Top 10 Things to Do in Jávea (Xàbia)

Planning a trip to Jávea and wondering how to fill your days? Whether you’re into beach lounging, nature walks, water adventures, or sunset dinners, this Mediterranean town packs in plenty of variety without ever feeling too hectic. Here’s our local-style guide to the top 10 things to do in Jávea — a mix of iconic sights, laid-back activities, and a few hidden gems you might not find in every tourist brochure.

Local tip: Jávea is best explored slowly. Pick a few activities, space them out, and take your time soaking in the views, food, and sea air.

Explore the Old Town (Casco Antiguo)

If you only know Jávea for its beaches, the Old Town might just surprise you. Wander through narrow lanes with honey-coloured stone buildings, take in the medieval vibes around San Bartolomé Church, and stop for a quick bite at a tucked-away tapas bar. We always recommend going on a Thursday morning when the market brings the square to life with locals buying fresh veg, olives, and churros.

Quick Highlights:

• Weekly market (Thursday mornings)
• Local tapas spots and bakeries
• Historic buildings and traditional Spanish charm

👉 Link: Living in Jávea

Spend a Day at Playa del Arenal ☀️

This is where you’ll find the buzz. Playa del Arenal is more than just a beach — it’s Jávea’s social hub. Whether you’re grabbing cocktails at Chabada, renting a paddleboard, or digging into ice cream from Jijonenca, there’s something for everyone. It’s the spot we send friends with kids or anyone wanting an easy beach day with everything close by.

Quick Highlights:

• Sandy beach with calm, shallow waters
• Plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops
• Great for paddleboarding and people-watching

👉 Link: Beaches and Coves in Jávea

Hike to Cap Prim Viewpoint ⛰️

For one of the best panoramic views in town with very little effort, this is your trail. Locals love coming here at sunrise with a flask of coffee, and the peace in the early morning is unbeatable. The trail is short but delivers big on views over Cala Sardinera and Portitxol Island.

Quick Highlights:

• Easy 30-minute walk
• Spectacular views and photo ops
• Great spot for sunrise or sunset

Snorkel at Cala Granadella 🐠

This cala often makes the ‘most beautiful beaches in Spain’ lists — and once you see the colour of the water, you’ll get why. We like to go early in the morning before the road closes to traffic. Bring your snorkel, pack some water shoes, and dive into a world of fish and rock formations just below the surface.

Quick Highlights:

• Clear turquoise waters
• Snorkeling trails and kayak routes
• Surrounded by forest and cliffs

👉 Link: Snorkeling Spots Costa Blanca

Stroll the Port and Marina 🚢

Duanes de la Mar, Jávea’s port area, feels like a town within the town. It’s a lovely spot for an early evening walk, especially when the fishing boats return with the day’s catch. We love grabbing a vermouth at one of the terrace bars while watching the sun dip behind the masts.

Quick Highlights:

• Local fish market and daily catch
• Evening promenade walk
• Casual waterfront bars

Visit Mirador de la Cruz del Portitxol 🌍

This one’s a bit of a secret if you don’t have a car. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from the road, and the view is one of the best in Jávea. You’ll often find local artists sketching, or early risers soaking in the silence with a thermos and a camera.

Quick Highlights:

• Panoramic coastal views
• Photo-friendly wooden cross
• Start point for coastal walks

Dive into Local Cuisine 🍽️

One of our favourite things about Jávea? You can have a gourmet seafood meal by the beach, or a no-frills paella in a backstreet restaurant — and both will be amazing. We always point visitors to La Perla or La Siesta for a sunset dinner, or to the old town for proper local tapas away from the tourist trail.

Quick Highlights:

• Local favourites: Restaurante La Siesta, La Perla, Chabada
• Beachfront dining and old town tapas bars
• Try arroz a banda and grilled octopus

Kayak to Cova Tallada 🛶

This is hands down one of the most memorable experiences you can have here. Paddling along the coast to a hidden sea cave feels like discovering a secret. The cave itself is carved into the cliffs and filled with light shafts and echoey chambers. Go with a guide unless you know the route well — and bring a waterproof torch if you’re feeling brave!

Quick Highlights:

• Guided tours available in summer
• Spectacular geology and clear water
• Good swimming and snorkelling once inside

Chill Out at Cala Blanca or Cala Tango ✨

Want to swim without the crowds? These rocky little calas are perfect. Locals come here before breakfast or after work for a quick dip. Cala Blanca is peaceful and easy to reach, while Cala Tango has a bit of an adventurous edge — think cliff jumping and snorkeling with schools of fish.

Quick Highlights:

• Calm water and fewer crowds
• Great for snorkeling and early dips
• Coastal path access and sunrise views

Want to know which other beaches and coves you can visit around the Costa Blanca? Here’s a complete guide with all beaches on the Costa Blanca.

Catch Sunset at Cabo de San Antonio 🌇

You haven’t seen Jávea properly until you’ve watched the sun go down from this cliff. The lighthouse viewpoint lets you see the entire curve of the bay, and on clear evenings, you might even spot Ibiza in the distance. Bring a jumper — and maybe a bottle of local wine to toast the view.

Quick Highlights:

• Unbeatable sunset views
• Lighthouse and clifftop walkways
• Bring a jacket — it gets breezy!

✅ Editor’s Conclusion

There’s a reason Jávea has become one of the Costa Blanca’s favourite towns. Whether you’re here for a week or just passing through, the mix of coastal charm, outdoor adventure, and Mediterranean food makes it an easy place to enjoy.

Take your time, follow the sea breeze, and let each viewpoint, market, and cala shape your days. Jávea really is the kind of place you’ll want to come back to.

Craving more coastal spots beyond Jávea? Our Ultimate Guide to Beaches in Costa Blanca has all the top sandy escapes and secret coves across the region.

❓Frequently Asked Questions