The Mar Menor is a hypersaline lagoon separated from the Mediterranean by a 22-kilometer strip of land known as La Manga.
The water in the lagoon has a high concentration of iodine and minerals, historically used for therapeutic mud bathing.
The adjacent salt flats have been used for salt extraction since Roman times.
The shallow depth of the water at Villananitos allows for a gradual entry that is rarely deeper than two meters even hundreds of meters from the shore.
Playa de Villananitos is located on the northern shore of the Mar Menor, Europe's largest saltwater lagoon. The beach is characterized by its exceptionally calm, shallow waters, which remain warmer than the neighboring Mediterranean Sea due to low circulation. It features a fine, golden sand shoreline spanning approximately 600 meters in length. The area is part of the San Pedro del Pinatar municipality, situated directly adjacent to the Las Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park. The proximity to these salt flats creates a unique ecosystem where visitors can observe varied birdlife, including flamingos. The beach is fully urbanized with a wide promenade that runs along the entire length of the waterfront. Public facilities include foot showers, wooden walkways for accessibility, and dedicated zones for water sports like windsurfing.
The wooden walkway bridge leading into the salt flats at sunset.
Walk the nearby wooden boardwalks through the Regional Park to spot flamingos and other migratory birds.
Bring water shoes if you prefer, as some areas of the lagoon bed can be silty or soft.
Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid the peak density of summer tourism while still enjoying warm water temperatures.
Do not attempt to collect mud from protected zones of the salt flats, as this is strictly regulated and prohibited in many areas.
Lifeguard services are typically active only during the summer season.
Standard beach attire; protective footwear is recommended for walking through the salt flats.
