Torrevieja: Best Activities and Beaches for the Whole Family
Torrevieja is a unique phenomenon on Spain’s Costa Blanca coast. Once a small salt-mining village, it has transformed over a few decades into one of the Mediterranean’s most popular resorts and a second home for thousands of Europeans. The city is unique in its location: nestled between the sea and two massive lagoons, creating a special microclimate.
In this series, we will explore why the World Health Organization recognized Torrevieja’s climate as one of the healthiest in the world, which beaches are best for young children, where to find waves, and how to entertain the family when beach days get boring. Let’s start with the city’s natural treasures and coastline.
Unique Microclimate and Salt Lakes
Before heading to the sea, it’s important to understand the city’s main feature. Torrevieja is surrounded by two lagoons — the Pink Lagoon (Laguna Rosa) and the Green Lagoon (Laguna de la Mata). These natural reservoirs act as giant heat accumulators and natural inhalers.
Pink Lagoon (Laguna Rosa)
The Salinas de Torrevieja is a place where the water has a bright pink hue, reminiscent of bubblegum. This color is due to special microalgae and halobacteria living in the hypersaline environment. The salt concentration is close to that of the Dead Sea, so floating is effortless.
Although swimming is often restricted to protect nature and for salt harvesting, tourists and locals visit for unique photo opportunities and walks along the shore. Salt evaporation enriches the air with iodine and minerals, beneficial for respiratory and skin conditions.
- Google Maps: view on the map Laguna Rosa Viewpoint
- Tip: Visit at sunset when the pink color is most vivid and contrasting.
Beach Guide: From Bustling Promenades to Quiet Dunes
Torrevieja’s coastline stretches for 20 kilometers. There’s no monotony here: rocky coves alternate with wide sandy beaches. Almost all main beaches receive the prestigious Blue Flag award annually for water quality and infrastructure. Let’s explore them from north to south.
Playa de la Mata
The longest and most spacious beach, stretching over 2 kilometers in Torrelamata. Perfect for nature lovers who prefer less crowded spots. Adjacent to the dune natural park, so no high-rise buildings block the view. The shallow, fine sand is ideal for children. A wooden boardwalk runs along the beach, perfect for strollers. Open space attracts windsurfers in the off-season.
- Facilities: Several beach bars (chiringuitos), lifeguard towers, sunbed rentals.
- Google Maps: view on the map Playa de la Mata
Playa de los Locos
Meaning “Beach of the Crazy,” named after a nearby early 20th-century psychiatric facility. Today it’s a lively city beach with golden sand. Waves are less protected, ideal for jumping and playing in surf. A bustling street with restaurants runs along the beach.
- Google Maps: view on the map Playa de los Locos
Playa del Cura
The heart of Torrevieja’s tourist life, located in the city center at Paseo Marítimo. Always busy, especially in July and August. Main advantage: accessibility. Calm waters due to artificial breakwaters. Promenade bustling with souvenir shops, cafes, and the famous Bella Lola statue.
Google Maps: view on the map Playa del Cura
Natural Pools (Piscinas Naturales)
A unique swimming area on Juan Aparicio promenade. Calm, warm, and clear water inside small coves enclosed by stone barriers. Perfect for snorkeling; use water shoes for rocky areas.
Google Maps: view on the map Piscinas Naturales de Torrevieja
Playa de los Náufragos
Located at the southern entrance, popular with Spanish families. Wide, fine almost-white sand, palm trees create a tropical atmosphere. Nearby salt-loading transporters form part of the city’s history. Children enjoy a small water park in summer.
Google Maps: view on the map Playa de los Náufragos
Cala Ferris
A hidden wild beach on the southern edge of Torrevieja. No bars or sunbeds, just peace, clear water, and a palm oasis. Ideal for a romantic morning or quiet picnic.
Google Maps: view on the map
Seaside Walks: Dique de Levante
A 1,600-meter pier, perfect for a stroll to the lighthouse with panoramic sea views and sunrise photo opportunities.
Google Maps: view on the map
Family Entertainment: Beyond the Beach
Parque de las Naciones
A popular park with a large European-continent-shaped lake. Pedal boats in swan or flamingo shapes, free-roaming birds, and a dragon-shaped playground delight children.
- Entry: Free
- Google Maps: view on the map Parque de las Naciones
- Address: Ronda César Cánovas Girada, 11, 03181 Torrevieja
Floating Museums (Museos Flotantes)
Includes the S-61 Delfín submarine museum and Albatros III patrol boat. Interactive tour inside a real submarine; caution for claustrophobic visitors.
- Google Maps: view on the map Submarine S-61 Delfín Museum
- Tip: Arrive early to avoid queues and heat on the open pier.
Aquopolis Water Park
A highlight in summer. Zones for all ages: extreme slides, lazy river, and Mini Park for young children.
- Google Maps: view on the map Aquopolis Torrevieja
- Tip: Buy tickets online to skip lines and save money.
Recinto Ferial
Evening amusement park near the port with Ferris wheel, bumper cars, carousels, and fair stalls.
Nature and Eco-Routes
Parque del Molino del Agua
Natural oasis behind Playa de la Mata with pine forest, cascades, and walkable paths, ideal for strollers.
Google Maps: view on the map Parque del Molino del Agua
Green Lagoon (Laguna de la Mata)
Natural park ideal for walking and cycling, emerald water, picnic areas, birdwatching, and vineyard trails for local wine “La Mata.”
Google Maps: view on the map Parque Natural de La Mata Visitor Center
Cultural Program: Sea and Salt Museum
Museo del Mar y de la Sal showcases Torrevieja’s salt industry history with salt-made models and historical photos.
- Google Maps: view on the map Museo del Mar y de la Sal
- Address: Calle Patricio Perez, 10, 03181 Torrevieja
Gastronomy: Flavors of the Sea and Dried Octopus
Pulpo Seco
Torrevieja’s culinary signature: sun-dried octopus, grilled, served with olive oil and lemon.
Arroz a la Torrevejense
Local rice dish prepared with a rich fish broth, served with alioli sauce. Best found in port-side restaurants and along the promenade.
Shopping and Markets
Friday Market (Mercadillo de los Viernes)
One of Spain’s largest street markets, with 700+ stalls selling fruits, vegetables, ham, cheese, clothes, and souvenirs.
- Google Maps: view on the map Mercadillo de Torrevieja (New Location)
- Address: Av. Delfina Viudes, 1, 03183 Torrevieja (near Aquopolis)
Habaneras Shopping Centre
Open-air shopping with major brands like Zara, H&M, Massimo Dutti, and Leroy Merlin.
Google Maps: view on the map Habaneras Shopping Centre
Tip: For a bigger mall, Zenia Boulevard is 10 minutes away.
Cultural Events: Habaneras
Torrevieja is called “the city of Habaneras.” The International Habaneras and Polyphony Contest in July attracts visitors from around the world.
Practical Information
How to Get There
Nearest airport: Alicante-Elche (ALC), 45 km away.
- Bus: Direct Avanza express (Costa Azul) every 2 hours.
- Taxi/Transfer: About 40-50 minutes.
City Transport
Urban buses labeled with letters (A, B, C, etc.), main hub near Fontana Plaza and bus station. Tourist train available for sightseeing.
Conclusion
Torrevieja is a remarkable example of an industrial town transformed into a resort capital without losing its soul. Salt is literally in the air, benefiting all visitors. Ideal for families seeking a warm, healthy climate, long seaside walks, and developed infrastructure. From pink lagoon relaxation to lively promenade fiestas, the city offers something for everyone.
