Costa Blanca holidays

Escape to the sunny shores of south eastern Spain by booking holidays to Costa Blanca. For those looking for Spain holidays, the region is one of the most popular destinations in the country, with stunning scenery, brilliant nightlife, and an endless array of cultural and natural attractions for you to explore.

This region's award-winning, gentle sandy beaches are perfect for swimming, while for thrill-seekers the giant Terra Mitica theme park is nearby. There’s also a fun-filled water park, Aqualandia, with tubes, slides and rapids which make a great day out for the whole family during your Costa Blanca holidays. Head inland from the sun-drenched resorts for historic towns and villages set in lush mountains. Many of these settlements date back to medieval or ancient times, and give a completely different experience to the usual touristy resorts along the coast.

Things to do

If you're interested in learning more about Spanish history, visit Santa Barbara Castle, a wonderful 10th century fortress near Alicante city centre. Standing on the dramatic rocky summit of Benacantil Mountain, it includes a ruined church, dungeons, cannons, and more fascinating artefacts. You can visit it for free and enjoy stunning views of the coast from the castle walls.

Another sight that's definitely worth putting on your Costa Blanca holidays itinerary is Tabarca, a glorious island just off the coast near the resort of Santa Pola. Originally fortified to protect its residents from pirates back in the 18th century, Tabarca is surrounded by dazzling emerald waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. See the island's historic walls, and enjoy some delicious seafood at one of its sea-view restaurants before you take the ferry back to the mainland.

If you're spending your Costa Blanca holidays in the Benidorm area, spend some time at the Terra Mítica theme park, which is divided into five ancient-themed areas such as Rome and Egypt. From thrill rides to big shows, it's guaranteed to keep you entertained for hours, and is a great alternative to the beach.

Benidorm

In Benidorm you’ll find picturesque beaches, palm-lined promenades, and incredible seafood restaurants with a buzzing, friendly atmosphere. Famed for its fun-loving nightlife, the resort is also home to a quaint old town where you’ll come across beautiful buildings and intimate cafes, serving up coffee and delicious tapas.

Alicante

With its historic sites, sought-after eateries and lovely marina, Alicante is a true all-round resort and a firm favourite on the Costa Blanca map, like Benidorm. As you explore the old town or walk along the seafront, you’ll be transported to another world, while its nightlife is the stuff of legends.

Cultural attractions in Costa Blanca

Beyond the beach, you’ll discover traditional towns surrounded by lush green mountains, perfect for a day of hiking. Explore the castle at Guadalest, walk among the whitewashed buildings of Altea, or take the tourist train to medieval Xàtiva for a fascinating day out in the Spain of times gone by.

Santa Barbara Castle, Alicante

One of Spain’s most impressive fortresses, Santa Barbara Castle has existed for well over 1,000 years and was built on the dramatic slopes of Mount Benacantil. You can reach the castle via a lift, although if you’re up for a challenge, you can also hike to the top.

Placa del Castelle, Benidorm

Visit this beautiful balcony next to the coast, where you’ll enjoy superb views of the city. Observe the historic church and see the cannons that were once used during the wars between Britain and Spain in the very early 19th century.

Theme parks in the Costa Blanca

Spend a day with the family at the Aqua Natura water park for adrenaline-pumping slides, a fun-filled alternative to the beach. It's a great spot to keep the kids happy.

Terra Natura

One of the highlights of any holiday to Benidorm is a visit to Terra Natura, a huge wildlife park with four themed areas. If you’re fascinated by venomous species, then don’t forget to visit the Pangea zone, where you’ll see everything from African scorpions to tarantulas and lizards. Then glide on the zip wire above grazing elephants at the Asia section, where you can see the king cobra, crocodiles, pythons, and other species native to the world’s largest continent. See Mediterranean wildlife at the Europe section, then head to the Americas section to learn about the toucans, jungle turkeys, armadillos, jaguars, and other New World species.

Aqua Natura

This brilliant water park is the perfect place to cool off in the hot summer sun. If you’re looking for an alternative to the hotel pool or the beach, this is the place to be. With adrenaline-pumping water slides, adults and children alike are guaranteed hours of fun. It’s right next door to Aqua Natura, too.

Chill out at the huge wave pool, then zoom down La Cresta, a rollercoaster-themed water chute where you’ll get to experience zero gravity. After, if you’re feeling brave enough, try the Zigzag Giant Slide, where you’ll zoom down 105 metres of twists and turns before you reach the water.

Ride down the 104-metre-long Black Hole, then race family and friends down the 50-metre-long multi track to see who arrives at the bottom first.

Natural attractions in Costa Blanca

Whether you’re relaxing on white sand beaches, hiking through pine forests, or trying out some watersports, holidays to Costa Blanca will certainly tick all of the boxes. From the pretty coves of Dénia to the dramatic landscapes of Montgó Mountain Nature Park, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on Spain’s Costa Blanca.

One of the most impressive natural sights is the Serra Gelada-Nord National Park, which has beautiful trails and steep cliffs overlooking the emerald waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Another place to look out for is the scenic Guadalest Valley near Alicante, where you can visit the Algar waterfall and enjoy stunning views over the large reservoir.

Places to stay

Beach-lovers head to Benidorm with its long golden beaches, picturesque old town and vibrant nightlife. Alicante combines great beaches with superb restaurants and a rich cultural history. Its attractive seafront and marina bustle with bars and cafés. As the coast curves around the cape, you reach Dénia and its pretty beaches lying at the foot of Montgó Mountain Nature Park. High cliffs look down over the quiet coves and sparkling blue waters of Jávea. Further north is the lively resort of Gandía and its historic old town, long sandy beach and impressive 14th-century castle.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Benidorm | Calpe