Spain is a real treasure trove for connoisseurs of informative vacations. Its architectural, historical, cultural and natural sights are what attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. The country occupies 90% of the total area of the Iberian Peninsula, its eastern and southeastern coasts are washed by the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea, southwest and northwest – by the Atlantic Ocean.
The main destinations for summer vacation at sea in Spain are Costa Brava, Costa Dorada, Costa Blanca, Costa del Maresme, the sandy spit of La Manga, Costa Tropical, Costa del Sol and Costa de la Luz. These are not names of resorts, but areas of the coast, in each of which are the most famous places for beach vacations. All of them have their own peculiarities – climatic and cultural-historical – but they are united invariably by the sun and the sea. I will tell you where to vacation on the coast of Spain.
Costa Brava
The region is located northeast of Barcelona, the nearest airport is in Girona (104 km to the capital of Catalonia). The beaches and resorts of the Costa Brava stretch from the resort center of Blanes to the border with France. The nature of the region is a symbiosis of sandy beaches, coniferous Mediterranean forests, low mountains and hills. The choice of places for recreation is very large: some resorts are oriented to the discerning public, others – for active young people, others – for family vacations.
The Costa Brava towns are less than an hour’s drive from Girona and 1.5-2 hours from Barcelona. Both cities are connected to each other and to the resorts by bus services (Moventis Sarfa and Sagales companies). From Girona airport buses go to Lloret de Mar, Tossa de Mar and Blanes. From Barcelona airport to Blanes. You can also get to the coast by train: from Barcelona Airport to Blanes, the R2 train leaves every 30 minutes from Terminal T2 to Barcelona Sants station, where you can change to the R1 train to Blanes.
Lloret de Mar
A resort town in the province of Girona, 75 km from the Catalan capital Barcelona. It is very popular among young people and party lovers: it is full of discos, nightclubs and other entertainment. Resort season lasts from May to October, the climate is relatively mild: the maximum temperature in summer rises to +28 … +30 degrees, the water in August warms up to +25 degrees.
Where to swim
The beaches in Lloret de Mar are sandy, wide and clean, protected from winds by hills. All have the necessary infrastructure for a good rest: beach equipment rental, water entertainment, sports grounds and children’s play areas. The largest beach – one and a half kilometers Playa Lloret de Mar in the central part of the city, near the main promenade with restaurants and bars for every taste. To the south, in the landscape park “Clotilde’s Garden”, surrounded by cliffs and pine forests are the nudist beach Sa Boadella and the traditional half-kilometer Santa Cristina.
What to see
Fragments of the 11th-century San Joan Castle with its preserved tower. Stylized as a medieval fortress, the “Castle on the Beach”, built in 1935 as a private residence of the industrialist Narcis Placha. The already mentioned “Garden of St. Clotilde” is a Renaissance-style park created in 1919 by the Barcelona architect Nicolau Rubier i Tuduri.
What to do
In addition to all kinds of water activities in the vicinity of Lloret de Mar you can play golf, horseback riding, tennis and bowling. On the outskirts of the city is a large water amusement park WaterWorld, to which there is a free bus from the bus station every 30 minutes. Another park – the largest on the Costa Brava Marineland – is located 9 km from Lloret de Mar. Marineland is also accessible by free bus.
Fans of nightlife will appreciate the oldest nightclub Disco Tropics, whose largest dance hall seats 1000 people, electronic music club Colossos, as well as Gran Casino Costa Brava, where you can not only try your luck, but also watch a show of flamenco singers and dancers.
Where to stay
For example, in the five-star Rigat Hotel on the seaside, a 15-minute walk from the city center. There is a large green territory with tall trees, a cozy courtyard with a swimming pool, Jacuzzi and a garden with sun beds. The spa center offers cosmetic procedures, sauna, Turkish bath, Jacuzzi and massage room. For outdoor enthusiasts, there is a well-equipped fitness center and riding club. Another nice option is the four-star Rosamar Hotel in the central beach area, with an outdoor pool with snack bar, fitness room and its own restaurant.
Where to eat
Lloret de Mar has a huge choice of restaurants serving traditional Catalan cuisine: paella, seafood and fish dishes, suquet fish soup and crema catalana Catalan desserts. Perhaps the most exquisite cuisine is offered by the FREU restaurant in the five-star Hotel Monterrey.
Blanes
Blanes is the closest resort to Barcelona on the Costa Brava. It has spacious sandy beaches with a promenade along them, ideal for morning jogs and evening strolls. Blanes is one of the largest and oldest towns on the coast. The fishing port on the north side is a source of freshly caught seafood, which you can buy raw and have cooked in one of the restaurants. Diving, discos and boat trips are the most popular vacation activities.
Where to swim
Playa de Blanes beach stretches for almost three kilometers and is the main beach of Blanes. It has everything for a cool family vacation: volleyball courts, water slides, numerous cafes and bars and even a yacht club.
What to see
The ruins of the fortress of St. Juan on the hill above the town (sturdy shoes and sun protection are required), which offers a magnificent view of the coast. Lovers of ancient architecture will also be interested in the Chapel of St. Barbara (Ermita Santa Barbara), 7 km from Blanes, to which there are bicycle paths. In July, Blanes hosts one of the largest fireworks festivals in Europe.
What to do
The Blanes marina has several boat and jet ski rentals, as well as electric surfboards. You can take a trip along the coast on a transparent boat. Outdoor enthusiasts will be pleased with a visit to the Ciutat Esportiva Blanes sports complex.
The most popular party place is Arena Blanes nightclub and disco with two dance floors for 1600 people. The big hall hosts foam parties, white parties, masquerades, etc.
Where to stay
The best hotel in Blanes is Beverly Park 4* on the first line, on the beach S’Abanell. It has a SPA-center, adult and children’s pools, gym, as well as a restaurant, chillout and bar. It is convenient to rest in the hotels Blaumar and Blaucel – it is a single complex, the hotels are connected by an internal lobby. Their guests can use the infrastructure of both hotels: two outdoor pools, heated indoor pool, spa, mini club, entertainment system, children’s playgrounds, bars, terraces-solariums.
Where to eat
In Blanes, most restaurants are located along the town’s promenade and offer fresh seafood dishes (bought at the local port at auction). Sa Lola, where you can try grilled lamb meat in mustard mayonnaise and truffle caviar, has good reviews.
Tossa de Mar
Tossa de Mar is a small town 40 km from Girona airport and 100 km from Barcelona. It is considered the most picturesque place on the Costa Brava and attracts not only by its beaches, but also by its ancient center with the medieval fortress of Vila Velha.
Where to swim
Tossa de Mar does not have many kilometers of beaches – all of them are relatively small. Opposite the center of the town – the main beach of the resort Gran, on the other side of the bay – another beach with a gentle bottom, protected by rocks. A great place for a vacation with children. Small coves with sandy beaches with a length of only about a hundred meters can be found south of the fortress of Vila Velha – three are awarded the Blue Flag for the purity and transparency of the water. All beaches offer umbrella and sun lounger rentals, as well as diving: the local coastline is famous for its rich underwater world.
What to see
The main attraction of the resort is the fortress of Vila Velha (translated as “old town”), which is more than 800 years old. In the XV-XVI centuries, the whole town could fit inside these fortress walls under the protection of four towers. Three of them have survived, and a lighthouse was built on the site of the fourth one.
The fortress can be reached on foot or by mini Dico Train from the central beach to the lighthouse. From the fortress along the beach stretches the Passeig del Mar promenade, along which at different times walked the artist Marc Chagall, Hollywood actress Ava Gardner and other famous people.
In addition to the fortress, I highly recommend going to the historical museum, visiting the ruins of an ancient Roman villa, and walking along the beautiful hiking trails along the Costa Brava. In the vicinity often go to the neighboring tiny town of San Feliu de Guixols: its beaches and promenade, as well as the casino, operating since the late 19th century, – a great reason to diversify your vacation with a day trip.
What to do
Tossa de Mar is a great place for hiking or cycling. The Aire Libre sports and leisure club offers activities such as orienteering, archery, rock climbing, miniature golf, basketball and soccer. There are several diving centers in the city that provide training and organize dives. The Cala Llevadó diving center also organizes boat trips, water skiing, banana boat rides and canoeing.
Where to stay
There are two good four-star hotels in the center of Tossa de Mar: Golden Bahía (indoor and outdoor pools, spa center, sauna, Turkish bath, gym, billiards, restaurants and bars) and Gran Hotel (indoor and outdoor heated pools, spa center, gym, tennis court, diving center, billiards, restaurants and bars).
Where to eat
Traditional Catalan cuisine can be tasted at La Cuina de l’Avia (stuffed calamari, fideua, paella and cod fritters), Sa Muralla (fresh seafood and fish dishes), Castell Vell (mullet cake, braised and baked sea fish).
Playa de Aro
A luxurious resort with a beach divided by rocky ledges into eight recreation areas in close proximity to each other. The smallest are quiet and secluded, while the larger ones offer a full range of recreational facilities, including restaurants, sports fields and boat rentals. Playa de Aro can be reached from Girona or Barcelona airports by bus, cab, car or private transfer.
Where to swim
Platja Gran’s large 2 km long beach stretches along the historic city center. Here you can rent a sun lounger, umbrella, balls and pedal boats. To the north of it, the 200-meter Cala Rovira beach is surrounded by pine trees, and even further away are small secluded coves with quiet sandy beaches.
What to see
Three kilometers from the resort’s central tourist area is the Benidorm Castle, built in 1041, and the late Gothic Church of the Virgin Mary. These are two of the main local attractions. The restored castle building houses an exhibition hall. Another curious place is the Roman village of Pla de Palol, an archaeological historical monument with free admission. It originated around the 1st century BC and existed until the 6th AD.
What to do
If you get tired of spending time on the beach, snorkeling, scuba diving or exploring the coastline on one of the water transports, then perhaps the best option for entertainment for adults and children is a water amusement park.
Where to stay
There are two 5* hotels in Castel Playa de Aro: Sallès Hotel & Spa Cala del Pi and Alabriga Hotel & Home Suites. The first is located next to a small sandy beach, a great place for diving, and offers guests a huge (600 sq.m.) spa center and an equally extensive program of activities: yachting, diving, biking, as well as trips to the most famous wine cellars of the Emporada region.
Hotel Alabriga is located north of the central part of Playa de Aro, in the quiet bay of San Pol in San Feliu de Guixols. It is a luxury complex with every possible amenity. The Wellbeing-area of the hotel includes four massage rooms, an outdoor pool with heated water, sauna, hammam, beauty salon and an ecobar with a large selection of healthy drinks. The hotel offers guests two accommodation packages – “Golf” and “Kayak”: the first includes golf lessons on an 18-hole course and an extensive sightseeing program, the second – guided kayaking trips along the Costa Brava.
Where to eat
Fish and seafood dishes are popular here, but not only. Be sure to try red shrimp with soup of monkfish and potatoes – in any variations this dish is incredibly tasty. Black rice with mussels cooked in cuttlefish or squid ink is very popular. An unusual delicacy is sea urchins in their own juice or under various sauces.
All this can be tasted, for example, at the Fellu restaurant near Platja Gran beach or at Adagio, which specializes in author’s Mediterranean and European cuisine.
Empuriabrava
Bohemian Empuriabrava is one of the most beautiful places not only on the Costa Brava, but in the whole of Spain. It is also called the Venice of Catalonia because of the canals in the delta of the Muga River, which have access to the sea and constitute a single navigable system.
Empuriabrava is located 20 km from the French border and 140 km from Barcelona, the northernmost of the popular resorts on the Costa Brava. The mild climate (according to statistics, it has an average of 300 sunny days a year) and developed infrastructure (ports, hotels, good roads) attract hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world every year.
Where to swim
The coastline of Empuriabrava stretches for almost seven kilometers in the Bay of Rosas. Part of it belongs to the Aiguamolls del Empordà Nature Reserve, the second most important natural park in Catalonia. The beaches here are some of the best in Spain, with a smooth sandy descent into the water. The main ones are Playa de les Comes, Playa de Empuriabrava and Playa de la Rubina
What to see
Around Empuriabrava on an area of 100 square kilometers there are 125 monuments of medieval architecture. In 12 kilometers is, for example, the oldest Greek settlement on the Iberian Peninsula – the ancient town of Empurias. From Empuriabrava it is convenient to get to Figueres, where there is a museum of Dali. Also interesting to visit is the Emporda Nature Reserve, a nesting place for more than 300 species of birds.
What to do
Outdoor enthusiasts can plan parachuting or biking, tennis, diving, horseback riding, golfing, and fishing. The area also offers good conditions for windsurfing and kiting. There is an opportunity to ride jet skis, kayaks, water skiing. There is even a small airfield in Empuriabrava, which has become a local center of skydiving and attracts fans of flying light and ultra-light aircraft. From Empuriabrava you can also make excursions to Barcelona, Girona, neighboring Andorra and France.
15 kilometers from Empuriabrava is the town of Peralada and its main attraction – the medieval castle of the princes of Rocaberti. In addition to wine cellars and a wine museum, the castle houses one of the most luxurious casinos in Spain – Casino Peralada, as well as a restaurant where Salvador Dali liked to visit.
Where to stay
The most convenient option of accommodation in Empuriabrava is your own yacht, but there are, of course, hotels and apartments for every taste. For example, Port Salinas 4* in the very center of the resort, which in addition to comfortable rooms offers guests a swimming pool with Jacuzzi and its own restaurant.
Where to eat
Pura Brasa is one of the largest restaurants in Empuriabrava. It serves meat and seafood dishes. I recommend trying the tapas and octopus with mashed potatoes.
Costa Dorada
The Costa Dorada is located south of Barcelona and is popular among lovers of quiet beach vacations, as well as tourists with children. The main highlight of the region is the PortAventura park with an unreal number of attractions and entertainment near the town of Salou. Tarragona will please with its architectural sights, and La Pineda – an excellent infrastructure for family vacations.
Salou
It is a modern picturesque resort town on the Costa Dorada. The resort is renowned for its wide sandy beaches, palm alleys, numerous fountains and its versatility. One part of the resort is popular with partying young people, and the other – with supporters of family and quiet vacation. You can reach Salou by Bus Plana bus from Barcelona International Airport or Renfe high-speed train from the railway station of the Catalan capital.
Where to swim
The longest and most crowded beach, Playa de Levante, starts from the Salou Yacht Club. The fine golden sand, shallow depth and smooth entrance to the water are perfect for children. Moreover, the beach is paralleled by a nearly kilometer-long promenade, a promenade and a park area with recreation and playgrounds for children.
Playa de Poniente is more than a kilometer of sandy coastline with a gentle entrance to the water, flat and soft bottom. Kite, windsurfing and diving are among the available activities.
The relatively small 200-meter Playa de Capellans is popular with families with children due to its gentle entrance to the sea and absence of waves. It has fine golden sand mixed with small pebbles. Popular water activities include diving, parasailing, jet ski and catamaran rentals.
The picturesque Playa Larga beach is about 600 meters long and is located in the eastern part of the resort. From the city center you can walk here in 5-10 minutes. The options of going down to the sea are stairs or a path, the entrance to the sea is gentle. Above the beach line there is a promenade boulevard with children’s and sports grounds.
What to see
The most beautiful spots are King Jaime I Boulevard, the old Torre Vella fortress (aka King Carlos V’s fortress) and Cap Salou Cape overlooking the entire coastline – a great place to photograph the sunset. Also see the sundial at Chalet Bonet, a classic Art Nouveau country villa built in 1919.
What to do
A great idea for the whole family is to go to Port Aventura, the sixth most popular amusement park in Europe, divided into six themed zones, each representing one of the historical civilizations. In the section representing China, there is the Shambala attraction, a roller coaster complex that has broken three European records: in height (76 meters), in length of fall (78 meters) and in speed (134 km/h).
On the territory of “PortAventura” there is also a water amusement park Caribe Aquatic Park with 16 water slides and pools on an area of about 50,000 square meters. The cost of a one-day entrance ticket to “Park Aventura” is 40 euros. In addition to visiting “PortAventura” you can have a great time in the province of Tarragona in the karting center Karting Salou or sea fishing on a catamaran from the town of Cambrils.
Where to stay
If there is a desire to spend more time in “PortAventura”, take the family Hotel Best Negresco 4*. It is located 100 meters from the beach Playa Larga, on the territory there is an outdoor pool, SPA-center, gym. Another good option, but already for adults and party people is Magnolia Hotel Adults Only 4*. It is located 50 meters from the beach, has a swimming pool with a terrace, SPA-center with sauna and Turkish bath, as well as a fitness center.
Where to eat
Restaurant O Mar is an original institution decorated in the form of a cave, where the freshest seafood is served: squid, shrimps, octopus, crabs. As an alternative, you can have paella with chicken, suckling pig and excellent jamon.
The food at La Goleta is above average, but it’s worth it: the cuisine is excellent and the restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star several years in a row. Popular dishes here are tender chops, fresh tuna, and deviled fish with Roquefort.
La Pineda
The name of this small town between Salou and Tarragona comes from the Spanish word pino, which means “pine tree”: these trees grow almost all along the coast of the resort, which is about three kilometers long. Clean air with the characteristic pine aroma and the same clean sea are the hallmarks of La Pineda.
Where to swim
Unlike other resorts on the Costa Dorada, La Pineda does not have much variety in the landscape of the coastal areas. The beach line is flat and long, without rocky coves and cliffs. In fact, the beach here is one, although it is divided into Playa del Raco and Playa de la Pineda, into which it smoothly passes.
What to see
Visit the neighboring city of Reus, a monument to the art of Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the famous Catalan architect. There you can also get acquainted with the work of Antoni Gaudi: in Reus there is a center dedicated to the life and works of the architectural genius. In Reus you should also visit vermuterias and try a glass of the local tonic drink in one of the cafes in the city’s main square, Plaça del Prim, for example.
What to do
Aquopolis Water Park is one of the main centers of attraction for tourists: numerous water slides and attractions, eight pools, cafes, shady lawns and sunbathing areas covered with sand on an area of more than one hundred thousand square meters. In the evening I recommend to be in the famous nightclub Pacha La Pineda – the largest on the Costa Dorada. And, of course, do not pass by cozy lounge bars with night discos and cozy outdoor terraces. The resort’s nightlife district is called Pineda Drink.
Where to stay
Golden Donaire Beach Hotel on El Raco Beach offers indoor and outdoor pools, entertainment programs for adults and children. The adults-only four-star Oassium is located on the beachfront, 100 meters from Playa de la Pineda. Outdoor pool, fitness center and garden, wellness and spa center with sauna and hot tub.
Where to eat
On the seafront there is a very nice restaurant called Che Del Mar, which serves seafood dishes not only from Spanish and Mediterranean, but also from European cuisine. From meat dishes, it is recommended to try jamon iberico, steaks and roasts.
Fish lovers should go to Dorado restaurant: baked dorado and octopus dishes, paella Negro with cuttlefish, mussel salad, sea bass with almonds and calamari in batter.
Tarragona
The capital of the province of the same name, whose founding date is considered to be 218 B.C. Tarragona is connected by direct rail and bus links with most of the main cities of the Mediterranean coast of Spain, as well as with Madrid. Tarragona is divided into two parts by the Rambla Vella, a street that follows the ancient Roman road Via Augusta, which once connected Rome and Cadiz.
To the north of Rambla Vella, surrounded by a fortress wall, are the old quarters with numerous monuments from the Roman period and the cathedral. To the south are the newer neighborhoods, whose main street is Rambla Nova. On Platja Llarga beach you can see sea turtles, which come here to lay their eggs.
Where to swim
Tarragona’s coastline stretches for almost 15 kilometers, with gentle sandy beaches alternating with rocky ledges jutting out into the sea. If you wish, you can walk all of it on the Cami de ronda Tarragona walking trail along the beaches.
Tarragona has a total of 11 beaches, four of which are Blue Flag beaches. Most of them have all the necessary infrastructure: sun loungers and umbrellas, lifeguard towers and showers, as well as cafes and water activities. All beaches of Tarragona are sandy, with a comfortable and gentle entrance to the sea. The central kilometer-long beach is called Platja Miracle. The best sandy beach in Tarragona is the Blue Flag awarded Platja l’Arrabassada. The longest is the three-kilometer Platja Llarga (the one with the turtles), and Platja de la Mora is one of the cleanest beaches in Tarragona.
What to see
Tarragona has a large number of monuments of ancient Roman architecture, most of them are protected by UNESCO. Be sure to visit the Roman amphitheater Tarraco, built in the second century AD. The Roman circus, the Praetorium Tower and, of course, the Roman Forum date back to the same era. The symbol of medieval Tarragona is the 16th century cathedral, which houses the relics of the city’s patron saint, St. Thecla.
As in most parts of Spain, Tarragona has a love of carnival. In May there is the Tarraco a Taula festival, a real gourmet feast, with master classes in the preparation of fish dishes based on recipes from the Roman era to the present day.
What to do
Windsurfing and diving are popular on the coast of Tarragona, as well as water skiing and sailing. The Sport Center Land amusement park is suitable for families with children: the park is divided into twelve large zones, each with its own special features. If you do not have enough attractions in Sport Center, you can always go to PortAventura, which is located nearby.
Where to stay
The only 5* hotel located 37 km from the coast of Tarragona is Terra Dominicata Hotel & Winery Adults Only. The hotel offers the widest range of services, but is designed mainly for horse riding enthusiasts.
In Tarragona itself, the best hotels are Hotel SB Ciutat Tarragona 4* and H10 Imperial Tarraco 4*, where, in addition to standard services, guests can enjoy kayaking, diving, hiking, cycling and themed excursions.
Where to eat
The best Mediterranean restaurants can be found in the El Serrallo neighborhood, on the waterfront overlooking the port. The L’Ancora restaurant boasts a variety of dishes of the highest quality. Here is one of the most delicious Paella de Marisco, a seafood paella with the freshest oysters. Another Mediterranean restaurant in the same neighborhood is El Posit, which focuses on ECO, and even has tablecloths made of kraft paper.
Even calamari and octopus can get tiresome, though, in which case you can indulge a little in the haute cuisine of Michelin-starred El Terrat by chef Moji Kouaha. He emphasizes his Moroccan roots in his dishes, as well as his love of Tarragona. Order the Girona-style meat with vegetables – you won’t go wrong.
Costa Blanca
The coast of the province of Alicante is one of the most popular tourist regions in Europe with a mild climate and high quality of life. Millions of people from different countries vacation here every year. Some choose large cities – the capital of the province, the city of Alicante, or the “Mediterranean Miami” Benidorm, others prefer suburban residential complexes of Torrevieja and Denia, others settle in quiet mountain villages.
A unique feature of this region – a huge number of Blue Flags for clean beaches and warm water in the sea. Along the coastline between all resorts there is a regular bus service. From Benidorm to Alicante is only 46 km, to Valencia – 140 km.
Where to swim
Costa Blanca is 150 kilometers of coastline with soft light golden sand, which gave its name to this region: “Costa Blanca” means “White Coast” in Spanish. The best beaches are considered Benidorm, San Juan and La Mata, and in total in the province about fifty beaches. All of them in 2004 were marked with Blue Flags, and it is not only because of the impeccable cleanliness of sea water and sand, but also in the high level of service and quality of beach infrastructure.
Playa de Levante is Benidorm’s most popular beach, which receives the Blue Flag every year. Along it stretches the city promenade with numerous bars, cafes, restaurants and small stores. Cala Finestrat is another popular beach of Benidorm, or rather a beautiful bay with a sandy beach, located about 3.5 km from the city center. It is a quieter vacation spot than Playa de Levante – ideal for families with children.
Playa de la Mata is the best beach of Torrevieja, stretching between two municipalities: Torrevieja itself and neighboring La Mata. Almost two and a half kilometers of light fine sand, a smooth entrance to the sea and a whole line of bars and restaurants make this beach extremely popular among tourists.
Guardamara is not one but seven sandy beaches stretching ten kilometers one after another: Els Vivers, La Babilònia, Centre, La Roqueta, El Montcaio, El Camp and Les Ortigues. Some of them are wild, some of them are urban beaches under the control of lifeguards. The chain of beaches starts at the delta of the Segura River and runs south along the city seaside promenade with numerous cafes and restaurants, and then – along the sand dunes covered with pine, eucalyptus and palm trees.
These dunes are a nature conservation area and cover an area of over 800 hectares. The beaches of Guardamara are good because you can avoid the pandemonium by moving a little further away. All beaches are sandy, not separated by breakwaters, and will appeal to wave lovers.
Playa de la Fossa is a well-equipped town beach in Calpe, overlooking the natural park and the Peñón de Ifach, the town’s landmark. In summer, excursions to the natural park leave from the beach, and it is also possible to rent equipment for a variety of water sports.
What to see
The fortress town of Guadalest, with its narrow streets and white houses, perched on a 586 meter high cliff, is probably the most popular place on the entire Costa Blanca. There are 8 museums for every 240 inhabitants, and some of them are quite interesting: the Museum of Peppers and Saltines or the Museum of Torture, for example.
The Santa Barbara Castle and Fortress is the symbol of the city of Alicante. From the center you can walk here in 15-20 minutes. Inside the fortress there are halls with exhibitions and museum exhibits, observation decks with panoramic views, recreation areas and several cafes. Also near Alicante you can visit the Canelobre Cave, a karst formation inside which musical concerts are organized.
Aitana Safari Park is a huge territory in the mountainous area, where you can see wild animals in their natural habitat. It is ideal for family vacations.
The salt lake (or lagoon) of La Mata, like the pink lake of Torrevieja, is located near the coast and is accessible by bicycle. Not so long ago salt mining was stopped here and a nature reserve was organized, where you can admire pink flamingos.
What to do
Excursions to wineries (including the underwater Vina Maris and the Cerda Wine Museum), gastronomic tours (Benidorm Cooking Expirience), diving in Ibiza and the Formentera Islands, excursions to medieval castles – the Costa Blanca will not let anyone get bored.
Where to stay
One of the most interesting options is the Hospes Amerigo 5* hotel overlooking the Alicante Cathedral and Santa Barbara Castle, located in the building of a XIX century Dominican convent 300 meters from the beach. The rooftop spa center with sauna, swimming pool and gym is just a part of the services available to guests.
Villa Venecia Boutique Hotel is a designer hotel next to Levante Beach, in Benidorm’s Old Town. It offers a spa, swimming pool, panoramic windows and a terrace with a jacuzzi.
The Dénia La Sella Golf Hotel & Spa is located on the La Sella Golf Course, a 15-minute drive from the coast of Dénia. It has a swimming pool with loungers and palm trees, a spa center with saunas and Turkish baths, etc.
La Manga
La Manga is a sandy spit stretching 22 km from south to north in the province of Murcia. The nearest international airports are in Murcia (60 km) and Alicante (140 km). To get from the airport to La Manga is most convenient by cab (75 euros from Murcia, 140 euros – from Alicante) or by ordering a transfer (60/100 euros) – there is no direct bus service to the resort. You can enter La Manga only from the south: in the north the spit is separated from the land by a strait connecting the Mediterranean Sea with the Gulf of Mar Menor, Europe’s largest salt lagoon.
Where to swim
In fact, La Manga is one big beach, divided by a highway, along which apartment complexes and hotels are built. By simply crossing from one side of the spit to the other, you can swim either in the Mediterranean Sea or in a warmer (water temperature in high summer reaches +34 degrees Celsius), salty and shallow bay. This location is ideal for vacationing with children: cool winds can blow from the Mediterranean Sea, in which case you can use the beach on Mar Menor from the leeward side.
What to see
There are practically no interesting sights on the spit itself, except for the Puente del Estacio drawbridge and the lighthouse at Cape Cabo de Palos on the southernmost part of the spit. However, just half an hour (40 km) from the center of La Manga is the city of Cartagena with its ancient monuments, medieval streets and temples.
Founded in the 3rd century BC, the city has absorbed many cultures and is definitely worth a visit – just look at its fortress wall, one of the few surviving archaeological sites from the Punic Wars between ancient Rome and Carthage. In September there is a traditional Carnival, a costumed festival celebrating the landing of Hannibal and the barbarians on the Iberian Peninsula and Rome’s victory over Carthage.
What to do
There are several water activity schools on La Manga, the most popular being Nauticafacil, where you can rent a surfboard or take a yacht course and then take part in a sailing regatta. You can also rent a jet ski or go scuba diving. You can also rent a boat or yacht and go on a trip with La Manga Charter, and a boat license is not required for trimaran and small motorboats.
Where to stay
There are not many hotels on La Manga (tourists prefer to stay in apartment complexes). There are two hotels nearby: Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa 5* (Costa Calida, 28 tennis courts, 3 golf courses, 2 swimming pools, SPA complex), and Ona Mar Menor (18-hole golf course, outdoor swimming pool, SPA complex).
There are 4* hotels in the southernmost and northernmost parts of the spit. Hotel & Spa Entremares is located on the first line of the beach Playa de las Amoladeras. In addition to wellness and spa complexes (dry sauna, steam bath with eucalyptus oil, ice well, aromatic shower, Jacuzzi and swimming pool) the hotel has an indoor pool, and for an additional fee you can connect the program “all inclusive”. Alasun Doblemar is located on the beach of Mar Menor Bay, 250 meters from the sea. There is an outdoor pool, children’s pool and playroom, fitness room, billiard room, restaurant.
Where to eat
Regional specialties such as caldero (a local version of paella) or mojeto murciano (vegetable salad with beans), as well as fresh seafood dishes, can be enjoyed at El Parador restaurant on the shores of Mar Menor Bay. Grilled anchovies and octopus are served at Cabo P in the fishing village of Cabo de Palos, while lobster paella with Mediterranean views can be enjoyed at Bonobo La Manga.
Costa de la Luz
The Costa de la Luz (or “Coast of Light”) stretches along the Atlantic coast in southwestern Spain. The main resort centers are Cadiz, fashionable Chiclana de la Frontera, Tarifa and Huelva. The nearest airports are at Málaga and Seville. From Seville, trains run about once an hour, with a travel time of about 1 hour 45 minutes.
From Málaga to Cadiz, trains leave three times a day: one in the morning and two in the afternoon. Alsa buses run to Cadiz from Seville, Granada, Valencia, Murcia and several other cities. Travel time from Seville is about 2 hours.
The water on the Costa de la Luz is not as warm as in the Mediterranean Sea, but it is for the winds and powerful waves that surfers and yachtsmen come here. Cadiz, the capital of the province of the same name, is visited by connoisseurs of nature and antiquity. Huelva offers delicious seafood, and Puerto de Santa Maria is the place to go for partying, nightlife and outdoor activities.
Where to swim
The total length of the beaches of the Costa de la Luz is 138 kilometers, and if you wish, you can find a place where you will be perfectly alone. Pine trees, dunes, waves of the Atlantic Ocean – the region is worth seeing this combination with your own eyes. The beach season lasts from May to October.
The most popular beach in Cadiz is the three-kilometer long Victoria Beach. It has fine sand, easy access to the water, but almost always strong winds and waves. Unlike Victoria, the infrastructure on the 10-kilometer beach Cortadura is not everywhere – mostly it is a desert area with untouched nature. So to speak, for the amateur.
Barrosa beach in Chiclana de la Frontera is a sandy beach with a comfortable entrance. It is about 6 kilometers long and 100 meters wide. It is not crowded and is a good place for a quiet vacation with small children.
Valdevakeros is one of the beaches of Tarifa where locals like to relax. It is only accessible by car and crowded at weekends. Another Tarifa beach, Bolonia, a sandy beach with high dunes, is popular with young people and surfers.
Bota beach in Huelva is a secluded coastline about 4 kilometers long with minimal infrastructure (lifeguards and showers).
What to see
The Costa de la Luz is rich in history: the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans and Arabs left their mark here. Cadiz is a city of many cultures and religions, one of the oldest in Europe. Just walking along its streets and preserved ancient stone forts surrounding the historical center is already an adventure. The San Sebastian and Santa Catalina forts were built to defend Cadiz in 1596 and are open to tourists. But the main attraction of the city is the Cathedral, which offers a panoramic view of Cádiz from under its dome.
Another amazing city is Tarifa, named after Tarifa ibn-Malik, the first Arab to set foot on Spanish soil in 710. Before that, the town was a Roman colony and was called Julia Transducta. In addition to the streets and houses of the old town, be sure to visit Cape Marroca, the southernmost point of continental Europe, and the fortress of Guzmán, from whose walls you can see the mountains of Morocco on the other side of the Strait of Gibraltar.
What to do
You can rent a car – a couple or three hours drive from Cadiz are such cities as Seville, Cordoba, Granada, Jerez. Besides, by car you can go to Moroccan Tangier or to neighboring Portugal.
However, there is plenty to choose from on the Costa de la Luz: Chiclana de la Frontera has golf courses, a riding school and tennis courts; El Puerto de Santa Maria has a casino, golf courses, sports centers and the Port Sherry Yacht Club; Chipiona is famous for its wine and excellent golf courses.
Where to stay
The most luxurious hotels are concentrated in one of the neighborhoods of Cicalana, Novo Santi Petri. These are primarily 5-star hotels Iberostar Selection Andalucía Playa, Gran Meliá Sancti Petri and Royal Hideaway Sancti Petri, recognized as the best beach hotel in Europe.
Travel Tips
- Rail tickets in Spain start being sold 60 days in advance. The earlier you buy a ticket, the cheaper it is. On the day of departure a ticket Barcelona – Valencia (3 hours) costs 40 euros, Barcelona – Girona (1.5 hours) – 7 euros, Barcelona – Murcia (6 hours) – 50 euros, Barcelona – Zaragoza (3 hours) – 30 euros. You can buy tickets at the railway station and on the website of the Spanish national rail network Renfe (VPN may be required). If you buy online, a PDF ticket will be sent to your mailbox and you need to print it out.
- The network of bus routes in Spain covers almost the whole country, buses run strictly on schedule, equipped with air conditioning. It is the cheapest form of transportation. The schedule is available at bus stops and in stores near the stop. You can plan your trip and buy tickets in advance on the websites of the carriers – Moventis Sarfa and Sagales.
