Benidorm: The Jewel of Costa Blanca

Apr 6
13:45

2024

Lee Smith

Lee Smith

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Benidorm, a vibrant city on Spain's Costa Blanca, is a magnet for tourists seeking sun, sea, and entertainment. Renowned for its pleasant climate, with winter temperatures averaging 12°C and summer highs around 28°C, Benidorm boasts three pristine Blue Flag beaches. This coastal haven, nestled between the Sierra Helada, Aitana, and Tussal de la Cala mountains, offers a tranquil sea and a safe, warm environment for beachgoers throughout the year.

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A Hub of Activities and Relaxation

Benidorm is not just about its golden sands; it's a hub of activities catering to every type of traveler. Thrill-seekers can indulge in water sports such as jet skiing,Benidorm: The Jewel of Costa Blanca Articles kayaking, water skiing, parascending, scuba diving, and snorkeling. The city is home to professional diving clubs and offers boat rentals, fishing trips, and excursions to Peacock Island, a hotspot for marine life.

For those who prefer freshwater fun, Aqualandia water park awaits with its waterfalls, rapids, and wave pools. Additionally, the Foietes sports complex features an Olympic swimming pool and a swimming school for those looking to improve their strokes.

Land-based activities are plentiful as well. Visitors can enjoy bowling, horse riding, tennis, golf, paintball, trekking, quad biking, and more. And for those who simply wish to unwind, the beaches of Levante, Mal Pas, and Poniente offer sunbathing from dawn until dusk.

Levante Beach: A Snorkeler's Paradise

Levante Beach is the most popular spot, ideal for beginner snorkelers with its smooth seabed rocks that house a variety of fish. Conveniently, bars, cafes, and restaurants are just a short walk away from the water's edge.

Mal Pas Cove: A Secluded Retreat

Mal Pas Cove, adjacent to the marina and shielded by the Old Town cliffs, provides a peaceful setting for sun worshippers and a calm environment for novice snorkelers.

Poniente Beach: The Ultimate Escape

Poniente Beach, known for being the longest and less crowded, is perfect for those seeking a more serene beach experience. Visitors might consider bringing a picnic due to the longer walk to nearby amenities.

Year-Round Entertainment

Benidorm's appeal extends beyond the summer months. With a plethora of bars and an extensive entertainment schedule, the city is a prime destination for Hen and Stag parties. Venues like Benidorm Palace offer extravagant evenings with shows, meals, and dancing. The Casino Mediterraneano in Villajoyosa provides a buffet dinner and entertainment, while Molino Benidorm is known for its drag shows.

For the party-goers, Benidorm rivals Ibiza as Spain's nightlife capital, boasting a variety of bars and clubs that cater to all musical tastes.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Families will find no shortage of attractions in Benidorm. Theme parks like Terra Mitica, Terra Natura, Mundomar, Aqualandia, and the Desafio Medieval show are among the highlights.

Exploring Beyond Benidorm

Renting a car is advisable for those looking to explore the picturesque villages and towns surrounding Benidorm. Major car hire companies are conveniently located near Levante Beach.

Excursions are readily available, with hotels offering packages and the Round Town news Tourist information office providing free sightseeing trips to local markets and scenic spots.

Accommodations for Every Traveler

Benidorm boasts a wide range of hotels, with approximately 145 establishments offering around 38,000 beds, ranking third in Europe behind London and Paris. For a unique experience, guests can stay at the Hotel Gran Bali, the tallest building in Spain.

A Rich Heritage

Benidorm's history dates back to 1325, with a strong seafaring tradition. The Old Town offers a glimpse into this past, with St. James church and a "Tapas and Vino" crawl through its cobbled streets.

Celebrating Local Culture

The city's calendar is filled with fiestas, including The Three Kings, Carnivals, Fallas, Semana Santa, Hogueras de San Juan, Virgen del Carmen, and the Moors and Christians festival, each offering a unique cultural experience.

Culinary Delights and Shopping

Benidorm caters to all culinary preferences, with a diverse range of restaurants serving international and Spanish dishes. Shopping enthusiasts will find everything from budget-friendly stores to upscale boutiques, with leather goods being a popular purchase.

In conclusion, Benidorm is a city of contrasts, where visitors can enjoy a lively holiday or a tranquil cultural retreat. With its all-year-round appeal and diverse offerings, Benidorm is a destination that truly needs to be experienced firsthand.