Information
Language
Spanish
Currency
Euro (€)
Time difference
+1hr
Local beer
£2.50
Meal for two
£38.50
Average flight time
2.5hrs
Sun-kissed shores
Like everything else in the region, the seas here are warm, making them perfect for swimming or even just a quick paddle. The beaches are swathed in soft golden sand and backed by bar-lined promenades, dunes or pine forests depending on which one you pick. You won’t leave disappointed.
A sheltered spot
The Mar Menor, or ‘little sea’, is a saltwater lagoon separated from the Mediterranean by a spit of land known as La Manga. Its mild, shallow waters and pristine sands have made it the region’s most exciting area, so it’s no wonder it pulls in the crowds.
Hannibal’s capital
The historic city of Cartagena has been an important naval port for over 2,000 years. Hannibal and his elephants made it their Spanish base en route from Carthage to Rome. The city’s old town’s peppered with Roman, Phoenician, Byzantine and Moorish monuments, including an impressive amphitheatre and two fortresses!
When is the best time to visit Costa Cálida and Alicante for a beach holiday?
The ideal time for a beach holiday is between June and September when temperatures regularly exceed 30°C. However, for sightseeing and golf, the shoulder months of May and October offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds. The winters are mild, making it a popular destination for winter sun seekers, though the sea is cooler.
Is the Costa Cálida a good destination for golfers?
Yes, the Costa Cálida is a premier golf destination, particularly around the Polaris World resorts and the Region of Murcia Golf Trail. It boasts numerous championship courses designed by architects like Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman, set against a backdrop of mountains and Mediterranean views.
What local food should I try in the Costa Cálida region?
The region is famous for its vegetable produce, especially from the Vega Media del Segura. Try "caldero" (a traditional rice dish cooked in a cauldron, typically served with fish), "migas" (fried breadcrumbs), and local meats. The region is also the largest producer of lettuce in Europe, and the local paprika (pimentón) is a key ingredient in many dishes.
Are there any UNESCO World Heritage sites in the area?
Yes, the nearby city of Murcia (part of the wider region) has a UNESCO World Heritage listing for the Water Court of the Vega (Tribunal de las Aguas). Additionally, just inland from Alicante, you can find the Palmeral of Elche, a UNESCO-listed landscape of palm groves. The Tabarca Island nature reserve is also a protected marine site.
