If you’ve ever wanted to live in a coastal area with crystal-clear waters and cloudless skies, the Costa Blanca could be exactly the setting you are longing for. This region is notable not only for its impressive natural beauty, but also for offering a lifestyle that merges harmoniously with its surroundings. Here, every day is an invitation to relax, rejuvenate and create unforgettable moments in the sun. But what are the best beaches on the Costa Blanca according to the locals?
After all, there’s no one better than them to discover these magical places for us. We’re talking about the beaches – each with its own charm and distinctive characteristics – capable of captivating the people who are lucky enough to enjoy them.
At Quadratia, we’re aware of the need for detailed information on the Costa Blanca’s natural setting, and we’ve produced a comprehensive guide on the best beaches in this region. This guide is perfect for anyone who wants to meld the area’s natural essence with the comfort of establishing a home in one of Spain’s most charming spots.
Feel like discovering it? Come with us!
The 10 best beaches on the Costa Blanca
Without a doubt, the Costa Blanca is famous for its impressive coastline, where you can find some of Spain’s most stunning beaches, many of which have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag. The Blue Flag is a recognition of their environmental excellence, water quality, safety and services.
Below, we’ll explore what are, in our experience, the 10 best beaches on the Costa Blanca. Our selection is based not only on the harmonious integration of these beaches into their natural settings, but also on the range of complementary facilities and services they offer.
In this other article, you can also find out about the best coves on the Costa Blanca.
Playa del Postiguet (Alicante)
Alicante’s Playa del Postiguet is one of the best beaches on the Costa Blanca and one of the most recognised by tourists internationally. Located at the foot of the famous Castillo de Santa Bárbara castle and in the heart of the city, this beach is a true symbol of Alicante and a meeting point for locals and visitors alike.
Characterised by its fine golden sand and calm, crystal-clear waters, this beach continues to maintain excellent-quality services, which is reflected in the Blue Flag that often flies on its shore.
The seafront promenade that borders Playa del Postiguet is full of life, and you can find a variety of restaurants, cafés and ice cream parlours, such as Kiosko Peret on Alicante’sExplanada. What’s more, the beach offers rental services for umbrellas and sun loungers, along with showers, children’s playgrounds and sports spaces, access for people with reduced mobility and lifeguards.
Playa del Postiguet’s proximity to the city centre makes it very accessible on foot and by public transport, so it’s an ideal option for anyone wishing to combine a day at the beach with discovering Alicante’s urban charms. That’s why, if you’re looking for something to see or do in Alicante, don’t miss this article.
| Characteristics | Playa del Postiguet |
| Blue Flag 2023 | Yes |
| Beach type | Golden sand |
| Parking | Difficulty: high. Very busy area with free parking along with usually full private parking |
| Public toilets | Yes, and adapted to reduced mobility |
| Beach bars and restaurants | Yes |
| Children’s playgrounds | Yes |
| Recreational/sport areas | Yes |
Playa de San Juan de Alicante
Playa de San Juan, located in Alicante, is widely recognised as one of the best beaches on the Costa Blanca. Stretching nearly seven kilometres (and connected to Playa de Muchavista beach in El Campello, which has a Blue Flag), this beach of fine, golden sand is one of the largest and most beautiful beaches of all.
Playa de San Juan’s waters are clear and refreshing, ideal for swimming and water sports such as surfing and windsurfing. This beach is very popular with families, groups of friends and sport fans due to its size and the excellent quality of its services, which include playgrounds for children, rental of sun loungers and umbrellas, sports areas (volleyball and calisthenics) and a wide variety of restaurants and beach bars along the seafront.
Its lively atmosphere during the day and night, along with its proximity to the city of Alicante (less than 20 minutes), make it a favourite option for anyone looking to combine relaxation on the beach with urban dynamism.
It has free parking along the entire strip and boasts the BlueFlag distinction.
| Characteristics | Playa de San Juan |
| Blue Flag 2023 | Yes |
| Beach type | Golden sand |
| Parking | Difficulty: high. The public parking next to the beach is very busy |
| Public toilets | Yes, and adapted to reduced mobility |
| Beach bars and restaurants | Yes |
| Children’s playgrounds | Yes |
| Recreational/sport areas | Yes |
Playa del Carabassí (Arenales del Sol)
Surrounded by a system of permanent and mobile dunes and a pine forest, Playa del Carabassi, in the charming area of Arenales del Sol near Elche, offers a unique landscape and an atmosphere that breathes tranquillity. With nearly 900 metres of fine, golden sand, this beach is known for being one of the most natural and least developed in the region.
Playa del Carabassi’s waters are clear and clean, ideal for swimming, as well as very popular with snorkelling and diving enthusiasts, thanks to the variety of marine life that can be seen nearby. This is why it’s been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag, a recognition that underscores its excellence and environmental sustainability.
In addition, it offers basic services such as access walkways, showers and a beach cleaning service. However, it’s recommended that you bring everything you need for the day, as restaurant and rental services are more limited compared to other, more developed, beaches.
Attention! It’s important to note that this beach has been declared a “naturist” beach, meaning everyone there can practice nudism, which you should keep in mind if you go with children.
| Characteristics | Playa del Carabassi |
| Blue Flag 2023 | Yes |
| Beach type | Golden sand |
| Parking | Difficulty: medium. It depends on the time of year. There are usually plenty of free parking options. |
| Public toilets | Yes, and adapted to reduced mobility |
| Beach bars and restaurants | It has a beach bar, but the restaurants require a certain amount of travel |
| Children’s playgrounds | No |
| Recreational/sport areas | No It does have rental services |
Playa de La Fossa (Calpe)
Playa de la Fossa is one of the most visited beaches in Calpe and one of the best beaches on the Costa Blanca. Located north of the impressive Peñon de Ifach, this beach offers not only a spectacular natural setting, but also a complete and enriching beach experience.
Characterised by 1 km of golden sand and crystal-clear and calm waters, this beach is ideal for all types of visitors, from families with children to groups of friends and couples. The beach is large, which allows visitors to enjoy the sun and sea with enough space for relaxation and play.
One of its biggest attractions is its seafront promenade. It is lined with a variety of restaurants, bars and shops, and offers a wide range of options for eating and shopping.
In fact, Playa de la Fossa is well-equipped in terms of services and amenities. Sun loungers and umbrellas can be rented, and there are also showers and foot-washing facilities, access for people with reduced mobility, and a lifeguard and rescue service. This beach has again received the Blue Flag award, which guarantees visitors the highest quality in terms of water cleanliness, safety and services.
| Characteristics | Playa de La Fossa |
| Blue Flag 2023 | Yes |
| Beach type | Golden sand |
| Parking | Difficulty: medium. It depends on the time of year. Free parking on Avenida Juan Carlos I and orange area parking |
| Public toilets | Yes, and adapted to reduced mobility |
| Beach bars and restaurants | Yes |
| Children’s playgrounds | Yes |
| Recreational/sport areas | Yes |
Playa Arenal-Bol (Calpe)
Unlike Playa de la Fossa – known for its proximity to the Peñon de Ifach and a more tourist-friendly atmosphere – Playa Arenal-Bol in Calpe offers a different experience. Although both beaches share the charm of Calpe’s coastline, Playa Arenal-Bol is notable for its more urban atmosphere and for its spaciousness.
Although both beaches offer quality services such as the rental of sun loungers, showers and security, Playa Arenal-Bol is seen as a space that is more integrated into Calpe’s urban life, and is a preferred option for anyone looking to combine the beach with the city experience. What’s more, of interest to athletics is its connects to Playa del Cantal Roig, which has a fairly well-equipped calisthenics park that is much appreciated by users.
In fact, if you continue walking in that direction, you’ll reach the Termas de la Muntanyeta. These historical Roman baths offer a window into the region’s Roman past.
Just like Playa de la Fossa, Playa Arenal-Bol has the Blue Flag distinction.
| Characteristics | Playa del Arenal-Bol |
| Blue Flag 2023 | Yes |
| Beach type | Golden sand |
| Parking | Difficulty: medium. It depends on the time of year. Public parking next to the beach |
| Public toilets | Yes, and adapted to reduced mobility |
| Beach bars and restaurants | Yes, but you’ll have to travel a bit. |
| Children’s playgrounds | Yes |
| Recreational/sport areas | Yes, on the Playa del Cantal Roig it connects with |
Playa de Les Marines (Denia)
Are you looking for a family beach in Denia? Playa de Les Marines in Denia is one of the best beaches on the Costa Blanca. A favourite option for anyone looking for a perfect balance between comfort and nature. This beach with fine sand and calm blue waters is ideal for families, which can enjoy wonderful views of the El Montgó Natural Park.
Its three-km-long beach allows you to enjoy the sun and sea with a sense of spaciousness and freedom. What’s more, Playa de Les Marines has all the necessary services that characterise a Blue Flag beach: showers, rental of sun loungers and umbrellas, nearby restaurants and parking. This makes it a comfortable and accessible place for all types of people.
| Characteristics | Playa de Les Marines |
| Blue Flag 2023 | Yes |
| Beach type | Golden sand |
| Parking | Difficulty: medium. It depends on the time of year. Public parking next to the beach |
| Public toilets | Yes, and adapted to reduced mobility |
| Beach bars and restaurants | Yes |
| Children’s playgrounds | Yes |
| Recreational/sport areas | Yes |
Playa de Les Bovetes (Denia)
On the other hand, Playa de Les Bovetes – also in Denia, and measuring nearly two km of fine, golden sand – is perfect for anyone looking for a more relaxed and less crowded environment.
Les Bovetes’ clear, shallow waters are ideal for swimming and water activities such as snorkelling. This beach is also well-equipped with services such as showers and rest areas (since it’s a Blue Flag beach) and is usually less crowded than other, more central beaches. It’s a serene refuge for enjoying Mediterranean charm.
| Characteristics | Playa de Les Bovetes |
| Blue Flag 2023 | Yes |
| Beach type | Golden sand |
| Parking | Difficulty: medium. It depends on the time of year. Public parking next to the beach |
| Public toilets | Yes, and adapted to reduced mobility |
| Beach bars and restaurants | Yes |
| Children’s playgrounds | Yes |
| Recreational/sport areas | Yes |
Playa del Trajo or Playa de El Campello
In contrast, and just a short distance from Playa de San Juan, Playa del Trajo or Playa de El Campello offers a quieter and family-friendly atmosphere. This beach combines sandy areas with small rocky coves, creating a varied and charming landscape. The calm, crystal-clear waters are ideal for safe swimming and activities such as snorkelling and kayaking.
Playa de El Campello is perfect for anyone looking for a more relaxed and less crowded environment. At the same time, it maintains a high level of services and amenities (there’s a nearby dog-friendly beach). El Campello’s seafront promenade is quieter than San Juan’s, but it’s equally welcoming, offering a selection of restaurants and cafés where locals enjoy the local gastronomy and impressive views of the sea.
| Characteristics | Playa del Trajo or El Campello |
| Blue Flag 2023 | No |
| Beach type | Golden sand |
| Parking | Difficulty: medium. Public parking next the beach may be busy, It depends on the time of year. |
| Public toilets | Yes, and adapted to reduced mobility |
| Beach bars and restaurants | Yes |
| Children’s playgrounds | Yes |
| Recreational/sport areas | Yes |
Playa del Levante (Benidorm)
We’ll start our trip to the best beaches on the Costa Blanca with Playa de Levante in Benidorm, a destination popular with locals and international tourists alike. This beach – known for its lively atmosphere and extensive strip of golden sand – stretches for more than two kilometres, offering impressive views of the Mediterranean.
A wide variety of services, including the rental of umbrellas and sun loungers, equip the beach, complemented by play areas for children and numerous access points for people with reduced mobility. In addition, it has a rescue and lifeguard team that is always alert, which guarantees a safe environment for you to enjoy its waters.
It also has a lively seafront promenade, where you can find restaurants, bars and shops, which creates a busy atmosphere throughout the day. And that’s not all. At the top of the beach, you can visit the famous Balcón del Mediterráneo, Benidorm’s quintessential picture postcard view that you won’t want to miss.
| Characteristics | Playa de Levante |
| Blue Flag 2023 | No |
| Beach type | Golden sand |
| Parking | Difficulty: high. Blue zone, green zone and usually full parking |
| Public toilets | Yes, and adapted to reduced mobility |
| Beach bars and restaurants | Yes |
| Children’s playgrounds | Yes |
| Recreational/sport areas | Yes |
Playa del Poniente (Benidorm)
Similarly, Playa de Poniente, which is next to Playa de Levante, extends over three kilometres of soft golden sand. Its crystal-clear, calm waters are the ideal setting for families, couples and people looking for a more relaxed beach, away from the city’s characteristic hustle and bustle.
The recently renovated seafront promenade at Playa de Poniente is distinguished by its modern and elegant design. It boasts the perfect setting to enjoy the local gastronomy in a wide variety of restaurants and cafés, all while you can see the Puerto Deportivo marina and lighthouse in Benidorm.
As far as services are concerned, the beach offers a complete experience comparable to that of its busiest neighbouring beach. Here, visitors can enjoy amenities such as the rental of umbrellas and sun loungers, safe playgrounds for the kids, total accessibility for people with reduced mobility and a highly efficient rescue and lifeguard service.
| Characteristics | Playa de Poniente |
| Blue Flag 2023 | No |
| Beach type | Golden sand |
| Parking | Difficulty: medium. New free public parking There are also blue and green areas |
| Public toilets | Yes, and adapted to reduced mobility |
| Beach bars and restaurants | Yes |
| Children’s playgrounds | Yes |
| Recreational/sport areas | Yes |
Homes for sale in Alicante Playa
After learning about the best beaches the Costa Blanca has to offer, you might feel attracted to them and consider establishing your home here. Homes for sale in Alicante Playa encompass a wide range of options, from luxurious penthouses with sea views to cosy apartments in quiet residential areas close to outstanding golf courses. These properties not only offer you the opportunity to live in one of the most privileged settings on the Costa Blanca, but also the chance to enjoy the Mediterranean gastronomy, considered one of the best in the world.
However, if you think the Costa Blanca isn’t for you, we at Quadratia have looked at the best cities to live in Spain. We offer alternatives on both the Costal del Sol and the Costa Cálida.
Whatever you choose, whatever your choice, a life full of new experiences, impressive landscapes and the warm welcome of Spanish culture awaits you. Come and discover it!
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