Mazarrón, a picturesque municipality on Spain’s Costa Cálida, has recently been honoured as the “Pueblo Mágico de Murcia” (Magical Town of Murcia) by Institute for Local Development and Social Studies (IDL). This accolade recognises Mazarrón’s distinctive blend of maritime heritage, historic mining roots and Mediterranean coastline — highlighting its broad appeal as one of the most complete destinations in the region. The award will be officially presented during FITUR 2026 (Feria Internacional de Turismo), on 22 January, at IFEMA in Madrid.
As a “Magical Town”, Mazarrón joins a carefully curated list of destinations celebrated across Spain — a recognition that not only underlines its natural beauty and heritage but also its growing potential for sustainable tourism and community-driven revival.
Discover what makes Mazarrón magical
Mazarrón’s appeal goes far beyond the typical sun-and-sea clichés. Its bay opens onto the Mediterranean and boasts more than 35 km of coastline, featuring a mix of long beaches, hidden coves and rugged sea beds – ideal for beach-goers, scuba-divers and lovers of nautical sports.
One of the region’s natural wonders – Bolnuevo Erosions (also known locally as “Las Gredas” or “La Ciudad Encantada”) – offers a breathtaking landscape: wind- and water-carved sandstone formations that rise dramatically near the sea. Declared a protected “Monumento Natural”, Bolnuevo holds geological, ecological and aesthetic significance
But Mazarrón is also steeped in history: its mining legacy dates back to Carthaginian and Roman times, and its territory still shows evidence of that past in archaeological sites, ancient salt-preserving factories and relics of Roman and Phoenician maritime trade. The old town retains monuments such as the 16th-century churches, the ruins of the 15th-century Vélez Castle, and several historic watch-towers that once protected the coast from pirate raids.
Beyond nature and history, Mazarrón maintains a traditional lifestyle rooted in fishing, local produce and Mediterranean gastronomy – elements that give the town a sense of authenticity and connection to its past.
What this new status means for expats and travellers in Spain
For expatriates living in Spain – whether already settled or exploring future possibilities – Mazarrón’s recognition as a “Magical Town” brings exciting new reasons to consider it as a destination for holidays or a peaceful retreat. The enhanced visibility could accelerate improvements in services, infrastructure and tourism-oriented amenities, while preserving the authentic charm and lifestyle of a coastal town.
In practical terms, this could translate into better-maintained beaches and coves, more cultural programming, boosted local economy and an overall higher standard of facilities – all while retaining Mazarrón’s historical character, natural surroundings and laid-back pace of life.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway, a relaxed sea-side home base or simply a culturally rich escape from the crowds, Mazarrón now stands out as a destination where heritage, beauty and community spirit combine under a recognised seal of quality.