​Costa Blanca North - Our Top 10 Destinations​​

The Costa Blanca North coastline runs from Denia in the north to Alicante in the south, roughly 91 km (56 miles) and incorporates breath-taking scenery, exciting resorts and stunning beaches.

As well as the many holiday resorts scattered down the coastline, there are also numerous small fishing towns which offer a more relaxed and less busy option for a day trip or holiday, however, in the article we are going to focus on the more bustling towns and resorts that are popular not just with holiday makers but also expats from the UK, Germany and Scandinavia.

Albir

Albir is a charming resort town renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, offering a perfect blend of tranquillity and convenience. 

Albir’s beaches are  pristine and include the Blue Flag-rated Playa de Racó de l'Albir, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports against a backdrop of rugged mountains and clear azure waters.

Beyond its scenic coastline, Albir boasts a bustling promenade lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants serving a variety of local and international cuisine. The town's vibrant cultural scene includes art galleries, live music venues, and frequent festivals celebrating Spanish traditions.

Nature lovers can explore the nearby Serra Gelada Natural Park, a protected area teeming with diverse flora and fauna, as well as scenic hiking trails offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline.

Additionally, Albir's strategic location provides easy access to a range of attractions, from historic landmarks to theme parks, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy in this idyllic coastal retreat.

Altea

Characterised by whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets, Altea offers a traditional Spanish ambiance that attracts visitors not only from Europe but from around the globe.

The town is perched on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the historic old quarter, known as "El Casco Antiguo," boasts stunning panoramic views and a wealth of quaint shops, art galleries, and alfresco dining spots.

Altea's coastline is dotted with secluded coves and pebbled beaches, providing an ideal setting for sunbathing and swimming in crystal-clear waters. The marina offers opportunities for sailing and water sports, while its bustling promenade is lined with seafood restaurants serving freshly caught delicacies.

Art enthusiasts will find plenty to admire in Altea, with its vibrant cultural scene encompassing numerous galleries and studios showcasing local talent. The town is also renowned for its annual festivals and events, including the iconic Fiestas de Moros y Cristianos, which celebrates Altea's rich history and heritage.

Benidorm

Benidorm, is a vibrant and dynamic resort town renowned for its lively nightlife and its two stunning Blue Flag-rated sandy beaches (Levante and Poniente).

The resort does have more to offer than just being regarded as Costa Blanca’s party capital, it boasts a range of attractions and activities, including theme parks, water parks, and cultural landmarks, ensuring that visitors of all ages find plenty to see and do.

The old town radiates charm and character, offering a delightful contrast to the lively atmosphere of the more modern ‘new town’ area. With its narrow streets, historic buildings, and quaint squares, it provides a glimpse into the town's rich cultural heritage.

You can enjoy authentic Spanish tapas in one of the many restaurants located in the aptly named ‘tapas alley’ and then relax in one of the many bars which although can get busy are not as boisterous as those over in the new town.

Benissa

Benissa nestles between the bustling resorts of Calpe and Moraira and offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, yet with easy access to amenities and attractions.

With its historical centre, cobbled streets and houses dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, it really does have a unique charm and often attracts day-trip visitors keen to wander through the narrow streets and visit the impressive parish church of Puríssima Xiqueta, or explore the ruins of the Benissa Castle.

The town's coastline is dotted with secluded coves and pristine beaches, providing idyllic spots for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters.

For those seeking adventure, the nearby Sierra de Bernia mountain range offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding countryside.

Calpe

Calpe is a charming resort town with stunning beaches,rich cultural heritage and an iconic landmark in the form of the towering Penyal d'Ifac rock which dominates the Mediterranean skyline.

Calpe boasts a number of sandy beaches with the main two being Playa de la Fossa and Playa del Arenal-Bol, both are pristine and offer an array of watersports and swimming in the turquoise waters.

As with many of the main towns on the Costa Blanca, Calpe has an historic old town with charming streets, bustling markets, and centuries-old landmarks, such as the ancient Roman baths and the Iglesia Antigua de Nuestra Señora de las Nieves.

Denia

Denia offers a captivating blend of rich history, culture, and natural beauty and this is evident when wandering through the narrow, Moorish streets that twist through and around the centre.

The town is nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the rugged Montgó mountain and boasts pristine beaches, including the renowned Les Marines and Les Rotes, perfect for both sunbathing and water sports enthusiasts alike.

Denia's charm extends beyond its shores, with a rich tapestry of historical sites such as the imposing 11th-century castle, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Visitors can wander through the vibrant streets of the old town, lined with traditional whitewashed houses and quaint cafes serving delectable local cuisine, notably fresh seafood dishes sourced from the town's bustling fish market.

Denia also serves as a gateway to the idyllic Balearic Islands, with regular ferry services departing from its bustling port.

Finestrat

Finestrat is a charming mountainous village that captivates visitors with its idyllic setting and rich cultural heritage while only being a mere 20 minutes drive away from the bustling resort of Benidorm.

The village is surrounded by majestic mountains which offer hiking and mountain biking for the more adventurous while those who prefer a more relaxed holiday can immerse themselves in the historical charm by exploring the narrow streets lined with traditional whitewashed houses.

The town's focal point is its historic Old Quarter, where ancient churches, quaint squares, and historic landmarks beckon to be explored while after dark, the vibrant culinary scene comes to life, offering delicious Spanish cuisine in cosy tavernas and charming cafes.

Javea

Javea is a beautiful town with perfect beaches and coves as well as being home to the Montgó Natural Park, Santi Antoni Marine Reserve and a historical 15th century fishing port.

The Mediterranean coastline is particularly good around Javea for snorkelling and diving with clear waters and an abundance of coves to explore.

Away from the beaches, the area boasts a rich heritage with the old town’s cobbled streets, ancient churches and archaeological sites being extremely popular with visitors.

Once the sun sets, the town becomes a culinary delight, with many restaurants and traditional Spanish tapas bars to enjoy. There is also a wide choice of lively bars and music venues to further enhance the vibrant atmosphere Javea offers.

Moraira

Moraira has undeniable charm, with its serene beaches and warm Mediterranean waters, it is a haven for sun worshippers and water sport enthusiasts alike.

Moraira is steeped in history, the Old Town has a timeless charm, with its narrow streets, historic buildings, and ancient watchtowers offering glimpses into its rich maritime past.

A wander through the bustling market squares, browsing artisan shops, and sampling local delicacies in the town's traditional tavernas is an absolute must but for those seeking adventure, Moraira provides a number of opportunities for outdoor pursuits, from hiking along scenic coastal trails to exploring the nearby vineyards and olive groves of the Jalon Valley.

As the sun sets, the town comes alive with lively nightlife, with a good selection of music, dancing, and entertainment.

Villajoyosa

Villajoyosa is a charming town renowned for its colourful buildings, rich history, and stunning coastal scenery. The name Villajoyosa, translates to "Joyful Village," which perfectly describes this delightful destination.

The town has a vibrant seafront with rows of picturesque houses painted in an array of colours, creating a wonderful backdrop for those leisurely strolling along the promenade.

You can explore the Old Town, where narrow cobblestone streets lead to traditional Spanish squares with quaint cafes, artisanal shops, and historical landmarks.

Villajoyosa's main beach is called Playa Centro and boasts soft golden sands attracting both sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts.

The town also has a bustling fish market that offers a glimpse into its maritime heritage, with fresh catches of the day tempting visitors to sample the local seafood delicacies.

Evenings in Villajoyosa are usually spent along the seafront promenade with a number of bars and restaurants offering music and entertainment.