Blue Tourism Good Practices

Blue Tourism invites you to enjoy the sea, the coastline and nautical experiences in a responsible, safe and environmentally respectful way. This guide provides a set of basic recommendations to help ensure that your visit to the Costa Cálida contributes to preserving its natural, cultural and scenic values, while also generating a positive impact on the local economy and enhancing your own visitor experience.

The goal is simple: enjoy the sea while leaving a positive footprint.

Before visiting a sports beach, walking along a Blue Trail or booking a nautical experience, find out about:

• the place you are going to visit,
• weather and sea conditions,
• rules of use,
• the level of difficulty of the activity,
• and the services available in the area.

Good planning improves safety and reduces unnecessary impacts on the environment.

Beaches, trails, coastal areas and marine environments are sensitive spaces. Always follow safety instructions, local regulations and the recommendations of guides, instructors or authorised companies.

Pay particular attention to:

• designated areas,
• authorised access points,
• bathing and navigation zones,
• opening times or temporary restrictions,
• and specific limitations in protected areas.

Following the rules protects both the environment and people.

Whenever possible:

• use public transport,
• share a vehicle,
• walk,
• or use a bicycle to reach beaches, marinas or trails.

Reducing private car use helps cut emissions, traffic, noise and pressure on coastal areas.

The Mediterranean Sea and the Mar Menor are home to ecosystems of great value. During your visit:

• do not touch or remove animals, plants, shells, stones or natural remains,
• do not feed fish or other animals,
• do not chase marine wildlife,
• avoid stepping on seagrass meadows, rocky areas or sensitive seabeds,
• and keep a safe distance from birds, fish and other species.

Observing without disturbing is the best way to enjoy nature.

Always use designated access points to beaches, coves, snorkelling areas or embarkation points. Do not create new paths or enter sensitive areas.

When practising activities such as snorkelling, diving, kayaking or paddleboarding:

• follow recommended routes,
• avoid approaching particularly fragile areas,
• and respect buoys, markers and maritime signage.

Responsible access helps prevent erosion, disturbance to wildlife and damage to the landscape.

Enjoying Blue Tourism also requires caution. Before starting any activity:

• make sure sea conditions are suitable,
• use the required equipment and check that it is in good condition,
• be realistic about your physical and technical abilities,
• do not practise alone when the activity requires company or supervision,
• and always follow the instructions of qualified professionals.

Safety is an essential part of a quality tourism experience.

When booking an experience, give priority to companies and professionals that:

• are properly authorised,
• employ qualified staff,
• work according to safety standards,
• have good knowledge of the local area,
• and are committed to sustainability.

Choosing local companies supports the destination’s economy and helps promote more responsible tourism.

On the coast and at sea, any waste can have a serious impact. Therefore:

• avoid single-use plastics,
• carry a reusable water bottle,
• use bins and recycling containers,
• do not leave cigarette butts, packaging or food waste behind,
• and, if you see litter, pick it up whenever it is safe to do so.

The best waste is the waste that is never created.

In accommodation, marinas, changing rooms or tourism facilities:

• reduce shower time,
• avoid unnecessary water consumption,
• use air conditioning responsibly,
• switch off lights and devices when they are not needed,
• and use resources wisely.

A sustainable coastal destination also depends on small everyday actions.

Blue Tourism can also be enjoyed beyond the water. Enhance your experience by:

• eating in local restaurants and shopping in local businesses,
• trying locally sourced food,
• choosing local crafts,
• and supporting tourism services based in the area.

Buying local helps spread the economic benefits of tourism and strengthens the identity of the destination.

The coastline is not only a tourism space: it is also a place where many people live and work. During your visit:

• respect local residents’ right to peace and quiet,
• avoid unnecessary noise,
• follow rules of coexistence,
• and be considerate towards residents, fishermen, sportspeople and tourism professionals.

Responsible tourism improves coexistence and strengthens the destination’s reputation.

Sharing positive experiences helps promote the destination, but it should be done responsibly. When sharing images or recommendations:

• avoid geolocating especially fragile or little-known places that are not prepared for large visitor numbers,
• do not encourage risky behaviour,
• and present the sea and coastline in a respectful way.

Promoting a destination also means helping to preserve it.

Whenever you have the opportunity:

• join environmental awareness activities,
• take part in conservation or clean-up initiatives,
• visit interpretation centres or tourist information points,
• and use guided experiences as an opportunity to learn more about the natural and cultural heritage of the coastline.

The more we understand the environment, the more likely we are to respect it.

The Costa Cálida offers sea-related experiences well beyond the summer season. Practising Blue Tourism outside peak season:

• improves the visitor experience,
• reduces pressure on natural areas,
• supports year-round tourism,
• and contributes to a more balanced use of the destination.

Travelling at other times of the year is also a form of responsible tourism.

Enjoying the sea, beaches, trails and nautical experiences of the Costa Cálida also means taking care of them. Every action counts. Together, small responsible choices help preserve this heritage for residents, visitors and future generations.

Blue Tourism means enjoying the sea with respect, safety and commitment.