While it is true that La Manga del Mar Menor is known as one of the top beach destinations on the Mediterranean coast, it also possesses a natural wealth that is envied by other regions.
Some of this is concentrated on the various islands located around La Manga. Most of these La Manga islands are of volcanic origin you can visit them, a plan you shouldn’t miss if you’re planning a vacation with children soon.
The Islands Visible from La Manga
The strip of land known as La Manga del Mar Menor offers a privileged view of both the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean Sea. And it is precisely in these waters where you can find the eight islands in its vicinity.
Five of these islands of La Manga are located in the Mar Menor and date back to the same era when this strip of land was formed. Together they make up the Protected Landscape of Open Spaces and Islands of the Mar Menor. From the largest to smallest they are: Baron Island, Perdiguera Island, Deer Island, Subject Island, and Round Island.
The remaining three islands of La Manga are located in the Mediterranean Sea, also known as the larger sea. These are the Grosa Island, the well-known Ant Islands, and the Farallon islet.
Islands Near the Area
Visiting the islands of La Manga is a different way to enjoy your vacation on the coast, and we want to help you get to know them a bit better:
- Baron Island. It is the largest of all in the Mar Menor and is 104 meters above sea level. Moreover, this island is private property and has a legend that the local people can tell you. It features a Neo-Mudejar style mansion that resembles a castle with an entrance leading to the sea.
- Perdiguera Island. It contains a Roman archaeological site where ceramics and amphoras have been found. 30 years ago, the island had beach bars where you could enjoy snacks and meals, as well as grilled fish and Caldero. Several sentences forced the dismantling docks and the beach bars, and today it is abandoned and somewhat neglected. However, it still retains the charm of a glorious past.
- Deer Island. You can access this island on foot from the Deer Beach because it is very close to the coast.
- Subject Island. It is the most remote of those in the Mar Menor and is a nesting area for seagulls, egrets, and yellow-legged gulls, as well as vegetation such as lavender, corniche, zamarrilla, and thyme.
- Round Island. It is the smallest of all and like the Subject Island, it is an important nesting area for water birds.
- Grosa Island: This is the largest island of those located in the Mediterranean Sea and is a protected area, so if you go there, you should know that you cannot get onto the surface. What you can do instead is scuba dive in its surroundings. In the 17th century, this island was a refuge for Barbary pirates.
- Ant Islands: If you visit Cabo de Palos, you should not miss them, as they are one of the highlights of the coastline, the Cabo de Palos Marine Reserve and Ant Islands. As with the Grosa, you cannot get onto their surface, but their underwater environment is an absolute treasure for those brave enough to go diving.
- Farallon Island: Located near Grosa Island, it forms a natural navigation channel. Its characteristic shape, with a natural arch, is a result of erosion and the passage of time. This islet is also part of the world’s geological heritage and has an underwater biodiversity replete with subaqueous wonders.
Visit The Islands of La Manga
As you can see, the islands of La Manga are an extraordinary place if you are looking for a holiday where you can get in touch with nature and discover a different side of La Manga del Mar Menor.
Each and every one of the eight islands can be visited on numerous boat excursions that depart from different points in La Manga del Mar Menor. Some even offer the opportunity for beginners and experienced divers to make dives and witness firsthand the stunning visual spectacle of the posidonia seagrass meadows and the underwater biodiversity around them.
Moreover, if you enjoy sports like kayaking or paddle surfing, you can also get close to them while practicing your favorite sport.
