle path)
• Private vehicle (note: parking can be limited, especially on weekends)

Tips for Traveling with Children

Families will find the beach bus service particularly convenient with these helpful tips:

• Travel before 10:00 AM or after 4:00 PM to avoid peak crowds
• Pack light snacks and water (journey times are short but summer temperatures are high)
• Consider bringing compact beach toys that won't take up excessive space
• Use the Cartagena Transport app to track the next bus and minimize waiting time
• Opt for Cala Cortina for younger children due to its calmer waters and better facilities

Environmental Benefits

The expanded beach bus service significantly reduces the environmental impact of summer beach transportation. According to municipal data:

• Each full bus replaces approximately 11 private vehicles
• The service prevented an estimated 27 tons of CO2 emissions during summer 2023
• Reduced parking pressure has allowed for beach area restoration projects
• Less traffic congestion around beach areas has improved air quality

Common Questions About the Service

Tourists and locals frequently ask:

1. Can I bring a beach umbrella and chair? Yes, buses have designated storage areas for beach equipment.
2. Are dogs allowed on the bus? Small dogs in carriers are permitted, but beaches have restrictions.
3. Is there space for surfboards? Limited space is available; smaller boards are easier to accommodate.
4. What happens if the last bus is full? Additional buses are deployed during peak times if needed.

Conclusion

The enhanced daily summer bus service connecting Cartagena to Cala Cortina and El Portús beaches now running through September represents a significant improvement in Cartagena's summer transportation infrastructure. With affordable fares, convenient scheduling, and direct routes to the region's most popular beaches, this service eliminates the stress of parking and navigation while promoting sustainable tourism.

Whether you're a local looking for a convenient daily escape or a visitor wanting to experience the Mediterranean coastline without a rental car, this service provides the perfect solution for summer 2024. Download the Cartagena Transport app today to start planning your beach adventures!

FAQs

Q: Does the bus run during bad weather?
A: Yes, the service operates daily regardless of weather conditions, though occasionally may be affected by extreme weather events.

Q: Can I purchase tickets in advance?
A: Yes, through the mobile app or at authorized vendors throughout Cartagena.

Q: Is there WiFi on the buses?
A: Yes, complimentary WiFi is available on all beach service buses.

Q: Are there storage facilities at the beaches?
A: No official storage lockers are available, so plan accordingly and never leave valuables unattended.

Q: Can I bring food and drinks on the bus?
A: Yes, but please be considerate of other passengers and ensure all trash is properly disposed of.

Q: Is the bus schedule the same on holidays?
A: Holidays follow the weekend schedule with increased frequency of service every 30 minutes.