One of the main attractions to Benidorm are the stunning golden sandy beaches – and along with the fantastic weather, helps to keeps Benidorm at the top of the holiday destination list for the Brits. Unlike other holiday destinations, Benidorm is blessed with 5 separate sandy beaches, in addition to a number of hidden rocky coves – so there is something for everyone. Each beach has its own personality and attracts different people, but you can be assured that each one is meticulously maintained.
All the beaches are patrolled by qualified lifeguards, but ensure that you adhere to the flags at all times which indicate whether the sea is safe to swim in. You may have walked past and wondered what the candy stripped huts are – they are the first aid stations and where to head if you have a medical emergency.
Levante Beach: This is probably the most popular with the Brits and stretches from the Rincon de Loix up to the edge of the Old Town. In the Summer months it is packed with holiday makers – sometimes it is a struggle to find a square metre of sand to place your towel down. Levante is vibrant and full of life, with bars lining the promenade – usually pumping of loud music. A word of warning if going into the sea – there are rocks on the shoreline and in the shallow waters so be very careful, especially if you have children.
Mal Pas Beach: A quiet sandy cove located directly below the ´Mirador¨- referred to as the look out point by the Brits, which is the bit jutting out between the two bays. Head to Elche Park and walk towards the port and at the very end you will find Mal Pas beach. Ideal if you just want to chill and relax.
Poniente Beach: Starts at the Parc del Elche in the Old Town – often called Dove Park due to the hundreds of white doves and runs for 3km up to La Cala. The distinctive multi coloured wavy promenade won an architectural award for its innovative design and definitely worth seeing. This beach is much quieter, although there are still plenty of bars and restaurants directly across the road from the beach.
La Cala Beach: This is a continuation of the Poniente beach and begins at the beach police station – more or less where all the bars and restaurants finish. A calm and relaxing beach and ideal if you do not want to be disturbed by noisy music. Take your own drinks and snacks as there are not many shops close by.
La Cala Finestrat: Although this technically belongs to Finestrat, most people still refer to it as Benidorm. It is a large sheltered sandy cove and very popular with families. Parking is very easy, with a car park directly in front of the beach and there is a good selection of bars and restaurants directly off the sand. There is also a weekly street market every Saturday morning starting from the beach front, where you can buy fresh fruit and even a spit roast chicken, which you can enjoy for your beach lunch!
In addition to the 5 sandy beaches, Benidorm also has two hidden rocky coves. If you fancy something completely different and are a little adventurous then why not give them a go. These hideaways are understated and basic, but the best thing is that you won´t find hordes of tourists there. They remain almost hidden from view and like all the best quiet beaches, take a little effort to get to. There are no facilities there so make sure you take a supply of food and drink with you. The number 24 bus goes part of the way to both of the coves but please note that neither are suitable for those with mobility restrictions.
Almadrava: The easiest way is to go past the ´Gemelos 28´ Twin Towers at the far end of the Rincon de Loix. At the sharp bend there is a path that leads down to the cove, but it does entail walking along a rather thin ledge. Alternatively, walk to the car park, where the bus terminates and follow the un-adopted path down – but be aware that it is very steep.There is a lifeguard on duty here.
Tio Ximo: This cove is past Almadrava and easier to get to, with a proper winding road down. The cove is surrounded by plenty of rocks, which many visitors dive off into the crystal clear waters below. There are no facilities here - at present not even a lifeguard, so be careful when going into the water.