After living in Alicante for nearly three years, I often drive to nearby areas on weekends. This coastline truly hides some treasure spots. Today I want to share a few towns and beaches I frequently visit, all within about an hour’s drive.
Towns to the North
Altea
This white town is probably the most famous in the area. The old town sits on a hillside, with white-walled, blue-domed houses that perfectly capture Mediterranean charm. I usually park in the lower parking lot and slowly walk up. The square at the hilltop church offers amazing views, overlooking the entire bay. If you’re going on a weekend, I suggest arriving early, otherwise parking spots are hard to find. There are several restaurants in town with good food, prices slightly higher than downtown Alicante, but the atmosphere is worth it.
Jávea
Jávea is quieter than Altea, divided into three areas: the old town, the port, and the beach area. The old town has a traditional market open every Thursday where you can buy fresh seafood and local produce. The Arenal beach area is livelier and gets crowded in summer. I prefer Granadella beach, a small cove with exceptionally clear water, perfect for snorkeling. However, parking is limited there, so during peak season it’s best to arrive before 10am.
Recommended Beaches
Here’s a table summarizing several beaches I think are worth visiting:
| Beach Name | Distance from Alicante | Features | Best For |
|---|
| Granadella | About 90km | Crystal clear water, great for snorkeling | Couples, diving enthusiasts |
| Moraig | About 80km | Sea caves, unique scenery | Adventure seekers |
| Albir | About 50km | Well-equipped facilities, walking trails | Family outings |
| Carabassi | About 15km | Wide sandy beach, less crowded | Those seeking tranquility |
Calpe
The main attraction here is the massive rock formation Peñón de Ifach, which you can climb in about an hour to reach the top. Though it’s a bit tiring, the views from the top of around Alicante are absolutely worth it. The town’s paella is quite authentic too, much better than what you’ll find in tourist areas.
Practical Tips
About Transportation and Timing
Driving is the most convenient way to reach these places, as public transportation has limited schedules. If you’re visiting around Alicante in summer, I suggest avoiding August when vacationers are everywhere. Spring and autumn are actually the best seasons—comfortable weather and fewer tourists. For weekend trips, try to leave early to avoid traffic, especially on the return journey.
That’s about it. If anyone has been to other great spots, feel free to share. With such a long coastline around Alicante attractions, there must be many wonderful places I haven’t discovered yet.
