Welcome to your fresh, all‑inclusive guide to the best places to visit in Costa Blanca! We’ve crafted this with local insight, real travel questions, and the most loved spots across the region—all to help you discover the towns, beaches, and natural wonders that truly make this coastline shine. Whether you’re planning a getaway, a road trip, or a long-term stay, this is your starting point for everything Costa Blanca.
La Costa Blanca is the tourist name given to the Mediterranean coastline that stretches across the province of Alicante, in southeastern Spain. It runs from the town of Denia in the north to Pilar de la Horadada in the south, spanning 244 km of beaches, coves, and dramatic cliffs.
Costa Blanca Best Places – Contents & Quick Navigation 🧭
Welcome to the Costa Blanca’s Best Places☀️
Extensive sandy beaches, crystal-clear coves, impressive rock formations, colorful coastal towns, charming inland villages, stunning viewpoints, and of course—mouthwatering traditional cuisine. You might not guess it at first, but we’re talking about one of Spain’s most beloved travel destinations: the Costa Blanca.
This region offers far more than sun and sangria. With its sunshine-packed climate, charming towns, and natural variety, the Costa Blanca combines Mediterranean magic with diverse cultural and natural highlights. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best places to visit—backed by local tips, real user searches, and popular travel spots recommended by Google and top blogs. So, whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or a taste of authentic Spain, you’re in the right place.
If you’re wondering how to get to Costa Blanca, several international airports make travel easy year-round.
Alicante City – A Meeting Point of Sea & History 🌊
Alicante, anchored by the iconic Castillo de Santa Bárbara, stands tall at Monte Benacantil’s summit—offering sweeping views of the coast and lively city below.
Wander the enchanting Explanada de España, where swaying palms line the mosaic promenade, and lose yourself in the pastel-hued alleys of Casco Antiguo Santa Cruz, where baroque balconies and intimate tapas bars reflect Alicante’s authentic heart.
Nearby, the majestic Basílica de Santa María, with its Gothic arches and rich history, crowns the city’s soul. From daytime beach strolls to spirited nightlife and modern museums, Alicante offers a polished, cosmopolitan vibe with a timeless Mediterranean essence.
Calpe & Peñón de Ifach – Dramatic Nature & Coastal Charm 🪨
Calpe’s dramatic limestone giant, Peñón de Ifach, towers 332 m above the sea—an iconic symbol of Costa Blanca’s wild side.
The climb rewards early-morning adventurers with sweeping views, nature trails, and nesting seabirds. Below, discover Cova Tallada, a sea-carved grotto famed for its translucent waters and adventurous snorkelling trips—a dreamy escape for sun-seekers and explorers alike.
Beyond its natural spectacles, Calpe delights food lovers, with local seafood dishes and Roman remnants like the Baños de la Reina adding cultural depth.
One visual standout in Calpe is the eye-catching Muralla Roja, an iconic, fortress-like apartment complex designed by Ricardo Bofill. Its striking red and pink hues, maze-like structure, and surreal architecture have made it a favorite among photographers and architecture fans, adding a modern artistic edge to Calpe’s old-meets-new atmosphere.
Calpe offers the perfect blend of rugged beauty and laid-back coastal living.
Benidorm – Where Skyline Skirts the Sea & Fun Never Sleeps 🎢
Benidorm is the Costa Blanca’s show-stopper: beach-bound skyscrapers meet boardwalk buzz, and fun is always on the agenda. Levante Beach pulses with activity—water sports, cafés, families—while nearby Poniente Beach offers a breezy, calmer counterpoint. For thrill-seekers, Aqualandia (slides and adrenaline) and Mundomar (marine life shows) are perennial favorite Family Parks for families and fun-seekers.
Add in the cliff-top magic of Balcón del Mediterráneo, where sunrise and sunset views sparkle over the skyline, and you’ve got a city that balances sun, surf, and spectacle all year long.
Benidorm is also a city of contrasts. Head to the Old Town and you’ll find cobbled streets, local tapas bars, and a touch of Spanish tradition and charm—perfect for those wanting a more authentic, laid-back experience. On the flip side, the English Square area brings 24/7 party vibes with karaoke bars, pubs, and lively entertainment catering to international crowds. Whether you’re after cultural corners or all-day nightlife, Benidorm gives you both in full force.
Altea & Villajoyosa – White-Washed Wonder & Colorful Tradition 🎨
Altea is the artist’s postcard: a hilltop town of whitewashed walls, deep-blue domes, and photographer-worthy alleys. Its church square overlooks the glittering bay, dotted with craft galleries and cafés. Visitors rave about its relaxed bohemian vibe—perfect for lovers of art, coastline views, and sunny afternoon cafés.
Just 10 km south, Villajoyosa—or “La Vila Joiosa”—charms with candy-colored fishermen’s houses lining the sea. Celebrate its heritage in the rich aroma of the local chocolate tradition, savour traditional gastronomy, and visit during the colorful Moros y Cristianos festival—an immersive dive into Valencian folklore
Jávea (Xàbia) – Golden Beaches & Mountainous Backdrops 🌄
Dubbed “Spain’s most beautiful coastal village” by Vogue Australia, Jávea marries golden sandy beaches with neon coves and mountainous drama.
The award-winning Playa del Arenal bustles with kayakers, volleyball nets, and beachfront bars—ideal for families and active types.
Meanwhile, the scenic coastline leads to quiet gems like Cala de la Granadella, celebrated for crystal waters and intimate beach serenity.
These are just a few of the best beaches in Costa Blanca, each offering its own kind of beauty and vibe.
Inland, Montgó Natural Park offers hiking trails with panoramas and did we mention—our tip? It’s stunning at sunrise. Perfect for those seeking both adventure and calm in one destination.
Many visitors also enjoy sailing excursions along the coast, exploring hidden coves and sea caves.
Torrevieja – Salt Lakes & Lively Promenades
South on the coast, Torrevieja offers more than sandy shores: it’s framed by striking pink salt lakes that draw flamingos and nature lovers.
The vibrant Paseo Marítimo spans several beaches and is abuzz with waterfront cafés and local life.
Don’t miss Aquopolis for family-friendly water fun, and the Museum of Sea and Salt for a glimpse into the town’s salty past.
With strong expat communities and relaxed charm, Torrevieja is a friendly slice of serenidad by the sea.
Inland Jewels – Guadalest, Castell de Castells & Font de l’Algar ⛰️
Clinging to a cliff, Guadalest dazzles with its hilltop fortress and sweeping valley views—one of the Costa Blanca’s most captivating inland escapes.
For a true hidden treasure, Castell de Castells offers emerald mountain hikes, cave paintings, and biking routes—where solitude and nature converge ﹘ perfect for off-the-beaten-track explorers.
Fonts de l’Algar, with its cascading waterfalls and natural pools, beckons for midday swims and forested walks, and is beloved by both locals and visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Costa Blanca Best Places❓
What is the nicest part of Costa Blanca?
While personal tastes vary, many travelers and locals alike are drawn to the northern part of the Costa Blanca. It’s greener, lusher, and less arid than the southern coast, offering a more dramatic blend of sea and mountain landscapes.
Towns like Dénia, Altea, and Moraira sit nestled between pine-covered hills and turquoise bays, creating a picture-perfect contrast that feels uniquely Mediterranean.
The microclimate here is especially pleasant, and the scenery often surprises visitors expecting only beaches—this area is full of hidden coves, terraced vineyards, and natural parks.
Which is the most beautiful beach on the Costa Blanca?
La Granadella (Jávea), Playa de la Fossa (Calpe), and Playa de San Juan (Alicante) consistently top beauty lists for their shimmering waters and scenic surroundings.
But, go ahead and read our article with all beaches on the Costa Blanca and choose your prefered one!
Is Altea or Calpe better?
Choose Altea for artistic ambiance, picturesque architecture, and a much more calm setting.
Altea is less crowded than Calpe, mainly due to the difference in beaches. Pebbled beaches attract less tourists then Calpe’s long sandy beaches.
Calpe dazzles with dramatic natural landmarks and adventurous activities like cave tours—an ideal nature-meets-culture mix.
Costa Blanca vs Costa del Sol—what's nicer?
Costa Blanca is quieter, eclectically beautiful, and offers a rich blend of mountain villages, historic towns, and beaches—ideal for travelers seeking variety. Costa del Sol is more developed and bustling, yet lacks the inland charm and diversity you’ll find here.
How to get around Costa Blanca?
Getting around the Costa Blanca is easy, whether you prefer to drive or use public transport. The region is well-connected with a reliable network of buses and trams, particularly along the coast from Alicante to Denia. Towns like Benidorm, Altea, and Calpe are accessible via the TRAM Metropolitano system, making day trips convenient and budget-friendly. There are also regional trains, local taxis, and car rental services for more flexible travel. If you’re planning to explore multiple towns or inland gems, having a car offers the most freedom. For more details, check out our guide to public transport options in Costa Blanca.
Is Costa Blanca a good place to live?
Absolutely—and it’s not just for retirees. The Costa Blanca offers an appealing quality of life thanks to its mild climate, affordable cost of living, excellent healthcare, and diverse communities.
From beachside towns to peaceful inland villages, there’s something here for everyone. Whether you’re after a relaxed lifestyle, outdoor adventures, or a mix of both, you’ll find a welcoming home on this coastline.
If you’re thinking of relocating to Costa Blanca, this guide to moving covers everything from neighborhoods to paperwork.
