Los Alcázares holidays

How to reach Los Alcázares

• Flight time: Flights to Los Alcázares are generally routed through Murcia International Airport. Direct flights from London and other UK cities to Murcia take about 2 hours 30 minutes. Alicante Airport is less than an hour’s drive away and offers more flight options.

• Transfer time: From Murcia International Airport, you can reach Los Alcázares in about 30 minutes by taxi or hire car. Buses from the airport are available but take over 2 hours to get to Los Alcázares due to multiple stops along the way.

• Price: A taxi ride from Murcia Airport to Los Alcázares costs around €40–€50. Car hire prices start from about €25 per day.

Weather and best time to visit Los Alcázares

The best time for holidays to Los Alcázares will depend on whether you want to take advantage of the area's mild winters and explore all that it has to offer, or whether you just want to bask on the beach in the summer sun.

• March to May emerges with pleasant temperatures, typically ranging from 18°C to 25°C, and very little rain. This period is less crowded, offering a peaceful atmosphere perfect for both exploring the town and relaxing on the beach.

• June to August marks peak tourist season, attracting many beachgoers with its constant sunny weather and temperatures soaring to 30°C. The town buzzes with activity, but be prepared for higher prices and crowded beaches.

• September to November sees a dip in temperatures from 26°C in September to 18°C in November and rain increases slightly, especially in November. It’s an ideal time if you want a quieter holiday yet still desire warm weather and significant sunshine.

• December to February maintains mild weather (between 12°C and 17°C) but with the occasional shower, which is appealing to those who want to appreciate the sites without the stifling heat or long queues.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Although Spanish is the primary language, English is widely understood in tourist spots.

• Local habits and customs: Los Alcázares is a relaxed coastal town where afternoon siestas are common, with shops and businesses closing from around 2 pm to 5 pm. Dinner is traditionally eaten late around 9 pm.

• Currency: The Spanish currency is the Euro. ATMs are easily accessible and credit cards are generally accepted, though it’s advisable to carry a small amount of cash for tips.

• Getting around: The town is well serviced by buses and taxis; a single bus fare costs approximately €1.50. Car hire is a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas.

• Electricity and plug types: The voltage used in Spain is 220–240, with standard EU two-pin plugs, so UK travellers will need a plug adaptor.

• Time zone: Spain operates on Central European Time, GMT +1.

Best things to do in Los Alcázares

If you like to engage in local culture and history as well as relax on beautiful beaches, Los Alcázares, a spa town bordering a saltwater lagoon, is the perfect destination for a fulfilling holiday.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Cabo de Palos: A stunning viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Mar Menor lagoon. It’s a perfect spot for watching the sunrise or simply taking in the natural beauty.

• El Carmolí: A couple of kilometres south of Los Alcázares, the hike to the top of this peak is rewarded with incredible vistas of the surrounding terrain, including the Mar Menor and La Manga.

The best districts

• Los Narejos: This popular district is noted for its gorgeous sands, many restaurants and booming nightlife. It’s an ideal spot to sample the local cuisine after a lazy day on the beach.

• Old Town: The picturesque streets of Los Alcázares Old Town are brimming with antique buildings and appealing cafés, creating a relaxing vibe.

Historical monuments

• Rame Tower: This 16th-century watchtower provides stunning views of the surrounding area, and is a window into the area’s past.

• Church of San Antonio de Padua: The impressive architecture and serene atmosphere of this beautiful church in the centre of Los Alcázares make it an absolute must-see.

Parks and gardens

• Regional Park of Calblanque: Nature enthusiasts will be more than happy to make the short journey to this natural park just outside Los Alcázares, which offers pristine beaches, hiking paths and a wide variety of wildlife.

Day trips in the area

• Cartagena: Just a 20km drive from Los Alcázares, this beautiful historic city is one of the most important Roman sites in Spain, renowned for its Roman theatre and modernist architecture. Discover the best deals on holidays to Cartagena.

• Murcia: The regional capital, Murcia, is noteworthy for its architectural gems, vibrant street life, peaceful gardens and shopping opportunities. Check our offers on holidays to Murcia.

Activities for families

Any age group can appreciate Los Alcázares holidays. The wide array of kid-friendly activities available during your stay will guarantee the whole family has a brilliant time.

• Beaches: Alcázares' beautiful beaches include Playa de los Narejos and Playa Manzanares, which both have perfectly calm waters ideal for families with young children.

• Horse riding: Whether a seasoned rider or a beginner, horse riding is a fantastic way to explore the region as a family. Several local stables offer guided riding tours and lessons.

• Water sports: Thanks to the lagoon’s calm and shallow waters, the Mar Menor saltwater lagoon is the perfect place for children to learn a variety of water sports, including windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding and kayaking.

• Other activities: Spend an exhilarating couple of hours at Go-Karts Mar Menor, where kids and adults can compete against one another on the track. A round or two of mini-golf at Golf Delux is another activity that will challenge family members of all ages.

Free things to do in Los Alcázares

The plethora of free things to do in and around Los Alcázares will enable you to savour the historical landmarks, nature and local culture without overspending.

• Free art: Over a hundred murals have been created around Los Alcázares. The tourist office offers free walking and cycle tours to view the murals; if you'd rather go it alone, you can also pick up a free map.

• Hiking: There are countless free hiking opportunities around Los Alcázares. Designated routes wind across valleys, mountains and through forests in the Sierra Espuña Regional Park. Alternatively, the Regional Park of Calblanque offers stunning unspoiled scenery along well-marked trails suitable for various fitness levels. In addition, hiking paths along the Mar Menor also provide beautiful scenery, plus access to the beach.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Scuba diving and snorkelling: The crystal-clear waters around Cabo de Palos are home to vibrant marine life and fascinating underwater landscapes. Local dive centres offer guided dives to the site for all levels, ensuring a safe and memorable experience.

• Adventure activities: Los Alcázares offers many land adventures. The numerous mountain bike tracks available range from easy coastal rides to challenging hill climbs. A jeep, buggy, or quad bike safari to explore the rougher terrain offers an unforgettable experience.

• Golf: The Costa Cálida region boasts many top-quality golf courses, including the La Serena Golf Club and the Roda Golf & Beach Resort, which offer challenging courses in a wonderful setting.

• Bird watching: Bird watchers are drawn to the Mar Menor’s salt flats and wetlands. Flamingos, herons and avocets are among the birds that can be observed in their natural habitat here.

Local dishes in Los Alcázares

From fresh seafood to traditional Spanish delicacies that reflect the region’s rich Mediterranean heritage, the food scene in Los Alcázares promises to be a memorable part of a holiday here.

Some typical dishes

• Caldero: This traditional fish stew, made with local fish, rice and a rich tomato and garlic sauce, originated from the fishermen of the Mar Menor.

• Zarangollo: A simple yet delicious dish made from scrambled eggs with courgettes and onions, showcasing the fresh produce of the region.

Tapas dishes

• Marineras: Combining salty, creamy and crunchy textures, this dish originated from the Murcia area; a loop of bread is topped with a dollop of Russian salad and crowned with an anchovy.

• Pulpo a la Murciana: This delicious and flavourful tapa is simply octopus cooked in a rich tomato and paprika sauce.

Meat dishes

• Chuletón de Buey: Grilled to perfection, this hearty rib-eye steak is served with roasted vegetables or potatoes.

• Embutidos: A variety of cured meats, such as chorizo, morcilla and salchichón, often enjoyed as an appetiser or snack.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Dorada a la Sal: Often sourced from the nearby Mediterranean waters, the sea bream used in this dish is baked in salt.

• Gamba Roja de Garrucha: These red prawns, from the nearby town of Garrucha, are renowned for their exceptional flavour and tenderness.

Sweets and desserts

• Tarta de Santiago: Enjoyed all across Spain, this classic almond cake from Galicia is characterised by its moist texture and subtle lemon and cinnamon flavours.

• Paparajotes: Lemon leaves, coated in a sweet batter, fried and dusted with sugar and cinnamon, are a speciality of the region.

Local drinks

• Vino de Jumilla: The nearby Jumilla region is known for its robust red wines, made primarily from the Monastrell grape. These wines are a perfect accompaniment to the local cuisine.

• Estrella de Levante: This popular local beer, brewed in Murcia, is known for its light and refreshing taste.