12 Costa Blanca Beach Towns You Need to Visit This Summer
With over 200 kilometers of coastline, the Costa Blanca is one of Spain’s most dazzling regions — full of charm, sunshine, and seaside towns that each have something special to offer. From lively beach promenades to quiet coves tucked beneath pine-covered cliffs, the Costa Blanca is a dream destination for every kind of traveler.
This summer, trade crowds and concrete for clear blue waters, golden sands, and whitewashed villages. Here’s your guide to 12 Costa Blanca beach towns you won’t want to miss — whether you’re road-tripping along the coast or settling down in one perfect spot.
1. Altea – Art, Cobblestones, and Tranquility
Perched on a hillside overlooking the sea, Altea is a peaceful escape where art, culture, and Mediterranean beauty blend perfectly. Its old town, with cobbled lanes and whitewashed houses, leads down to a serene pebble beach — Playa de la Roda. (check out this article about the best beaches in the Costa Blanca) Altea is ideal for travelers looking for a relaxed, bohemian vibe away from noisy resorts. Don’t miss the sunset views from the church plaza or a slow stroll along its palm-lined promenade.
2. Benidorm – Big City Energy Meets the Beach
Often misunderstood, Benidorm is more than a party capital — it’s home to two of the best urban beaches in Spain: Playa de Levante and Playa de Poniente. Whether you’re into water sports, high-rise views, or nightlife steps from the sand, Benidorm delivers. It’s vibrant, diverse, and surprisingly family-friendly, with plenty of activities for kids and adults alike. It’s the Costa Blanca’s answer to a beach city that never sleeps.
3. Calpe (Calp) – Iconic Views and Family Vibes
Calpe is instantly recognizable thanks to the towering Peñón de Ifach, a limestone rock rising dramatically from the sea. Its most popular beach, Playa de la Fossa, is backed by a lively promenade full of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Calpe combines spectacular scenery with family-friendly infrastructure, making it a favorite for those who want beauty and comfort in one spot. Bonus: the nearby salt flats often host flamingos!
4. Cabo Roig – Small-Scale Charm and Coastal Trails
Tucked along the Orihuela Costa, Cabo Roig is a lesser-known gem with a marina, small sandy beaches, and scenic cliff walks. Cala Capitán is the most popular beach here, perfect for swimming and paddling in shallow waters. While smaller than other towns, Cabo Roig is all about peaceful relaxation and beautiful walking paths that hug the coastline, connecting you to nearby coves and panoramic viewpoints.
5. Denia (Dénia) – Where Culture Meets Coastline
Dénia offers one of the best blends of beach life, gastronomy, and local culture. With over 15 kilometers of coastline, it has both sandy beaches like Playa de les Marines and rocky coves along Les Rotes, perfect for snorkeling. The historic town center is full of tapas bars and artisan shops, while the castle offers sweeping views of the sea. It’s also a gateway to Ibiza, with regular ferry connections.
6. El Campello – Underrated and Uncrowded
Just north of Alicante, El Campello remains blissfully under the radar. Its long beach, Playa Muchavista, offers soft golden sand, calm waves, and a more local, laid-back vibe than nearby big cities. It’s well-connected via tram but never feels overly touristy, making it perfect for those seeking space to unwind with a sea breeze and mountain backdrop. El Campello is also great for paddleboarding and quiet coastal walks.
7. Guardamar del Segura – Dunes, Pines, and Wide Beaches
Guardamar is known for its impressive stretch of natural sand dunes and pine forests that separate the town from the sea. Playa Centro is the most accessible, but there are miles of undeveloped shoreline to explore. The town is proud of its eco-conscious planning, giving it a wild, natural feel. This is a top pick for those who want a more rustic, spacious beach experience with plenty of nature nearby.
8. Jávea (Xàbia) – A Bit of Everything in One Place
Jávea is one of the most diverse and scenic beach towns on the Costa Blanca. Its coastline offers everything from sandy family beaches like Playa del Arenal, to rocky coves like Granadella, a top snorkeling spot. The old town and port area each have their own charm, giving visitors multiple layers to explore. Add in great food, boutique hotels, and clear turquoise water, and Jávea becomes a summer favorite for many.
9. Moraira – Coastal Elegance and Hidden Cove
Quiet and upscale, Moraira is often described as a more refined alternative to the bigger resorts. Its main beach, Playa del Portet, is a crescent-shaped cove perfect for calm swims and paddleboarding. The town is known for its marina, stylish restaurants, and low-rise buildings that preserve its fishing village roots. It’s an ideal destination for couples or anyone looking to enjoy the Costa Blanca at a slower, more elegant pace.
10. Santa Pola – Flamingos, Ferries, and Family Fu
Santa Pola combines traditional fishing town charm with plenty of beach options for families. Playa de Tamarit offers calm waters and easy access to services, while the nearby Salinas de Santa Pola nature reserve is home to flocks of flamingos. You can also take a ferry from here to Tabarca Island, a protected marine reserve with excellent snorkeling. Santa Pola is a great base for both relaxation and short adventures.
11. Torrevieja – Big Beaches with a Local Fee
One of the most well-known beach towns in southern Costa Blanca, Torrevieja has a little something for everyone. Playa de la Mata is the longest and most natural beach in town, with wide sandy areas and rolling dunes. Torrevieja also boasts seaside promenades, salt lakes with pink hues, and a strong year-round expat community. It’s vibrant without being too hectic, and offers great value for beach lovers.
12. Villajoyosa (La Vila Joiosa) – Colorful, Quiet, and Delicious
Villajoyosa charms visitors with its row of brightly colored houses lining the seafront, its historic old town, and its reputation as the chocolate capital of Spain. Playa Centro is a wide, clean beach with a tranquil vibe, perfect for families or those wanting to slow down. After sunbathing, visit one of the town’s famous chocolate factories or stroll through the charming, narrow streets filled with history.
Final Thoughts
From the buzzing beaches of Benidorm to the quiet coves of Moraira, the Costa Blanca offers an incredible variety of seaside experiences. Each town brings its own flavor, whether you’re drawn to wild nature, luxury vibes, family-friendly fun, or cultural treasures. So why settle for one beach when you can explore all 12?
This summer, make it your mission to discover the diverse beauty of these 12 Costa Blanca beach towns — you might just find your new favorite escape.