Where to stay in Costa Blanca

Alicante is one of the main towns on the Costa Blanca. It has a charming old town, with pretty architecture and a permanent market, as well as museums, galleries and churches. There’s also a free hilltop castle and fantastic sandy beaches with family friendly amenities. Valencia, Villajoyosa, Calpe and Altea are all easy day trips, and Madrid is also easily reachable by train in just 2.5 hours.

Playa del Postiguet: Central beach with city views

Playa del Postiguet is probably the most popular beach in the area, with its long, sandy shore backed by a palm-shaded promenade and myriad places to eat and drink. The sea is great for swimming or water sports like pedalos and kayaks, and there are lifeguards on duty during peak season. Close behind the beach there are two art galleries and an elevator that can whisk you up to the top of the castle for a sunset view.

Melia Alicante couldn’t be in a better location, with the sands on one side and the charming marina waterfront on the other. The chic, four-star establishment promises sophisticated dining at its three restaurants, elevated decor in the rooms and two beautiful outdoor pools – one infinity pool and the other overlooking the beach. There’s a full kids’ activity programme and a spa for the grown-ups.

Santa Cruz: Charming old town vibe

Santa Cruz is the best of all worlds. It has old-town charm with pedestrianised streets, is close to the modern centre of Alicante and is also a stone’s throw from Playa del Postiguet. It’s the best place for museums and art galleries and the castle. A climb to the top of the historic citadel – via the higgledy-piggledy cobble streets – is a must for the sensational views of the city and coast. (There’s also an elevator if you don’t fancy the climb).

Hospes Amerigo is an oasis of five-star luxury with views of the castle hill. The interior is all about beautiful, modern design with luxe touches – think high ceilings, elegant neutral shades with accent colours, and soft lighting. Enjoy the indoor pool with its glass roof and the peaceful spa. Guests can dine on photo-worthy dishes at high-end Fondillón restaurant, tuck into a tapas tasting at the bar or sip on a cocktail with city views on the terraza.

San Juan Beach: Long sandy stretch with a laid-back feel

If you’re seeking a laid-back holiday with plenty of space and a family-friendly vibe, San Juan Playa is the place to be. The spacious, white-sand beach is perfect, with facilities like loungers and shade for rent and a beachfront promenade lined with eateries and bars. There’s parking next to the prom too, in case you aren’t staying locally. Kids will enjoy paddling, sea swimming and playing on the small playgrounds dotted about the shore. There are also companies offering efoil experiences and surf lessons. You may be a little out of central Alicante here, but the area is very well connected to the centre by frequent trams.

Hotel Almirante is just a few metres from the shore and is an absolute guest-favourite for its comfortable rooms, sunny interior style and large outdoor pool. The rooms are modern and some feature private terraces or balcony, a whirlpool bath and sea views. Enjoy the elegant Mediterranean restaurant or sample all-day tapas in an al-fresco setting.

Benidorm has a reputation as a fly-and-flop party destination – and it definitely can be that if that’s your style. The nightlife here is still lively and fun, and very LGBTQ+ friendly. But there are other attractions here, not least, the glorious, sandy beaches. There’s a water park, water sports, the ‘Mediterranean balcony’ panoramic viewpoint and a foodie market hall. You’re also surprisingly close to some lovely coast-path walking, and a stunningly long promenade at Mal Pas beach.

As far as nightlife goes, Levante and Rincon offer endless possibilities for pub/bar crawls and karaoke, and aptly named ‘English Square’ is awash with English and Irish-style pubs. You’ll find several large-scale nightclubs at Av. de la Comunitat Valenciana for late-night entertainment, DJs and foam parties.

Levante Beach: Action-packed with bars and restaurants

Levante is one of the liveliest areas to stay; its grid-square streets lined with pubs, bars, music venues and cafes. It also boasts one of the best beaches around; an inviting promenade gives way to swathes of golden sand and then a calm, swimmable sea. It’s got plenty of amenities too, from shade and loungers to foot showers and lifeguards to watersports. A plethora of beach clubs, bars and cafes line the promenade and there’s even an arcade/amusement park.

Marina Resort Benidorm is a four-star gem right in the heart of the Levante area. Founded in 1985, it promises the ‘original Benidorm vibe’ with a large outdoor pool, colourful cabana beds and an extensive cocktail menu. Plus, there are revamped, modern rooms that are fully soundproofed. There are multiple bars and chillout zones to enjoy, including the White Star Disco Pub, a cocktail terrace and a ‘day club’ with electronic music and DJs. For a sophisticated and laid-back atmosphere, try the Barcelo Benidorm Beach. It’s an adult-focused hotel right on the beachfront with options to eat right next to the sands or enjoy the view from the roof. There’s even a rooftop pool.

Poniente Beach: Quieter but still close to the buzz

Poniente has a slightly quieter atmosphere than Levante, close to Benidorm old town and with its own sandy beach. It has an artfully created promenade for a pleasant stroll as well as sugar-white sand and a shallow entry to the sea. It’s a good option for families looking to experience Benidorm without getting involved in the nightlife.

For budget-friendly accommodation, close to the beach, opt for 3-star Hotel Servigroup Torre Dorada. It has a sun-soaked outdoor pool with space for sunbathing, a buffet restaurant serving international cuisine, and spacious modern rooms. Aparthotel Magic Tropical Splash is another family favourite close to the beach, with a fantastic outdoor poolscape with slides and a waterpark. There’s also a kids’ club and play space, gaming room and three restaurants to choose from, as well as seven bars. Adults can make use of the adults-only zones and the on-site spa. The apartments include lounge space and a kitchenette, and some also a generous balcony for relaxing al fresco.

Old Town: Authentic Spanish charm amid the resort buzz

Even though it’s a party-focused resort, Benidorm retains its central old town with a more authentic feel. Think narrow streets, colourful shutters, corner tapas bars and a slower pace of life compared to the beachfront. Stop for a beer and a bite to eat in one of the sunny plazas, and be sure to head to the Mediterranean Balcony for a truly special view of Benidorm.

Gastrohotel RH Canfali is a recently refurbished hotel with a boutique feel, in a prime location in the old town, close to the balcony. Book into a petite-yet-chic room with a sea view and be sure to make use of the jacuzzi on the rooftop terrace. Just steps away, Villa Venecia Hotel Boutique Gourmet is a five-star option with rooms featuring sea views, generously proportioned balconies or a jacuzzi bath with a panoramic vista. You can book into the spa, enjoy delicious food in the restaurants or on the sunset terrace, and even use a gym with an exceptional view.

Calpe cuts a striking figure, with its modern architecture fanning out along the coastline, its inland lake and the impressive limestone headland forming a centre point. It’s a town of stunning views, inviting coast paths and long, sandy beaches. You can have an adventure on the Ifac natural park on the headland or head up on a more serious hike into the hills behind the town.

Platja de la Fossa: Popular beach with views of Penyal d'Ifac

If you stay near Platja de la Fossa you’ll have easy access to a large, sandy beach with crystal-clear sea. The beach is ideal for families, with a shallow entry to the sea, lifeguards on duty and toilets. The sea is also sectioned off with buoys, so there are large areas just for swimming but also the opportunity to hire a kayak or pedalo.

Hotel RH Ifach is perfectly placed for beach access and is close to the lagoon too. It’s a family-focussed hotel with modern rooms – some of which offer fantastic views of the iconic limestone rock formation. Kids will love the outdoor pool, kids’ club, mini golf and inflatables course. Adults can also enjoy the heated indoor pool, jacuzzi and sauna, as well as the gym. There’s a buffet restaurant, bar and cafe to cater to all your snacks and meals.

Calpe Old Town: Quiet streets and traditional charm

Calpe's old town is a small cluster of pedestrianised streets and squares. There’s a relaxed vibe and an authentic charm; cobbled streets dotted with pretty cafes and bars, as well as relics of the much older city. Be sure to check out the historic tower, the painted steps and the open-air theatre.

ESTIMAR Calp Suitopia 3 & three is a great choice of stay for easy access to the old town and the main beach too. It’s just a hundred metres from both, so you’re in a prime location for beach days and culture. You can choose from double rooms and larger suites with a kitchen, living space and balcony. There’s a buffet restaurant, as well as a bar at the outdoor pool and a sky bar lounge for perfect views of the epic coastline. To stay even closer to the heart of the old town, try Hostel SEA&DREAMS – a three-star hotel with a boutique feel and petite-yet-well-designed rooms.

Arenal-Bol Beach: Long sandy beach near the centre

The Arenal-Bol beach is Calpe’s flagship beach, with a vast sandy shore dotted with palm trees and backed by a long promenade. It’s a great location to base yourself, with the beach and plenty of shops, bars and restaurants. Not to mention, the view is stunning and you’re not far from the old town.

Stay almost on the sands in the Gran Hotel Sol y Mar. This four-star stay has a luxurious on-site spa, as well as a rooftop pool and sunbathing spot and a pool overlooking the beach. There are several bars, including a specialist gin bar, and two high-class restaurant options. Choose from standard rooms or large suites with a spacious terrace and VIP package on arrival.

Altea is a lively city on the Costa Blanca with a pretty old town that has a fantastic atmosphere in the evenings. With its colourful domes and stunning interior, the Església de Santa Maria cathedral is the centrepiece of the town, perched atop a hill. It sits in a sunny square with restaurants and cafes all around and viewpoints showing the vista down to the beautiful sea. There are also two popular pebble beaches, each backed by dozens of restaurants and bars from which to enjoy the sunset.

Altea Old Town: Whitewashed houses and cobbled streets

To experience the most charming views and the authentic feel, you’ll want to stay in the heart of the old town, walking distance from the central hill. The area is a maze of narrow, cobbled streets and traditional buildings. Stay at Hotel Boutique La Serena for great access to both the old town and the more modern areas with myriad restaurants and bars. The hotel is in a heritage building which has been thoroughly modernised and features a gorgeous, private outdoor pool and lounge area. The interior is elegant, with an elevated feel to all the furnishings and decor. There’s even a secluded spa and wellness area.

Playa de la Roda: Pebble beach with a promenade

Playa de la Roda is a pebble beach popular for swimming, wave jumping and sunbathing. The promenade behind is the perfect spot for a stroll, lined with seafront cafes and restaurants. Stay nearby, in the Hotel Altea Paradise 1917 and experience true luxury on the Costa Blanca. Perched on a hill, just a five-minute drive from the seafront (or a relaxed 25-minute walk), the hotel offers total seclusion and relaxation. This adults-only spot is designed to be romantic, with a lush garden and outdoor pool that feels like it’s surrounded by nature. Each room is unique and delightfully designed, with some featuring truly special outdoor spaces and a relaxing jacuzzi bath.

Cap Negret: Peaceful area with waterfront hotels

Cap Negret is the beach on the Altea coastal road favoured by locals. It’s a quiet pebble shore that’s perfect for travellers looking to unwind away from the crowds. You can rent shade and loungers here, but usually people bring their own set-up and enjoy the tranquil views and the warm sea. Hotel Cap Negret is a surprisingly budget-friendly four-star spot, right on the beach. The modern hotel has a variety of rooms with features like jacuzzi baths and balconies. There’s a buffet restaurant with show cooking, as well as an upscale a-la-carte spot and a beach club. If you’re not in the sea, enjoy the infinity pool, wellness area or simply lounging on the balinese beds.

Denia is a bustling port town with plenty of history. It’s a lively place to stay, popular with cyclists, water-sports lovers and beach goers. You’ll find plenty of traditional, old-town areas with historic buildings and charming eateries and bars, as well as more modern spots down by the marina. There are several great beaches here too and if you’re looking to hike, you simply need to head a few miles into the hills to find exciting trails.

Las Marinas: Long sandy beaches and family hotels

Platja de les Marines and the Marinas area is Denia’s hot ticket for those seeking a beach holiday. The wide, sandy shore with miles of space and fun water activities make it perennially popular with families. One beach runs seamlessly into another here and all of them have a laid-back vibe that will make you want to stay for weeks.

Stay steps from the sands (just 20 metres to be precise) in budget-friendly Hotel Rosa. This three-star family favourite has everything you could want for a summer getaway, with a great outdoor pool and spacious family rooms. You can even book into a home-away-from-home bungalow and make use of the kitchenette and extra living space.

Denia Old Town: Castles, markets and local life

Denia old town is petite but delightful, with the castle, port and covered market all within a few streets of one another. You can enjoy the maritime museum and toy museum and sample all the fantastic restaurants and cafes that line the little streets.

Art Boutique Hotel Chamarel couldn’t be more central in the old town and is located in a beautiful historic building with original wooden shutters. The interior has been thoughtfully modernised, with nods to traditional, local style and boutique touches throughout. The rooms and suites are spacious and luxuriously furnished, with colourful, artsy decor. There’s even a full apartment available for rent if you want to feel like a local. You’ll also have use of the restaurant in the verdant interior courtyard.

Las Rotas/Les Rotes: Quiet coves and rocky coastline

Les Rotes is a popular coastal hiking area just on the outskirts of Denia; perfect if you want to escape summer crowds. A well-made walking route runs almost the entire coastline here, leading you past tiny rocky coves and jutting headlands with exceptional snorkelling opportunities. It’s a dreamy place for a hike and a secluded swim. Hotel Les Rotes is ideally located for accessing the coast (and just a few minutes’ drive from central Denia too). After a day’s hiking, there’s no better way to relax than in the large outdoor pool and on the sunny terrace. It’s a four-star gem with spacious rooms and suites with balconies. There are family-sized rooms, as well as petite options for solo travellers.

Torrevieja is a bustling port town, famous for its colourful salt pans, peaceful nature reserves and, of course, great beaches. There’s plenty to do here for everyone, with golf courses, several water parks, adventure parks and watersports like wakeboarding. Playa del Cura and Playa de los Locos are the two most popular beaches in town, but there are plenty of smaller calas along the coast.

Playa del Cura: Central beach close to shops and restaurants

Stay close to the beachfront of Playa del Cura to really appreciate the bustle of Torrevieja resort. Everything you could wish for is within walking distance here. There’s the large, sandy beach and a promenade lined with shops, bars and restaurants for alfresco lunches and dinners. There are lifeguards, first-aid stations and beach toilets. You’ll likely spend most of the day in the bath-like sea.

La Mata Beach: Spacious beach with natural surroundings

Stay just outside Torrevieja at La Mata beach and enjoy the more laid-back side of Torrevieja. The sandy beach is long and wide, with plenty of space to spread out and really enjoy your beach day. Of course, it’s backed by a promenade and boardwalk with cafes and restaurants for a pitstop on your sunny stroll.

Hotel Playas de Torrevieja is just a one-minute drive from the sandy shore and offers modern rooms with sea views and balconies. You’ll have use of an outdoor pool as well as the buffet restaurant and bar. Plus, there’s a kids’ club to keep little ones entertained. You’re also just a few minutes from Torrevieja centre if you want to venture out for shopping or dinner.

Torrevieja town centre: Local cafes and coastal walks

The town centre at Torrevieja has the atmosphere of a real, lived-in city where locals are going about their lives. It’s lively and upbeat, with a marina to explore and the famous salt lakes nearby.

Hotel Fontana Plaza couldn’t be handier for the town centre, marina and the beaches too. It’s a budget-friendly three-star option offering rooms and suites with balconies and jacuzzi baths. There’s also an outdoor pool and a buffet restaurant. For something a little more luxurious, but further from the centre, try the Dña Monse Hotel Spa & Golf just outside town. It’s a popular four-star stay with full wellness facilities and spa treatments, as well as golf packages and an upscale restaurant. Some of the modern rooms have views over the pink lagoon. The highlight of a stay here has to be the rooftop cocktail bar and pool.

Looking for quick answers for your Costa Blanca holiday? Here’s a quick rundown of the best places to stay in Costa Blanca for every kind of holiday.

For city breaks and culture

Denia is a charming spot for those seeking a combination of culture and beach time. It has a very authentic and bustling feel and promises a good foodie scene too. Alicante is a great option for combining all the activities and sights of a city break with a dream beach escape.

For lively resorts on a budget

Enjoy lively nightlife (and daylife) in Benidorm or Torrevieja. These resorts have activities for all ages, so they’re a great option for families too. You’ll find entertainment, water parks, beach bars and busy promenades. The best bit? Both Costa Blanca towns have plenty of budget-friendly accommodation.

For peaceful holidays

Altea is a charming and picturesque spot for a break, with just the right amount of buzz. It’s the go-to for discerning travellers seeking the authentic side of the Costa Blanca. Calp old town offers a similar experience, with pretty cobbled streets to wander and a beach just steps away.