Kayaking in San Pedro del Pinatar: The Fishing Traditions of the Mar Menor

This route forms part of the guide “Blue Trails – Ecotourism Routes by Kayak and Paddle Board”, where you will discover more itineraries for exploring the Costa Cálida from the sea.

This is a peaceful experience through one of the finest areas of the Mar Menor, with views of the iconic salt mill windmills, ideal for discovering the region’s fishing and salt-harvesting traditions.

As a reference point for the start of the route, we use one of the Sports Beaches of the Region of Murcia, Villananitos Beach, a pleasant beach of fine grey sand equipped with accessibility facilities.

This circular route allows us to follow the Encañizadas Trail from the water while paddling alongside the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park, a landscape full of life and tranquillity where land and water blend in perfect harmony. It is also home to the largest open-air mud baths in Europe.

In this environment, biodiversity reveals its full splendour through birds, colours and changing light, while every corner invites visitors to pause and take in the scenery.

If we continue paddling as far as the Ventorrillo Channel (+3 km), we can observe the natural connection between the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean Sea. Here, local fishermen still use the traditional fishing method known as the “encañizada”, which is employed to catch species such as gilt-head bream, grey mullet and striped seabream.

Complementary Activities in the Area

It is highly recommended to complement this route with a walk along the Encañizadas Trail, an ideal family-friendly route that offers a wonderful opportunity to discover the Salinas de San Pedro del Pinatar Regional Park.

Another excellent option is to take part in one of the Fishermen’s Tourism activities, including a guided visit to the San Pedro del Pinatar Fish Market, where visitors can watch the live fish auction and learn about traditional fishing methods, such as eel fishing, as well as the best season to enjoy gilt-head bream.

At the Salt Ponds, visitors can enjoy a therapeutic mud bath. The clay-rich mud, applied directly to the skin, is renowned for its beneficial effects on a wide range of conditions. Access is free.

An essential activity in the area is snorkelling in the Mar Menor. The underwater itineraries organised by the Hippocampus Association provide visitors with a direct experience of the seabed and its biological richness, helping them learn about marine culture and the importance of protecting aquatic ecosystems. Be sure to consult the guide to marine flora and fauna species of the Region of Murcia.

Don't forget to sample the area's distinctive local cuisine, based on lagoon fish, cured fish products and traditional seafood rice dishes made with local ingredients, such as caldero. Another unforgettable gastronomic experience is tasting the wines of Murcia, which reflect the diversity of soils and climates found across the region’s three Designations of Origin: Bullas, Jumilla and Yecla. In addition, the Region of Murcia has three Protected Geographical Indications: Vino de la Tierra del Campo de Cartagena, Abanilla, and Murcia.

Departure Point

Villananitos Beach

Accessibility

Kayaking is an activity that can be enjoyed by people with disabilities.

Guides from local rental and excursion companies often have equipment available to adapt kayaks to individual needs.

Ask a local operator whether access conditions are suitable during the time of year when you plan to kayak.

Check beach accessibility information on the official website of the Sports Beaches of the Region of Murcia.

Recommended Time of Year

Wind statistics for the Mar Menor (La Manga area) show that this activity can be enjoyed throughout the year, with average wind speeds generally remaining below 15 knots (25 km/h), although some months are more stable than others.

• April to October is recommended for less experienced paddlers.
• Paddle in the morning whenever possible to avoid thermal winds.
• Check the specific wind forecast for the day (Windy, AEMET).
• Avoid strong winds of 15 knots or more, as well as strong gusts.

Recommendations and Safety

• Wear a life jacket.
• Carry a mobile phone for taking photos and making emergency calls if necessary.
• During summer, use sun protection: a hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing and biodegradable sunscreen.
• Keep a safe distance from fishing and recreational vessels.
• Check the weather forecast before departure.
• If you have limited experience, guided excursions are recommended to ensure safety.

Equipment

• Water shoes for landings in rocky areas.
• A dry bag containing food, water and spare clothing.
• Snorkelling goggles are recommended for swimming stops.

Responsible Ecotourism

Do not collect stones or natural elements from the environment. Use biodegradable sunscreens that are respectful of the marine ecosystem and reusable water bottles.

Sustainability

Respect private property along the coastline, avoid making noise that could disturb birdlife, and keep away from nests during the nesting season.

Always help keep the coastline and sea clean by taking your litter home with you… and, if possible, pick up a little extra too!