Santiago de la Ribera is the main seaside town of San Javier, on the shore of the Mar Menor. With about 8,500 permanent residents, it fills up in summer with families who come for the calm, shallow and warm water of the lagoon. On its outskirts is the Academia General del Aire, Spain’s air force academy.
Why visit Santiago de la Ribera
For relaxed family beach holidays, safe bathing and water sports such as sailing and windsurfing, with La Manga, Cartagena and Murcia close by.
Top things to do in Santiago de la Ribera
The beaches and the promenade
A long seafront promenade runs along the beaches, lined with palm trees, cafés and restaurants – perfect for an evening walk.
The wooden piers
The Mar Menor is known for its balnearios, wooden piers built out over the water for bathing. Several can be seen along the town’s shore.
Sailing and water sports
The lagoon’s calm water and steady breezes make it ideal for learning to sail, windsurf or paddle-board.
The ferry to La Manga
In season a boat crosses the Mar Menor to La Manga, the long sandbar between the lagoon and the Mediterranean.
The air force academy
The Academia General del Aire is home to the Patrulla Águila aerobatic team, which often trains over the Mar Menor.
Day trips from Santiago de la Ribera
Visit Roman Cartagena, the wild beaches of Calblanque, the city of Murcia or the salt flats of San Pedro del Pinatar.
Best time to visit Santiago de la Ribera
Late spring and early autumn are ideal. July and August are hot and busy. Winter is mild and quiet.
Getting to and around Santiago de la Ribera
Región de Murcia airport is about 30 km away; Alicante–Elche is about an hour by car. Buses link the town with Murcia and Cartagena.
What to eat in Santiago de la Ribera
Caldero del Mar Menor (rice cooked in fish stock), langostinos from the lagoon, fried fish and Murcian tapas such as the marinera.
Santiago de la Ribera FAQ
Is the Mar Menor good for children?
Yes: the water is shallow, calm and warm, which makes it ideal for young children.
Can you get to La Manga by boat?
Yes, in season a ferry crosses the Mar Menor between Santiago de la Ribera and La Manga.
