One of the main reasons families chose Benidorm for their holidays is because of the miles of golden sandy beaches – and three have just been awarded the coveted blue flag. The flags are presented by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and the list of Spanish beaches being awarded this year were published yesterday.

Levante, Poniente and Mal Pas beaches will all proudly flag the flag on what is the town’s greatest attraction for many. Levante and Poniente run for miles but Mal Pas is a small sandy cove located in the Old Town, directly below the Mirador and particularly popular with families.

The council are meticulous about maintaining standards: the beach is cleaned every night, lifeguards are on patrol, shady staffed disabled area – with special water buggies available and first aid facilities provided on all beaches. The candy stripped huts are the first aid points and where you should head if you need any medical assistance – they are also all equipped defibrillators.

The exceedingly high temperatures of the last few days have seen the beaches packed as if it were Summer and with next weeks half term in the UK, will see even more arriving. The forecast looks decidedly grey and wet there this week so something to look forward to I’m sure! But before packing double check your EHIC is still valid and please ensure that you take out travel insurance – your European Health Insurance Card will cover you for emergencies but nothing else.

For those that rent sunbeds and umbrellas be aware that the price has just been increased this year by 50 cents – now €4.50 each. Many actually buy them at one of the many local Chinese shops… if you are here for 10 – 14 days it probably works out cheaper.
Unfortunately, La Cala Finestrat have lost their blue flag this year, something which the current Mayor, Honorato Algado is deeply disappointed about and plans to appeal against.