If you’re looking for a fun beach getaway in Spain, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the beaches of Costa Blanca. In the summer, throngs of visitors head to this beautiful coast to bask in the sun and sea. And with its temperate climate, Costa Blanca remains an appealing destination during the off-season especially if you’re looking to escape low temperatures and dreary days.
To help you plan an amazing holiday, here are the best beaches in Costa Blanca, ranging from urban beaches that are easily accessible to more secluded spots that are ideal for a relaxing day out.
Where is Costa Blanca, Spain?
Spanning over 200km of coastline along the Mediterranean Sea, Costa Blanca can be found in the southeastern part of Spain. Part of the Alicante province, Costa Blanca begins south of Valencia down to Javea, Benidorm, and Alicante until Torrevieja.
The region attracts numerous tourists all year round and it’s particularly popular with British and German travelers looking for a sun-filled holiday. And it’s no surprise why — some of Spain’s best beach towns can be found in Costa Blanca!
The nearest airport to get to Costa Blanca is Alicante Airport ALC. Another option is to fly into Valencia airport and then drive south. To experience the best of Costa Blanca, it’s best to have your own car which will allow you to get to some of the more secluded beaches that aren’t served by public transportation.
That said, the bus service between cities and towns in Costa Blanca is pretty good and you can easily get around cheaply.
Best Beaches in Costa Blanca
Playa del Postiguet, Alicante
For an urban beach that’s within walking distance from the city center, check out Playa del Postiguet. Its easy accessibility and proximity to Alicante’s historic center can’t be beaten!
But the convenience factor isn’t the only thing that makes this one of the best beaches in Costa Blanca. The beach itself is attractive, with fine white sand and ample space to stretch out and sunbathe. The water here is clean and calm and there are lifeguards on duty, making it safe for little ones.
Take the opportunity to stroll along the colorful promenade and cool off at one of the restaurants and cafes lining the sidewalk. And for a great photo of your trip, walk along the marina and look back for a top-notch view of the beach, Alicante’s historic buildings, and Santa Bárbara Castle looming in the background.
With all its advantages, Playa del Postiguet is super popular especially in peak season so be sure to arrive early to stake out the best spot in the sand!
Cala Cantalar, Alicante
If you prefer to be away from the main action in Alicante, then head a bit out of the city center and go to Cala Cantalar. This beach in Costa Blanca is still easily accessible (there’s a tram that gets you there) but after a short walk down to the beach, you’ll be in a different world.
Nestled among the rocks and cliffs, you’ll find a small but lovely beach with crystal clear water and palm trees. The ground here is a bit rocky so it’s best to come prepared with water shoes. There are also few amenities so you may want to bring your own umbrella, chairs, and food to enjoy your time here.
Oh, and don’t forget your snorkel gear! The clear waters, shallow depths, and variety of marine life make this an awesome spot for an afternoon of snorkeling.
This cove is a hidden gem and definitely one of the best beaches in Costa Blanca.
Playa de la Granadella, Jávea
The small seaside town of Jávea has over 10 beaches and coves and one of the best is La Granadella.
Located in a sheltered cove, this beach in Costa Blanca is the spot to go for a lovely day by the water. The beach here is both pebble and sand and the gorgeous blue-green water is calm and great for wading and snorkeling. There’s also a handful of beach bars and restaurants.
La Granadella is incredibly popular in the summer and you should come early to avoid disappointment. You should also make a reservation at the restaurants if you intend to eat there. But in the off-season, it’s much more tranquil… and the good news is that the water stays warm even in October!
Tip: Head up the stairs on the left side of the beach. Here you’ll get an awesome view of the beach and its surroundings so fire up your camera.
Cala Blanca, Jávea
This secluded cove in Jávea with its beautiful backdrop of dramatic cliffs and rocks and blue waters boasts of unspoiled beauty.
Its protected location means that it’s a haven for fish and marine life so put on your snorkeling gear and see what’s thriving under the sea. While this isn’t the best beach for swimming, you can still enjoy wading in the water, taking in the views, and basking in the sunshine.
There are also walking trails linked to Cala Blanca so exploring the coast is another way to pass the time and admire the impressive landscape. If you need a break, there are restaurants and cafes nearby to relax in.
Cala Blanca can get busy in the summer but nonetheless, it’s still a lovely beach to visit in Costa Blanca.
El Arenal, Jávea
Wide stretch of sand, calm and safe waters, a lovely promenade and tons of shops, restaurants and bars — if that sounds like your checklist for an amazing beach, then El Arenal in Javea is just the place for you.
Located within the beach town itself, El Arenal is probably the most popular beach here simply because it has so much to offer and it’s so easy to get to. The beach is wide and offers loads of space for beach games, picnicking, sunbathing, and more. And if you want some action, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards or even head out on a boat.
The promenade is lined with restaurants and cafes so you’ll be spoiled for choice whenever you need a drink or a bite to eat. Plus, the party doesn’t end when the sun sets as some of the restaurants transform into clubs where you can dance the night away.
Playa de les Rotes, Dénia
Escape into nature and head to Playa de les Rotes, a charming beach that’s located within walking distance from the center of Dénia.
This rocky beach is less touristy and less crowded than other beaches in Dénia. As it’s not sandy, it’s not the kind of beach to lay out your towel and sunbathe and you will find it better to wear water booties. But if being out in nature, snorkeling, and diving are your kind of activities, you’ll love this beach in Costa Blanca.
Playa de les Rotes has a rugged beauty and the diverse marine life found there makes it a good spot to don your diving or snorkeling gear. There are also some wonderful views to enjoy, especially if you decide to or from Denia to the beach.
Playa de la Fustera, Benissa
In the small coastal town of Benissa (which is one of the oldest in Costa Blanca), you’ll find the beautiful Playa de la Fustera. Its golden sandy beach is set in a cove, sheltered by cliffs.
This beach in Costa Blanca is small and cozy but what it lacks in size, it makes up in beauty. The blue green water is calm, making it ideal for activities like swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There’s also a beachfront restaurant so you don’t have to look far for food and drinks.
Playa de la Fustera is also a great place to start your exploration of the coast to Calpe. The scenic walk offers spectacular views and it’s an amazing way to explore this beautiful coast.
This is another spot that tends to be busy in the current months and as it’s a small beach, you’ll want to be here early.
Playa Paraíso, Villajoyosa
A beach named “Paradise” definitely deserved a spot on our list of the best beaches in Costa Blanca… and yes, it does live up to its name!
This long pebble beach with its clear turquoise waters draws sun-seekers to its beautiful shore for relaxing, swimming, and sunbathing. Be sure to wear water shoes for a more comfortable experience swimming and wandering along the beach.
For food and refreshments, head to the two nearby beach bars — but do note that they’re only open during the summer.
While this beach is lively between July and September, it’s more quiet in the off-season… but no less lovely! In fact, I’d say the tranquility here in the non-peak period is another type of paradise.
Playa de la Fossa, Calpe
With over 13km of coast and 14 beaches, Calpe is one of the best spots along Costa Brava for a beach vacation. And while all the beaches here are pretty, the one I recommend is Playa de la Fossa which is a bit quieter.
Needless to say, the beach is absolutely gorgeous with white sand and clear blue water. As it’s pretty shallow and calm, this is a safe beach for little ones to play in. You’ll also enjoy strolling on the promenade and taking in the pretty skies as the sun sets. And yes, there are restaurants and bars along the promenade too.
Even during the summer, Playa de la Fossa is less busy than the main beach although it may be tough to find parking. In the winter months, it gets quiet as some restaurants and shops are closed.
Playa de Poniente, Benidorm
Benidorm is a top destination in Costa Blanca for a seaside trip and for an action-packed day by the water, you’ll want to head to Playa de Poniente.
This Costa Blanca beach offers the best of Benidorm but without the insane energy of the more popular Playa Levante. No crazy parties, no huge crowds… simply a beautiful beach with the amenities you need for a fun day out. Plus, it’s easily accessible by public transport!
The long stretch of beach makes it easy to carve out your own spot for whatever activities you want to do. The water is warm, clean, and clear — and with small waves and lifeguards present, it’s a kid-friendly spot. There are also companies renting out equipment for water sports, if you want to get active.
There’s also a promenade area with restaurants and bars so you’ll be all set for whatever you need.
Playa Mal Pas, Benidorm
Sandwiched between the two large beaches in Benidorm (Levante and the above-mentioned Poniente), you’ll find Playa Mal Pas in a little bay. Unlike those two popular beaches, there are fewer amenities and fewer people here… but that’s part of the appeal.
Lay out on the long stretch of shore and soak up the sun or cool off in the clear clear water. The transparency of the waters makes it a good place for snorkeling or diving. The atmosphere here is peaceful and relaxing.
If you’re in search of a quieter beach in Benidorm, Playa Mal Pas should be on your list. Come early to ensure that you get a spot as the beach is small and space is limited.
Cala Finestrat, Benidorm
Situated in the small beach town of Finestrat and just a short drive from Benidorm, you’ll find Cala Finestrat, one of the best beaches in Costa Blanca. If you find the Benidorm beaches a bit too much for you, escape to this cove for a change of pace.
Gorgeous blue waters and fine white sand await you at Cala Finestrat. Here, you’ll have easy access to numerous amenities like sunbed and umbrella rentals, nearby restaurants and bars, and toilets and showers. And it’s much quieter and more relaxing here than it is in Benidorm.
If you’re here on a Tuesday or Saturday, don’t miss the local market in town.
You can even get here on a public bus from Benidorm so there’s no excuse not to visit!
For more on Spain’s beaches
- Summer in Spain (Ultimate Guide 2023)
- Spain’s Best Beach Towns: 20 Coastal Destinations to Visit in Summer 2023
- 15+ Best Alicante Beaches to Visit in Summer 2023
Liza’s love affair with Spain began when she started taking Spanish language classes. Since then, she regularly travels to Spain to explore new places and discover new things to love about this gorgeous country. This travel blog is her way of sharing her love of Spain and helping you plan your dream Spanish holiday!