Visit Costa Blanca Spain
Welcome To The Golden Beaches of Spain’s Costa Blanca
Spain’s famed Costa Blanca is a beautiful holiday destination that offers something of everything to it’s millions of visitors annually.
Experience the Golden Beaches of Spain’s Costa Blanca
Spain’s famed Costa Blanca is a beautiful holiday destination that offers something of everything to it’s millions of visitors annually. The Costa Blanca is the name given to the entire coastline of Alicante province which is part of the Communidad Valenciana.
The region offers soft, sandy beaches, beautiful villas, wonderful cuisine, and plenty of attractions for its visitors. Today, visitors from around the world continue to arrive and explore the long stretch of coastline that runs between the port city of Denia in the north and the town of Pilar de la Horadada in the south.
Beaches of the Costa Blanca
The name ‘Costa Blanca’ was given to the coastline of Alicante province right at the start of the Spanish package holiday boom as it was presumed to make the coastline sound more appealing, it did! Millions of people have since chosen to holiday on the Costa Blanca and continue to do so.
However, with a name like Costa Blanca (White Coast), you would expect the entire 150 mile stretch of coastline to be nothing but sun-bleached white sand, it’s not, but that doesn’t mean Costa Blanca’s coastline is any less enticing. The Costa Blanca coastline has a lot of beautiful golden beaches; but it also has lovely pebble beaches, hidden coves, and magnificent coastal cliffs too, all of which border the azure coloured waters of the Mediterranean.
Playa Moraira, Costa Blanca
Beaches are always popular places and those of the busier towns and cities can be crowded and heavily developed with promenades lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels. The beaches in the smaller towns and villages tend to be quieter in comparison, albeit with less to do once you leave them.
Benidorm’s levante and poniente beaches, and Alicante’s Playa del Postiguet, are perfect examples of busy beaches, especially during the summer months.
Sea Temperature?
The Mediterranean is a comparatively shallow sea so the water is generally warmer than other resorts located on the Atlantic coastline. Sea temperatures are at their coolest in January and February, but once the sun starts getting warmer it doesn’t take too long for the water to start warming up too.
No matter what time of year, winter or summer, you can still swim, snorkel, sail, and enjoy beautiful sunsets pretty much all year round on the Costa Blanca, it’s just a bit more comfortable to do so during the summer 🙂
Venture Inland for a Different Costa Blanca Experience
When one thinks of the Costa Blanca the image that normally springs to mind is that of the perfect sandy beach sandwiched between a stunning blue sky and a shimmering crystal clear Med. Completely understandable considering this is the image that tour operators have used to promote the Costa Blanca since day one. With good reason, it sells! We ALL love that image! However, just a few miles back from this idyllic coastline there is a completely different Costa Blanca waiting to be discovered.
Almond Blossom in Bloom Early February in the Jalon Valley, Costa Blanca
The area inland is mostly mountainous but within these mountains are some of the most beautiful valleys in Spain. Jalon Valley for example is often referred to as Costa Blanca’s hidden gem, and with good reason, it’s stunning. Jalon valley is best known for it’s wine production as would become obvious when you first visit and see the vast number of grape vines that seemingly cover every inch of the valley floor. Almond and orange orchards are also prominent, and the almond blossom in particular is a sight to behold in early spring.
The Jalon Valley, which consists of several small towns Jalon being the largest, is located just a fifteen minute drive inland from Calpe yet it might as well be a 100 miles away such is the difference between the two locations.
Jalon Valley is just one example; there are many other beautiful valleys and mountain towns that also offer a real taste of the Spanish Costa Blanca, a taste that the coastal resorts only offer a sip of. Over time we hope to write about as many of these other inland locations as we can, so keep checking back with us.
Food, Wine, and Culture on the Costa Blanca
Costa Blanca has no shortage of wonderful places to explore, from busy metropolitan centers to picturesque beach towns and charming, historic mountain villages. You can visit old Moorish castles and modern museums and enjoy all the delicious cuisine the region has to offer.
Many local restaurants offer paella and tapas tastings, as well as delectable local hams, meats, fish, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and very good wine.
Hougueras de Alicante, Costa Blanca
During Easter, Christmas, and Three Kings Day, you can enjoy outdoor fiestas complete with costumes, parades, fireworks, and concerts. In June, Alicante hosts the “Hougueras de Alicante” for five days, ending with the burning of enormous statues to celebrate the summer solstice.
In short, there is always a fiesta of some kind going on somewhere along the Costa Blanca. Search one out and experience some Spanish culture and whilst your at it enjoy some of the local food and drink that inevitably accompanies any fiesta in Spain!
Costa Blanca Nightlife
If you love a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of dancing and partying, then the Costa Blanca is for you. The best party hot spots, bars, and clubs can be found in the larger towns and cities like Denia, Benidorm, and Alicante. Benidorm in particular is geared up specifically for partygoers and it’s reputation as the party capital of the region is well deserved.
Drinks and tapas are available early, and many bars stay open until about 4 a.m or later, or should that be earlier?
Clubs play everything from house and techno to electronic-indie and Latin music, and there are plenty of chill-out bars near the beaches. You can meet up with friends or make new ones at the numerous cocktail and gastro bars, or you can dance until dawn if you want to!
The high season in summer is an especially popular time to visit and live life to the fullest.
Recreation
Spain’s south-eastern coast is a paradise for recreational activities like surfing, cycling, hiking, golfing, and paddle tennis. The White Coast has excellent golf courses that are especially popular in spring and autumn, La Sella Golf and Country Club near Denia is just one that springs to mind.
La Sella Golf Club, Denia, Costa Blanca
Cyclists enjoy the well-maintained and smooth roads that run along the coast and much of the interior, and hikers have many beautiful natural areas to explore in the mountains.
For those visitors who want to learn more about local history there are more than enough monuments and historical sites to keep you happy. Families who want to let their hair down and enjoy themselves to the fullest, a day at one of the popular theme parks that are located conveniently around the region, will fit the bill.
Costa Blanca Climate
Costa Blanca is especially hot during the summer months of July and August but has a generally mild climate throughout the year. Temperatures will rarely fall below 62 F/16 C, even in January.
You’ll find temperatures through the summer are much more bearable on the coast than inland mainly due to the ever present sea breeze that keeps things pleasant. While the mountains that sit just a few kilometres back from the coast act as a shield in the winter from the cold winter winds blowing down from the Pyrenees in the north.
One of the items you definitely want to remember to pack no matter what time of year you visit, are your sunglasses. The Costa Blanca enjoys an impressive 300 plus days of sunshine annually. Not only is the climate fantastic but the air is great too, making the Costa Blanca one of the healthiest micro climates in the world according to the World Health Organisation.
The Best Coastal Destinations on the Costa Blanca
From small historical towns to bustling cities, Costa Blanca has it all. Here’s a list of some of the most popular places to visit that sit on this spectacular stretch of Spanish coastline.
Dénia
View of Denia Castle from the Port
Dénia is a working port town that doubles as a holiday resort but manages to pull off both very well. It is the main port on the Costa Blanca for catching a ferry to the nearby Balearic islands of Ibiza, Mallorca, and Menorca so it is pretty busy as you can imagine.
It has a long history, highlighted by the centerpiece of the town; the Moorish Castillo de Denia, which you can reach by walking through the colorful, narrow streets of the ‘Baix la Mar’ fishing district.
Dénia also has a modern marina where you can enjoy views of the town, world-class dining, and many trendy bars and clubs. If you stop by the Zensa Marina, you can listen to music by the outdoor pool and dance away the night. Los Baños Beach Bar and Playa Marina El Portet are also popular beach spots, and the harbor provides a relaxing, civilized atmosphere.
Once you arrive in the Les Roques district, you’ll find remnants of Roman civilization. When you reach the top of the hill, you can catch a glimpse of the Montgó Natural Park or the Cap de Sant Antoni Marine Reserve.
Denia is also a great place for ‘foodies’ as there are some excellent restaurants, the best of which are close to the port area.
>> Read more about Denia here <<
Javea
Costa Blanca Javea Spain
Javea, also known as Xabia in Valencian, is a charming town with cobbled streets and small white houses surrounding the Església de Sant Bertomeu church, which dates from the 14th century.
You can sample wonderful tapas and sangria and visit the local markets, cafés, and restaurants as you take time to stop along the Miradores, the lookout points that offer beautiful views of the town and the sea.
Javea features steep cliffs and fabulous beaches, and Arenal Bay has a dazzling nightlife scene with flamenco dancers plus house and techno clubs that stay open ’til dawn.
During the day, you can take a swim in the shallow waters at the Playa del Arenal, visit the Granadella or La Grava beaches, or go shopping on the promenade.
For a little history, check out Gerro Tower, the La Nau Lighthouse, the Javea windmills, and the Cova Tallada. You can also enjoy wonderful panoramic vistas as you hike through Montgo National Park.
>> Read more about Javea here <<
Moraira
Costa Blanca Moraira
Moraira is a Mediterranean escape, offering a blend of serene coastlines and cultural heritage that few other resorts on the Costa Blanca are able to.
Compared to many of its neighbours, Moraira is much quieter and is an ideal destination if stunning beaches and relaxation are top of your most important list when booking a holiday.
If food is also on your list, then Moraira is a true ‘foodies’ paradise. There is an absolute glut of restaurants to try out, and there are even a few that have Michelin stars!
Moraira is steeped in history. The remnants of Moorish rule and Spanish traditions are evident throughout the town, most noticeable in its architecture, such as the Castillo de Moraira.
Moraira presents you with an idyllic Spanish experience, fusing the tranquillity of coastal living with cultural depth, making it a coveted destination for any traveler who is looking for a place to stay and chill for a while.
>> Read more about Moraira here <<
Calpe
Calpe Spain Costa Blanca
For those who are interested in checking out some historical sites, as well as chilling out by the Costa Blanca coastline, the ex-fishing port of Calpe is the place to visit. This romantic holiday location situated to the north of Benidorm has a fantastic old town featuring a great blend of gothic churches and other historic buildings, as well as Roman ruins.
Located centrally in the town is a salt lagoon known as Las Salinas, where you can see pink flamingos as well as other waders and no matter where you are in the town you will see the prominent silhouette of the Penon de Ifach, the famous icon of the Costa Blanca. The town features many fantastic cafes and restaurants, and tapas bars, many of which line the promenades either side of the rock.
The best way to enjoy Calpe is to book a stay at one of its prime beachfront hotels. You can even book a stay in an apartment at La Muralla Roja, an apartment block designed by the famous local architect Ricardo Bofill. As soon as you have checked in to your accommodation take the chance to take in the Calpe beaches of Arenal-Bol or La Fossa and soak up that Mediterranean sun.
>> Read more about Calpe here <<
Altea
Altea’s Skyline
Altea attracts visitors with its charm and its rich culture. The Mediterranean pearl of Altea offers a picturesque stroll through the steep historic old town crowned with an iconic blue domed church. The striking contrast of Altea’s white houses against a strikingly blue sky offers an image you will never forget.
The Old town is located on a hilltop and offers fantastic views of the Mediterranean and the three modern marinas below. The town’s beaches are mostly pebble but provide a great place to unwind and soak up the sunshine. You’ll find Altea has a strangely bohemian feel to it as there are numerous art boutiques and artisan shops.
Altea is a nice town far removed from the chaotic excitement of Benidorm and using Altea as a base enables you to experience authentic Spain and savor it’s delicacies. The charm of Altea lies in the contrast between its modern day attraction and the old world preservation of art and culture.
>> Read more about Altea here <<
Benidorm
Costa Blanca Benidorm
Benidorm is a dynamic, modern resort destination with a metropolitan vibe, if that’s what you are looking for then Benidorm is the resort town for you.
High-rise buildings and skyscrapers that light up the night along the coast of Benidorm, draw a large crowd of both local and international visitors, all of whom enjoy the local bars, cabaret shows, clubs, and the large number of restaurants.
During the day, the blue flag beaches of Playa de Levante and Playa de Poniente are busy and the atmosphere is family-friendly. If these beaches are a little over-crowded for you head to the Playa Mal Pas, a small cove that sits between them. The cove’s gentle, shallow waters and quiet setting make this a popular spot for families.
Talking of families, Terra Mitica and Terra Natura amusement parks, Aqualandia Water Park, and a nature reserve on the nearby Benidorm island are all fun places to spend the day.
>> Read more about Benidorm here <<
Villajoyosa
Villajoyosa’s Colorful Houses on the Costa Blanca
Villajoyosa is located on the coast between the party town of Benidorm and the much quieter San Juan and is a lovely coastal town in the Marina Baixa region of Alicante province. Villajoyosa literally translates to ‘joyful town’, a name which is very suited to its festive spirit and rich cultural heritage not to mention its colorful houses!
With a history dating back to the Moors and Christians, the town’s past is vibrantly reflected in its colourful houses and the historic Torre torres offers a glimpse into the town’s defensive past.
The town has a reputation for great food and is especially renowned for its chocolate industry, the Valor Chocolate Factory has guided tours and is well worth visiting. There is a vibrant fish market and an assortment of restaurants that serve fresh catches daily.
Don’t forget that a visit to Villajoyosa wouldn’t be complete without exploring the beaches, the secluded cove Racó del Conill and the expansive Torres Beach.
>> Read more about Villajoyosa here <<
Alicante
View of Castillo de Santa Barbara Alicante
The historic city of Alicante is located centrally on the Costa Blanca coastline and is the largest city in the region.
Barrio de la Santa Cruz is Alicante’s old town and is located below the 16th-century Castillo de Santa Bárbara, a medieval fortress that sits on top of Mount Benacantil. The castle is Alicante’s major tourist attraction and no visit to the city is complete without exploring its halls, passageways, tunnels and dungeons; not to mention taking in the best panoramic view of the sea the city can offer.
The newer section of the city is stylish with plenty of contemporary architecture, museums, parks, an inviting shopping district, and radiant, sunny beaches. Afternoons are perfect for taking a stroll along the tiled, palm-lined Esplanada de Espana boulevard where you can visit the artisan boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and bars located around the harbour.
If a day by the water is what you are looking for then take a trip to the Cabo de las Huertas coves or sunbathe on the beautiful Playa del Postiguet or Playa de San Juan.
Curious about bullfighting? Check out Alicante Bullring museum which documents the history of bullfighting, the divisive yet culturally important Spanish tradition.
>> Read more about Alicante here <<
Torrevieja
Las Salinas de Torrevieja – The pink lakes of the Costa Blanca
Torrevieja is located on the southern coast of the Costa Blanca. It’s a vibrant town with golden beaches, cultural festivities, and a taste of traditional Spanish life.
Originally a fishing village, Torrevieja has a rich history intertwined with salt production. It’s name is derived from the Spanish for ‘old tower’, and the city’s growth was significantly boosted by the trade in salt, which is commemorated by the Museum of Sea and Salt.
You’ll find Torrevieja has many attractions, from the busy promenade to tranquil Natural Parks, most notably the Salinas de Torrevieja, the striking pink salt lakes Torrevieja is most famous for.
If you’re looking for family fun then Aquapark Flamingo is a great day out, while the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Rosario will ensure history hunters also have something to check out.
For those looking for a slice of Spanish culture there are numerous places to eat local Spanish food and tapas. There are festivals throughout the year, with lively celebrations during Easter, Christmas, and a unique representation of the Nativity known as Belen.
Torrevieja has some pristine beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Golfers too are catered for and can enjoy some high-standard courses. For those seeking some retail therapy the Habaneras Shopping Centre will satisfy most people’s needs.
>> Read more about Torrevieja here <<
Transportation
Alicante-Elche Airport Costa Blanca Spain
Costa Blanca’s primary airport is the Alicante-Elche Airport which is about 15 minutes south of Alicante. This international airport has direct flights to many neighboring European countries and is usually extremely busy. This is especially true during the summer months as pretty much every tour operator under the sun uses it to fly into the region.
Should you decide to rent a car at the airport the Costa Blanca is served by the excellent AP7 motorway that runs the full length of the Costa. Access to and from the motorway from the Airport and all the resorts is relatively easy, all areas are well signposted but most rental companies do offer vehicles with Satnav if you feel more comfortable with directional backup!
If you are flying into Madrid as many non-European tourists do, then taking the high-speed train that runs between Madrid and Alicante may well be an excellent option. Not only does it get you to the region quicker than it would if driving, it is extremely comfortable, modern, and cost effective too! Once you arrive in Alicante you will find that there are a number of car rental firms located in and around the station; so if you want to continue your journey by car you can do so very easily.
Costa Blanca is an Unforgettable Holiday Destination Any Time of Year
The Costa Blanca is a wonderful destination that offers something for everyone. With so many attractions, activities, and adventures to choose from, you’re sure to enjoy an unforgettable holiday any time you visit.
Hola! I’m Danny
I’ve lived in Spain since 2008, and have visited much of Southern and Eastern Spain as well as being a frequent visitor to the Canary and the Balearic Islands. I suppose some people might even consider me as being something of an expert when it comes to Spain!
I want to use the experience and knowledge I’ve gained to help travelers like yourself explore Spain like a pro, and with my help you will have the trip to Spain you’ve always wanted. Seeing and experiencing things you were never expecting to, and that you would never have known about if you hadn’t visited my site!
