🧭 Where Are Moraira and Jávea?
Jávea (Xàbia): A coastal town with beaches, a marina, and a lively international scene. It’s divided into three zones: Arenal Beach, the Port, and the Old Town.
Moraira: A smaller town 20 minutes south of Jávea, with a laid-back, village feel — but with some of the best dining and coves in the region.
Both are located in the northern Costa Blanca, just over an hour from Alicante airport and surrounded by nature reserves, vineyards, and mountain trails.
Our tip: If you want to visit both before deciding — they’re only a scenic 25-minute coastal drive apart!
Beaches & Nature🌊
Moraira:
Beautiful small coves like El Portet and Cala Advocat
Clean, uncrowded Blue Flag beaches
Scenic walks like Cap d’Or and the castle promenade
Jávea:
Large sandy Arenal beach
Dozens of hidden calas like Granadella and Cala Blanca
The impressive Montgó mountain behind the town
Fun fact: Jávea has more beach access points, but Moraira’s coves are often more peaceful and protected.
Real Estate and Housing🏡
| Feature | Moraira | Jávea |
|---|---|---|
| Average apartment | €230,000 – €350,000 | €250,000 – €400,000 |
| Sea view villa | €700,000 – €1.5M | €850,000 – €2.5M+ |
| Popular for | New builds, luxury buyers | Mix of second homes, families, investors |
| Rental demand | Seasonal, luxury-focused | High year-round, incl. long-term rentals |
Local insight: Moraira tends to have fewer new developments, which keeps it more exclusive. Jávea offers more variety — from fincas to beachfront apartments.
👉 Learn more: Real Estate in Jávea
Looking for a real estate agent?
Find relevant, officially registered professionals on our dedicated business page.
Restaurants and Lifestyle🍷
Moraira has fewer but higher-end restaurants and wine bars. Think elegant dining with a view.
Jávea has much more variety — sushi, tapas, vegan, street food — especially in the Arenal and Port areas.
Weekly markets: Both towns have lively local markets, perfect for picking up produce, textiles, and crafts.
Vibe summary:
Moraira = peaceful, classy, easy to park and walk
Jávea = active, dynamic, fun and international
👉 Learn more: Best Restaurants in Jávea
Families, Schools, and Community👨👩👧👦
International schools nearby:
Jávea has several, including Xàbia International College
Moraira is close to Lady Elizabeth School and other top private schools
Community feel:
Moraira feels like a tight-knit village with a big expat presence
Jávea has more zones and diverse pockets, great for kids, activities, and networking
Local tip: Jávea is better for teenagers and remote workers. Moraira suits retirees and young families looking for quiet living.
🔁 Summary Comparison Table
| Category | Moraira | Jávea |
|---|---|---|
| Size & population | Smaller, around 10,000 | Larger, over 25,000 |
| Vibe | Quiet, upscale, refined | Active, diverse, busy in summer |
| Property prices | High but limited supply | Wider range, more variety |
| Beaches | Small coves, peaceful | Sandy beaches & dramatic calas |
| Best for | Retirees, luxury buyers | Families, digital nomads, investors |
| Dining | Classy and calm | Lively and varied |
| Nightlife | Very limited | Active in Arenal and Port |
FAQ: Moraira vs Jávea ❓
Is Moraira more expensive than Jávea?
Not necessarily. Moraira has fewer listings and less new construction, which keeps prices stable. Jávea has more variety, including budget-friendly flats and luxury villas.
Which town has better beaches — Moraira or Jávea?
Jávea wins on size and variety. Moraira’s coves are calmer and more intimate, great for snorkeling and relaxing.
Where should I live: Jávea or Moraira?
If you want quiet charm, Moraira. If you prefer variety, schools, and more activities, Jávea.
Is Moraira or Jávea better for digital nomads?
Jávea. Better co-working options, more long-term rentals, and a larger international community.
Conclusion: Jávea or Moraira? ✅
You can’t go wrong with either — but your choice depends on your lifestyle and goals.
Choose Moraira if you value peace, elegance, and a slower pace.
Choose Jávea if you want more buzz, beach variety, and community activity.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Moraira is smaller, quieter, and more exclusive
Jávea is bigger, more diverse, and lively year-round
Both offer great quality of life, but appeal to different lifestyles
If unsure… try both! They’re just 25 minutes apart
👉 Learn more about Moraira here and Jávea here
Do you own a Business in Jávea or Moraira?
Then you might want to be featured on our dedicated business pages.
