Located on the coast of the Mar Menor, its history began after the era of Berber raids, around a hermitage built in the early 17th century and dedicated to the Apostle Saint Francis Xavier.
Within its territory, focused on agricultural and maritime activities, the coastal towns of Santiago de la Ribera and La Manga del Mar Menor stand out, both with a strong tourist character. Santiago de la Ribera was founded in 1888 with the construction of a hermitage dedicated to Saint James. Today, this modern town features a beautiful promenade while retaining its traditional fishing village charm. La Manga, largely within the San Javier municipality, offers the possibility of enjoying two seas with different temperatures, salinity, and waves. Its ideal conditions for water sports, combined with extensive leisure options and accommodations, make it a superb tourist destination.
The municipality of San Javier is home to the General Air Academy, training center for Air Force pilots and headquarters of the Águila aerobatic team, which carries the name of San Javier worldwide. Murcia-San Javier airport shares the academy’s facilities, making it the region’s only airport.
San Javier is also famous for its summer festivals, including the International Jazz Festival and the Theater, Music and Dance Festival, both recognized as Regional Tourist Attractions.