Benidorm Travel Guide: Beaches, Tapas & Nightlife

Welcome to Benidorm, the vibrant, sun-drenched coastal city on Spain’s Costa Blanca. Once a small fishing village, Benidorm has transformed into one of the Mediterranean’s premier holiday destinations, often affectionately nicknamed the “Manhattan of Spain” due to its striking skyline of high-rise hotels. This guide provides an in-depth look at everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip, ensuring you experience its famous beaches, dynamic entertainment, charming Old Town, and natural beauty.

1. Beaches and Coastal Life

Benidorm’s success is built upon its immaculate coastline, which spans over 6 kilometers of golden sand and crystalline Mediterranean waters. The beaches here are renowned for their cleanliness, excellent facilities, and Blue Flag status. The city is defined by its two main, crescent-shaped bays.

Playa de Levante (Levante Beach)

Levante Beach is the powerhouse of Benidorm, famous for its non-stop action and energy.

• • Vibe: Electric, social, and lively, appealing strongly to tourists, especially from the UK and Ireland.

• • Features: It stretches for over 2 kilometers and is directly backed by a wide promenade (Paseo Marítimo) lined with countless bars, cafes, restaurants, and shops. Everything you need is within steps of your sunbed.

• • Activities: The water is generally calm and shallow, making it safe for swimming. You’ll find all the popular water sports here, including parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boats.

• • Accessibility: Levante is incredibly accessible, with beach chairs, umbrellas, and accessible points available.

Playa de Poniente (Poniente Beach)

Located to the west, Poniente Beach offers a more relaxed yet equally stunning experience.

• • Vibe: Longer, slightly quieter, and more popular with Spanish families and those seeking a more tranquil sunbathing session.

• • Features: This beach boasts a beautiful, modern, wave-patterned promenade designed by architect Carlos Ferrater. It spans over 3 kilometers, offering ample space.

• • Water Quality: The water is known for being remarkably clear, owing to the city’s commitment to marine preservation projects.

• • Sunsets: True to its name (“Sunset Beach”), Poniente is the best spot in Benidorm to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Playa de Levante (Levante Beach)

Hidden Coves and Smaller Beaches

For those who prefer a more secluded spot, Benidorm also offers smaller coves, often overlooked by first-time visitors:

• • Mal Pas Beach (Playa de Mal Pas): A small, sheltered cove located right next to the port and beneath the Old Town’s viewpoint. It’s quieter than the main beaches and perfect for a quick, peaceful dip.

• • Cala Tío Ximo and Cala Almadrava: These two beautiful, rocky coves are tucked away at the foot of the Serra Gelada Natural Park. They are ideal for snorkeling, diving, and escaping the large crowds, offering a more natural, rugged landscape.

2. The Old Town Experience

Benidorm’s Old Town is the heart and soul of the city, providing a stark and beautiful contrast to the towering, modern skyline. It’s here that the city’s history as a charming fishing port is still visible, with winding cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and traditional Spanish culture.

El Balcón del Mediterráneo

This iconic viewing platform is the single most recognizable spot in Benidorm. Located on the rocky promontory where a castle once stood (the Castillo de Benidorm), the “Balcony” offers unparalleled views across the two main beaches and out to sea. It’s particularly magical at sunrise and sunset when the white stone and blue-tiled railings glow. The adjacent Plaça del Castell is a great place to find local artists and craftspeople.

Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana

Right next to the Balcón is the Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Ana, a beautiful 18th-century neoclassical church with a striking blue dome. It’s dedicated to the city’s patron saint, the Virgin of Suffrage (Virgen del Sufragio), whose wooden statue was miraculously found adrift at sea in 1740. This church is central to Benidorm’s religious festivals and provides a serene escape from the bustle.

The Tapas Alley Crawl

The pedestrianized Calle Santo Domingo (often dubbed Tapas Alley) in the heart of the Old Town is the gastronomic epicenter of Benidorm. Here, you can engage in the Spanish tradition of tapeo (tapas hopping).

• • What to Expect: Nearly every bar on this street specializes in either high-quality traditional Spanish tapas or Basque-style pintxos (small snacks typically served on a slice of bread).

• • How to Do It: Move from bar to bar, enjoying a different tapa and a small drink (like a glass of local wine or a caña of beer) at each stop. It’s a social, vibrant, and delicious way to spend an evening.

3. Accommodation Breakdown

Benidorm’s accommodation options are as diverse as its visitors. Whether you’re seeking a budget-friendly stay or an extravagant resort experience, you’ll find a perfect fit.

Hotel Types

• • High-Rise Hotels: These are Benidorm’s trademark. Many offer luxurious amenities, stunning rooftop terraces with infinity pools, and panoramic views of the entire bay. Look for options on the upper strip of Levante for proximity to nightlife.

• • Adults-Only: Several modern, stylish hotels cater exclusively to adults, providing quiet pools, sophisticated dining, and a tranquil atmosphere away from family bustle.

• • Family Resorts: Located closer to Poniente and the theme parks, many resorts offer all-inclusive options, kids’ clubs, and large pool complexes to keep the whole family entertained.

• • Apartments/Villas: For those planning an extended stay or travelling in a group, self-catered apartments and villas offer flexibility and space, often near the edges of the city or in the Old Town.

Choosing Your Area

• • Rincón de Loix (The New Town): Located behind Levante Beach, this is the area for high-energy fun. It’s closest to most cabaret venues, British pubs, and the main club strip. It’s ideal for groups and young travellers.

• • The Old Town: Best for those who want a blend of culture, history, and excellent dining. It offers smaller, boutique hotels and is quiet at night, though it’s only a short walk to the main beaches.

• • Poniente Beach Area: Offers larger, newer hotels with a calmer atmosphere and a distinctly more Spanish clientele. Great for families and couples seeking tranquility without sacrificing beach access.

4. Dining and Gastronomy

While Benidorm has a vast array of international cuisine, make sure to explore the rich flavours of the local Valencian and Mediterranean kitchen.

Must-Try Local Dishes

• • Paella and Rice Dishes: Being in the Valencian Community, Benidorm is a haven for rice lovers. While paella is the most famous, try arroz a banda (rice cooked in a fish broth, with the fish served separately) or arroz caldoso (a soupy rice dish).

• • Pebrot: A traditional dish of red peppers and fish, often served in the Old Town.

• • Fideuà: A local alternative to paella, cooked with short noodles instead of rice.

• • Fresh Seafood: The proximity to the port ensures incredibly fresh seafood. Look for restaurants serving grilled octopus (pulpo a la gallega), mussels (mejillones), and daily catches.

Restaurant Hotspots

• • Levante Promenade: Packed with casual eateries, pizzerias, and international restaurants. Great for people-watching.

• • Poniente Promenade: Tends to offer more upscale, modern dining experiences with beautiful sea views.

• • Old Town Alleys: Best for authentic Spanish fare and the aforementioned Tapas Alley experience.

• • Rooftop Bars: Several skyscraper hotels now feature high-end rooftop restaurants and bars, providing spectacular ambiance for a sunset cocktail and dinner.

5. Nightlife and Entertainment

Benidorm is arguably as famous for its nighttime energy as it is for its beaches. The city offers diverse scenes catering to every taste.

The British Strip (The New Town)

For those looking for a lively, international party, the area around Calle Gerona, Calle Ibiza, and Calle Lepanto (often called “The Strip”) is the centre of the action.

• • Experience: You’ll find countless English and Irish pubs, karaoke bars, and dance clubs playing familiar music, with drinks flowing well into the early morning hours.

• • The Square: A specific block behind the Marina Hotel that features major clubs and disco pubs aimed at a younger, international crowd.

Cabaret and Shows

Benidorm has a strong tradition of live entertainment, offering professional, high-quality shows:

• • Benidorm Palace: The most renowned venue, offering a spectacular Las Vegas-style cabaret dinner show featuring dancers, acrobats, magicians, and live music. It’s a classic Benidorm experience suitable for all ages.

The Spanish and Live Music Scene

For a different pace, head to the Old Town:

• • Old Town Bars: The narrow streets host quieter, more traditional Spanish bars where you can enjoy local music, sing-alongs, or just a sophisticated drink.

• • Live Music: You can find smaller venues throughout the city featuring live rock, jazz, or tribute acts.

6. Theme Parks and Attractions

Benidorm is an ideal family destination thanks to its impressive portfolio of world-class theme parks.

• • Terra Mítica: Spain’s largest theme park, themed around the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean (Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Iberia). It features thrilling roller coasters, family rides, and spectacular live shows. It’s a must for adrenaline junkies.

• • Aqualandia: One of Europe’s oldest and largest water parks, boasting over 20 water slides and attractions, including the vertical drop Verti-Go, one of the tallest water slides in the world.

• • Aqua Natura: Located adjacent to Terra Natura, this water park has a focus on interaction with the marine environment and features a large wave pool, lighthouse slide, and accessible swimming areas.

• • Terra Natura & Mundomar: These two sister parks focus on wildlife. Terra Natura is a sprawling zoo designed under the “Zooimmersion” concept, eliminating visual barriers between visitors and animals. Mundomar is a marine and exotic animal park famous for its dolphin, sea lion, and parrot shows. Combo tickets are often available to visit both parks.

7. Outdoor Activities and Day Trips

Beyond the sand and the theme parks, Benidorm and the surrounding Costa Blanca offer incredible opportunities for adventure.

Adventures in the Serra Gelada

The Serra Gelada Natural Park is a protected mountain and marine area directly abutting Benidorm’s eastern edge.

• • Hiking: The most popular route is the hike up to La Cruz (The Cross), which is a rewarding 4.2 km walk from the center, offering incredible views. More challenging trails lead along the cliff tops to the Albir Lighthouse.

• • Kayaking and Paddle Surfing: Rent a kayak or paddle board to explore the base of the cliffs, spotting hidden caves and enjoying the protected marine environment from the water.

Water Sports and Diving

The clear, warm waters make Benidorm a fantastic location for various water activities. Scuba diving is popular, with several schools offering beginner courses and dives to Benidorm Island, which is a protected marine reserve. You can also try flyboarding or simply relax on a sunset catamaran cruise.

Recommended Day Trips

• • Guadalest and Algar Waterfalls: The two most famous inland excursions. Les Fonts de l’Algar offers a series of stunning waterfalls and natural pools perfect for a refreshing swim. Nearby, the tiny, historic village of Guadalest is perched high on a rock, famous for its castle and incredible views.

• • Altea: A picturesque town just a short drive or bus ride away, known for its whitewashed houses, blue-domed church, and bohemian atmosphere. It’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon of art galleries and stunning photography.

• • Villajoyosa: Known as the “Happy Town,” this coastal neighbour is famous for its vibrant, brightly painted houses and the Valor Chocolate Factory, which offers tours and tastings.

8. Practical Information

To ensure a smooth trip, here are the essential practical details for visiting Benidorm.

Weather and Climate

Benidorm boasts a year-round microclimate, protected by mountains, resulting in mild winters and hot summers.

• • Summer (June – September): Expect hot, dry weather with average highs in the high 20s to low 30s °C (80s-90s °F). This is peak season, so beaches and attractions will be crowded.

• • Spring & Autumn (April – May, October – November): These seasons offer the best balance. The weather is warm and sunny (mid-teens to low 20s °C), ideal for hiking and exploring without the intense heat or the biggest crowds.

• • Winter (December – March): Mild and sunny days are common, with temperatures hovering around 15°C (60°F). Many attractions and hotels remain open, offering great value for a sunny winter break.

Transportation

• • Getting There: The nearest major airport is Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC), about 58 kilometers away. Transfers are plentiful, including private shuttles, taxis, and the regular Benidorm Express Bus service.

• • Local Buses: Benidorm has an extensive and reliable bus network (€1.50 per journey), with routes covering all the main areas and connecting the city to nearby towns like Altea and Calpe. Tourist passes are available for unlimited travel.

• • Trams (TRAM Metropolitano de Alicante): The TRAM line connects Benidorm to Alicante city and other coastal towns, offering a scenic and affordable way to travel the Costa Blanca.
  • Private Airport Transfers: For a stress-free start to your holiday, book a private airport transfer directly from Alicante Airport to Benidorm at your accommodation. This personalized service offers a dedicated driver meeting you in the arrivals hall, a direct journey without stops, and competitive pricing that is often cost-effective for small groups or families.

Money and Tipping

• • Currency: Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

• • Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5–10%) for good service is customary.

Benidorm Weather by Month