Santa Pola
Nestled along the sparkling Costa Blanca in Spain’s Alicante province, Santa Pola is a charming seaside town that perfectly blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and relaxed Mediterranean living. Once a humble fishing village, it has become a beloved destination for travelers seeking sun, sea, and authentic Spanish flavor — all just a short drive from Alicante city and its airport.
🌊 Beaches and Coastline
Santa Pola boasts over 11 kilometers of coastline, offering beaches to suit every traveler’s taste.
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Playa de Levante and Playa de Gran Playa are among the most popular, with golden sands, calm waters, and a lively promenade lined with cafés, bars, and ice cream parlors.
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For a quieter experience, Playa del Tamarit and Playa Lisa offer shallow waters perfect for families and water sports enthusiasts — especially windsurfing and paddleboarding.
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Nature lovers will enjoy the Calas del Este and Calas Santiago Bernabéu, smaller coves ideal for snorkeling and relaxation.
🏛️ Isla Tabarca
From the port of Santa Pola you can take a boat trip to Tabarca Island.
In the past, the island was a haven for Berber pirates. In the 18th century, King Carlos III commissioned the construction of a fortified town on the island to house a number of families of Genoese fishermen who were held captive in the Tunisian city of Tabarka. The walls surrounding the city have been officially declared a Historical and Artistic Site and of Important Cultural Interest. On the island, visitors can enjoy the bays and beaches with their crystal clear waters. A picturesque fishing harbor with excellent restaurants where you will have the opportunity to taste the traditional “caldero”, a typical dish of the island. We recommend a walk through the city and a visit to the island’s museum. Visitors can now also spend the night on the island, thanks to the recent opening of hotel accommodation.
🏛️ Cultural and Historical Attractions
Santa Pola’s history stretches back to Roman times, and traces of its past can be found throughout the town:
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The Castillo-Fortaleza, a 16th-century fortress in the heart of town, now houses the Sea Museum and hosts open-air concerts and festivals during the summer.
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The Portus Ilicitanus Archaeological Site reveals Santa Pola’s Roman origins, showcasing ancient remains of warehouses and villas.
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The Salt Museum (Museo de la Sal), located within the Salinas de Santa Pola Natural Park, offers insight into the area’s centuries-old salt production tradition.
🌿 Nature and Outdoor Activities
The Salinas de Santa Pola Natural Park is a must-see for birdwatchers and photographers. This wetland reserve is home to flamingos, herons, and countless migratory species, painting a pink-hued spectacle against the salt flats.
Active travelers can explore the Santa Pola Lighthouse (Faro de Santa Pola) on the cliffs of Cabo de Santa Pola, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and Tabarca Island — a perfect spot for sunset photos.
🎉 Leisure and Lifestyle
Santa Pola’s lively harbor area is the town’s social hub, filled with seafood restaurants serving fresh local catch, including the famous gambas rojas (red prawns).
In summer, the town comes alive with festivals, street markets, and open-air concerts, while the Nautical Club offers sailing and diving excursions year-round.
The Pola Park amusement park and Aquapark Pola Park make it a great destination for families, and the evening Paseo Marítimo walk is a ritual for both locals and visitors.
✨ Santa Pola is more than just a beach destination — it’s a blend of history, nature, and coastal charm. Whether you’re here to relax on the sand, explore its cultural heritage, or enjoy fresh seafood overlooking the sea, this Mediterranean town promises unforgettable memories under the Spanish sun.


















