Living on the Mar Menor – If you are dreaming of Mediterranean living with year-round sunshine, stunning beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle, living on the Mar Menor in Murcia might be exactly what you are looking for. The Mar Menor is Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon, located on the Costa Cálida and is one of Spain’s best-kept secrets for expats.
Whether you are considering relocating permanently, buying a second home, or simply enjoying a long stay, this unique area has so much to offer. Here’s everything you need to know about living on the Mar Menor.
What is the Mar Menor?
The Mar Menor is a shallow coastal lagoon separated from the Mediterranean Sea by a thin strip of land known as La Manga del Mar Menor. The calm, warm waters of the lagoon are perfect for swimming, water sports, and relaxing beach days, making it popular among families, retirees, and sailing enthusiasts.
The area is dotted with charming towns and villages, each offering a different experience, from lively tourist spots to quiet fishing villages.
Best Places to Live Around the Mar Menor
Los Alcázares
A vibrant town and former fishing village, Los Alcázares offers beautiful sandy beaches, a buzzing ‘Los Narejos’ promenade, and a wide range of shops, bars, and restaurants. It plays host to numerous festivals and fiestas throughout the year, plus it has a strong international community and is home to several golf resorts including La Serena, Roda and La Torre.
San Javier
Famous for its annual jazz festival, San Javier is a working town with excellent amenities, a local airport (Murcia-Corvera Airport is also nearby), and plenty of cultural activities. The nearby beaches of Santiago de la Ribera are perfect for families.
Santiago de la Ribera
The charming seaside village of Santiago de la Ribera is known for its relaxed atmosphere and palm-lined promenade. It’s a quieter alternative to Los Alcázares but still close to shopping centers and golf courses.
La Manga del Mar Menor
If you love waterfront living, La Manga offers properties on both the Mar Menor and Mediterranean Sea sides. With direct beach access, water sports, and marinas, it’s a paradise for sailing lovers and sunseekers.
Los Urrutias & Los Nietos
For a more authentic Spanish village vibe, Los Urrutias and Los Nietos offer a slower pace of life, traditional tapas bars, and friendly local communities. These villages are ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
Benefits of Living on the Mar Menor
Mild Climate Year-Round
The Mar Menor region enjoys over 320 days of sunshine annually and mild winters, making it perfect for outdoor living. Summer temperatures average around 24 to 26°C, while winters rarely dip below 13-14°C.
Affordable Cost of Living
Compared to other Mediterranean hotspots like the Costa del Sol, the Mar Menor offers more affordable property prices and everyday living costs, including dining, groceries, and utilities.
Excellent Outdoor Lifestyle
The calm lagoon waters are ideal for swimming, paddle boarding, sailing, and kayaking. The flat terrain also makes the area perfect for cycling and walking along the scenic promenades.
Golf Courses Nearby
Golf enthusiasts will find several top-class courses nearby, including Roda Golf, El Valle Golf, La Serena Golf, and La Manga Club, one of Europe’s most prestigious resorts.
Great for Families and Retirees
The Mar Menor is safe, family-friendly, and welcoming to retirees thanks to its healthcare services, accessible beaches, and leisure facilities. There’s also a strong international community here so meeting new people and joining in the social affairs won’t be an issue.
Property Market on the Mar Menor
The property market on the Mar Menor is highly diverse, offering: Beachfront apartments with lagoon or Mediterranean views, Townhouses and villas in gated communities or traditional villages and Golf resort properties such as those in La Serena Golf or Mar Menor Golf.
Services and Amenities
The Mar Menor area is well-served by modern amenities including:
- Healthcare: Public health centers and private clinics
- Shopping: Local markets, supermarkets (Mercadona, Lidl), and shopping malls like Dos Mares in San Javier
- Schools: Several international schools are nearby, including Kings College Murcia and El Limonar International School
- Transport: Murcia-Corvera Airport is just 30-40 minutes away, while Alicante Airport is approximately 1 hour away
Community and Lifestyle
Expats living on the Mar Menor often mention the friendly atmosphere, mix of nationalities, and community events throughout the year. From open-air markets to fiestas, there’s always something going on.
Whether you enjoy water sports, golfing, or long lunches at beachfront Chiringuitos, living on the Mar Menor is all about embracing the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
If you are looking for an affordable coastal destination with sunshine, culture, and a welcoming community, the Mar Menor is hard to beat. Whether you’re a family, a retiree, or a digital nomad, this stunning part of Murcia offers something for everyone.
