Villananitos beach, Lo Pagán
- Driving time
- About 20 minutes by car
- Area
- Mar Menor
- Beach
Playa de Villananitos is an 840 metre town beach on the Mar Menor, in Lo Pagán near San Pedro del Pinatar, and it is about a 20 minute drive from Lago Rosa Apartment.
This beach is not on the open sea but on the Mar Menor, the great salt lagoon. So the water is usually flat and shallow, which draws families. The shore is 840 metres long and on average 30 metres wide, with fine grey sand. It gets very busy in summer.
The Murcia region lists beach bars and restaurants, parasol and sunbed hire, adapted shade, a children's play area, a promenade, wooden walkways and ramps. From 1 July to 15 September 2026 there was even help with amphibious chairs and a lift. Lifeguards are on duty at the height of summer.
Opposite the beach are the mud baths of Las Charcas, where people have long coated themselves for free in mud from the lagoon. Many then rinse off and sunbathe here. It is more an old custom to watch or try: test it first on a small patch of skin.
Do check the current water quality of the Mar Menor before you go, as it varies.
Our tip: with small children
The bottom is shallow and the water calm, making it a good place to play. Do check the flag and water quality.
Parking
There is no dedicated car park. You park by the road, in summer often some way off. Cycling or walking is then quicker.
Make a round of it
The San Pedro salt flats begin close by, good for flamingos.
Frequently asked questions
Is Playa de Villananitos suitable for children?
Yes, the Mar Menor water is usually calm and shallow, and there is a play area. Do check the water quality beforehand.
Is it sand or shingle?
Sand: fine and grey, according to the Murcia region.
Where are the mud baths?
At Las Charcas, opposite the beach, on the edge of the nature park. They are free.
