Santa Pola

Santa Pola – a seaside port town with Spanish character

Santa Pola is a coastal town located about 20 km south of Alicante and approximately 15 minutes from Alicante-Elche Airport. Unlike many newer urbanisations in the region, it is a traditional port town functioning year-round, preserving its local character and everyday life.

The town’s history is closely linked to fishing and the sea — one of the most important fishing ports in the province still operates here, and evening fish auctions and restaurants serving fresh seafood are part of daily life. Overlooking the town is the 16th-century fortress Castillo-Fortaleza de Santa Pola, around which the centre with pedestrian streets, shops and cafés has developed.

Santa Pola offers long sandy beaches with a gentle entrance into the sea. On the town side are Playa de Levante and Playa de Gran Playa with promenades and restaurants, while on the outskirts the coastline becomes more natural, leading towards dunes and Playa del Carabassí.

The beaches are convenient for everyday use, walking and water sports. The area is popular for kitesurfing, windsurfing and sailing, and the marina forms a centre of recreational activity.

Santa Pola is inhabited throughout the year. There are schools, medical centres, supermarkets, a municipal market, restaurants and administrative services. Local markets, fiestas and events take place regularly, so the town remains active outside the summer season. Ferries depart from the port to Tabarca Island — a small inhabited island with a marine reserve and crystal-clear water, popular for day trips.

Location and distances

• Alicante-Elche Airport – approx. 15 minutes
• Alicante – approx. 20 km
• Elche – approx. 15 km
• Gran Alacant – approx. 5 km
• Torrevieja – approx. 30 km

Thanks to its proximity to the airport and a major city, Santa Pola is convenient both for permanent residence and a second holiday home.

In Santa Pola, apartments near the beach and harbour predominate, along with holiday flats and smaller residential buildings. On the outskirts, townhouses and newer developments are also available.

The area is especially popular among buyers looking for a more authentic Spanish lifestyle while still having access to the sea and full infrastructure.

Why choose Santa Pola

• traditional port town
• wide sandy beaches
• fresh seafood and restaurants
• close to Alicante Airport
• everyday life all year round

Santa Pola is a great option for those who want to live by the sea in an authentic Spanish environment while maintaining quick access to Alicante and international connections.