6 times dreaming away: the most beautiful beaches of the Costa Blanca

The Costa Blanca, or "white coast," means more than 200 kilometers of coastline. But actually, the white coast is mostly blue: the region has the largest number of blue flags in Europe. That recognition indicates the quality of water, sand and facilities. Not for nothing do many experts consider the beaches of the Costa Blanca to be the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Add to that 320 sunny days a year and you realize: not going to the beach here is like going on vacation to Italy without eating pizza. You can, do as you please, but you will have missed some things. In any case, there is plenty of choice. The Costa Blanca has more than 170 beaches. And these offer something for everyone. Some are made of sand, others of pebbles. Some are miles long, others are hidden in secret coves, behind natural sand dunes or under impressive cliffs. Sometimes, as a beachgoer, you seem to be in the middle of nature; at other times, you have to stagger just two feet through loose sand to get your tub of mojito filled. Some beaches are surrounded by pine forests, others show off bang in the city and have all the amenities. A mountain range dominates the north of the Costa Blanca. Result: many natural parks and hidden coves, not always easy to reach but worth the effort if you prefer not to lay your head down two inches from your neighbor's feet. Although you will find equally sandy beaches and good infrastructure, as in Dénia, Jávea, Calpe and Altea. The center of the Costa Blanca is flatter and therefore has more endless fine sandy beaches. Here you will find the most tourists, especially in Benidorm, Villajoyosa and Alicante. The south is also touristy, which is especially evident in Torrevieja and Santa Pola. Here, beautiful beaches are equally never far away. Let your choice depend on your own preferences. For those who can no longer see the sand through the forest, we are happy to give them a boost:

For families: Playa de Levante (Benidorm)

The unofficial capital of the Costa Blanca is home to two of the most prized sandy beaches in the Mediterranean: Playa de Poniente and Playa de Levante. The latter is a two-kilometer-long paradise where families in particular have an excellent time. The littlest ones have fun in the playgrounds, both in the water and on the beach, while the teens can show off their skills on the diving boards. Sunbathers will find everything they need during a beach vacation, from lounge chairs to banana boats, from bars to even a beach library. Between Playa de Poniente and Playa de Levante stretches the pleasant old town of Benidorm.

Alternatives

A less crowded alternative is Mal Pas, also in Benidorm. Villajoyosa also has five Blue Flag beaches that are excellent for families with children. Ditto for Playa Les Marines (Dénia).

For nature lovers: Playa del Albir (Altea)

This 500-meter-long beach in Altea fills up nicely in the summer. No wonder, every little beach bunny there enjoys water sports, beach bars and a boardwalk full of stores, cafes and restaurants. Yet especially nature lovers will feel like a fish in the Mediterranean here. Hike up the cliffs at the south end of the bay and you'll find yourself among the cool pines in no time. Most people go as far as the lighthouse, to admire the views, but nothing should stop you from exploring the rest of the Serra Gelada Nature Reserve.

Alternate

Playa de la Granadella, a horseshoe-shaped pebble beach in Jávea, is surrounded by mountains and pine forests. Here too you can escape the crowds among the trees.

For water sports enthusiasts: Cala del Moraig (Benitachell)

In fact, it's simple: every possible activity on the water you can practice practically anywhere on the Costa Blanca. Think scuba diving, scuba diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking, sailing, supping, wind and kite surfing. At Moraig Bay, fantastically situated between photogenic cliffs, fans of the underwater world in particular will be delighted. Thanks to its crystal clear waters and stunning setting, but also thanks to the Cova del Arcs. Through that space in the mountain range runs an underground river where divers can explore various tunnels.

Alternatives

Everywhere, but including Tio Ximo (Benidorm), El Portet (Moraira), Playa La Roda (Altea) and Playa de la Fossa (Calpe).

For party people: Playa de San Juan (Alicante)

Here we might as well have recommended Benidorm, the city on the Costa Blanca that never sleeps. But there is also always something to do around Playa de San Juan, a three-kilometer beach just north of Alicante. A short streetcar ride from the city center will get you there, matter of not having to flag down a bob. After a day on the beach - you can also kayak or windsurf here - it's great to start the evening on the terrace of one of the hundreds of restaurants. And after that... you'll see where the noche will take you. To one of the cozy bars or a nightclub that in summer doesn't stop until it gets light again, the possibilities are endless. At least in corona-free times.

Alternatives

In addition to Benidorm, you can also have a blast in Calpe or the fashionable Moraira.

For nudists: Cala Ambolo (Jávea)

This 300 meter long nude beach of coarse sand and pebbles is there for every Adam and FREE WILLIAMS on the beach and every Eva who likes to lighten up the bosom. In Spain, nudity on the beach is less taboo than in our country. So don't be shy and feel free to play out those clothes. Warm enough it is anyway.

Alternatives

Both Playa Les Rotes (Dénia) and Playa El Carabassi (Santa Pola) have a section for nudists. In the latter case, it is conveniently shielded by dunes.

For peace seekers: Playa La Caleta (Villajoyosa)

Especially the north of the Costa Blanca offers opportunities to escape the crowds. The rocky landscapes create small coves and bays that are not found by the great mass of tourists. But also this small beach just outside Villajoyosa is worth it. Tucked away under the cliffs, at the end of a gravel path, far away from the pleasant bustle of the town. Locals in particular find their way to this pebble beach. Even in summer, it is relatively quiet here compared to other beaches in the region. The lack of facilities may be in between for something. So be sure to bring a picnic and plenty of drinking water.

Alternatives

Of course, you are never alone, but the resorts in the north of the Costa Blanca are quieter than those in the south. Think Dénia with its 30 kilometers of blue flags and its rocky coves ideal for scuba divers. Or Jávea, a port town nestled against a hill, with narrow streets, houses of sandstone and fishermen hauling their catch ashore. Near Alicante, Playa El Altet is also a hit.