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    FAQs

    Most frequently asked questions about visiting Costa Blanca
    What is the best time to visit Costa Blanca?

    The best time to visit Costa Blanca depends on the type of holiday you’re looking for—beaches, outdoor adventure, sightseeing, festivals, or quiet escapes. Thanks to its over 300 sunny days a year, the Costa Blanca is a truly year-round Mediterranean destination. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose:

    ☀️ Summer (June – August)

    Best for: Beach holidays, nightlife, water sports
    Weather: Hot & sunny (28–35°C)
    Vibe: Lively, festive, popular resorts like Benidorm & Alicante are buzzing

    Why visit:

    • Perfect sea temperatures
    • Long beach days + open-air bars & fiestas
    • Fun for families and groups

    Considerations:

    • The busiest and most expensive season
    • Book ahead for accommodations and attractions

    🌸 Spring (March – May)

    Best for: Hiking, road trips, viewpoints, sightseeing
    Weather: Warm & comfortable (18–26°C)
    Vibe: Fresh landscapes, mild tourism levels

    Why spring is amazing:

    • Ideal temperatures for breathtaking viewpoints like Forat de Bèrnia & Puig de la Llorença
    • Almond blossoms and vibrant nature
    • Great mix of sun and cultural events

    Travel perk: Cheaper than summer with fewer crowds.

    🍁 Autumn (September – November)

    Best for: Balanced mix of beach + adventure
    Weather: Pleasant late-summer warmth (20–30°C in Sep; 16–24°C in Nov)
    Vibe: Relaxed but still vibrant, especially along the coast

    Why it may be the best overall:

    • Sea stays warm through October
    • Wine harvests & local food festivals
    • Perfect conditions for coastal hiking and castle exploring
    • This season often feels like a secret local favorite.

    ❄️ Winter (December – February)

    Best for: Winter sun, peaceful retreats, cultural trips

    Weather: Mild & sunny (12–20°C)
    Vibe: Calm, enjoyable for slow travel

    • Highlights:
    • Great for exploring historic towns (Guadalest, Altea, Villajoyosa)
    • Mountain areas can be chilly—dress in layers
    • Budget-friendly prices + fewer tourists

    Travel tip: While beach days are still possible, pack a light jacket for evening.

    So, When Should YOU Visit?

    Travel StyleBest Season
    Sunny beach daysSummer / Early Autumn
    Outdoor adventures & viewpointsSpring / Autumn
    Peaceful & budget-friendly getawayWinter
    Family-friendly fun & eventsSummer
    Photography, nature, cultureSpring / Autumn

    ✅ Final Recommendation

    If you want the perfect blend of weather, price, and experiences, choose:

    ✨ Late April – June or September – mid-October ✨
    = Best beaches ✔ Best outdoor activities ✔ Less crowded ✔ More affordable ✔

     

    Getting to Costa Blanca is easy and convenient, whether you’re flying internationally, traveling from another part of Spain, or arriving by road, bus, or train. The region is well-connected with modern transport and major European routes.

    ✈️ By Air — Fastest and Most Popular
    Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport (ALC)

    • The main gateway to Costa Blanca is:
    • One of Spain’s busiest tourist airports
    • Direct flights from many European and UK cities
    • Only 15 minutes from Alicante City
    • Airport buses connect to Benidorm, Calpe, Torrevieja, Elche, and more

    Alternative airport:

    Valencia Airport (VLC) — ideal for northern Costa Blanca locations like Dénia or Jávea

    Tip: Booking a shared shuttle or airport transfer is the easiest door-to-door option for resort travel.

    If you’re already in Spain, high-speed rail (AVE) is a great choice.

    🚆 By Train — Scenic & Comfortable
    → TRAM line (to Benidorm, Altea, Calpe)

    Alicante Train Station connects directly to:

    Barcelona (≈ 4.5 hours)

    Valencia (≈ 1.5 hours)

    Madrid (≈ 2–2.5 hours)

    🚍 By Bus — Budget-Friendly Travel

    From the station, you can continue by:

    • Long-distance coaches connect Costa Blanca to major Spanish cities:
    • ALSA and other companies run routes to Madrid, Seville, Granada, Valencia, Barcelona
    • Frequent local buses operate between towns and beaches
      Great for travelers without a car or those staying in resort areas.

    → Buses or rental car for coastal towns

    🚗 By Car — Freedom to Explore Hidden Gems

    Driving gives you the flexibility to reach viewpoints and small coastal villages often missed on public transport.

    Highways:

    • AP-7 (toll-free for most sections) runs along the coast
    • N-332 offers scenic sea views between towns

    Useful for: Visiting places like Forat de Bèrnia, Guadalest, and Cap de Sant Antoni Viewpoint.

    🚢 By Ferry — Unique Arrival Option

    If you’re coming from the Balearic Islands:

    • Ferries connect Dénia ↔ Ibiza, Mallorca, Formentera
    • Travel time: 2–4 hours depending on the route

    Perfect if you’re combining island and mainland adventures.

    ✅ Best Option for You?

    Traveler TypeBest Transport
    • International visitor
    • Fly into Alicante Airport
    • Already in Spain
    • High-speed train to Alicante
    • Budget traveler
    • Long-distance bus
    • Adventure & road trip lovers
    • Car rental
    • Island hopping
    • Ferry to Dénia
    The easiest and fastest way to reach Costa Blanca is by flying into Alicante Airport and then traveling by bus, tram, train, or car to your chosen coastal town.
    The Costa Blanca offers a variety of attractions, from seaside towns and natural landscapes to historic castles and theme parks. Top destinations include lively resort towns, charming historic villages, and spectacular natural sites. 
    Coastal cities and towns
    • Alicante: The provincial capital is centered around the hilltop Castell de Santa Bàrbera, a 9th-century Muslim fortress with panoramic city and coastal views. Other attractions include the lively marina and the golden sands of Playa de San Juan.
    • Benidorm: Known for its vibrant nightlife, this resort town also features family-friendly attractions. Its two main beaches are Llevant Beach and Poniente Beach, separated by the rocky promontory of the old town. Theme parks like Terra Mítica and Mundomar are also major draws.
    • Altea: A picturesque, whitewashed town with a charming old town and a distinctive blue-domed church. It is known for its artisan shops and combines beautiful beaches with a historic atmosphere.
    • Calpe: This town is famously marked by the Peñón de Ifach, a massive rock rising from the sea, which is now a natural park. Calpe offers beaches and a marina with views of the rock.
    • Dénia: Situated on a marina with a castle, Dénia is a port town with beaches and a vibrant food scene. Ferries also depart from here to the Balearic Islands.
    • Villajoyosa: Famous for its rows of colorful houses along its seaside promenade and a chocolate museum. 
    Natural and inland attractions
    • Fonts de l’Algar: A picturesque natural park near Callosa d’en Sarrià, with stunning waterfalls, natural pools, and hiking trails. The area is a protected wetland.
    • Guadalest: A historic, medieval mountaintop village that offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding valley from its castle. It is one of Spain’s most beautiful villages.
    • La Granadella: A secluded, pristine cove in Jávea with crystal-clear waters, known for excellent snorkeling.
    • Tabarca Island: The only inhabited island in the Valencian Community, this destination can be reached via boat from Alicante or Santa Pola. It is a marine reserve known for its clear waters, beautiful beaches, and unique wildlife.
    • Pasarela de Relleu: This scenic walkway follows the cliffs of the Amadorio canyon and includes a glass-bottomed section, offering views of the mountainous inland. 
    Family-friendly entertainment
    • Theme parks: Near Benidorm, visitors can find several large theme parks, including Terra Mítica (an ancient civilization-themed park), Terra Natura (a zoo with a water park), and Aqualandia (a large water park).
    • Mundomar: A marine and exotic animal park also located near Benidorm.
    • Pola Park: An amusement park in Santa Pola
    Navigating the Costa Blanca is straightforward and affordable, thanks to a well-integrated system of buses, a scenic light railway, and reliable taxi services. Whether you’re staying local in a single resort town or planning day trips along the coast, you’ll find convenient ways to explore the region without needing a rental car.
     
    1. The TRAM (Light Railway) – The Scenic Route
    The TRAM d’Alacant is arguably the most charming way to travel the coastline. This modern light railway connects the provincial capital of Alicante with major tourist hubs all the way up to Dénia.
    • The Experience: It’s efficient, inexpensive, and offers spectacular sea views along the northern route (especially between Benidorm and Dénia).
    • Key Stops: Alicante, El Campello, Benidorm (for theme parks and resort connections), Altea, Calpe, Gata de Gorgos, and Dénia.
    • How it Works: You purchase tickets at station machines before boarding. Fares are calculated based on the number of zones you travel through.
     
    2. Local and Regional Buses – The Workhorse
    The bus network is extensive and links virtually every town and village, filling in the gaps where the TRAM doesn’t go.
    • Local Buses (Urbanos): Perfect for short hops within a single town, such as getting from your hotel to the old town or a specific beach. Benidorm has a particularly robust local bus system that runs frequently.
    • Regional Buses (Interurbanos): Connect neighboring towns quickly and cheaply. Key routes include Alicante to Benidorm, Benidorm to Valencia (express service), and Santa Pola to Alicante Airport.
    • Payment: Tickets are usually purchased directly from the driver with cash (small denominations appreciated!).
     
    3. Taxis – For Convenience and Late Nights
    Taxis are readily available in all major towns and are a reliable option for short journeys or when public transport is unavailable.
    • Availability: You’ll find taxi ranks near major squares, hotels, and transport hubs. You can also flag them down if they have their green light on.
    • Fares: Taxis use meters within their licensed area. Fares from the airport to various resorts are typically fixed or well-regulated, but it’s always wise to confirm the approximate cost with the driver before beginning a longer journey.
    • Apps: Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify are available in larger cities like Alicante and Benidorm, offering an alternative to traditional taxis.
     
    4. Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) Connections
    The airport is well-connected to the entire region:
    • Bus: The C-6 bus runs directly from the airport to the center of Alicante city and the main train station. Regional shuttle buses (like Beniconnect) run frequently to major resorts like Benidorm and Calpe.
    • Airport Shuttle/Transfer: Pre-booked private airport transfers are the quickest, most luxurious, and convenient way to get directly to your hotel door. These airport transfers can be booked way before flying to Costa Blanca Alicante Airport. These Airport transfer services are usually for 4 to 8 people and run 24/7 during all seasons in Costa Blanca. 
     
    Local Transport Tips:
    • Plan Ahead with Apps: Use apps like Google Maps or Moovit for real-time bus and TRAM schedules.
    • The Bono Bus Card: If you plan on using local buses frequently in one area, ask the driver about a multi-journey “bono” card, which often provides a discount per trip.
    • Siesta Hours: Be aware that some services might be slightly less frequent during the mid-day siesta hours or on Sundays/public holidays.
    Absolutely!
    The Costa Blanca is a top-tier destination for families, offering an incredible blend of sun, safety, and pure fun. Far from just adult resorts, this region of Spain rolls out the red carpet for visitors of all ages, ensuring smooth sailing for parents and endless excitement for kids.
    Here’s why the “White Coast” is your perfect family playground:
     
    1. Beaches Designed for Little Feet
    You won’t have to worry about strong currents or sudden drop-offs here. The Costa Blanca boasts numerous Blue Flag beaches, a certification for high standards and safety.
    • Gentle Slopes: Many main beaches, like those in Calpe, Jávea, and Alicante, feature vast stretches of soft sand and calm, shallow waters that gradually deepen—perfect for toddlers to paddle safely.
    • Built-in Playgrounds: You’ll often find permanent playgrounds right on the sand or just steps away on the promenades, allowing kids to switch easily between building sandcastles and climbing frames.
    • Lifeguard Services: During the busy summer months, experienced lifeguards patrol the most popular beaches, offering an extra layer of peace of mind.
     
    2. A Universe of Entertainment
    Beyond the beach, the region is packed with attractions that guarantee a “best holiday ever” review from your kids.
    • Theme Park Thrills: Right near Benidorm, you can dive into the ancient worlds of Terra Mítica (think Roman and Greek-themed roller coasters), splash down giant slides at Aqualandia and Aqua Natura water parks, or meet exotic animals at the engaging Terra Natura zoo.
    • Natural Wonders: Take a break from the resorts and swim in the stunning, natural pools of the Fonts de l’Algar waterfalls. It’s a natural water park where you can picnic and cool off under the trees.
    • Marine Adventures: Take a glass-bottomed boat trip out to Tabarca Island, Spain’s first marine reserve. The clear waters are perfect for spotting fish while snorkeling or enjoying a unique view from the boat.
     
    3. Culture That Isn’t Boring
    Introduce your children to Spanish history in an engaging way:
    • Castle Climbing: The Castell de Santa Bárbara in Alicante is an impressive fortress where kids can explore ancient ramparts and tunnels, offering stunning views that will capture their imagination (and provide great photos!).
    • Colorful Culture: Visit the charming town of Villajoyosa (The Happy Town), famous for its brightly painted fishermen’s houses and its chocolate factory museum—a delicious excursion everyone can enjoy!
     
    4. Effortless Logistics for Parents
    • Family-Focused Stays: From all-inclusive resorts with dedicated kids’ clubs to private villas that offer quiet family downtime, accommodation options are plentiful and tailored to family needs.
    • Easy Eating: The Spanish love children, and most restaurants are very accommodating with high chairs, kids’ menus, and a relaxed atmosphere. Tapas dining is a fun way to let picky eaters try a variety of small dishes.
    • Accessibility: Main tourist promenades are smooth and flat, making stroller and pushchair access a breeze.
    In short, the Costa Blanca offers the perfect blend of relaxation for parents and adventure for kids. It’s safe, sunny, and built for making lasting family memories.
    The Costa Blanca is a haven for food lovers, celebrated for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients that reflect both its Mediterranean coastline and its mountainous interior. The cuisine tells a story of sea-faring traditions and rural heritage, offering much more than just the famous paella.
     
    Signature rice and seafood dishes
    • Arroz a Banda: Translating to “rice on the side,” this dish is a flavorful coastal classic. A rich seafood broth is used to cook the rice, while the fish and shellfish are cooked separately and served on a platter alongside the rice, often with a garlic and olive oil sauce called allioli.
    • Fideuà: Think of this as paella’s noodle cousin. Instead of rice, it’s made with short, toasted pasta noodles cooked in a seafood broth, often with cuttlefish, prawns, and monkfish. The noodles crisp up beautifully in the traditional wide, flat pan.
    • Arroz con Costra: A specialty of the Elche area, this “crusted rice” dish is a real showstopper. A layer of egg is baked over the top of the rice and meat, forming a golden, savory crust.
    • Gambas Rojas de Dénia: These large, deep-red prawns from the waters off Dénia are famous for their delicate, sweet flavor. They are best enjoyed simply grilled with a sprinkle of sea salt.
     
    Mountain and inland flavors
    • Olleta Alicantina: A hearty, warming stew, this dish combines seasonal vegetables, beans, and meat like pork ribs or black pudding. It’s a taste of the mountainous interior, offering rich, earthy flavors.
    • Arroz al Horno (Baked Rice): A robust dish typically made in inland towns, where the paella pan is swapped for a traditional ceramic dish. It features chickpeas, black pudding, pork ribs, and tomatoes, all baked together to create a crispy rice crust.
    • Pericana: This unique tapa hails from the Alcoy region and is made from dried peppers, salted cod, garlic, and olive oil. The mix of sweet and savory flavors is delicious served with crusty bread.
     
    Pastries and sweets
    • Coca: This is the region’s versatile flatbread, which can be either savory or sweet. Savory cocas are often topped with vegetables like tuna, onions, and peppers, while sweet versions are covered in sugar and almonds.
    • Turrón de Jijona: Originating from the inland town of Jijona, this sweet nougat is a true regional delicacy. Made with almonds and honey, it comes in two types: a soft, creamy version (Jijona) and a hard version (Alicante).
    • Horchata con Fartons: For a refreshing treat, try the traditional, milky-white drink called horchata, made from tiger nuts. It’s typically served with fartons, sweet, elongated pastries designed for dipping.
     
    Where to experience these specialties
    • For seafood: Head to the port cities of Dénia and Calpe for the freshest catch and spectacular rice dishes like arroz a banda and fideuà.
    • For tapas: The old town of Alicante is famous for its vibrant tapas scene, with plenty of places serving up fresh seafood and classic dishes like esgarraet.
    • For inland cuisine: Take a trip to historic villages like Alcoy or Guadalest to find traditional stews like olleta and mountain-style rice dishes.
    • For sweets: Visit the town of Jijona to tour a turrón factory or stop by a bakery in Villajoyosa for a taste of their famous chocolate.

    One of the best things about visiting the Costa Blanca is how effortlessly you can navigate the region using English. Due to its popularity as a long-standing hub for British expats and international tourists, you will find English is widely spoken and understood throughout the area.

    You can confidently expect English-speaking services in virtually all tourist-facing sectors.
     
    In Hotels and Tourism
    • Accommodation: Hotels, resorts, and rental agencies across the Costa Blanca—especially in areas like Benidorm, Calpe, Jávea, and Alicante—almost always have English-speaking staff at reception and guest services.
    • Restaurants and Bars: Menus are frequently provided in English, and staff in tourist zones are well-versed in serving international clientele. Many bars and restaurants are British-owned, ensuring communication is never an issue.
    • Excursions and Travel: Tour operators, airport staff at Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC), taxi drivers in major towns, and public transport offices readily offer information and assistance in English.
     
    Essential and Medical Services
    • Healthcare: Medical services in tourist areas are well-equipped to handle English speakers. Many private clinics and hospitals have specific international patient departments with translators on staff. Public health centers often have some English-speaking doctors or nurses, particularly in areas with large expat communities.
    • Shopping: Supermarkets (like Mercadona or Consum), major department stores (like El Corte Inglés), and shops in central tourist areas have staff who can assist in English.
     
    Banking and Administration
    • Banks: International banks and those catering to expats often have dedicated English-speaking advisors to help with currency exchange or other services.
    • Local Offices: While official Spanish government offices (Ayuntamiento) will operate in Spanish, major tourist information centers and services are typically multilingual, with English being standard.
     
    Local Tips for Smooth Communication
    • A Little Spanish Goes a Long Way: While English is common, learning a few basic Spanish phrases like “Hola” (hello), “Gracias” (thank you), and “Por favor” (please) is always appreciated by locals.
    • Look for the British Touch: In resort towns, you’ll easily find British supermarkets, bakeries, and services that make you feel right at home.
    • Google Translate is Your Friend: For navigating smaller, rural inland villages where English might be less prevalent, translation apps can bridge any communication gaps easily.
    Enjoy your stress-free holiday on the Costa Blanca—communication barriers are rarely a problem here!
    In short: Yes. While the Costa Blanca is a safe and welcoming destination, things can and do go wrong while traveling. Travel insurance provides a crucial safety net for unexpected events, offering peace of mind so you can fully enjoy your holiday.
    Here’s why purchasing travel insurance is a smart decision for your trip:
     
    1. Medical Emergencies and Healthcare Coverage
    Spain offers excellent healthcare facilities, but costs can quickly add up in a medical emergency.
    • Access to Quality Care: The main concern isn’t the quality of care—it’s the bill afterward. A simple emergency room visit or a short hospital stay can result in substantial fees.
    • Repatriation Costs: In extreme circumstances, if you need specialized medical transport back to your home country, the costs are astronomical. Comprehensive travel insurance covers these potentially life-ruining expenses.
    • The EHIC/GHIC (For EU/UK Citizens): If you are a citizen of the UK or EU country, your EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) or GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) grants you access to state-provided healthcare in Spain at the same cost as a local (usually free). However, this is not a substitute for travel insurance. It won’t cover private medical clinics (which many hotels recommend), rescue services, or repatriation back home.
     
    2. Trip Cancellations and Interruptions
    Life is unpredictable. Travel insurance protects your financial investment if you have to cancel or cut your trip short.
    • Illness or Injury: If you or a family member gets sick before your departure date and cannot travel, insurance can reimburse pre-paid flights and accommodation costs.
    • Unforeseen Events: Coverage often extends to events like extreme weather preventing travel, airline strikes, jury duty, or even job loss before your trip.
    • Accommodation Issues: If your accommodation becomes uninhabitable due to a flood or fire, insurance helps cover alternative arrangements.
     
    3. Lost Baggage and Belongings
    The last thing you want after a long flight is to find your suitcase hasn’t arrived.
    • Delayed Baggage: Many policies provide funds to purchase essentials like toiletries and clothing if your bags are delayed for a certain period (e.g., more than 12 hours).
    • Lost or Stolen Items: If your luggage is permanently lost by the airline, or if your wallet, phone, or camera is stolen during your trip, insurance reimburses the cost of the items.
     
    4. Personal Liability
    Accidents happen. What if you accidentally injure someone on the beach with a rented jet ski or cause damage to your hotel room?
    • Legal Protection: Personal liability coverage protects you financially if you are held legally responsible for injury to another person or damage to their property during your stay.
     
    Our Recommendation
    We strongly advise that all visitors purchase comprehensive travel insurance before traveling to the Costa Blanca.
    • Read the Fine Print: Be sure to check what activities are covered (e.g., some adventurous activities might require extra coverage) and ensure your destination (Spain) is included in your policy.
    • Don’t Travel Uninsured: The cost of a policy is minor compared to the financial risk of an emergency abroad.
    Travel insured, relax more, and enjoy the sunny Costa Blanca worry-free!
    Yes, absolutely! While you might not be building sandcastles in a bikini every single day, the Costa Blanca is famous as a “winter sun” destination, offering a mild climate that makes beach visits a very pleasant experience year-round.
    Here’s what you can expect from a winter beach trip:
     
    The “Winter Sun” Advantage
    The Costa Blanca enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year. From November through March, temperatures typically range from 14°C to 20°C (57°F to 68°F) during the day.
    • Mild Weather: You can often enjoy a sunny walk along the shore wearing a light jacket or even a sweater. Many winter days are warm enough to sit on the sand, soak up some Vitamin D, and even enjoy a beachside coffee without feeling chilly.
    • Peace and Quiet: The primary draw of winter is the tranquility. The summer crowds are gone, meaning you get vast stretches of sand mostly to yourself. It’s perfect for peaceful contemplation, long walks, painting, or simply reading a book by the calm Mediterranean Sea.
    • Clear Skies and Views: Winter often brings incredibly clear skies, offering spectacular views of the coastline, the mountains, and landmarks like the Peñón de Ifach in Calpe.
     
    Swimming in Winter: A Matter of Perspective
    • The Sea Temperature: The Mediterranean cools down significantly in winter. Water temperatures hover around 14°C (57°F).
    • The Brave Dip: While locals and most tourists will find this too cold for a swim, some hardy visitors—particularly from cooler climates—might find it refreshing enough for a quick dip! The air temperature is often warmer than the water temperature.
    • The “Christmas Swim” Tradition: In some coastal towns, there’s an annual tradition of a festive Christmas morning swim (baño de Navidad), proving that a quick winter dip is part of the local charm!
     
    Year-Round Beach Services
    Unlike some colder holiday destinations that shut down completely off-season, many services in the Costa Blanca remain open:
    • Promenades: The vibrant promenades in Benidorm, Alicante, and Altea remain lively, with many cafes and restaurants open for business. You can enjoy lunch overlooking the sea without needing a reservation.
    • Sunbed Rentals: In major resort towns, you can sometimes still rent sunbeds during sunny winter weekends or peak holiday periods like Christmas and New Year’s.
    In summary: If you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing, sunny escape with beautiful coastal scenery and long beach walks, the Costa Blanca beaches in winter are an ideal destination. Just pack a jacket and manage your expectations for swimming!
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