Collados Beach

Collados Beach sits at the southern tip of La Manga del Mar Menor in San Javier, right where the Mediterranean meets the Mar Menor lagoon. The 1950s building was originally a minister's holiday chalet, designed to look like a flying saucer. That retro-futurist architecture is still the first thing you notice.

The setup is built for full days. A private pool sits steps from the shoreline, premium sunbeds line the beach, and there's a kids' area for families. Live music runs through the summer season.

The kitchen covers both Mediterranean and Japanese menus. Local fish, rice dishes, grilled meats on one side, and a Japanese line that feels unexpected for this stretch of coast. It doubles as an event venue for weddings and private functions.

Prices sit in the $$$ range for the area. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and through July and August. Parking is available on site.

Rated 4.1 from 470 Google reviews. The location and building are the main draw, but some guests find the prices steep for what's on offer.