With larger-than-life Benidorm taking centre stage, this iconic Costa is a playground for pleasure-seekers of all ages, all year round. Blue Flag beaches, boat trips, wineries, great golf courses, tonnes of pubs – it’s all here. And you can’t beat a bit of sequin-splashed cabaret or tapas in the Old Town. That’s why it’s such a winner for stag and hen parties.
Further up the coast, authentic Spanish scenes await in Calpe and Albir. Plus, there are the lantern-lit bars and art galleries of Alicante to discover, while the nearby mountains hide natural wonders, year-round cycle routes and secret villages. Whether you’re a first-timer or have been holidaying here for years, you’ll find this old-school favourite hasn’t lost its charm.
Information
Language
Spanish
Currency
Euro (€)
Time difference
+1hrs
Local beer
£2.50
Meal for two
£38.50
Average flight time
2.5hrs
Stunning coast
The Costa Blanca’s coastline is utterly gorgeous, with never-ending beaches, towering cliffs and tucked-away coves. A little way inland, you’ve got mountains and pine forests, plus the salt marshes that draw in flocks of flamingos and other curious birds. It’s a glorious wild shoreline.
Resorts for everyone
Classic Spanish villages dotted across the Costa Blanca all have their own character. Take Benidorm – it’s the biggest, best-known resort in the area, teeming with life and nightclubs, and couldn’t scream better value if it tried. Albir is more laid-back, while Calpe’s all about authentic España. Foodies will even find Michelin-starred dining options dotted about the region’s resorts.
Vibrant cities
Alicante should be high on your list. Take advantage of the photo opportunities sweeping all the way from up on the hillside to down in the city. Don’t miss the covered markets or golden beaches. Stylish Valencia, with its parks and pretty old town, makes for a brilliant day trip.
What is the Costa Blanca famous for?
The Costa Blanca, meaning "White Coast," is a stretch of coastline in the province of Alicante in the Valencian Community, southeastern Spain. It runs for approximately 200 kilometres along the Mediterranean Sea, from Elche in the north to Pilar de la Horadada in the south. It is one of Spain’s most popular holiday destinations, known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrops.
What is the best time of year to visit the Costa Blanca?
The Costa Blanca enjoys a favourable Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine per year. The most popular time to visit is between June and September for a classic summer beach holiday. However, the "shoulder" months of April, May, October, and early November are ideal for sightseeing, walking, and golf, as the weather remains warm but the crowds are thinner.
Is the Costa Blanca suitable for family holidays?
Absolutely. The Costa Blanca is renowned as a family-friendly destination. Resorts like Benidorm, Orihuela Costa, and Mojacar offer safe, shallow waters and extensive playgrounds. There are also world-class theme parks, such as Terra Mítica in Benidorm and Terra Natura, alongside animal parks like Bioparc Fuengirola (nearby) and the Aquatic Parks in Benidorm and Rojales.
Is the Costa Blanca good for hiking and nature lovers?
Yes, the Costa Blanca is a premier destination for outdoor activities. The region boasts diverse landscapes, ranging from coastal paths to mountain ranges like the Sierra Helada. The Via Verde (Greenway) is a popular cycling and walking track on former railway lines. Inland, the Jalon Valley offers picturesque routes through vineyards and orchards.
