Lago de las Tortugas - Image 1
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Lago de las Tortugas

4.3
·698 reviews·Marbella, Spain

A serene natural park near Marbella, famous for its turtles, scenic dam, and walking trails. Perfect for picnics and a peaceful escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

April - September mornings

Best turtle sightings

CrowdLow
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Lago de las Tortugas - Image 1

Lago de las Tortugas

Best Time

April - September mornings

Best turtle sightings

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene natural park near Marbella, famous for its turtles, scenic dam, and walking trails. Perfect for picnics and a peaceful escape.

4.3
(698 reviews)

"Cute small lake with nice trails, great for spotting turtles and enjoying nature."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐢 Turtle Season

Visit from April onwards for the best chance to see turtles basking or swimming.

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

Enjoy walking and running paths with scenic views. Great for dog walks too! :dog:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Turtle Spotting

Turtle Spotting

Lago de las Tortugas

Watch turtles pop their heads out of the water and swim in their natural habitat. Best seen from April onwards.

Scenic Dam Views

Scenic Dam Views

The Dam

Enjoy peaceful moments and picturesque sunrises or sunsets from the top of the dam.

Nature Trails

Nature Trails

Surrounding Area

Explore walking and running trails offering beautiful natural scenery and mountain paths.

Family Picnic Spots

Family Picnic Spots

Picnic Areas

Relax at shaded picnic tables, some under tents, perfect for a family outing.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Turtle Sightings

Spotting the namesake turtles at Lago de las Tortugas is best from April onwards. Visit during warmer months for the highest chance of seeing them bask or swim. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene experience away from midday crowds.

Embrace the Natural Vibe

Lago de las Tortugas is a natural park, not a manicured resort. Expect a relaxed atmosphere with picnic areas and walking trails. While some reviews mention dog waste, responsible visitors can help keep it clean. It's a great spot for a peaceful day out.

Best Times

When
April - September mornings
Why
Best turtle sightings
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Peaceful ambiance
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Family fun
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Sublim Beach Club, Marbella Definitely one of the best beach clubs in Marbella ! Dreamy views, comfy sunbeds, great vibes and delicious cocktails. A little slice of paradise on the Costa del Sol ☀️ Add this spot to your beach club bucket list ! #marbella #spain #beachclub #sublimbeachclub #fy #fyp #foruyou #travelcouple
@letstravelwithus__
35.7K likes • 503.3K views

🐢 Turtle Season

Visit from April onwards for the best chance to see turtles basking or swimming. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

Enjoy walking and running paths with scenic views. Great for dog walks too! :dog: Reddit

Our date day! Man made lagoon not far from Marbella - literally all the water sports, jacuzzi and cocktails you could want 🌴🤍 #marbella #estapona #holidays #date
@brittanyk888
29.2K likes • 727.7K views
I will go back here fr. #marbella #travel #marbellalifestyle
@mer.gann
22.8K likes • 610.1K views

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Shaded picnic tables are available, some under tents. Perfect for a relaxed meal. :sandwich: Reddit

🚗 Ample Parking

Don't worry about parking; there's plenty of space available. :car: Reddit

#MARBELLA 😮 Avistan un tiburón peregrino en las costas de Marbella. Las imágenes han sido compartidas por la empresa náutica Aquatime S.L. «¡Nunca en nuestros 35 años de historia habíamos visto nada igual!», aseguran desde la empresa. Vídeo: Málagasequeja
@azcostadelsol
22.7K likes • 1.2M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐢 Turtle Season

Visit from April onwards for the best chance to see turtles basking or swimming. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

Enjoy walking and running paths with scenic views. Great for dog walks too! :dog: Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Shaded picnic tables are available, some under tents. Perfect for a relaxed meal. :sandwich: Reddit

🚗 Ample Parking

Don't worry about parking; there's plenty of space available. :car: Reddit

☀️ Enjoy the Dam

Sit on the dam for beautiful views, especially during sunrise. :sunrise: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(698 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Lago de las Tortugas is a pleasant natural park appreciated for its relaxing atmosphere, turtle sightings, and scenic dam views. Visitors enjoy the walking trails and picnic areas, making it a good spot for families and dog owners. However, some recent reviews mention issues with water levels, dog waste, and loose dogs, which can detract from the experience.

"🌳 Nice lake with large beach area. Plenty of shade too.

🏕️ Seems like it is popular with campers. You can drive up to the water and camp.

🎣 Many people also fish on from the shore and from the dam.

🥘 There are picnic tables in the shade. Some tables are under a big tent.

🅿️ There is plenty of parking.

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 There a kids playing area.

🏃 There are couple of trails suitable for walking and running."

Constantin L.

"Cute small lake with some nice trails surrounding the area. Great little spot to bring your dog and explore, and if you sit there quietly, apart from spotting the ducklings, you can spot the turtles popping their heads out of the water and swimming around the lake."

Beatriz Valenzuela Emmitt

"Great natural place with water dam and lake with turtles. They are not visible in winter but from April start to show up. Playground for children and paths to climb the mountains."

Mariusz

What People Like

Nice lake and beach
Turtle sightings
Shaded picnic areas

What People Dislike

Low water levels
Dog waste
Loose dogs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lago de las Tortugas is located a short drive from Marbella, often mentioned in conjunction with Estepona. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, driving is the most convenient option. Some TikToks hint at it being a 'man-made lagoon not far from Marbella',TikTok suggesting it's easily accessible by car.

Absolutely! Lago de las Tortugas is a perfect day trip destination from Marbella, offering a natural escape with activities like walking and picnicking. It's a refreshing change of pace from the beach clubs. TikTok

Parking is generally plentiful at Lago de las Tortugas, making it easy for visitors to access the lake and its amenities. Reddit

Yes, the area is popular with campers, and you can drive up to the water's edge to set up camp. Reddit

While Lago de las Tortugas offers a natural retreat, it's often mentioned in the context of Marbella and its surroundings, which include popular beach clubs like Sublim Beach Club TikTok and areas like Puerto Banús for sunset views. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Information regarding entrance fees is not explicitly mentioned in the provided sources. However, it's described as a natural park and a relaxing spot, suggesting it might be free to enter or have a minimal charge. Reddit+1

Specific opening and closing hours for Lago de las Tortugas are not detailed. As a natural park, it's likely accessible during daylight hours, but it's advisable to check local information if precise timings are critical for your visit.

Given its nature as a natural park, advance booking for general entry is unlikely to be required. However, if you plan to use specific facilities or attend any organized events, it's best to verify.

While no specific restrictions are highlighted, it's always good practice to be mindful of the natural environment. Some reviews mention loose dogs, so keeping pets leashed might be advisable. Reddit

The lake is a natural feature, but turtle sightings are seasonal, with the best time being from April onwards. Reddit The water levels might vary, and some reviews suggest it can be low or 'nasty' at certain times. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy spotting turtles,Reddit fishing from the shore or dam,Reddit walking and running on the trails,Reddit picnicking at shaded tables,Reddit and there's a kids' playing area. Reddit It's a great spot for a relaxing day in nature.

Turtles are most visible from April onwards. Visiting during warmer months, especially in the morning or late afternoon, increases your chances of spotting them. Reddit

Yes, there is a kids' playing area available, making it a suitable spot for families with young children. Reddit

Fishing is a popular activity at Lago de las Tortugas, with people fishing from both the shore and the dam. Reddit

The atmosphere is generally described as nice, relaxing, and natural. It's a place to unwind, draw, or simply enjoy the scenery. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no specific mentions of restaurants or cafes within the park itself. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics. Reddit

Given its proximity to Marbella, you can find numerous dining options in the city, ranging from tapas bars to upscale restaurants. TikTok

Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, as picnic tables are available and it's a popular spot for picnics. Reddit

The provided information does not mention specific BBQ facilities. However, picnicking is encouraged, so bringing portable cooking equipment might be an option, provided it's done safely and responsibly.

The Marbella area is known for its delicious tapas, fresh seafood, and international cuisine. Exploring local eateries is a must. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the turtles in their natural habitat, the scenic views from the dam (especially at sunrise/sunset), and the surrounding natural landscapes. The kids' play area also offers candid family moments. Reddit

Yes, it's an excellent spot for nature photography, offering opportunities to photograph wildlife (turtles, ducks), landscapes, and the dam. Reddit

Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer beautiful lighting conditions. Midday can be harsh, but good for spotting turtles. Reddit

There is no specific information regarding drone usage. It's advisable to check local regulations for drone operation in natural parks before flying.

Always be respectful of other visitors' privacy. If you wish to photograph individuals or groups, it's best to ask for their permission first.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lago de las Tortugas is a fantastic spot for families. The dedicated kids' playing area ensures little ones have fun, while the shaded picnic spots Reddit make for comfortable family meals. You can easily spend a day here spotting turtles,Reddit exploring the gentle walking trails,Reddit and enjoying the open space. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as dining facilities are limited. The ample parking Reddit also adds to the convenience for families on the go.

🐶 Dog Owners

Bring your furry friends along! Lago de las Tortugas is a great place for dog walks on its surrounding trails. Reddit While the park is generally welcoming to dogs, some reviews mention loose dogs and dog waste.Reddit It's important to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. The natural setting provides plenty of space for dogs to explore safely.

🎣 Anglers

For fishing enthusiasts, Lago de las Tortugas offers a good opportunity to cast a line. Fishing from the shore and the dam is a popular activity here. Reddit While specific regulations or permits aren't detailed, it's a known spot for anglers looking for a relaxed fishing experience in a natural setting. Remember to check local fishing rules and regulations before you go.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

Lago de las Tortugas is a haven for those who appreciate nature. The walking and running trails offer a chance to explore the scenic surroundings and get some exercise. Reddit The opportunity to spot wildlife, particularly the turtles, adds an exciting element for nature lovers. The peaceful atmosphere, especially during off-peak hours, makes it ideal for quiet contemplation and enjoying the natural beauty. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Star Attraction: Turtles of Lago de las Tortugas

The main draw for many visitors to Lago de las Tortugas is, as the name suggests, the turtles. These reptiles are most active and visible from April through September. Travelers recommend visiting during the warmer months for the best chance to see them swimming or basking near the shore. While some reviews note that turtles may not be visible in winter,Reddit the period from spring to early autumn offers a delightful wildlife viewing experience. Patience is key; sitting quietly by the water's edge can reward you with sightings of turtles popping their heads out or gliding through the lake. Reddit

It's important to remember that this is a natural habitat. While the turtles are a highlight, respecting their environment is paramount. Avoid disturbing them, and ensure you follow any park guidelines. The presence of these creatures adds a unique charm to the park, making it a memorable spot for nature lovers and families alike. Reddit

Exploring the Natural Landscape: Trails and Dam

Lago de las Tortugas is more than just a lake; it's surrounded by a natural landscape offering opportunities for exploration. The park features walking and running trails that wind through the area, providing scenic routes for exercise and enjoying the outdoors. These paths are also noted as being suitable for dog walks, making it a pet-friendly destination. Reddit

The dam itself is a significant feature, offering elevated views of the lake and surrounding terrain. It's a popular spot for visitors to sit, relax, and even draw, with some travelers specifically mentioning enjoying the sunrise from the dam. Reddit The trails and the dam area contribute to the overall appeal of Lago de las Tortugas as a place for both active pursuits and peaceful contemplation amidst nature.

Family-Friendly Amenities and Camping

Lago de las Tortugas is well-equipped to cater to families. The park includes a kids' playing area, ensuring that younger visitors have space to enjoy themselves. Reddit Coupled with the picnic tables, some of which are conveniently located under shade structures, it makes for an ideal family outing destination. Reddit

For those looking for a more immersive experience, the area is also popular with campers. Visitors can drive up to the water's edge to set up camp, offering a unique opportunity to stay overnight and enjoy the natural surroundings. Reddit This makes Lago de las Tortugas a versatile destination, suitable for day trips or short camping stays.

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