Discovering Costa Blanca: Spain’s Sun-Drenched Paradise

Stretching like a gleaming pearl necklace south of Valencia, Spain’s Costa Blanca lives up to its name as the “White Coast” with some of the Mediterranean’s most stunning shorelines. Between the vibrant resorts of Gandía and the iconic skyline of Benidorm, you’ll find beaches that seem plucked from postcards – if you know where to look beyond the package tourism hotspots. This sun-blessed coastline offers both lively resorts and hidden treasures, provided you navigate it with some local insight.

Planning Your Costa Blanca Adventure

Timing is everything when discovering this stretch of Spanish coastline. Summer transforms the Costa Blanca into a buzzing hive of activity, with August representing peak season. Savvy travelers book accommodations months in advance, while camping enthusiasts will find hundreds of well-equipped sites dotting the coast. When it comes to transportation, toll roads offer stress-free driving experiences – a worthwhile investment compared to navigating congested local routes during high season.

For those drawn to authentic Spanish culture, detouring inland towards Gandía rewards travelers with historic gems like Xàtiva, a town steeped in centuries of fascinating history. This perfect blend of beach relaxation and cultural discovery defines the true Costa Blanca experience.

Gandía to Altea: Coastal Jewels Worth Discovering

The stretch between Gandía and Altea reveals the Costa Blanca’s most enchanting secrets. Imagine a string of picturesque towns where golden beaches meet azure waters, each with its own unique character. While public transport exists, having your own vehicle unlocks the region’s full potential, allowing spontaneous stops at hidden coves and hilltop villages.

Denia: Where Mountains Meet the Sea

Nestled at the foot of Montgó Natural Park, Denia charms visitors with its perfect blend of nature and culture. Beyond the bustling port area, some of Costa Blanca’s most breathtaking beaches await discovery. The town serves as an excellent base for exploring the region, with regular ferry connections to the Balearic Islands adding to its allure. Don’t miss the hilltop castle offering panoramic views over the coastline.

For the active traveler, Denia offers excellent hiking opportunities in Montgó Natural Park, while food enthusiasts will appreciate its reputation as a gastronomic hub, boasting more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than many Spanish cities.

Xàbia: The Crown Jewel of Costa Blanca

Halfway between Denia and Altea lies Xàbia (Jávea), a town that perfectly encapsulates Costa Blanca’s appeal. Its charming old town, framed by rolling hills dotted with villas, invites leisurely exploration. The beaches here range from expansive golden stretches to intimate coves accessible only by foot or boat.

Seek out Cala Portitxol (also known as Playa la Barraca), a hidden gem where crystal-clear waters lap against a picturesque pebble-and-sand beach surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Evenings in Xàbia come alive with a sophisticated atmosphere, particularly on weekends when Valencian families fill the seaside promenades and tapas bars.

Altea: The Artist’s Sanctuary

As you journey southeast past the striking Peñón de Ifach rock formation, you’ll discover Altea – arguably the Costa Blanca’s most photogenic town. This charming resort beautifully balances tourism development with authentic Spanish character. The seaside area features a pebbly beach flanked by a palm-lined promenade, while the hilltop old town presents a maze of whitewashed houses crowned by the iconic blue-domed church.

Wandering through Altea’s old quarter feels like stepping into a postcard. Narrow cobbled streets wind past artisan boutiques and flower-bedecked balconies, culminating in breathtaking Mediterranean vistas from the church plaza. Summer evenings transform the town into a vibrant scene of al fresco dining and cultural events, with the sound of live music often drifting through the warm night air.

Xàtiva: The Historic Heart Inland

No visit to the Costa Blanca region is complete without exploring Xàtiva (Játiva), a historic gem located 50km south of Valencia. This ancient town, believed to have Phoenician origins, played a significant role in Spanish history as the birthplace of two popes from the powerful Borgia family – Calixtus III and Alexander VI.

Modern visitors are greeted by Xàtiva’s impressive castle complex, which towers over the town and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The ancient fortress walls whisper tales of Roman occupation, Moorish rule, and Christian reconquest. Below the castle, the town’s historic center features well-preserved Gothic architecture, tranquil plazas, and fascinating museums housed in Renaissance palaces.

For history enthusiasts, Xàtiva provides a fascinating counterpoint to the coastal resorts. The town’s Archaeological Museum showcases artifacts spanning from prehistoric times through the Moorish period, while the Collegiate Basilica displays stunning examples of Valencian Gothic architecture.

Making the Most of Your Costa Blanca Visit

When to Visit

The Costa Blanca enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it a year-round destination. Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures ideal for sightseeing and hiking. July and August bring peak crowds and higher prices, but also the warmest sea temperatures and vibrant nightlife.

Getting Around

While buses connect major towns, renting a car provides the freedom to explore hidden coves and inland villages at your own pace. The AP-7 toll road offers the fastest route along the coast, while the N-332 highway provides a more scenic (though slower) alternative. For those based in one resort, many companies offer excellent day tours to key attractions.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options range from luxury beachfront resorts to charming rural farmhouses (known as fincas). Camping enthusiasts will find numerous well-equipped sites along the coast, many with direct beach access. For longer stays, consider renting an apartment or villa – particularly cost-effective for families or groups.

Local Cuisine

The Costa Blanca’s culinary scene reflects its coastal position and fertile hinterland. Don’t miss arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish stock), fresh seafood like red prawns from Denia, and the sweet muscatel wines produced around Xàtiva. Inland towns offer hearty mountain dishes featuring rabbit, snails, and locally grown olive oil.

Experiencing Costa Blanca’s Hidden Treasures

• Guadalest Valley: Explore this stunning inland valley with its picturesque reservoir and hilltop castle
• Tabarca Island: Take a boat trip to this tiny marine reserve island near Alicante
• El Palmar Beaches: Discover the natural beaches beyond the developed areas near Valencia
• Rio Safari: Family-friendly animal park near Elche with conservation programs
• Pinto & Paint Workshops: Creative experiences offered in Altea’s artistic community

Crafting Your Perfect Costa Blanca Experience

The true beauty of Costa Blanca lies in its diversity. Whether you seek vibrant nightlife in Benidorm, peaceful coves near Xàbia, cultural riches in Xàtiva, or artistic charm in Altea, this versatile region caters to all tastes. By balancing popular hotspots with lesser-known gems, you’ll discover why this stretch of Spanish coastline continues to captivate visitors year after year.

Consider booking guided tours to fully appreciate the region’s highlights, from coastal bus excursions that reveal panoramic vistas to specialized “Costa Blanca Jewels” itineraries that showcase hidden villages and natural wonders. However you choose to explore, the White Coast promises unforgettable Mediterranean memories illuminated by Spanish sunshine.