Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar

Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar is a coastal wetland and dune area on the Mar Menor coast in the municipality of San Pedro del Pinatar, Region of Murcia. It is notable for its salt pans, shallow lagoons and narrow dune strips that form a coastal natural landscape.

The site is valued for birdwatching and short coastal walks. Shallow salt flats and mudflats attract large flocks of wading birds and flamingos, while dune areas provide coastal flora and small beaches for visitors.

Historically the salt pans were used for traditional salt extraction and local fisheries. Over recent decades the area has been managed for conservation to protect wetlands and dune habitats while allowing controlled public access.

The park lies along the Costa Cálida, between the open Mediterranean and the Mar Menor lagoon, immediately next to the town of San Pedro del Pinatar in southeastern Spain. The terrain is low-lying coastal plain with sandy shores and brackish lagoons.

• Birdwatching seasons: Seasonal bird concentrations peak during spring and autumn migration, with flamingos, avocets and stilts commonly seen on the salt pans.
• Access and viewing: A network of boardwalks and observation hides gives access to wetlands while protecting sensitive habitats; bring binoculars for close views without disturbing birds.

What to See#

• Las Salinas: Coastal salt flats and evaporation ponds that form a mosaic of shallow brackish lagoons used by migratory and resident wading birds. The salt pans have shallow water and exposed mudflats that attract flamingos and other shorebirds.
• Arenales and dune strip: Dune systems and narrow sandy strips bordering the shoreline, with footpaths and small beaches open to visitors. Vegetation here stabilizes the dunes and provides habitat for coastal plants and invertebrates.

San Pedro del Pinatar is accessible by car from Murcia and Alicante via the AP-7 and regional roads. The salt flats are a short drive from the town centre and there are parking areas near the main boardwalk entrances. Local buses from Cartagena and Murcia serve the town; check timetables for seasonal frequencies.

• Bring binoculars for birdwatching: the salt pans are an important stopover for migratory waders.
• Walk the dedicated boardwalk routes and wear sun protection; the salt flats reflect light strongly.
• Visit the interpretation centre (if open) to learn about the traditional salt-extraction methods that continue in the area.