Laguna de Puerto Rey

Laguna de Puerto Rey is a small brackish coastal lagoon in the municipality of Vera, in the province of Almería, Andalusia. It formed where the Antas River meets the Mediterranean and has become one of the most distinctive natural landmarks along this stretch of the Almería coast.

Where exactly is it?

The lagoon sits right on the shoreline, wedged between two beaches. To the north stretches Puerto Rey beach, over two kilometers of open sand, while to the south lies Las Marinas beach, close to the boundary with the municipality of Garrucha. This position at the meeting point of river and sea gives the lagoon its transitional character, with fresh and salt water mixing in its waters.

What will you see there?

Reeds and cattails ring the lagoon, providing shelter for a substantial population of waterbirds. The site has been designated a Site of Community Importance, covering roughly 2.7 hectares, underlining its role as a resting stop for birds migrating between Africa and Europe. Walking along the shore, visitors can expect to spot herons, ducks, and other waterfowl, especially early in the morning or around sunset.

A wide promenade runs alongside the lagoon, connecting it to the nearby fishing village, and in recent years a pedestrian footbridge several hundred meters long was added, linking both banks of the water. This makes it possible to walk or cycle a full loop around the lagoon without backtracking. A sailing school and an adapted water sports center for people with disabilities also operate in the area, making it an accessible base for families and organized groups.

How to get there?

Laguna de Puerto Rey lies a few kilometers from the center of Vera, toward the coast, near the area known as El Playazo. Driving is the most convenient option, with parking available nearby to serve summer beach traffic. A coastal road also connects the lagoon to central Vera, making it accessible by bicycle as well.

When to visit?

Early spring and autumn are the best times to come, when the lagoon hosts the highest numbers of migrating birds and temperatures are milder than in the height of summer. In summer, the site mainly serves as a backdrop to Puerto Rey and Las Marinas beaches, both popular with visitors drawn to the wide, sandy coastline. Morning and evening walks along the promenade help avoid the midday heat and offer the best conditions for birdwatching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim in the lagoon? The lagoon is a protected area for waterbirds, so swimming takes place on the adjoining Puerto Rey and Las Marinas beaches rather than in the lagoon itself.

Is there tourist infrastructure on site? Yes — a promenade and pedestrian footbridge run alongside the lagoon, and a sailing school and water sports center operate nearby.

Is the lagoon a good spot for birdwatching? Definitely — as a Site of Community Importance, it functions as a migratory stopover for waterbirds traveling between Africa and Europe.

How long does it take to walk around the lagoon? Thanks to the footbridge linking both banks, a full loop typically takes around 30–45 minutes at a relaxed pace, depending on how many stops you make to watch the wildlife.