Benidorm is a top sun, sand and sea destination along Costa Blanca as well as in all of Spain. It is no surprise that it is home to spectacular beaches that are some of the most famous along the Mediterranean. This destination is paradise for anyone who loves the sea. The fine, white sand on Benidorm’s beaches invites visitors to bask under the sun and gaze at the magnificent sea.
The northern end of this stretch of Costa Blanca is marked by two small sand and rock coves, known as Cala del Tío Ximo and Cala Almadrava. Both are extremely popular for snorkelling and peaceful swims. Headed south, we come across the lively Levante Beach, and continuing just past the marina, Poniente Beach, which is just as beautiful and well-equipped as its northern neighbour. Both face the sun in such a way that its rays reach the sand from dawn to dusk. Tucked away between the two beaches, near old town Benidorm and Cerro Canfali rock, there is a small cove called Mal Pas. And last but not least, Benidorm Island is another popular spot for visitors, particularly scuba divers.
In the text that follows, we will visit each of Benidorm’s unique beaches to learn about their special charm.
The lively Levante Beach
This is one of the most popular beaches in Benidorm. With more than 2 kilometres of fine, white sand and an average width of 55 metres, it stretches from Punta Pinet to Punta Canfali. It has all the services imaginable, including an extensive team of lifeguards. A lively beach promenade runs parallel to the beach, with countless restaurants and shops frequented by people from all over the world.
Levante Beach has proudly flown the blue flag distinction since 1987 and it has also received a number of environmental management certificates. In addition to the lifeguard and medical assistance posts, the beach has children’s playgrounds, sports facilities, wooden walkways, eco-friendly toilets, footbaths, litter bins and a wheelchair accessible area. Visitors can also rent beach umbrellas and loungers, swim out to the floating platforms, and try the cable ski attraction or the numerous leisure activities.
Poniente Beach, 3,000 metres of white sand
Stretching out more than 3 kilometres long and 74 metres wide, this is the largest beach in Benidorm. It is somewhat more peaceful than Levante Beach and more popular with Spanish tourists. Like its northern counterpart, it also has a beachfront promenade lined with an endless array of restaurants, pubs and souvenir shops. There are also many services and leisure alternatives, including floating platform rentals, beach libraries, playgrounds, sports facilities, shaded areas for reading, and special locations equipped to help persons with reduced mobility access the water. It has received the blue flag distinction since 1987, along with environmental management and quality certificates.
Charming Tío Ximo Cove
This delightful beach is tucked away between steep cliffs, directly below Sierra Helada on the coast just north of Benidorm. Only 60 metres long, its surface is a combination of sand and rocks. This is the perfect spot for people who want to avoid the crowds and noise that usually occupy the Levante and Poniente beaches. It is also perfect for snorkelling thanks to the crystal-clear water that provides enchanting views of the rocky seabed. Despite its small size, it is manned with lifeguards.
Peaceful La Almadrava Cove
Approximately 100 metres long, its fine sand and rocks welcome visitors. Just like Tío Ximo cala, La Almadrava is also located below Sierra Helada, resulting in a unique feel. This is the perfect beach for people in search of an exclusive experience. The calm, clear water serves as a draw for many scuba divers who visit this appealing spot, which also has lifeguards.
Mal Pas Cove, tucked away
This small cove marks the division between the enormous Levante and Poniente beaches. Only 120 metres long and 20 metres wide, it is located halfway between the Benidorm marina and Punta Canfali, directly below the Balcony over the Mediterranean or Balcón del Mediterráneo, and the atmosphere is usually quite peaceful and quiet. Directly in front of the cove lies Benidorm Island, a scuba diving paradise due to the submerged platform known as La Llosa, a marine reserve with a spectacular seabed. Mal Pas Cove features numerous services and leisure alternatives. This beach has also received the blue flag distinction since 1987, along with environmental management and quality certificates.
Finestrat Cove, 3 kilometres from Benidorm
Only 3 kilometres from Benidorm, and stretching 300 metres long and 75 metres wide, Finestrat Cove is a small beach with an urban feel, fine sand and crystal-clear water. The surrounding area includes a watchtower that can be reached via a path along a cliff. This is a worthwhile hike because the views are nothing short of breathtaking. Finestrat Cove, which has also received the blue flag distinction since 1987, is equipped with all types of services. Every year, on the 15th of August, it hosts Spain’s oldest beach volleyball tournament.
