10 Best Things to Do in Torrevieja

Laguna Salada de Torrevieja and Laguna de La Mata are 2 large salt lagoons on the outskirts of Torrevieja and are an excellent destination for birdwatchers, cyclists and nature lovers. The protected reserves are separated by a strip of land and are habitats for amphibians and reptiles, plus more than a hundred species of birds including flamingos and other waders.

Torrevieja Lagoon is pink and used for salt extraction, while La Mata is green and also where you’ll find the Visitor Centre. From the small centre, you can access paths for relaxed strolls and bike rides, as well as bird watching hides, to enjoy panoramic views of the diverse ecosystems within the park.

La Mata Beach is the biggest and one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in Torrevieja. The soft, golden-sand Blue Flag beach extends along the coast for some 2.4 km to the north of the city. It's a lovely spot for soaking up the warm Spanish sun, a morning or evening stroll or for admiring the burning orange sun setting over the sea. 

There's also a scenic promenade running along the beach dotted with a variety of beach bars and restaurants. At the quieter northern end, you’ll find a 14th-century watchtower which served as a defence against pirate attacks. Water sports enthusiasts should head to the southern end of the beach and try their hand at surfing. The surf school there offers various courses.

Anchored in Torrevieja's harbour, the Delfin Submarine Floating Museum is the first museum of its kind in Spain and features Submarine S-61, an actual submarine from the 1970s. Clamber aboard to discover what the living conditions were like for the crew of 56 submariners who spent several weeks, even months, inside the cramped, claustrophobic sub.

The museum has different opening times throughout the year, so it's best to call ahead. It's closed on rainy days for safety reasons. You need to be at least 1.15 metres tall to enter. Near the museum lies an old customs boat which is also open to visitors.

The Torrevieja Pier, also known as Dique de Levante Breakwater, is one of the town’s most famous sites, popular with local fishermen, visitors, and… cats. Starting at the harbour, the wheel-chair friendly, wooden-plank boardwalk leads out to sea for some 1,4 km, ending at the Torrevieja Lighthouse. After the gentle walk, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean horizon and back over to the town and the port.

Along the way, you’ll come across the iconic sculpture of Bella Lola sitting on a bench and looking out to sea, wistfully waiting for her beloved’s safe return. She is arguably the most photographed lady in Torrevieja. Although there are a couple of shaded benches along the way, it’s best to bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water.

The red-bricked Inmaculada Concepción is Torrevieja’s main church and dates back to the 18th-century. It stands in the picturesque Plaza de la Constitución in the heart of the city, next to the Town Hall. In the evenings, the church and plaza are well-lit and bustling with people, making this area a fantastic, atmospheric spot to sit back, relax and people-watch.

The earthquake of 1829 almost destroyed the entire town, including the church. It took over 50 years to restore the neo-classical building to its former glory, which includes 2 photogenic bell towers, a high-ceiling nave and an ornately decorated altar.

The Torrevieja Casino has an enviable location right in the heart of town, overlooking the Paseo Vista Alegre and the Marina. The Moorish-styled building was built in 1896 as an entertainment venue and to house the Sociedad Cultural Casino de Torrevieja (Cultural Society Casino of Torrevieja).

Although it’s still a private club with members-only lounges and games rooms, some areas of the historic building are open to the general public. Visitors are free to use the cafeteria and bar facilities, as well as explore the impressive first floor which boasts a beautiful vaulted ceiling, chandeliers and huge artworks. There’s also a small hall with Moorish tiling and Arabic script. Throughout the year the casino hosts plenty of cultural events and art exhibitions which everyone can enjoy.

The Real Club Náutico is a marine sports centre situated in Torrevieja’s harbour and offers a variety of nautical activities and sports suitable for all ages. From sailing and rowing to windsurfing and fishing, the centre has modern facilities and professional instructors to ensure a day full of entertainment.

The Club’s installations also include an outdoor swimming pool and an all-day restaurant serving drinks and typical local dishes. On weekends they offer a set 3-course lunch. The pool and restaurant are right on the harbour and is an ideal spot to sip on a glass of wine or beer, snack on traditional tapas and watch the sunset against the Mediterranean Sea.