Welcome to Santa Pola, a delightful coastal town nestled along the sun-kissed shores of Spain’s Costa Blanca! With its rich history, stunning beaches, and mouth-watering cuisine, Santa Pola is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Are you ready to discover the charm of this Mediterranean paradise? Let’s dive into the wonders and adventures that await you in Santa Pola!
- Explore Santa Pola’s captivating 3000-year history and thrilling pirate tales!
- Delight in the pristine beaches, water sports galore, and gastronomic adventures of this Costa Blanca gem!
- Discover its rich cultural sites & museums, natural wonders & accommodation options for an unforgettable journey!
Exploring the Rich History of Santa Pola
Santa Pola’s history, which can be traced back to approximately 3000 years BC, is an intriguing narrative of civilizations, pirates, and ancient architecture. Situated in the Valencian Community, Santa Pola is a town steeped in history, with remnants of its Roman and maritime past scattered throughout the area.
Roman Legacy: Portus Illicitanus and Roman House
The Roman legacy in Santa Pola is simply mesmerizing! The ancient Portus Illicitanus, an archaeological site, unveils the town’s Roman roots and serves as a reminder of its importance as a trade center in Roman times. Additionally, the Roman House of the Palmeral is an intriguing site, where the practice of pickling and salting fish started as early as the 4th century BC.
One can only imagine the vibrant trade activities that once transpired in this delightful fishing town, with fishing boats playing a significant role in connecting it to the nearby town.
Pirate Tales and the Castle-Fortress
Intriguingly, Santa Pola’s history is intertwined with exciting tales of piracy! The infamous Barbary pirates once used the nearby Tabarca Island as a base for their daring attacks on the coast. To protect the town, the magnificent Castle-Fortress was built in the 16th century, serving as a stronghold against pirate attacks.
Today, this stunning example of Renaissance military architecture stands proudly in the town centre, near the Plaza de la Glorieta and the municipal exhibition hall, inviting visitors to take a step back in time and relive the city’s swashbuckling past. Just a short walk away, the Virgen de Loreto Chapel adds to the historical atmosphere of the area.
The Beauty of Santa Pola’s Beaches
Santa Pola boasts a wealth of stunning sandy beaches, ideal for basking in the sun and relishing the invigorating Mediterranean Sea. From the popular Gran Playa to the picturesque Playa Levante, these beaches offer the ideal setting for relaxation and leisurely strolls along the shore.
Gran Playa and Playa Levante
Gran Playa is an urban beach with awe-inspiring views of the sea and a spacious outdoor swimming pool, while Playa Levante is known for its length of 420 meters and high occupancy rate. Both beaches boast easy accessibility and are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Pola.
With a marina nearby and free wifi available, Playa Levante is a dream come true for beach lovers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Water Sports Galore
Keen for some excitement? Santa Pola provides a multitude of water-based activities for adrenaline junkies and sea lovers. Some of the activities you can enjoy include:
- Paragliding
- Diving
- Snorkeling
- Boat trips to the nearby Isla de Tabarca
There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Therefore, Santa Pola is the ideal destination to plunge into new adventures, regardless of whether you’re a seasoned water sports enthusiast or a beginner seeking to try something new.
Delightful Day Trips from Santa Pola
Santa Pola’s allure extends beyond the town’s boundaries! Numerous captivating day trips await, offering opportunities to discover the neighboring treasures of the Costa Blanca. Two must-visit destinations are the pirate’s paradise of Isla de Tabarca and the cultural city of Alicante, which are both easily accessible and perfect for a day of exploration.
Isla de Tabarca: A Pirate’s Paradise
Isla de Tabarca, once a headquarters for the Berber pirates, is now a Marine Reserve teeming with lush vegetation and diverse wildlife. The island’s captivating history can be felt through its monuments and buildings, such as La Galera and La Nao.
The waters surrounding Tabarca are home to an astonishing array of marine flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. So, seize your treasure map and embark on a journey to this erstwhile pirate haven!
Alicante: A City of Culture and History
Situated a stone’s throw away from Santa Pola is the dynamic city of Alicante, a destination overflowing with cultural and historical richness. Here are some must-see attractions in Alicante:
- Marvel at the imposing Castillo de Santa Barbara.
- Stroll along the picturesque Passeig Esplanada d’Espanya.
- Immerse yourself in the city’s rich past by visiting the Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante (MARQ).
Given its wealth of attractions and proximity to Alicante Airport, Alicante serves as an excellent day trip destination to enhance your Santa Pola journey.
Gastronomic Adventures in Santa Pola
A journey to Santa Pola isn’t complete without savouring its delicious local dishes! The town is a gastronomic paradise, offering a variety of dishes that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage. Some must-try dishes include:
- Crayfish
- Red prawns
- Paella
- Fish stews
Your taste buds are in for a treat.
In addition to sampling the local fare, be sure to visit some of the best restaurants in Santa Pola for an unforgettable dining experience. Some of the top restaurants in Santa Pola include:
- Sapori d’Italia
- Restaurante Lugano
- Los Curros
- Restaurante El Capitán
These eateries offer a wide range of flavors and dishes that will satisfy any palate.
Natural Wonders: Salinas de Santa Pola and Faro de Santa Pola
Santa Pola also hosts remarkable natural marvels that are sure to captivate you. The Salinas de Santa Pola salt flats are a protected nature reserve. It is also a special preservation area, dedicated to conserving several species of wild birds, including the stunning flamingos.
What’s more, the scenic Faro de Santa Pola lighthouse offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and is a popular spot for hiking, cycling, and hang-gliding.
Museums and Cultural Sites in Santa Pola
Delve into Santa Pola’s local culture by exploring the town’s intriguing museums and cultural landmarks. The Archaeological Museum houses an impressive collection of Iberian and Roman artifacts, while the Fishing Museum and the Sea Museum feature a captivating array of maritime objects and a mesmerizing aquarium.
These museums not only provide a glimpse into the town’s rich history but also showcase the unique blend of ancient and modern influences that have shaped Santa Pola’s vibrant culture.
Finding Your Home Away from Home: Accommodation Options in Santa Pola
Regardless of whether you’re looking for an affordable apartment or a lavish villa, Santa Pola provides a diverse range of lodging choices to match your requirements and tastes. Some of the best budget-friendly apartments include listings on:
- Trip.com
- Spain Houses
- Spain Holiday
- Idealista
- Clickstay
For those in search of a more opulent stay, Varadero Calma, Santa Polita, and Luxury Villa Premium Salinas are just a few of the many luxurious villas available for rent. With so many options at your disposal, finding your home away from home in Santa Pola has never been easier!
Navigating Santa Pola is effortless, courtesy of the town’s effective public transportation network. Buses and trains connect different areas within the town and travel to and from other destinations, making it easy to explore the region at your leisure.
For those intending to visit the mesmerising nearby island, Isla de Tabarca, a taxi boat provides the quickest means of transport, reaching the island in a mere 15-20 minutes.
Summary
Santa Pola is a true Costa Blanca gem, offering a wealth of history, stunning beaches, delicious cuisine, and natural wonders. From exploring the town’s Roman legacy and pirate past to indulging in gastronomic adventures and embarking on delightful day trips, there’s no shortage of experiences to make your visit to Santa Pola unforgettable. So, pack your bags and set sail for this charming Mediterranean paradise – your adventure awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Santa Pola touristy?
Santa Pola is a popular tourist destination on the Costa Blanca in the Valencian Community, so yes, it’s definitely touristy.
Is Santa Pola a good place to live?
Santa Pola is a great place to live, with its close proximity to the airport at Alicante and miles of sandy beaches along the coast. Not to mention well-known towns like Javea, Altea and Calpe just up north!
How far is Santa Pola from airport?
Santa Pola is conveniently located only 15 minutes north of Alicante Airport, making it easily accessible for beach-goers looking to enjoy its 11 kilometers of beaches!
What region is Santa Pola?
Santa Pola is a popular tourist town located on the Costa Blanca in the Valencian Community of Spain, just 20km south of Alicante and with a population of over 31,000 people.
What is the best time to visit Santa Pola?
Visit Santa Pola in April, May, October, or November for pleasant weather and fewer crowds!
Discover Canary Islands
There are seven main islands in the Canary Islands archipelago. Discover all of them and check out the places worth to see.| Island | Tourist attractions and interesting places |
| Tenerife | Loro Park, Jungle Park, Siam Park, Lago Martianez, Monkey Park and other Amusement parks in Tenerife. Teide National Park, volcano Teide (Pico del Teide), Los Gigantes Cliffs, Masca, Anaga Mountains, Pyramids in Güímar, Casa de los Balcones, Cueva del Viento, Dragon Tree. Popular cities in Tenerife: Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Buenavista del Norte, Garachico, Puerto de la Cruz, Puerto de Santiago, Costa Adeje, Taganana, Guía de Isora, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, El Médano, La Orotava, Icod de los Vinos, Arona, San Miguel de Abona, La Matanza de Acentejo, La Victoria de Acentejo, Santa Úrsula, Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, Los Realejos, San Andrés, Los Gigantes |
| Fuerteventura | Dunas de Corralejo, Oasis Park, Acua Water Park, Lobos Island (Isla de Lobos), Parque Natural de Corralejo, Ecomuseo La Alcogida. Popular cities, towns, and villages: Puerto del Rosario, Corralejo, Tarajalejo, El Cotillo, Majanicho, La Oliva, Morro Jable, Costa Calma, Caleta de fuste. Popular beaches in Fuerteventura: El Castillo, Playa de Esquinzo |
| Gran Canaria | Tourist attractions: Poema del Mar, El Faro de Maspalomas, Cenobio de Valerón, Pueblo Canario, Necrópolis de Arteara, Casa de Colón. Amusement Parks: Holiday World Maspalomas, Aqualand Maspalomas, Sioux City Park, Palmitos Park, Mundo Aborigen, Camel Safari Park. Natural attractions: Jardín Canario (botanical garden), Pico de Bandama Hill, Barranco de Guiniguada, Pinar de Tamadaba (natural park), Dunas de Maspalomas, Roque nublo, Barranco de Santa Brígida, Cañon del Águila, Doramas Park (Parque Doramas), Parque de Santa Catalina. Popular cities: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Maspalomas, San Bartolomé de Tirajana, Playa del Inglés, Puerto de Mogán, Artenara. Beaches in Gran Canaria: Playa de Las Canteras (Plaża Las Canteras), Playa del Inglés, Playa de San Agustín, Playa de Taurito, Playa de Puerto Rico, Playa de Guayedra, Playa del Juncal, Playa Hoya del Pozo, Playa de Melenara |
| Lanzarote | Cueva de los Verdes (cave), Jameos del Agua (cave), Jardín de Cactus (cactus garden), Timanfaya National Park (Montañas del Fuego), Aqualava Water Park, Museo Atlántico Lanzarote (underwater museum), Castillo de San Gabriel (castle), Castillo de San José (contemporary art museum), Papagayo Beach (Playa de Papagayo), Fundación César Manrique (museum and an old house of César Manrique), Los Hervideros, Mirador del río, Volcano El Cuervo, La Geria. Popular cities: Arrecife, Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca, El Golfo i Charco de Los Clicos |
| La Palma | Popular cities: Santa Cruz de la Palma, Breña baja, Breña alta |
| La Gomera | Garajonay National Park, Los Órganos, Casa de Colón. Popular cities: San Sebastián de la Gomera, Chipude, Agulo, Playa de Santiago |
| El Hierro | Popular cities: Valverde, La Frontera |
