Sight
Santa Maria salt ponds
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The Santa Maria salt ponds are a series of shallow, man-made basins just inland from the beach, where seawater was once evaporated to harvest salt. Today, the ponds create a striking, otherworldly landscape with water that can appear pinkish due to algae and minerals. Visitors can walk along the edges of the ponds, observe the crystallized salt crusts, and learn about the traditional salt-harvesting methods still used on a small scale. It's a quiet, educational spot that offers a glimpse into the island's economic history and a unique photo opportunity.
Don't miss
- Walk the paths between the ponds to see salt crystals up close
- Photograph the pink-tinted water and white salt flats
- Learn about the traditional salt-harvesting process from informational signs
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Santa Maria salt ponds
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inVisit to Saline - Guérande Salt Marshes5★ · 135 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$12 per personSee dates →
Most bookedCabo San Lucas and Santa Maria Bay Snorkeling Sightseeing Cruise4.8★ · 590 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$80 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleSal Island: Private Transfer from Airport to Santa Maria or Vice Versa4.9★ · 15 travelers20 minutesFree cancellationFrom$29 per personSee dates →More attractions in Santa Maria