Discover the Best Beaches in 12 Stunning Costa Blanca Cities
The Costa Blanca, or “White Coast,” is a sun-soaked stretch along Spain’s southeastern Mediterranean shoreline, known for its vibrant towns, charming fishing villages, and of course — its spectacular beaches. From pebbled coves to golden expanses backed by promenades and palm trees, each beach along this coast has its own personality and appeal. Whether you’re after a peaceful escape, water sports, or family-friendly shores, you’ll find the perfect beach among these 12 must-visit destinations.
Altea – Playa de la Roda
Altea is beloved for its artistic vibe, cobbled streets, and iconic blue-domed church perched above the sea. Just below the old town lies Playa de la Roda, a tranquil pebbled beach that reflects the charm of the town itself. Although it doesn’t have soft sand, it more than makes up for it with incredibly clear water, a peaceful atmosphere, and a scenic promenade dotted with cafes and local shops. The beach is rarely overcrowded, making it ideal for quiet sunbathing, reading, or enjoying a Mediterranean sunset. For extra comfort, water shoes are recommended, especially if you’re planning a swim.
Benidorm – Playa de Levante
Benidorm may be famous for its skyscrapers and bustling nightlife, but its beaches are truly top-tier. The most iconic is Playa de Levante, a lively and spacious beach that runs over 2 kilometers along the city’s eastern edge. With soft golden sand, gentle waves, and a wide range of water sports and beachfront amenities, it’s no surprise that this beach is a favorite among both locals and tourists. The palm-lined promenade is perfect for morning jogs or evening strolls, and you’re never far from a café or ice cream shop. If you’re looking for something a little quieter, head to Playa del Mal Pas, a small cove nestled between Levante and Poniente.
Calpe – Playa de la Fossa (La Fossa-Levante)
Towering above Calpe is the impressive Peñón de Ifach rock formation, and at its feet stretches Playa de la Fossa, a scenic and family-friendly beach that offers stunning views and a relaxed vibe. The golden sand and clear, calm waters make it perfect for swimming or playing with young children. A beautifully maintained promenade runs along the beach, lined with restaurants, shops, and cafes — ideal for grabbing a bite or enjoying a seaside drink. The beach is also close to the town’s salt flats, where you might spot flamingos in the wild, adding a fun natural twist to your beach day.
Cabo Roig – Cala Capitán
Cabo Roig, located along the Orihuela Costa, is known for its dramatic cliffs and small, pristine coves. One of the best is Cala Capitán, a charming Blue Flag beach with soft sand and shallow, gentle waters that are safe for kids and enjoyable for all ages. The beach features a small island just offshore that adventurous swimmers can reach easily. There are sunbeds for rent, nearby parking, and a calm, local vibe that makes it feel like a hidden gem. If you enjoy scenic walks, the clifftop coastal trail offers breathtaking views and connects you to other nearby beaches.
Denia – Playa de les Marines
Denia offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, and beach life. Its standout beach, Playa de les Marines, stretches wide and long, providing soft sand, calm seas, and plenty of space even in peak season. It’s ideal for families or anyone looking to relax without the crowds. Water sports rentals are available, but the beach never loses its laid-back charm. For those looking for something a little different, Denia’s Les Rotes coast, with its rocky coves and underwater treasures, offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and exploring marine life in a more rugged, natural setting.
El Campello – Playa Muchavista
Just north of Alicante, El Campello’s Playa Muchavista is a peaceful, family-friendly beach that stretches over 3 kilometers. It’s actually a continuation of Alicante’s Playa de San Juan, but Muchavista tends to be quieter, offering more space and serenity. With its fine sand, lifeguard services, beach volleyball courts, and well-kept promenade, this beach blends convenience with a local atmosphere. The nearby tram stop makes it easy to access, even for day-trippers, and the views of the sea are wide and uninterrupted — perfect for long walks or a relaxing day by the water.
Guardamar del Segura – Playa Centro
Guardamar del Segura boasts some of the most naturally beautiful and spacious beaches on the Costa Blanca, and Playa Centro is its crown jewel. This Blue Flag beach features soft golden sand and calm waves, all backed by a charming promenade lined with restaurants and shops. What sets Guardamar apart are the surrounding sand dunes and pine forests, part of a protected ecological park that adds a refreshing green backdrop to the coast. This unique mix of nature and comfort makes Playa Centro a must-visit, especially for families and nature lovers.
Jávea (Xàbia) – Playa de la Granadella
Often topping lists of Spain’s most beautiful beaches, Playa de la Granadella is a breathtaking cove known for its deep blue waters, rocky surroundings, and peaceful ambiance. The beach is small and made of gravel, but it’s incredibly picturesque, with a hidden-away feel that makes it worth the winding drive. It’s one of the best places for snorkeling on the Costa Blanca, thanks to its clear water and rich marine life. During peak season, the beach gets busy quickly, so an early start is recommended — or plan your visit for shoulder season to enjoy the serenity without the crowds.
Moraira – Playa del Portet
Playa del Portet is the heart of Moraira’s beach life — a cozy, crescent-shaped cove with shallow, turquoise waters that sparkle under the sun. Surrounded by hills dotted with white villas and fragrant pine trees, this beach feels like a Mediterranean postcard come to life. It’s a favorite for paddleboarding and kayaking thanks to its calm sea, and the laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for romantic days, quiet swims, or leisurely lunches at one of the beachfront cafes. It’s a small beach, so arriving early is wise during summer.
Santa Pola – Playa de Tamarit
Santa Pola may be known for its salt flats and fishing port, but Playa de Tamarit offers a peaceful, unpretentious beach day with wide stretches of sand and calm, shallow water. It’s ideal for those seeking a quieter, less commercialized setting, and the view of the nearby Salinas de Santa Pola nature reserve adds a beautiful natural touch. The beach is well-serviced with sunbeds and lifeguards, making it family-friendly, and it’s also close to the ferry terminal for trips to Tabarca Island, a unique marine reserve worth a day trip on its own.
Torrevieja – Playa de la Mata
Torrevieja is home to several great beaches, but Playa de la Mata stands out for its natural feel and expansive layout. Stretching over 2 kilometers, it offers fine sand, clean facilities, and a backdrop of dunes and protected nature areas. It’s great for long walks, beach games, or just spreading out away from the crowds. The wooden boardwalk along the dunes is perfect for birdwatching or evening strolls. Unlike the more central beaches in town, La Mata feels a bit more wild and windswept — in the best way.
Villajoyosa – Playa Centro
Colorful, charming, and full of local life, Villajoyosa’s Playa Centro reflects the character of the town itself. The beach is wide, clean, and lined with palm trees and rainbow-colored houses that make it one of the most photographed spots on the Costa Blanca. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, with plenty of space for beachgoers, excellent facilities, and a gentle slope into the water that makes it perfect for kids. Don’t miss a stop at one of the local chocolate factories — Villajoyosa is famous for its sweet treats, which go perfectly with a beach picnic.
Final Thoughts
The Costa Blanca is more than just sunshine and sea — it’s a mosaic of vibrant beach towns, peaceful coves, and dynamic seaside communities, each with its own flavor. Whether you prefer the energy of Benidorm’s Levante or the tranquility of Moraira’s Portet, you’ll find a beach here that speaks to your soul. Use this guide as your compass, and let the coast lead you to your next favorite seaside escape.