There are plenty of things to do in Mar Menor but which ones will suit you best during your stay? Read on to find out more about the sort of interesting things there are to see and do in this wonderful part of Murcia, in Spain. We’ll also provide some tips on where to stay if you’re looking for a good base to explore the area.
Cape Palos
Located at the southern end of the Mar Menor lagoon, this cape offers some fantastic views over the Mediterranean Sea. The peninsula is considered to be one of the best places for scuba diving in Western Europe.
There are coral reefs under the waves that have fascinated divers for decades. A walk up the hill to the imposing lighthouse is well worth the effort.
La Cala del Pino Beach
Situated to the north of the aforementioned cape, with Mar Menor on one side and the wider Mediterranean on the other, the beach at La Cala del Pino is relatively secluded with a pine forest nearby.
This beach offers a fine stretch of soft sand and even in the height of the tourist season rarely gets crowded. High hills to the side of the beach offer it protection, the perfect place for sunbathing and relaxation.
Calblanque Nature Reserve
Spread out over 1,800 or so hectares, this wonderfully rugged nature reserve has remained untouched and unspoiled since it was declared a protected area in 1987.
Along the coastline, you can walk along virtually deserted beaches and clifftops. There are plenty of juniper bushes and dwarf palm trees while the dunes offer the ideal habitat for some bird species, such as the short-toed lark and the stone curlew.
Monte Blanco Viewpoint
Known to locals as the Mirador del Monteblanco, this stunning viewpoint provides a true panorama of the lagoon. This natural vantage point was formed millennia ago by volcanic activity that is now, thankfully, extinct. The best views are to be found at the top, some 46 meters above sea level.
Regional Park of the Salt Flats and Sandy Areas in San Pedro del Pinatar
This wetland is a protected habitat and visitors can soon see why when they arrive. A place of natural beauty, it is a spot favored by migratory birds. If you come at the right time of year, then you can even see flamingos enjoying the fish among the salt waters.
Puente de la Risa
Located towards the northern end of the Mar Menor lagoon, this bridge was built in the 1970s and is made from stone. It is remarkably unique and has a steep rise that leaves stomachs turning over when driven over at speed.
If you are in the region of Murcia, apart from Mar Menor, we recommend you visit seaside towns in Murcia. When it comes to leisure, we prepared an article on the best things to do in Murcia.
Where to Stay in Murcia
The good news for travelers is that there are some good hotels in Murcia that provide great access to Mar Menor. The elegant, four-star Catalonia Conde de Floridablanca is a good example. Situated in the popular Carmen district, next to the Jardín de Floridablanca, this particular hotel is only about a 40-minute drive from the lagoon of Mar Menor.
The Conde de Floridablanca has its own car park and provides car rental services, ideal for travelers who want to drive around the area. It even offers electric car charging facilities you can take advantage of. Local sites include the Iglesia del Carmen cathedral, the Salzillo Museum and the famous Trapería and Platería streets, a pair of historic Murcian boulevards.
Overall, there are so many things to do in Mar Menor that you won’t ever get bored or want to relocate. We hope you have enjoyed our selection of nature places and hope that your stay in Mar Menor will be great.