Costa Blanca holidays

Essential Information for Your Costa Blanca Holiday

Embarking on a holiday to the Costa Blanca, a stunning stretch of coastline in Spain's Alicante province, promises sun-filled days, beautiful beaches, and a rich cultural experience. Here's everything you need to know to make your visit seamless and enjoyable. Don't miss our guide about the best things you can do in Alicante to enjoy your holiday fully.

How to reach Costa Blanca

• Flight Time: Direct flights from the UK to Alicante Airport, the main gateway to Costa Blanca, typically take around 2.5 hours.

• Transfer Time to the City Centre: Alicante Airport is approximately 10 km from Alicante city centre. A taxi transfer can take about 15-20 minutes.

• Price of Different Transport Options: A taxi from the airport to the city centre costs around €20-€25. The C-6 bus line offers a cheaper alternative at about €3.85 per trip, connecting the airport with the city centre efficiently.

Best time to visit Costa Blanca

The ideal time for your Costa Blanca holiday depends on your expectations, with each season offering its own set of attractions.

• High Season (June to August): Characterised by hot, sunny weather (average temperatures hover around 25°C to 30°C), making it perfect for beach holidays. This is the busiest period, so expect higher prices and crowded beaches.

• Shoulder Season (April, May, September, October): Offers slightly cooler temperatures (average 20°C to 25°C) and fewer tourists, ideal for those looking to explore the region's attractions in a more relaxed atmosphere.

• Low Season (November to March): Cooler weather (average 11°C to 18°C) and the possibility of rain, but with fewer crowds and lower prices. Great for enjoying Costa Blanca's cultural offerings and mild winter climate.

Practical information for Costa Blanca holidays

• Spoken Languages: Spanish is the official language, with Valencian also widely spoken. English is commonly used in tourist areas, making communication relatively straightforward for UK visitors.

• Local Habits and Customs: A polite "hola" (hello) and "gracias" (thank you) are always appreciated. Remember to respect local dining times, with lunch typically from 2 pm to 4 pm and dinner from 9 pm onwards.

• Tips: Tipping is customary but not compulsory. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included in the bill.

• Security: The Costa Blanca is generally safe for tourists, though it's wise to remain vigilant and safeguard your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

• Health: No special vaccinations are required for Spain. The tap water is safe to drink in most areas, but bottled water is preferred by some for taste.

• Papers and Visa: UK citizens can stay in Spain for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay.

• Currency: The Euro (€) is the currency of Spain. ATMs are widely available, and credit/debit cards are accepted in most establishments.

• Getting Around: Costa Blanca offers a reliable network of buses and trams, making it easy to explore. Car hire is a popular option for those wishing to visit more remote beaches and towns.

• Electricity/Plugs: Spain uses the European standard 220-240V electrical outlets with two-pin plugs. UK visitors will need an adaptor for their devices.

With this essential information, you're all set for a fantastic Costa Blanca holiday, whether you're looking to soak up the sun on its famous beaches, explore its charming towns, or dive into its rich cultural heritage.

Where to stay on the Costa Blanca

The Costa Blanca offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all types of travellers. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, a sports-filled holiday, or a lively nightlife experience, there’s a perfect spot for you. Here’s a guide to the best areas to stay based on your holiday preferences.

Best areas for families

• Benidorm: Benidorm is a popular destination for families due to its long sandy beaches, family-friendly attractions, and numerous accommodation options. It boasts several theme parks such as Terra Mítica and Aqualandia, and the beaches have gentle slopes and lifeguard services. The wide range of dining options, from tapas bars to international restaurants, makes it easy for families to find something everyone will enjoy.

• Denia: Denia is another excellent choice for families. Its expansive sandy beaches are ideal for children to play on, and the calm, shallow waters are perfect for swimming. The town offers a mix of cultural attractions, such as Denia Castle, and natural beauty, like the Montgó Natural Park, which provide fun and educational experiences for the whole family. Discover our deals on holidays to Denia.

Best areas for couples

• Altea: For a romantic and tranquil getaway, Altea is an ideal choice. This charming town is known for its beautiful old town with whitewashed buildings and narrow streets. Couples can enjoy the picturesque views, intimate dining experiences in its many restaurants, and quiet beach walks along its shingle beaches.

• Moraira: Moraira offers a romantic and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for couples. Its small, sandy beaches and scenic coves provide a peaceful setting for relaxation. The town is home to several excellent seafood restaurants and a picturesque marina, making it a wonderful place for evening strolls and sunset views. Check out our holidays to Moraira.

Best areas for nightlife

• Alicante: Alicante is the go-to destination for vibrant nightlife on the Costa Blanca. The city offers a variety of bars, nightclubs, and beachfront venues that stay open until the early hours. The El Barrio area is particularly popular for its lively atmosphere and diverse nightlife options.

• Benidorm: Benidorm is also renowned for its nightlife, featuring a mix of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. Known for its themed bars, live music, and nightclubs, Benidorm is a top choice for those looking to party. Despite its lively scene, it also offers plenty of family-friendly attractions.

Best areas for sports enthusiasts

• Calpe: Calpe is perfect for sports enthusiasts. The town offers a range of activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and water sports. The iconic Peñón de Ifach rock provides challenging trails and breathtaking views, and the beaches are great for windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

• Javea: Javea is another great destination for active holidaymakers. Its diverse coastline offers excellent opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and sailing. The Montgó Natural Park provides numerous hiking and mountain biking trails, making it ideal for those who love outdoor adventures.

Best things to do in Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca with its stunning coastline, mountain backdrops, charming towns, historical and cultural resources, and a wide range of activities and entertainment opportunities, has something for everyone.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Castillo de Santa Bárbara: Dominating the Alicante skyline, this medieval stronghold gives a glimpse into the city’s history, as well as wonderful views of the city and out to sea.

• Mirador del Mediterráneo: This mirador in Benidorm offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the glistening blue sea, particularly in the hours leading up to sunset. Discover our best deals on holidays to Benidorm

The best districts

• Old Town Alicante: The meandering lanes of Alicante's oldest neighbourhood provide a step back in time. The area has a terrific vibe and is popular for its tapas bars, cafés and live music venues. Check out our holidays to Alicante

• Benidorm’s Levante Beach: Perfect for a day in the sun or an evening out, this lively district is home to Benidorm's most popular beach, lined with bars, restaurants and shops.

Parks and gardens

• Albufera Natural Park: Located near Valencia, this park is a refuge for nature lovers and bird watchers, with a number of walking routes and places to observe birds.

• Elche’s Palmeral: A truly remarkable example of Arab farming methods, Elche's huge palm grove is one of Europe's largest and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover our holidays to Elche and save more with our packages on your next getaway.

Historical monuments

• Guadalest: It’s well worth a visit to Guadalest, a historic community in the Guadalest Valley, for its medieval castle and fascinating history museums. Discover holidays to Guadalest.

Regional highlights

• Tabarca Island: This car-free island is renowned for its incredibly clear waters, and is just a short boat ride away from Alicante.

• Valencia: An impressive blend of culture, history and beach life, Valencia has lots to pack in on a day trip, including the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, the historic old town and the opportunity to relax on the city’s beaches. Check our the best deals on holidays to Valencia.

• Canelobre Caves: These caves in Buscot, 24km from Alicante, have a spectacular natural beauty that should not be overlooked.

• Altea: Just a short drive from Calpe, this eye-catching town is well known for its quaint old white-washed houses and stunning sea views. Don't miss our deals on holidays to Altea for this summer.

Activities for families

Costa Blanca holidays offer endless entertaining, engaging and informative attractions and events, guaranteeing that parents and children will have a memorable stay.

• Water parks: One of the biggest water parks in Europe, Aqualandia in Benidorm is perfect for a fun-filled day for people of all ages with its thrilling slides, pools and attractions.

• Animal parks: See a range of creatures in their native environments and discover conservation initiatives at Terra Natura, a wildlife park near Benidorm.

• Theme parks: DinoPark, located in Algar, is a dinosaur-themed attraction that will captivate children with its life-size models, interactive exhibits and playgrounds. Terra Mítica theme park in Benidorm offers historical-themed rides and activities, making it ideal for a fun family visit.

Free things to do in Costa Blanca

In addition to the obvious must-see sights, there are other free activities to enjoy that will make your holidays to Costa Blanca unforgettable without exceeding your budget.

• Beaches: Costa Blanca boasts countless gorgeous sandy beaches that are free to visit, with calm waves and a sandy shoreline ideal for sunbathing and swimming.

• Explore historic towns: Wander through the old streets of towns like Alicante, Altea and Villajoyosa, admiring the exquisite architecture and local atmosphere.

• Local markets: Visit the weekly markets in different towns, like the Central Market in Alicante, for free samples of fresh produce and local specialities and get a taste of the culture of the area.

• Free museums and historic buildings: Many cities and towns of the region boast free museums and historic buildings, such as the San Nicolás Co-Cathedral and Contemporary Art Museum (MACA) in Alicante.

• Free events: Costa Blanca’s events calendar is full of festivals and cultural events happening throughout the year in different locations. These events, which frequently include colourful parades, music, dance and fireworks, are a great way to be entertained for free.

Nature & outdoor activities

• Hiking: Explore the natural beauty of Costa Blanca with hikes to places like the Montgó Natural Park, Serra Gelada Natural Park and the Peñón de Ifach, all offering stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.

• Cycling: Whether you're up for tackling a difficult mountain trail or easy cycling along the scenic coastal routes, exploring the Costa Blanca on two wheels is an adventure you won't regret.

• Water sports: Every kind of water sport imaginable can be enjoyed in the crystal-clear water around Costa Blanca – from paddleboarding and kayaking to snorkelling, scuba diving, and sailing.

Discovering the Best Beaches on Your Costa Blanca Holiday

The Costa Blanca, stretching along Spain's southeastern coastline, is famed for its diverse array of stunning beaches. From bustling seaside resorts to secluded coves, the region offers sun-drenched sands for every type of beachgoer.

The best public beaches in Costa Blanca

• Playa de Levante, Benidorm: A bustling beach known for its lively atmosphere, clear waters, and golden sands, complete with a promenade lined with bars and restaurants.

• Playa del Postiguet, Alicante: Located at the foot of Santa Bárbara Castle, this urban beach boasts fine sands and calm waters, ideal for families and sunbathers.

• Playa de San Juan, Alicante: One of the longest beaches in the region, offering ample space for beach sports, sunbathing, and swimming.

Exclusive experiences at private beaches in Costa Blanca

While most beaches on the Costa Blanca are public, some luxury resorts offer exclusive beach areas where guests can enjoy:

• Private sunbeds and umbrellas: Ensuring a comfortable and relaxing beach day.

• Beach clubs and bars: Providing upscale amenities, including food and drink service directly to your sun lounger.

Hidden gems of Costa Blanca’s coastline

• Cala Granadella, Jávea: A secluded pebble beach in Jávea, surrounded by cliffs, offering crystal-clear waters for snorkelling and diving.

• Cala Moraig, Benitachell: Known for its stunning underwater caves and tranquil setting, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful day by the sea.

• Playa del Torres, Villajoyosa: A lesser-known beach in the town of Villajoyosa offering natural beauty and historical ruins, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.

Beaches for water sports enthusiasts

The Costa Blanca's waters are a haven for water sports, offering:

• Windsurfing and Kite Surfing: The wide, open beaches near Santa Pola provide ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced riders.

• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore the coast’s hidden coves and caves, particularly around the cliffs of Jávea and Moraira.

• Diving and Snorkelling: The clear waters of the Marine Reserve of Tabarca Island offer excellent visibility and rich marine life.

Nearest beaches to explore

• Playa de Albir, Alfaz del Pi: Situated between Benidorm and Altea, this pebble beach offers clear waters and a quieter alternative to the busier sands of its neighbours.

• Playa de la Fossa, Calpe: Famous for its proximity to the Peñón de Ifach, this beach in Calpe boasts fine sands, calm waters, and stunning views of the iconic rock.

Your holiday in Costa Blanca is set to be a memorable one, with its diverse beaches catering to every preference. Whether you're seeking the vibrant atmosphere of Benidorm's Playa de Levante, the tranquil beauty of Cala Granadella, or the adventurous allure of water sports, Costa Blanca’s coastline promises endless days of sun, sea, and sand.

Local dishes in Costa Blanca

The distinct cuisine of Costa Blanca, which reflects the region's mix of traditional Spanish flavours with Mediterranean ones, is one of the best parts of a holiday there.

Some typical dishes

• Paella: You’ll find excellent seafood paellas in the area made with fresh local ingredients, including the rich flavour of saffron.

• Coca amb Tonyina: This classic pastry stuffed with pine nuts, onions and tuna is popular during regional celebrations.

• Fideuà: Similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice, Fideuà includes fish and seafood – such as prawns and squid – all cooked in a rich broth.

Tapas dishes

• **Patatas Bravas:**A popular tapas dish served throughout Spain, these crispy fried potatoes are eaten with a spicy tomato sauce or aioli.

• Gambas al Ajillo: Fresh prawns are sizzled in garlic oil to make this seafood lover's dream come true.

• Salazones: Fish such as tuna, mackerel or anchovies are salt-cured to create a genuine Mediterranean flavour.

Meat dishes

• Cordero Asado: Roast lamb, typically seasoned with herbs and slow-cooked to tender perfection, is often served with roasted vegetables.

• Chuletón: Hearty and delicious, a large rib steak is grilled to order – perfect for sharing.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Arroz a Banda: A local favourite, this traditional rice dish is cooked in fish stock and served with aioli.

• Calamares Rellenos: Squid packed with its own tentacles, onions and tomatoes.

Sweets and desserts

• Turrón: A traditional Spanish treat popular around Christmas, this nougat confection is made using honey, sugar, egg whites and toasted almonds.

• Date Cake: A classic dry fruit cake made with the finest dates from the Mediterranean region; typically served with a glass of sweet wine.

Local drinks

• Horchata: A refreshing beverage made with tiger nuts that is ideal for drinking on warm summer days.

• Mistela: A sweet wine usually consumed as a dessert drink, frequently paired with regional confectionery.

Embracing Sports on Your Costa Blanca Holiday

The Costa Blanca, stretching along Spain's southeastern coast, is not just a haven for sun-seekers but also a paradise for sports enthusiasts. From the tranquil waters of the Mediterranean to the rugged landscapes of the hinterland, this region offers a plethora of activities that cater to every interest and skill level.

Dive into local sports events in Costa Blanca

Engage with the local sports culture by catching a football match at Estadio José Rico Pérez in Alicante, home to Hércules CF. Experience the passion of Spanish football in an electrifying atmosphere that brings together locals and tourists alike.

Sports facilities for travellers in Costa Blanca

• Swimming-Pools: The region's resorts and hotels boast excellent swimming facilities, perfect for laps or leisurely dips, many with stunning sea or mountain views.

• Yoga and Fitness: Embrace wellness with yoga classes offered in many coastal towns, taking advantage of Costa Blanca's serene settings. Fully equipped gyms and fitness centres are also readily available for those keen to maintain their workout routine.

• Tennis: Tennis is a popular sport across Costa Blanca, with numerous courts available for hire. Many resorts provide equipment and coaching, making it easy for guests to enjoy a match under the sun.

Cycling across Costa Blanca

Discover the beauty of Costa Blanca on two wheels:

• Bike Rental: A wide range of bike rental shops across the region offers everything from leisurely cruisers to high-performance road bikes, catering to casual explorers and serious cyclists alike.

• Popular Cycling Routes: The coastal routes provide stunning sea views, while the mountainous interior challenges with steep climbs and rewarding vistas. The Via Verde route between Denia and El Verger is particularly popular for its scenic beauty and gentle terrain.

Hiking adventures in Costa Blanca

The diverse landscapes of Costa Blanca offer superb hiking opportunities:

• Popular Hiking Routes: Explore the rugged beauty of the Serra Gelada Natural Park or the scenic trails around the Puig Campana mountain. The Montgó Massif near Jávea also offers a range of trails with breathtaking views of the coastline.

Water sports in Costa Blanca

The clear Mediterranean waters invite a host of water sports activities:

• Sailing and Windsurfing: The gentle breezes and calm seas are ideal for sailing and windsurfing, with schools and rentals available in towns like Alicante and Calpe.

• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Discover hidden coves and sea caves along the coast, a tranquil way to explore the region’s natural beauty.

• Diving and Snorkelling: The marine reserves around Tabarca Island and the Cabo de Palos offer spectacular underwater landscapes teeming with life.

Winter sports in Costa Blanca

While winter sports may not be the first thing that comes to mind in this sunny region, the nearby mountains can offer some surprises during the colder months, albeit on a smaller scale compared to traditional winter sports destinations.

Golfing in Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca is renowned for its golf courses, boasting some of the best in Spain:

• Golf Courses: With over 15 courses dotting the coastline, including the prestigious La Sella Golf near Denia and the challenging Las Colinas Golf & Country Club, golfers of all levels can enjoy year-round play on meticulously maintained greens framed by stunning landscapes.

Your holiday in Costa Blanca can be as relaxed or as active as you choose. Whether it’s enjoying a round of golf, cycling through picturesque landscapes, or indulging in water sports, Costa Blanca offers a perfect mix of sports activities to enhance your holiday experience, making it an ideal destination for sports lovers.

Seasonal Events and Festivals During Your Costa Blanca Holiday

Costa Blanca, known for its stunning beaches and sunny climate, also boasts a vibrant calendar of events and festivals throughout the year. These celebrations offer a glimpse into the local culture and provide visitors with unique experiences, from traditional fiestas to modern gatherings.

Seasonal celebrations in Costa Blanca

• New Year: Welcome the New Year with spectacular fireworks displays along the coast, especially in major cities like Alicante. Many hotels and restaurants offer special gala dinners and parties.

• Christmas Shopping and Markets: The festive season in Costa Blanca is marked by lively Christmas markets and shopping fairs, particularly in Alicante and Benidorm, where you can find unique gifts, crafts, and indulge in holiday treats.

• Easter: Semana Santa (Holy Week) is a profound celebration across Spain, and Costa Blanca is no exception. Witness the solemn processions and beautiful pasos (religious floats) in towns throughout the region.

• Gay Events: Alicante and Benidorm are known for their inclusive and vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, with Pride events and celebrations taking place, offering parades, parties, and cultural activities.

• Carnival: Before Lent, towns across Costa Blanca burst into colour and festivity. The Carnival in Torrevieja and Alicante features parades, costumes, and music, drawing crowds from across the region and beyond.

Festivals and cultural events in Costa Blanca

• Las Hogueras de San Juan (Alicante): In June, Alicante celebrates the summer solstice with bonfires, fireworks, and effigies burnt to welcome the summer, culminating in a spectacular beach party.

• Moros y Cristianos: Celebrated in various towns across Costa Blanca, including Alcoy and Villajoyosa, this festival commemorates the historical battles between Moors and Christians, featuring elaborate parades, costumes, and mock battles.

• Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen: Coastal towns pay homage to the patron saint of fishermen in July with processions at sea, floral offerings, and lively celebrations.

• Benidorm Fiestas: In November, Benidorm erupts in a week-long celebration with religious processions, open-air concerts, and fireworks, honouring the patron saints of the city.

• Jazz Festival of Alicante: Each summer, the city hosts an international jazz festival, attracting renowned artists and jazz lovers to its stages.

These events and festivals offer an exciting addition to the sun, sea, and sand of Costa Blanca holidays, providing visitors with memorable experiences of Spanish culture and festivity. Whether you're drawn to the solemn beauty of Easter processions, the lively spirit of Carnival, or the cultural richness of local fiestas, Costa Blanca's event calendar is sure to enhance your holiday experience.