Is it Carmela? Grey seal spotted again on Costa del Sol beach

A grey seal has made an appearance on the beach of Fuente de la Salud in Benalmádena, and there’s growing speculation that it could be none other than Carmela, the now-famous seal that’s been making her way along the Costa del Sol in recent weeks.
The local council announced the sighting on social media this morning, explaining that authorities are working to confirm whether it is indeed Carmela, who has already drawn national attention for her unusual journey through southern Spain.
“She could be the well-known seal Carmela, and confirmation is underway,” the Benalmádena Ayuntamiento said, urging the public to give the animal space and avoid disturbing her. Environmental officials have already been alerted to ensure her safety.
Carmela’s journey: from Galicia to Gibraltar — and now Benalmádena?
Carmela isn’t your average seal. First spotted in Galicia in 2023, she’s since been seen further south — in Conil in February, and most recently on March 7 in Gibraltar. In the last few weeks, she’s turned up on several Costa del Sol beaches, including Sabinillas (Manilva) and Estepona.
Her movements are being closely monitored by marine biologists and environmental organisations like Ecolocaliza, who have been quick to remind beachgoers that Carmela is perfectly capable of taking care of herself.
“She doesn’t need feeding, spraying with water or any interaction,” they explained. “The best thing we can do is observe from a respectful distance and let her rest when she hauls out on the sand.”
Authorities urge public to keep distance from grey seal Carmela on Costa del Sol
As adorable as she might seem, experts stress that getting too close to a wild seal can be harmful, both for the animal and the people involved. These are protected marine mammals, and disturbing them can have serious consequences — not to mention stress them out unnecessarily.
So, if you’re walking along the coast and come across a big, sleepy seal sunbathing on the beach, resist the urge to get close for a selfie. Take a few steps back, admire her from afar, and enjoy the rare moment.
Because if it is Carmela — and all signs point to yes — we’re lucky to witness one of the most unusual coastal visitors Spain has seen in years.
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