In Andalusia, on the coast of the province of Cadiz, there is a unique beach that stands out not only for its natural beauty but also for its unusual inhabitants. This is Playa de Pajares, which has become famous thanks to a herd of cows that regularly appear on its sands.
The beach is located between the towns of Zahara de los Atunes and Barbate, at the foot of the Sierra del Retín mountain range. It stretches for about 3.5 kilometers and is up to 93 meters wide. Some sources also refer to this place as Playa de Cañillos or El Botero. Every day, up to a hundred Retinta cows—typical of Andalusia and Extremadura—come here.
Pajares is just a few minutes’ drive from the center of Barbate and is part of a 10-kilometer coastal area where sandy stretches alternate with pastures. The landscape is complemented by dunes and green meadows, and the beach itself lies within the Sierra del Retín military range. The animals find food and a place to rest here, and their presence against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean creates an unusual scene that attracts both tourists and locals.
The cows roam freely along the sand, sometimes resting right at the water’s edge, which surprises passersby and nature lovers alike. Many people come here specifically to witness this spectacle, especially at sunrise when the herd heads to the shore. Such a close encounter with animals on the beach is extremely rare, making Pajares a special spot for observation and photography.
It is worth noting that access to the beach is restricted throughout the year due to its location within a military zone. However, in summer it is open to the public, allowing many people to discover this unique corner of Cádiz. Despite its popularity online and on social media, Pajares Beach remains relatively unknown to the general public.
