Costa Blanca holidays

Essential information for your Costa Blanca holiday

Planning a holiday to the Costa Blanca? This sun-drenched stretch of Spain’s Mediterranean coast is packed with beautiful beaches, charming towns and laid-back vibes – perfect for a getaway from Ireland. Here’s everything you need to know to get the most out of your trip. And if you’re flying into Alicante, don’t miss our local guide to the best things to do around town.

How to reach Costa Blanca

• Flight time: Direct flights from Dublin, Cork or Shannon to Alicante – the main airport for Costa Blanca – take around 2.5 to 3 hours.

• Transfer time to the city centre: Alicante Airport is about 10km from the city. A taxi gets you to the centre in around 15 to 20 minutes.

• Price of different transport options: Taxis cost between €20 and €25 to get into Alicante. The C-6 airport bus is a great budget option at around €3.85 and runs every 20 minutes.

Best time to visit Costa Blanca

What’s the best time to visit? It depends on whether you’re after full-on sun or a quieter vibe for sightseeing and exploring.

• High season (June to August): Think classic beach holiday weather – hot and sunny, with daytime temperatures often between 25°C and 30°C. It’s also the busiest and most expensive time of year.

• Shoulder season (April to May & September to October): With temperatures between 20°C and 25°C, it’s a perfect time for a mix of beach days and sightseeing – and it’s usually a little cheaper too.

• Low season (November to March): It’s cooler (around 11°C to 18°C) and you might get a few showers, but there are fewer tourists and great off-season deals. Ideal for exploring historic towns and enjoying mild winter sun.

Practical information for Costa Blanca holidays

• Spoken languages: Spanish is the official language, and you’ll also hear Valencian spoken locally. English is widely understood in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: Greetings and politeness go a long way – a friendly “hola” and “gracias” will always be appreciated. Lunch tends to be later than at home (around 2–4pm), and dinner is rarely before 9pm.

• Tips: Tipping isn’t expected but always appreciated. Leaving 5–10% in restaurants if the service isn’t already included is a nice gesture.

• Safety: Costa Blanca is a very safe part of Spain, though – like anywhere – you should keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas.

• Health: No special vaccinations needed. Tap water is safe to drink, though bottled water is commonly used.

• Papers and visa: Irish passport holders don’t need a visa for short stays in Spain – just make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your trip.

• Currency: Spain uses the euro (€). You’ll find ATMs everywhere and most places accept cards, though having some cash for smaller cafés or markets is handy.

• Getting around: The bus and tram system makes it easy to get around the Costa Blanca. Car hire is popular too if you’re planning to explore quieter villages or beaches off the beaten track.

• Electricity and plugs: Spain uses the European 2-pin plug (220-240V). Bring a travel adaptor if your devices use Irish/UK plugs.

Armed with these essentials, you’re all set for your Costa Blanca holiday – whether you’re beach-hopping, exploring hilltop villages, or just relaxing with a glass of local wine in the sun.

Best things to do in Costa Blanca

Costa Blanca with its stunning coastline, mountain backdrops, charming towns, historical and cultural resources, and a wide range of activities and entertainment opportunities, has something for everyone.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Castillo de Santa Bárbara: Dominating the Alicante skyline, this medieval stronghold gives a glimpse into the city's history, as well as wonderful views of the city and out to sea.

• Mirador del Mediterráneo: This mirador in Benidorm offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the glistening blue sea, particularly in the hours leading up to sunset. Discover our best deals on holidays to Benidorm

The best districts

• Old Town Alicante: The meandering lanes of Alicante's oldest neighbourhood provide a step back in time. The area has a terrific vibe and is popular for its tapas bars, cafés and live music venues. Check out our holidays to Alicante

• Benidorm's Levante Beach: Perfect for a day in the sun or an evening out, this lively district is home to Benidorm's most popular beach, lined with bars, restaurants and shops.

Parks and gardens

• Albufera Natural Park: Located near Valencia, this park is a refuge for nature lovers and bird watchers, with a number of walking routes and places to observe birds.

• Elche's Palmeral: A truly remarkable example of Arab farming methods, Elche's huge palm grove is one of Europe's largest and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover our holidays to Elche and save more with our packages on your next getaway.

Historical monuments

• Guadalest: It's well worth a visit to Guadalest, a historic community in the Guadalest Valley, for its medieval castle and fascinating history museums. Discover holidays to Guadalest.

Regional highlights

• Tabarca Island: This car-free island is renowned for its incredibly clear waters, and is just a short boat ride away from Alicante.

• Valencia: An impressive blend of culture, history and beach life, Valencia has lots to pack in on a day trip, including the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, the historic old town and the opportunity to relax on the city's beaches. Check our the best deals on holidays to Valencia.

• Canelobre Caves: These caves in Buscot, 24km from Alicante, have a spectacular natural beauty that should not be overlooked.

• Altea: Just a short drive from Calpe, this eye-catching town is well known for its quaint old white-washed houses and stunning sea views. Don't miss our deals on holidays to Altea for this summer.

Activities for families

Costa Blanca holidays offer endless entertaining, engaging and informative attractions and events, guaranteeing that parents and children will have a memorable stay.

• Water parks: One of the biggest water parks in Europe, Aqualandia in Benidorm is perfect for a fun-filled day for people of all ages with its thrilling slides, pools and attractions.

• Animal parks: See a range of creatures in their native environments and discover conservation initiatives at Terra Natura, a wildlife park near Benidorm.

• Theme parks: DinoPark, located in Algar, is a dinosaur-themed attraction that will captivate children with its life-size models, interactive exhibits and playgrounds. Terra Mítica theme park in Benidorm offers historical-themed rides and activities, making it ideal for a fun family visit.

Free things to do in Costa Blanca

In addition to the obvious must-see sights, there are other free activities to enjoy that will make your holidays to Costa Blanca unforgettable without exceeding your budget.

• Beaches: Costa Blanca boasts countless gorgeous sandy beaches that are free to visit, with calm waves and a sandy shoreline ideal for sunbathing and swimming.

• Explore historic towns: Wander through the old streets of towns like Alicante, Altea and Villajoyosa, admiring the exquisite architecture and local atmosphere.

• Local markets: Visit the weekly markets in different towns, like the Central Market in Alicante, for free samples of fresh produce and local specialities and get a taste of the culture of the area.

• Free museums and historic buildings: Many cities and towns of the region boast free museums and historic buildings, such as the San Nicolás Co-Cathedral and Contemporary Art Museum (MACA) in Alicante.

• Free events: Costa Blanca's events calendar is full of festivals and cultural events happening throughout the year in different locations. These events, which frequently include colourful parades, music, dance and fireworks, are a great way to be entertained for free.

Nature & outdoor activities

• Hiking: Explore the natural beauty of Costa Blanca with hikes to places like the Montgo Natural Park, Serra Gelada Natural Park and the Peñon de Ifach, all offering stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.

• Cycling: Whether you're up for tackling a difficult mountain trail or easy cycling along the scenic coastal routes, exploring the Costa Blanca on two wheels is an adventure you won't regret.

• Water sports: Every kind of water sport imaginable can be enjoyed in the crystal-clear water around Costa Blanca – from paddleboarding and kayaking to snorkelling, scuba diving, and sailing.

Discovering the Best Beaches on Your Costa Blanca Holiday

The Costa Blanca, stretching along Spain's southeastern coastline, is famed for its diverse array of stunning beaches. From bustling seaside resorts to secluded coves, the region offers sun-drenched sands for every type of beachgoer.

The best public beaches in Costa Blanca

• Playa de Levante, Benidorm: A bustling beach known for its lively atmosphere, clear waters, and golden sands, complete with a promenade lined with bars and restaurants.

• Playa del Postiguet, Alicante: Located at the foot of Santa Bárbara Castle, this urban beach boasts fine sands and calm waters, ideal for families and sunbathers.

• Playa de San Juan, Alicante: One of the longest beaches in the region, offering ample space for beach sports, sunbathing, and swimming.

Exclusive experiences at private beaches in Costa Blanca

While most beaches on the Costa Blanca are public, some luxury resorts offer exclusive beach areas where guests can enjoy:

• Private sunbeds and umbrellas: Ensuring a comfortable and relaxing beach day.

• Beach clubs and bars: Providing upscale amenities, including food and drink service directly to your sun lounger.

Hidden gems of Costa Blanca's coastline

• Cala Granadella, Jávea: A secluded pebble beach in Jávea, surrounded by cliffs, offering crystal-clear waters for snorkelling and diving.

• Cala Moraig, Benitachell: Known for its stunning underwater caves and tranquil setting, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful day by the sea.

• Playa del Torres, Villajoyosa: A lesser-known beach in the town of Villajoyosa offering natural beauty and historical ruins, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.

Beaches for water sports enthusiasts

The Costa Blanca's waters are a haven for water sports, offering:

• Windsurfing and Kite Surfing: The wide, open beaches near Santa Pola provide ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced riders.

• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore the coast's hidden coves and caves, particularly around the cliffs of Jávea and Moraira.

• Diving and Snorkelling: The clear waters of the Marine Reserve of Tabarca Island offer excellent visibility and rich marine life.

Nearest beaches to explore

• Playa de Albir, Alfaz del Pi: Situated between Benidorm and Altea, this pebble beach offers clear waters and a quieter alternative to the busier sands of its neighbours.

• Playa de la Fossa, Calpe: Famous for its proximity to the Peñon de Ifach, this beach in Calpe boasts fine sands, calm waters, and stunning views of the iconic rock.

Your holiday in Costa Blanca is set to be a memorable one, with its diverse beaches catering to every preference. Whether you're seeking the vibrant atmosphere of Benidorm's Playa de Levante, the tranquil beauty of Cala Granadella, or the adventurous allure of water sports, Costa Blanca's coastline promises endless days of sun, sea, and sand.

Local dishes in Costa Blanca

The distinct cuisine of Costa Blanca, which reflects the region's mix of traditional Spanish flavours with Mediterranean ones, is one of the best parts of a holiday there.

Some typical dishes

• Paella: You'll find excellent seafood paellas in the area made with fresh local ingredients, including the rich flavour of saffron.

• Coca amb Tonyina: This classic pastry stuffed with pine nuts, onions and tuna is popular during regional celebrations.

• Fideua: Similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice, Fideua includes fish and seafood – such as prawns and squid – all cooked in a rich broth.

Tapas dishes

• **Patatas Bravas:**A popular tapas dish served throughout Spain, these crispy fried potatoes are eaten with a spicy tomato sauce or aioli.

• Gambas al Ajillo: Fresh prawns are sizzled in garlic oil to make this seafood lover's dream come true.

• Salazones: Fish such as tuna, mackerel or anchovies are salt-cured to create a genuine Mediterranean flavour.

Meat dishes

• Cordero Asado: Roast lamb, typically seasoned with herbs and slow-cooked to tender perfection, is often served with roasted vegetables.

• Chuleton: Hearty and delicious, a large rib steak is grilled to order – perfect for sharing.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Arroz a Banda: A local favourite, this traditional rice dish is cooked in fish stock and served with aioli.

• Calamares Rellenos: Squid packed with its own tentacles, onions and tomatoes.

Sweets and desserts

• Turron: A traditional Spanish treat popular around Christmas, this nougat confection is made using honey, sugar, egg whites and toasted almonds.

• Date Cake: A classic dry fruit cake made with the finest dates from the Mediterranean region; typically served with a glass of sweet wine.

Local drinks

• Horchata: A refreshing beverage made with tiger nuts that is ideal for drinking on warm summer days.

• Mistela: A sweet wine usually consumed as a dessert drink, frequently paired with regional confectionery.