The Salinas de Santa Pola nature park covers 2,500 hectares between the town and the Elche road. It is a working salt operation and, at the same time, one of the most accessible places on the Costa Blanca to see flamingos: across these lagoons and those at El Hondo there is a stable colony of more than 3,000 birds. Entry is free.
When to come
Spring through to September, and September usually gives the best sightings — the birds have been settled for months and the movement south to Africa has not started. Within the day, first thing in the morning or the two hours before sunset: more activity, and far better light across the pink pans.
The two routes
| Route | Distance | Time | Start point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Torre del Tamarit | 3-4 km | about 1 hr | Playa Lissa |
| Torre del Pinet | 3-4 km | about 1 hr | Pinet car park |
The Tamarit route starts from the Playa Lissa development and passes the salt mountains and an old wooden jetty. The 16th-century watchtower at the end is the best viewpoint in the park, and you can drive almost to it — at sunset that is where everyone gathers.
The Pinet route runs on boardwalks through protected dunes and between the pans, with its own car park overlooking two lagoons. It is the easier one with children or a pushchair, being almost entirely decked.
Together they come to about 8 km. Neither is signed with directions — there are information boards at the entrances and nothing more — so download the map before you go.
What to take
Binoculars above all: the flamingos are rarely close to the edge. A hat, water and sun cream, because there is no shade anywhere on either route. Closed shoes. Insect repellent if you are going at dawn or dusk in summer.
Guided walk
We run a two and a half hour guided outing with a local nature guide, binoculars provided, picking up in Santa Pola or Torrevieja. It goes at first light or towards sunset, in small groups, and covers both identifying the birds and how the salina actually works. If the Torrevieja salt lakes and pink lagoon also interest you, the two can be combined into one day.
What not to do
Do not walk out onto the pans — working industrial site, protected area, and the crust is not as firm as it looks. No drones. And no swimming, whatever the colour; the town beaches are minutes away.
Common questions
Is there an entrance fee?
No, access to the park is free. You only pay for the guided walk if you book it.
Can you see flamingos from the car?
Yes, from stretches of the Elche road and the Tamarit approaches you can see the pans without getting out. Seeing them close needs a short walk.
Suitable for children?
The Pinet route is — boardwalked and flat. Not in the midday heat, though, with no shade at all.
Message us on WhatsApp — we will come back with availability and the final price.