Beaches, hiking, culture & adventure across the Costa Blanca
Massive 9th-century Moorish fortress atop Monte Benacantil. Free entry, panoramic views of the coast and city. Accessed by free lift or on foot.
📌 Monte Benacantil, Alicante
The iconic palm-tree promenade with its wave-pattern marble pavement. Best at sunset. Street performers, cafes, and the best people-watching in the city.
📌 Explanada de España, Alicante
One of Spain's best provincial archaeological museums. Interactive exhibits from prehistoric times to the Romans and Moors. Winner of European Museum of the Year.
📌 Plaza Dr. Gómez Ulla, Alicante
Spain's only inhabited island, 30 minutes by ferry. Crystal-clear waters, marine reserve for snorkelling, and fresh fish restaurants. Bring snorkelling gear.
📌 Isla de Tabarca (ferry from Alicante port)
Europe's highest water slides at this massive water park. Wave pools, lazy river, dedicated kids' zone. Book online for discounts.
📌 Sierra Helada Natural Park, Benidorm
Escape the hotel strip and explore the original Benidorm — whitewashed lanes, the mirador viewpoint, and the blue-domed church. Completely different world.
📌 Casco Antiguo, Benidorm
Interactive marine park with dolphin shows, sea lions, exotic birds, and reptile house. Great for kids.
📌 Ctra. Circunvalación, Benidorm
Roman baths and the Las Salinas salt lake in the heart of Calpe. The old town has a distinctly North African feel from its Moorish past.
📌 Casco Antiguo de Calpe
The iconic 332m sea rock is Calpe's landmark. A moderate 2-hour return hike through the natural park to the summit. Permit required in high season.
📌 Parc Natural del Penyal d'Ifac, Calpe
Protected marine reserve perfect for diving and snorkelling. Clearest water on the coast, dramatic underwater rock formations.
📌 Cap de Sant Antoni, near Dénia
Islamic castle overlooking the town and sea. Excellent museum inside covering Dénia's history as a powerful Moorish sea kingdom. Views are spectacular.
📌 Camí del Castell, Dénia
The 735m mountain between Dénia and Jávea offers excellent hiking. Multiple trails from easy walks to challenging summit attempts. Rich Mediterranean flora.
📌 Parc Natural del Montgó, Dénia
Home to the famous Dame of Elche, a 5th-century BC Iberian sculpture (replica). One of the most important archaeological collections in Spain.
📌 Palau d'Altamira, Elche
Tour the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero, home of Elche CF. Includes the dressing rooms, VIP areas, and pitch-side access.
📌 Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero, Elche
UNESCO World Heritage Site — the largest palm tree plantation in Europe. Walk the paths between thousands of date palms. The Huerto del Cura garden is extraordinary.
📌 Huerto del Cura, Elche
La Mata's consistent onshore winds make it one of the best kitesurfing spots in Spain. Lessons and rental available year-round.
📌 Playa de la Mata, Torrevieja
Torrevieja's famous pink salt lakes — the colour comes from algae and flamingos. The coastal path offers stunning views and excellent birdwatching.
📌 Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park
Small sheltered cove with excellent visibility for snorkelling. Mediterranean sea life including octopus and sea bream. Free and accessible from town.
📌 Playa del Cura, Torrevieja
Fascinating museum about Torrevieja's salt industry, which has operated for over 1,000 years. The salt works are still active today.
📌 C/ Ramón Gallud, Torrevieja