How well do you know Costa Blanca’s best beaches?
Be sure to save this list of Costa Blanca’s best beaches ahead of your Alicante holidays for a summer of sun, sea and sand
Spain’s stunning Costa Blanca, stretching over 250 kilometres across the southeastern coastline, has long been a hotspot for sunseekers. It is a sanctuary of golden shores, azure waters and lively resorts that offer something for all the family. There are also a number of Blue Flag beaches, fringed by palm tree promenades where Mediterranean vibes mingle with echoes of the country’s Moorish past. Whether you are looking for a quiet cove for an afternoon of calm or a beachfront hotel with all the trimmings of a luxury escape, you are in luck. Costa Blanca’s best beaches are easy to find and are varied enough to keep everyone happy.
Postiguet Beach, Alicante
When it comes to Alicante’s best beaches, one that comes up in conversation, without fail, is the Postiguet Beach in Alicante. Based in the city centre, the beach is ideal for those staying at the Occidental Alicante or the Albahía Hotel, thanks to its central location. With the historic Castillo de Santa Bárbara looking down from above, Postiguet offers soft sand, clear swimming, and a lively energy. There are also sports areas, pedal boats, sun loungers, callisthenics equipment and a children’s playground to enjoy. Come for a sunset stroll along the promenade, Paseo de Gómiz, or join the locals for late-night tapas and tinto de verano just steps from the sand. Need accessibility access? No problem, this beach is accessible for those with reduced mobility from footbridge 13 during the summer, and from footbridge 7 out of season. There is also a parking too.
Postiguet Beach
San Juan Beach, Alicante
If you want to get away from the crowds at the Alicante city beach, a short tram journey will lead you to the picturesque San Juan Beach. This seven-kilometre stretch of sand is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. Pitch camp on its fine, golden shoreline, enjoy splashing in and out of the gentle surf and when you want a light snack, head to the wide promenade lined with cafés. This beach is ideal for early morning walks, paddleboarding, or simply unwinding beneath a parasol with the scent of salt and sunscreen in the air. Despite its popularity, due to its vast size, it rarely feels crowded, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and convenience just a tram ride from the city centre.
San Juan Beach
Albufereta Beach, Alicante
Looking for a quieter alternative to Alicante’s city beaches? Nestled in a sheltered bay just north of Alicante’s city centre, Playa de la Albufereta offers a 400-metre-long pocket of blissful calm. With its tranquil, shallow waters and soft golden sand, it’s ideal for relaxed swimming and sunbathing, especially for families and those seeking a more laid-back vibe. It is one of these places that invites you to forget about time and just soak up the beauty of the moment.
The beach has a distinctly local feel, often frequented by residents, and is steeped in history
The beach has a distinctly local feel, often frequented by residents, and is steeped in history. It was once the site of a Roman port and close by, you can visit the archaeological site Tosal de Manises. Easily accessible by tram or car, Albufereta blends convenience, charm, and a touch of heritage in one inviting stretch of coast. Yet, since it is so desirable, during the summer, do expect crowds.
Albufereta Beach
Cala Lanuza, one of the more local beaches around Alicante
There is something magical about Alicante’s beaches and this je ne sais quoi can be felt on the sleepy Lanuza Bay. Located in the north of El Campello, a Mediterranean hilltop town, close to the Occidental Pueblo Acantilado, this beach is the perfect spot for a family break thanks to its calm waters and golden sand. It is also a top scuba diving spot thanks to its super clean waters and rich flora and fauna. Rocky areas to the north and south teem with algae, sea anemones, blennies, and juvenile sea bream. At depths of 3–4 metres, lush Posidonia oceanica meadows host diverse marine life, while deeper still, Cymodocea nodosa grasslands thrive on the sandy seabed.
Cala Lunaza
Levante Beach, Benidorm, one of Costa Blanca’s best beaches
If you want to visit one of the most lively and iconic beaches of the Costa Blanca, head to Levante Beach in Benidorm. This two-kilometre, east-facing, stretch of sand captures the best of the sun’s rays during and is backed by a skyline that rivals Miami. From sunrise joggers to sunset sangrias, this is one of Costa Blanca’s best beaches for embracing the true energy of the region.
Its shallow waters and lively atmosphere make it ideal for families
Its shallow waters and lively atmosphere make it ideal for families, while water sports enthusiasts can take to jet skis or parasails for their dose of adrenaline. Despite its popularity, Levante is immaculately maintained, with Blue Flag status and a palm-lined promenade perfect for people-watching. Just like other beaches in the area, there are plenty of facilities for a comfortable day out, from sun loungers to children’s play areas. It is the ideal choice for those staying at the Barceló Benidorm Beach, just a five-minute walk from the shoreline. It is worth noting that the Barceló Nucia Palms and Barceló Nucia Hills resorts are just a short drive away.
Levante Beach
Playa Punta Prima a Costa Blanca jewel
If you are looking for family-friendly swimming and coastal charm, Punta Prima is one of Costa Blanca’s best beaches. Located on the southern edge of the Costa Blanca coastline, this small but inviting beach is well known for its calm, clear waters and relaxed vibes. The beach is sheltered by a rocky outcrop and the gentle waves are ideal for swimming and paddling, making it a firm favourite for those travelling with children. What’s more, the beach is backed by a pretty promenade dotted with restaurants and cafés, perfect for a seaside lunch with panoramic views. With its easy access, clean sands, and laid-back vibe, Punta Prima is a quiet gem that captures the essence of Mediterranean coastal living.
Punta Prima Beach
La Mata Beach, Torrevieja, Alicante
La Mata Beach is the longest in Torrevieja, offering over 2 kilometres of golden sand and a wide promenade that hums with life year-round. Backed by dunes and the protected natural park of La Mata Lagoon, it strikes a balance between unspoiled beauty and modern convenience. The waters are clear and inviting, with gentle waves perfect for swimming, while the beachfront is lined with chiringuitos, cafés, and shops that give it a vibrant, welcoming feel. Popular with both locals and visitors, La Mata is ideal for a full day by the sea, whether you’re basking in the sun or strolling at sunset. Be sure to pinpoint this Torrevieja beach on your map.
La Mata Beach
Cala Granadella, Javea
Cala Granadella is one of Costa Blanca’s most iconic coves – a small, pebbly bay tucked between forested cliffs and lapped by strikingly clear, turquoise waters. Popular with snorkellers and kayakers, its marine life and rugged surroundings make it a natural haven for adventure and relaxation alike. Despite its growing fame for being an Instagrammable spot, it retains a sense of tranquillity, especially in the early morning or outside peak summer. With limited access and a couple of charming beachside eateries, Cala Granadella offers a picture-perfect escape that feels far removed from the bustle of the tourist trail.
Cala Granadella
Cala del Moraig, Benitachell
Cala del Moraig is a breathtaking cove nestled beneath the cliffs of the Sierra de la Marina, where jagged rock formations meet the brilliant blue sea. Known for its striking natural beauty and crystal-clear waters, it’s a favourite among snorkellers and divers, especially near the Cova dels Arcs, a sea cave carved into the cliff face. The beach itself is a mix of pebbles and coarse sand, adding to its rugged charm, and its relatively secluded location makes it feel wonderfully off the beaten path. A true gem for those seeking both adventure and serenity on the Costa Blanca.
Cala del Moraig
Cala Finestrat, Benidorm
Cala Finestrat is a charming, crescent-shaped beach just south of Benidorm, offering a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere while still being close to the action. Sheltered by surrounding hills, its calm, shallow waters make it ideal for families with young children, while the fine sand is perfect for sunbathing or building sandcastles. The promenade is lined with casual restaurants, shops, and cafés, creating a friendly, village-like vibe. With easy access and a more relaxed pace than its larger neighbours, Cala Finestrat is a welcoming spot to enjoy the sun without the crowds, especially if you are staying in Asia Gardens, A Royal Hideaway Hotel.
Cala Finestrat