Lago de las Tortugas
A serene natural park near Marbella, famous for its turtles, scenic dam, and walking trails. Perfect for picnics and a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best turtle sightings
Lago de las Tortugas
Best Time
Best turtle sightings
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.
"Cute small lake with nice trails, great for spotting turtles and enjoying nature."
🐢 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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
The Dam
Enjoy peaceful moments and picturesque sunrises or sunsets from the top of the dam.
Nature Trails
Surrounding Area
Explore walking and running trails offering beautiful natural scenery and mountain paths.
Family Picnic Spots
Picnic Areas
Relax at shaded picnic tables, some under tents, perfect for a family outing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Turtle Sightings
Embrace the Natural Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐢 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:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Shaded picnic tables are available, some under tents. Perfect for a relaxed meal. :sandwich:
🚗 Ample Parking
Don't worry about parking; there's plenty of space available. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐢 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:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Shaded picnic tables are available, some under tents. Perfect for a relaxed meal. :sandwich:
🚗 Ample Parking
Don't worry about parking; there's plenty of space available. :car:
☀️ Enjoy the Dam
Sit on the dam for beautiful views, especially during sunrise. :sunrise:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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',
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.
Parking is generally plentiful at Lago de las Tortugas, making it easy for visitors to access the lake and its amenities.
Yes, the area is popular with campers, and you can drive up to the water's edge to set up camp.
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
and areas like Puerto Banús for sunset views.🎫 🎫 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.
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.
The lake is a natural feature, but turtle sightings are seasonal, with the best time being from April onwards.
The water levels might vary, and some reviews suggest it can be low or 'nasty' at certain times.🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy spotting turtles,
fishing from the shore or dam, walking and running on the trails, picnicking at shaded tables, and there's a kids' playing area. 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.
Yes, there is a kids' playing area available, making it a suitable spot for families with young children.
Fishing is a popular activity at Lago de las Tortugas, with people fishing from both the shore and the dam.
The atmosphere is generally described as nice, relaxing, and natural. It's a place to unwind, draw, or simply enjoy the scenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no specific mentions of restaurants or cafes within the park itself. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics.
Given its proximity to Marbella, you can find numerous dining options in the city, ranging from tapas bars to upscale restaurants.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, as picnic tables are available and it's a popular spot for picnics.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, it's an excellent spot for nature photography, offering opportunities to photograph wildlife (turtles, ducks), landscapes, and the dam.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer beautiful lighting conditions. Midday can be harsh, but good for spotting turtles.
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
🐶 Dog Owners
🎣 Anglers
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Star Attraction: Turtles of Lago de las Tortugas
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.
Exploring the Natural Landscape: Trails and Dam
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. 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
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. This makes Lago de las Tortugas a versatile destination, suitable for day trips or short camping stays.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit