Santa Pola holidays

How to reach Santa Pola

• Flight time: There are no direct flights to Santa Pola. Alicante-Elche Airport is around 12km away, making it the closest airport. From London and other major UK airports, flights to Alicante take roughly 2 hours 30 minutes.

• Transfer time: The most practical way to transfer from Alicante-Elche Airport to Santa Pola is by taxi, which takes about 15 minutes. Another option is to take the bus to Santa Pola, which will take approximately 40 minutes including other stops along the way.

• Price: It will cost you between €35 and €50 to get a taxi from Alicante-Elche Airport to Santa Pola. The bus is more budget-friendly, with fares costing approximately €3–€5 for one way.

Best time to visit Santa Pola

Santa Pola holidays are great year-round, but before deciding on when to visit, consider what you hope to achieve during your stay and then factor in the weather, your tolerance of crowds and how much you want to spend.

• April to June temperatures are a very pleasant 18°C in April to 24°C in June, with minimal rain showers. This time of year is less crowded, offering a peaceful atmosphere while still enjoying up to 8 hours of sunshine daily.

• July and August mark the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices, with temperatures sometimes soaring to 30°C. These months are perfect for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts, boasting nearly 11 hours of sunshine.

• September to November is an especially lovely time to visit as it’s less crowded and perfect for exploring. Temperatures drop from 26°C in September to 17°C in November and you will get a little more rain (about 40 to 60mm), but there are still lots of sunny days.

• December to March maintains mild weather, with temperatures rarely dropping below 16°C, which appeals to those escaping colder northern climates. Rainfall increases a little more, particularly in December and January, but sunny days are still plentiful.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish is the official language but basic English is commonly spoken within the tourist areas. However, knowing a few basic Spanish phrases will go down well with the locals.

• Local habits and customs: Santa Pola is a relaxed coastal town where life moves at a leisurely pace. By embracing the local afternoon siesta, when many businesses close, and eating your evening meal late (around 9 pm), you’ll enjoy a more authentic experience.

• Currency: The local currency is the Euro. Most establishments accept major credit cards, and ATMs are located throughout the town.

• Getting around: You can easily navigate around Santa Pola on foot, but there are also local buses and taxis freely accessible. A single bus fare costs approximately €1.50. Renting a bike is another popular way of getting around.

• Electricity and plug types: Continental-style, two-pin sockets and 220 volts are standard in Spain; UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Spain operates on Central European Time, 1 hour ahead of the UK.

Best things to do in Santa Pola

The seaside town of Santa Pola is one of the most visually pleasing in the area. It has beautiful beaches, charming streets lined with historic buildings and something to suit all tastes nearby.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Lighthouse viewpoint: Located near the lighthouse, this viewing platform is the best place from which to see the island of Tabarca. For the best view, visit at dawn as the sun rises.

The best districts

• Santa Pola Marina: With elegant shops, excellent restaurants and energetic nightlife, this part of town is the centre of the action. It's an appealing spot to meander about and enjoy the atmosphere.

• Gran Playa: With a long sandy beach and numerous shops, bars, cafés and restaurants to meet all needs, Gran Playa is the town's primary tourist area.

Parks and gardens

• El Palmeral Park: This well-manicured town centre park is not huge, but the lush surroundings are more than enough space to stroll around and take in the scenery. Plenty of shade is provided by enormous palm trees.

Historical monuments

• Santa Pola Fortress-Castle: As well as providing a fascinating insight into the town’s history, nowadays this 16th-century fortress houses the Museum of the Sea and the Fishing Museum.

• Roman Ruins of Portus Ilicitanus: At this open-air museum visitors are transported back to the ancient Roman city of Colonia Iulia Ilici Augusta (modern day Elche) and its port Portus Ilicitanus, today's Santa Pola.

Day trips in the area

• Tabarca Island: Accessible by boat, this little island has a protected marine reserve with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling.

• Elche: Renowned for its palm trees, this neighbouring town is well worth a visit for its cultural and historical features, especially the breathtaking Elche Basilica.

• Alicante: Just a short drive along the coast, Alicante’s atmospheric streets are worth visiting to take in the varied culinary scene and the medieval Santa Bárbara Castle.

Activities for families in Santa Pola

Since there are many exciting things to do for visitors of all ages, from young children to teenagers and adults, holidays to Santa Pola can be an enjoyable experience for the whole family.

• Beaches and water sports: A family day out at Santa Pola’s beaches, such as Gran Playa and Playa Lisa, offers safe swimming, playgrounds, plenty of space for beach games and excellent facilities. Santa Pola’s beaches are also perfect for water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Several local companies offer equipment rentals and guided tours suitable for families.

• Zoos and aquariums: Visiting the Santa Pola Aquarium, despite its small size, is a great way for children to gain knowledge about marine life while marvelling at all the various sea creatures.

• Urban parks: El Palmeral Park is a wonderful place for families with children. There are play areas for babies and older children, picnic areas and lots of open green space.

• Amusement parks: Among the 20-plus attractions available at Pola Park are inflatable castles, bumper cars, a boating lake, video games, mini-golf and a ballpark.

Free things to do in Santa Pola

Santa Pola is an affordable destination, especially if you make the most of your holiday by taking advantage of the many free activities and attractions.

• Annual festivals: Throughout the year, the region hosts various festivals that are open to the public without charge. A fun time to be in Santa Pola is during the celebration of the Virgen de Loreto in early September: parades, fireworks and children’s games are just a few of the things you can enjoy without charge.

• Hiking: Discover the Sierra de Santa Pola’s free-to-use hiking trails. It’s a brilliant cost-free way to spot local wildlife and take in stunning scenery.

• Free museums: Santa Pola benefits from several museums that offer free entry, including the Salt Museum. Housed in a former salt factory, it offers an insight into the effect that salt extraction has had on the community. Other attractions with free admission are the Museum of the Sea and the Santa Pola Aquarium.

Nature and outdoor activities in Santa Pola

• Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the town and its surroundings on two wheels. The roads around Santa Pola are perfect for cycling.

• Birdwatching: Visit the Salinas de Santa Pola Nature Reserve for a peaceful day of birdwatching. The area is home to various bird species, including flamingos.

• Horse riding: Take a scenic horse ride through the countryside. Several local stables offer guided rides suitable for all levels.

Local dishes in Santa Pola

One of the great delights of holidays to Santa Pola is indulging in the local cuisine, which is rich in seafood and Mediterranean flavours.

Some typical dishes

• Arroz a Banda: A must-try for seafood lovers, this traditional rice dish cooked in fish broth is often served with aioli on the side.

• Caldero: This hearty fish stew is made with fresh local catch, potatoes and a rich broth, and usually served with rice.

Tapas dishes

• Gambas al Ajillo: Prawns are simply sautéed in garlic and olive oil to create this flavourful tapa that’s popular in Santa Pola.

• Pulpo a la Gallega: Octopus seasoned with paprika, olive oil and sea salt is a Galician dish that’s widely enjoyed here as a tapa.

Meat dishes

• Embutidos: A selection of cured meats, including chorizo and salchichón, are typically served with bread and cheese.

• Conejo al Ajillo: Rabbit cooked with garlic and herbs is a traditional Spanish dish that’s full of flavour.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Dorada a la Sal: This dish involves sea bream baked in a salt crust, which keeps the fish moist and enhances its natural flavours.

• Mariscos: A variety of fresh seafood, including clams, mussels and prawns, is served as a mixed platter to produce this popular local dish.

Sweets and desserts

• Turrón: Traditional Spanish nougat made with almonds and honey is especially popular during the Christmas season.

• Horchata and Fartons: Horchata is a refreshing drink made from tiger nuts, often enjoyed with fartons, sweet breadsticks that are perfect for dipping.

Local drinks

• Agua de Valencia: A popular drink in the region, this refreshing cocktail is made with cava, orange juice, vodka and gin.

• Sangria: A classic Spanish drink made with red wine, chopped fruit and a splash of brandy or soda, perfect for sipping on a sunny day.