Located in the Murcia region of southeastern Spain, the Mar Menor is a unique coastal saltwater lagoon next to the Mediterranean. With 135 square kilometers of clear waters, almost all Murcians and many foreigners have spent their childhood diving in search of seahorses. The area is famed for leisure sports, fishing, and beach holidays. I visited the area and had a great time there, so In this article, I will explore the region’s natural beauty, biodiversity, and best leisure options.
Table of Contents
- Mar Menor: An Oasis of Natural Beauty on the Mediterranean Sea
- Geography and Characteristics
- Tourism and Recreational Activities
- Tourist Attractions in the Region
- Mar Menor Beaches
- Enjoy Your Private Paradise in Villa Murcia!
- Mar Menor: Beauty and Charm for Future Visitors
Geography and Characteristics
The Mar Menor (or Minor Sea) is separated from the Mediterranean Sea by a narrow strip of land known as La Manga del Mar Menor. This strip of land is about 22 km long and between 100 and 1200 m wide.
With an area of approximately 135 km², the lagoon has an average depth of 4 meters (the maximum depth does not exceed 7 meters), making it ideal for water activities and very popular with families with children, as it is a safer place to go into the water.
The area is divided into four municipalities: Cartagena, Los Alcazares, San Javier, and San Pedro del Pinatar.
Some say that the waters of the Mar Menor have supposed therapeutic effects: the Spanish claim that its waters have a high concentration of salt and a type of mud accumulated at the bottom capable of taking years off any skin.
In addition to the water from the avenues, the Mar Menor exchanges its waters with the Mediterranean through five points in La Manga and receives marine water contributions.
Biodiversity
This unique ecosystem is home to diverse marine life and migratory birds. Lovers of this area often travel to the region precisely for this reason. When diving in the waters of this region, for example, you can find species such as seahorses, eels, and sea bream. Meanwhile, its shores and islets provide refuge for birds such as the pink flamingo and the grey heron.
The region is also home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including several species of fish, birds, and aquatic plants. This means there are many specially protected areas and nature reserves of great importance for the Mediterranean.
Unfortunately, in recent decades, the region has faced severe contamination from human activities and chemicals commonly found in fertilizers used in the Campo de Cartagena, the largest agricultural area in the region. This contamination has led to several ecological collapses, pushing endemic species such as the fartet and the samaruc to extinction. The good news is that local authorities have implemented restoration and prevention measures to save the lagoon. In 2021, for example, Murcia’s Ministry of Ecological Transition announced the creation of a green belt around the Mar Menor coast.
Tourism and Recreational Activities
Water sports are extremely popular in the Mar Menor due to its ideal conditions. The coastal lagoon is characterized by calm, shallow, and warm waters, which makes it perfect for sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and sailing.
The absence of strong waves and dangerous currents provides beginners and families with a safe and pleasant environment. At the same time, the constant winds attract more experienced practitioners in search of an adrenaline rush.
The region is rich in caves, corals, and reefs, so many people seek it out to learn and go diving.
In addition, the region’s natural beauty, with its golden sand beaches and stunning landscapes, contributes to the place’s popularity. This has led to government support for including modern infrastructure throughout the region. So, on practically every beach you visit in the area, you will find toilets, ramps, dedicated sports areas, areas for people with reduced mobility, and many restaurants, bars, and kiosks.
The municipalities that border the Mar Menor are also popular for vacations due to their resorts (especially golf resorts), great dining options, events, and nightlife. Regardless of which town you stay in, there is always something to do there!
Therapeutic Mud and Waters
As if its incredible landscapes and waters weren’t enough, the region is also sought after for its therapeutic properties. You’ve probably read somewhere that mud can be used in medical and aesthetic treatments, right?
The special climatic conditions in the Mar Menor and the high salinity water have produced clay deposits that contain a high percentage of positive ions, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and fluoride, as well as negative ions, chlorine, and sulfate, which combine with extraordinarily fine sand to create a unique and healing mud.
Several areas, such as Las Charcas and San Pedro del Pinatar, are very popular for this. The Banos de Lodo (mud baths) Banos de Lodo are recommended for arthritic conditions, rheumatism, broken bones, skin conditions, and beauty treatment.
Tourist Attractions in the Region
The Mar Menor region has many interesting, beautiful, and fun tourist attractions. During my time in this region of Murcia, I was lost as to what to choose (there are so many). Today, I can mention some of the ones I liked the most:
La Islas Del Mar Menor
There are islands in the interior of the Mar Menor that are part of the Protected Landscape of Open Spaces and Islands of the Mar Menor. They are rocky outcrops of volcanic origin that emerged during the geological period known as the Tortonian before the formation of La Manga. Most of these islands can be visited, and each landscape is better than the last.
Puente de la Risa
The Puente de la Risa, located at the northern end of La Manga, is known as the “Bridge of Laughter” due to its steep incline, which makes drivers laugh when they cross it. I had a very positive experience visiting it; the panoramic views of the Mar Menor are wonderful, and the surrounding area is ideal for walking and taking photographs, which will bring back great memories in moments and photos for your family.
Regional Park of Las Salinas and Arenales of San Pedro del Pinatar
The Las Salinas y Arenales Regional Park in San Pedro del Pinatar is protected by the regional government and has great ecological value. The park is famous for its salt flats and dunes and is a birdwatching spot for migratory birds such as flamingos and herons. There, I explored trails on foot (it’s possible by bike, too), observed wildlife, and enjoyed the peaceful beaches.
You can also find the therapeutic mud baths I mentioned earlier in this text.
Cabo de Palos
This charming fishing village is known for its historic lighthouse, which offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Mar Menor. It is also a popular diving destination, with several dive sites, including the Islas Hormigas underwater park, famous for its rich marine biodiversity and historic shipwrecks. It is definitely one of my favorite places to visit, as I first tried diving there (it was wonderful), and I also got to sample lots of amazing seafood at the restaurants and beach bars!
Mar Menor Beaches
The Mar Menor is surrounded by several lovely sandy beaches, each offering something unique to visitors. I spent a few days in the area and visited many beaches, many indeed! The number of beaches in the area is almost absurd (in a good way). Here, I will mention some of the ones I liked the most, although it is very difficult since my experiences were all positive.
Cala del Pino
This small cove in La Manga Del Mar Menor (further north) is surrounded by pine trees, providing natural shade and a more secluded and peaceful environment. The water is crystal clear and ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It was one of the calmest beaches I had visited in the region and certainly one of the most beautiful.
Isla del Ciervo
Isla del Ciervo is not exactly a beach but a small island (remember when I spoke a little above about the islands of the Mar Menor?). Its waters are calm and ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The island is accessible by boat or kayak and has no facilities, making it a more rustic and natural place. It is a beautiful space, perfect for those wanting to connect with nature.
Playa de Las Salinas
Playa de Las Salinas is known for its large stretches of sand and the old salt flats nearby, home to several species of migratory birds. It was really cool to walk along the beach and see so many different types of birds.
The beach in San Pedro Del Pinatar also has basic services, such as showers and bathrooms, and is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Playa Del Barco Perdido
The beach is located within the jurisdiction of the municipality of Cartagena. It is so long that it is divided into three sections: Playa de las Sirenas, Playa Entremares, and Playa Zeus.
- Playa Entremares: This is the busiest and most popular beach at the entrance to La Manga during the summer months. For younger people, this is usually one of the favorite beaches in the area.
- Playa de las Sirenas: This section is known for its tranquility and clear waters, which are ideal for families and those seeking a quieter environment. In this section, the reason for the beach’s name is a shipwreck measuring almost 40 m in length, just a few meters from the coast.
- Playa Zeus: The southern end section is less crowded and perfect for those seeking more privacy. It runs down the border with the Gola de Marchamalo, the southernmost channel allowing water to flow between the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean. It’s a great place for tourists to relax!
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Mar Menor: Beauty and Charm for Future Visitors
In conclusion, with its natural beauty and rich biodiversity, the Mar Menor is an enchanting destination for tourists and nature lovers. Its calm waters, stunning beaches, and opportunities for recreational activities make this place a true paradise. If you are planning a vacation, be sure to put the coastal region of this incredible lagoon on your list!