Top Beaches in Alicante: Local Guide for Sun & Sea
Would you like to know the best beaches in Alicante?
Discover the best beaches in and around Alicante. From city favorites like Postiguet to hidden coves at Cabo de las Huertas.
Top Beaches near Alicante
If you’re planning a trip to Alicante, knowing which beaches are worth visiting can save you time and make your stay unforgettable. In this guide we’ve gathered the top 10 beaches in Alicante, from the city’s iconic Postiguet to natural gems like Carabassí and the marine paradise of Tabarca Island.
First, you’ll find a quick list of all 10 beaches for easy reference. Then, we’ll go into detail for each one, with photos, ratings, services, access tips, and local recommendations so you know exactly what to expect. Whether you’re looking for calm waters, family-friendly facilities, or hidden coves perfect for snorkeling, this guide will help you choose the right spot for your perfect beach day.
1 - Playa del Postiguet – city beach, easy for cruise passengers.
2 - Playa de San Juan – golden sands, famous and extensive.
3 - Playa de Muchavista – quieter, perfect for long walks.
4 - Playa de la Albufereta – calm waters, family friendly.
5 - Playa de Los Saladares – wide, quiet, perfect for a relaxed.
6 - Cabo de las Huertas coves – rocky coves, best for snorkeling.
7 - Playa de los Arenales del Sol – wide, sandy, more natural.
8 - Playa de Vilajoiosa – with turquoise waters, golden cliffs.
9 - Playa del Carrer de la Mar - Family-friendly & central.
10 - Playa Cap Blanc – Relaxed & local.
Everything You Need to Know About Alicante’s Best Beaches
Playa del Postiguet
Right at the foot of Santa Bárbara Castle, Playa del Postiguet is Alicante’s best-known beach. With golden sand, calm waters, and a lively promenade, it’s the place where locals and visitors meet for a swim, a stroll, or simply to enjoy the Mediterranean sun.
➜ Ratings & Reviews
Average rating : ★★★★ (4/5)
Featured on TripAdvisor as one of the most popular city beaches in Alicante.
What visitors say:
“Perfect location, just steps from the Old Town and the castle views are amazing.”
“Clean and safe beach, but it gets busy in summer afternoons.”
“Lots of cafés and ice-cream shops nearby, ideal for a short beach break.”
💡Local tip Toro
Head there early in the morning for a peaceful swim, or at sunset for the best views of Santa Bárbara Castle glowing above the sea.
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Playa del Postiguet isn’t just Alicante’s city beach, it’s where the city truly comes to life. A swim here fits perfectly with a stroll through the Old Town or a drink by the marina.
If you’d like to see more of what makes Alicante special, join us on one of our tours — from coastal villages to local wineries, we’ll show you the Costa Blanca beyond the sand. Discover our tours here.
Playa de San Juan
San Juan Beach is the longest and most famous beach in Alicante, stretching almost 7 kilometers of golden sand. It’s wide, open, and lively — a place where locals jog in the morning, families set up for the day, and evenings end with a walk along the promenade.
➜ Ratings & Reviews
Average rating : ★★★★⯪ (4.5/5)
Highlighted as one of the best urban beaches in Spain.
What visitors say:
“Spacious, clean, pleasant, family-friendly and with crystal-clear water, that's how I describe San Juan Beach. The truth is that it's a very good beach in every sense, which is why this place is so popular with tourists and, logically, also with the people who live here.”
“A well-maintained beach, clear, warm water, umbrellas for rent, a large sports area, lifeguard service, easy access from Alicante. Accessible restaurants and shops.”
“Fabulous atmosphere in its cafes, restaurants, and beach services.
Clear waters and easily accessible coves in Cabo de las Huertas, with beautiful views from the lighthouse."
💡Local tip Toro
Go in the late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and stay for dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants.
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San Juan Beach isn’t just Alicante’s most famous beach — it’s where locals spend whole days with family and friends, enjoying the sea, sports, and good food by the shore. Its endless promenade makes it the perfect place to walk, relax, and feel the Mediterranean lifestyle.
If you’d like to see more than the beach itself, join one of our Costa Blanca tours and discover the villages, wineries, and hidden gems that make Alicante unforgettable. Discover more about us.
Playa de Muchavista
Stretching for more than 3 kilometers, Playa de Muchavista is the natural extension of San Juan Beach, but with a calmer and more relaxed atmosphere. With golden sand, clear waters, and plenty of space, it’s the perfect choice for long walks, family days, or anyone looking to enjoy the Mediterranean without the crowds.
➜ Ratings & Reviews
Average rating : ★★★★⯪ (4.5/5)
Known for being quieter than San Juan, while still offering the same golden sand and clear water.
What visitors say:
“I really liked it!
Super easy to access by tram.
There were a few waves, but only in the morning.
We spent the whole day, enjoying ourselves, sharing a lot, and returning to Alicante with ease!"
“Muchavista Beach is a long, spacious beach with fine sand, crystal-clear waters, and easy access to the sea. It's ideal for strolling and relaxing by the sea. There are cafes and restaurants nearby, as well as a promenade with a bike path. During peak season, it can be quite crowded, but overall, the atmosphere is peaceful. It's ideal for both families and sports enthusiasts.”
“The sea was calm, with no strong waves, and the water was impressively clear. Ideal for spending the day with your partner or friends, snorkeling, swimming, or simply sunbathing in a relaxed atmosphere."
💡Local tip Toro
Start your day with a quiet swim when the beach is almost empty, or come back at sunset — the long promenade at Muchavista is one of the most beautiful places on the Costa Blanca to watch the sky turn orange over the sea.
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Playa Muchavista isn’t just an extension of San Juan — it has its own charm, with a quieter vibe and long stretches of sand where locals come for morning runs, family days, and sunset walks. Its wide promenade and open horizon make it one of the best spots to slow down and enjoy the Mediterranean at your own pace.
If you’d like to see more beyond the shoreline, join one of our Costa Blanca tours and explore the coastal villages, local wineries, and hidden corners that make Alicante unforgettable. Discover more about us.
Playa de la Albufereta
Playa de la Albufereta is a small urban beach located just 10 minutes from Alicante’s city center, nestled between the Serra Grossa hillside and the Cabo de las Huertas. Known for its calm, shallow waters and fine golden sand, it’s a favorite among families with children and visitors looking for a quieter alternative to Postiguet or San Juan.
This beach carries a strong historical value too — it sits on the site of the ancient Roman city of Lucentum, the origins of Alicante. Its location combines Mediterranean views with easy access to local restaurants, cafés, and public transport.
At only 400 meters long, Playa de la Albufereta offers a more intimate atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed swim, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the sea breeze away from the busiest parts of the coast.
➜ Ratings & Reviews
Average rating : ★★★★ (4/5)
Known as Alicante’s family-friendly beach with calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming.
What visitors say:
“A small beach, but very pretty and quiet. And the water is immediately deep as soon as you enter, whereas on other beaches you have to go quite far in to get any depth.”
“It's a small beach, but very quiet and family-friendly. There are playgrounds for children.
It's quite central and can be reached on foot from the promenade in about an hour, or a little less.
I went on a Sunday, and there was plenty of space to spread out."
“Quite clean, quiet, and safe. I love it! Beautiful sunsets."
💡Local tip Toro
After your swim, take a short walk uphill to the archaeological site of Lucentum (the ancient Roman city), just a few minutes away. It's a hidden gem where you can combine the beach with a taste of Alicante's history. More information here.
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Playa de la Albufereta is the closest beach to Alicante’s city center, known for its calm, shallow waters and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a convenient spot if you want a quick swim with full services nearby, including lifeguards, restaurants, and adapted access for visitors with reduced mobility.
The downside is that it’s a small urban beach, so it can feel crowded in summer, and parking is limited. If you’re looking for long walks and wide horizons, San Juan or Muchavista are better options. Discover more about us.
Playa de Los Saladares
Playa de los Saladares – Urbanova is an urban, open beach with more than 1.6 km in length and an average width of 40 meters. Its fine golden sand and flat slope without steep drops make it especially comfortable for families and swimmers of all ages. With calm waters and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s one of Alicante’s most peaceful coastal escapes.
➜ Ratings & Reviews
Average rating : ★★★★ (4/5)
Highlighted on TripAdvisor as a peaceful retreat, prized for its calm and relaxed ambiance.
What visitors say:
“A very comfortable and pleasant beach. The sand is soft and the sea has a spectacular color. It's a great place to walk and swim. The atmosphere is family-friendly, calm, and respectful, allowing you to truly relax. The site is well maintained, making it an ideal choice for enjoying the Mediterranean in all its splendor."
“A wide beach with fine sand and crystal-clear waters. It's wonderful. There's a fairly long promenade with restaurants. The beach has great views, and it's not too crowded.”
“An urban beach, there are not many people, the water is very clean and has restrooms and footbaths, it has a blue flag."
💡Local tip Toro
Bring a snack or water. Although there are beach bars and restaurants, they're more scattered along Urbanova, so if you're staying at the far end of the beach, you'll appreciate having something handy. If you can, stay until evening: it's one of the best places in Alicante to watch the sunset over the Mediterranean.
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Playa de los Saladares is the best options if you want a quieter day by the sea. With more than 1.6 km of golden sand, calm waters, and a relaxed atmosphere, it feels far removed from the busier city beaches. Families appreciate the services — lifeguards, restrooms, rentals, and beach bars — while locals love it for its wide, open space and beautiful sunsets.
The downside is its location a bit further south of the city center and the fact that parking can be limited in peak season. It’s also less lively than Postiguet or San Juan, so if you’re looking for nightlife or lots of entertainment, this may not be your spot.
In short: Urbanova is ideal for travelers seeking a wide, peaceful beach with full services, perfect for families, couples. Discover more about Alicante.
Cabo de la Huerta
The Cabo de la Huerta coves are a completely different experience from the big sandy beaches of Alicante. This rocky cape, located between Playa de la Albufereta and Playa de San Juan, is made up of small semi-urban coves that stretch for about 750 meters in length and barely 6 meters in width. With fine golden sand, flat access, and crystal-clear waters, they are ideal for snorkeling, diving, and peaceful swims.
It’s one of the favorite spots for locals who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a natural, unspoiled setting where the Mediterranean feels at its purest.
➜ Ratings & Reviews
Average rating : ★★★★★ (5/5)
Highly praised on TripAdvisor as a must-visit for snorkeling and quiet swims.
What visitors say:
“We went to spend the afternoon-evening with spectacular views and a wonderful sunset. We will return and I definitely recommend it to everyone.”
“The best coves in Alicante! Clear waters, ideal for diving, thanks to the abundance of fish and marine life! It's a beautiful place! Very peaceful, with few people! You have a panoramic view of Alicante and Santa Pola! Honestly, one of my favorite places to go since I described it!"
“Wonderful for unwinding, hiking, and relaxing while looking out at the sea.
The scenery is beautiful, and you can do some hiking if you climb the mountain.
It's also ideal for spending a Sunday with the family with a cooler and umbrella in the coves."
💡Local tip Toro
The coves at Cabo de la Huerta are rocky and natural, so bring water shoes and your own snorkeling gear. There are no lifeguards or services here, so pack water and snacks if you plan to stay for a few hours. In return, you’ll enjoy some of the clearest waters in Alicante and one of the best places to watch the sunset over the Mediterranean.
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Cabo de la Huerta isn’t a typical sandy beach — it’s a collection of natural coves where Alicante shows its wilder side. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, and the rocky coastline makes it one of the best spots in the city for sunset walks.
The downside is the lack of services: no lifeguards, no rentals, and limited parking. Access can also be tricky, with uneven paths that require good footwear. But if you’re looking for something more authentic than the city’s main beaches, this is the place.
In short: Cabo de la Huerta is Alicante’s hidden gem — natural, quiet, and unforgettable for snorkeling and sunsets. Discover more about Alicante.
Playa de los Arenales del Sol
Playa de los Arenales del Sol is often highlighted among the Top Beaches in Alicante thanks to its wide stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. Located just a short drive south of the city, it offers over 3 kilometers of open coastline, making it perfect for long walks, family beach days, or simply relaxing under the Mediterranean sun.
➜ Ratings & Reviews
Average rating : ★★★★★ (5/5)
Recognized as one of Alicante’s longest and most scenic beaches, with over 3 km of golden sand and crystal-clear waters
What visitors say:
“A very pretty beach, highly recommended for families. It's quiet and spacious, the sand is fine, and the water is very clean and clear. I recommend it for children, as they can play safely. Although when I went, there was plenty of wind, there weren't as many huge waves as at other beaches.
We ate at a beach bar, and the prices were very good."
“In this time of year, the tranquility and space available are a gift, although on days like today there are more people than usual. But it's still spectacular, the calm sea, the crystal-clear water, and the sun just right!”
“Excelente playa, muy larga, aparcamiento gratis, a pesar de ser en pleno verano, se consigue fácilmente, temperatura agradable y un ambiente relax... Lo recomiendo ampliamente vengan a conocerlo, hay chiringuitos y tiendas para compras de última hora"
💡Local tip Toro
If you’re visiting in summer, plan to arrive early — parking fills quickly and the wooden walkways are busier. Stay until the evening to enjoy the sunset over the dunes, and if you’re around on a Tuesday or Friday, don’t miss the local market for fresh fruit and handmade goods right by the promenade.
Come and discover Alicante with us!
Playa de los Arenales del Sol is one of the few places where you get the best of both worlds: a wide, sandy beach with full services and the feeling of being close to nature thanks to its dune system and the Clot de Galvany nature reserve. It’s perfect for long walks, family days, or trying out water sports like kitesurf or paddle surf. The wooden promenade makes it easy to explore, and the summer street market adds a local touch you won’t find elsewhere.
The downside? It’s very popular, especially in July and August, so parking and space on the sand can get tricky if you arrive late. Also, since it’s outside Alicante city, you’ll need to plan your transport — but the buses run regularly.
In short: Arenales del Sol is ideal if you want a big, lively beach with golden sand and all the amenities, while still enjoying a unique natural setting. Discover more about Alicante.
Playa de Vilajoiosa
Just half an hour from Alicante, Playa de Villajoyosa feels different from the city beaches. Here the sand opens onto a calm bay backed by the town’s famous colorful fishermen’s houses. You can swim in clear Mediterranean water, then walk a few steps into the old streets for tapas or even visit the Valor chocolate factory.
It’s a beach where you don’t just sunbathe — you also get a taste of everyday life on the Costa Blanca.
➜ Ratings & Reviews
Average rating : ★★★★★ (5/5)
Villajoyosa’s beach is where golden sand meets colorful houses, offering the perfect mix of sea and local life.
What visitors say:
“Beautiful beach!! It has very nice fine sand, volleyball nets, goals, calisthenics swings, etc. If you swim along the rocks, you can see fish, crabs, sea urchins, etc.”
“The best sandy beach in the area, in my opinion. Especially with small children, it's ideal to be able to sit on the shore."
“Beautiful beach with fine sand. No strong waves, ideal for small children."
💡Local tip Toro
Spend the morning on the beach, but don’t leave right after swimming — walk into the old town for tapas and explore the streets of brightly painted houses. If you have time, visit the Valor Chocolate Museum, a favorite stop for both locals and travelers
Come and discover Alicante with us!
Villajoyosa’s beach has something few others offer: the feeling of being on holiday and living like a local at the same time. You can spend the morning swimming in calm, clear waters, then step into a town where fishing boats, tapas bars, and chocolate traditions still shape daily life.
It isn’t the wildest or the quietest beach, but it’s where you’ll find a perfect blend of sea and culture. Come for the sand, stay for the atmosphere — that’s what makes Villajoyosa special.
In short: Villajoyosa is a beach for travelers who want more than sunbathing — it’s a full Mediterranean experience. Discover more about us.
Playa del Carrer de la Mar
Right in the center of El Campello, Platja del Carrer de la Mar is a wide urban beach of golden sand and calm waters. With a long promenade lined with palm trees, cafés, and restaurants, it’s especially popular with families and visitors looking for a relaxed beach day near Alicante without leaving town comforts behind.
➜ Ratings & Reviews
Average rating : ★★★★★ (5/5)
One of El Campello’s most family-friendly beaches, combining golden sand, calm waters, and a lively seafront promenade.
What visitors say:
“I really liked it because the beach is quite large, it's easier to park, and the beach has few waves, although it's a bit dirty and rough, but that's not a big deal. It has a great promenade and is great for a drink or a nice walk. There are entertainment options for the little ones and youngsters. The beach is really nice, and so is the location."
“For me, one of the best beaches in Spain. I've been spending my summers there for over 20 years. It's a marvel with crystal-clear waters most days. It's not crowded and is usually quite quiet. Sunrise is beautiful. The beach is clean and has all kinds of activities. It also has a handicapped-accessible area, restrooms, and lifeguards. I've occasionally seen jellyfish, but they're the fried-egg type that don't sting.”
“Playa referente para el turismo que visita El Campello, está ubicada en un antiguo barrio de pescadores, cerca de la Torre de La Illeta, el puerto y El Club Náutico de El Campello. Su longitud es de 1850 metros y una anchura de 30 metros, con arena fina y dorada. Dispone de todo tipo de servicios en ella: "aseos, vigilancia, seguridad, zonas de juego y amplia oferta en restauración". Cuenta con un Paseo Marítimo de El Campello que discurre en paralelo a la misma. En su arena encontramos parte del Monumento Al Pescador, obra de Arcadi Blasco de 1991."
💡Local tip Toro
Walk to the small fishing port at the end of the promenade in the late afternoon — you’ll often find locals strolling there for the sunset and some of the best seafood tapas in El Campello
Come and discover Alicante with us!
Platja del Carrer de la Mar is the kind of beach where you can spend the whole day without leaving town comforts behind. The calm waters, wide promenade, and plenty of restaurants make it perfect for families and anyone looking for an easy beach day near Alicante.
On the flip side, being right in the center of El Campello, it can feel crowded in summer and parking is not always easy. If you’re looking for a wilder, more natural setting, this won’t be your beach.
In short: Carrer de la Mar is ideal if you want a safe, convenient beach with full services and a lively seafront atmosphere. Discover more about Alicante.
Playa Cap Blanc
Playa Cap Blanc is one of El Campello’s quieter beaches, known for its fine sand, calm turquoise waters, and relaxed vibe. Just a short distance from the town center, it attracts families and couples looking for a more peaceful setting without giving up basic services. It’s a beach where you can slow down, enjoy the Mediterranean sun, and feel a bit more local.
The promenade and wooden walkways provide adapted access for visitors with reduced mobility.
It’s a beach where you don’t just sunbathe — you also get a taste of everyday life on the Costa Blanca.
➜ Ratings & Reviews
Average rating : ★★★★★ (5/5)
A calm alternative to El Campello’s main beach, perfect for a quiet swim and a laid-back day by the sea.
What visitors say:
“A quiet beach with warm water and white pebbles.
The sound of its small waves lapping back and forth against the stones creates a soothing sound….”
“The beach is very good, the water is clear, there is no seaweed, it is rocky but you can still swim without booties because the stones are small, the only thing is that at two meters it is already deep for children."
“At Cap Blanc beach, any time is a good time to take a photo. The light is stunning and the surroundings beautiful. The bay of Altea and Albir. Today, temperatures reached 28 degrees Celsius and the water was crystal-clear. It's one of the most beautiful bays in the area, stretching from the Peñón de Ifach in Calpe to the Albir lighthouse."
💡Local tip Toro
Bring water shoes — while most of the beach is sandy, some stretches mix in small pebbles near the shoreline. It makes swimming easier and lets you walk comfortably along the water’s edge
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Playa Cap Blanc is loved for its quiet atmosphere, calm turquoise waters, and family-friendly vibe. It’s close enough to El Campello’s center to be convenient, but far enough to feel more relaxed than the main urban beach.
On the downside, parking is limited and parts of the shoreline have small pebbles, so it’s not as soft as San Juan or Postiguet. Still, if you’re looking for a place to swim peacefully and avoid big crowds, Cap Blanc is a great choice.
In short: Cap Blanc is the spot for a calm, easy-going beach day with a local feel — simple, relaxed, and close to Alicante.Discover more about us.
Compare the Top Beaches in Alicante at a Glance
| Beach | Type | Best For | Services | Access | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Playa del Postiguet | Urban | Families, cruise visitors | Full services | Walk, bus, TRAM | Central, accessible, family-friendly | Crowded in summer |
| Playa de San Juan | Urban / Long | Sports, families, long walks | Full services + sports | TRAM L1, L3, L4 + buses | 7 km of golden sand, lively promenade | Parking fills up fast |
| Playa Muchavista | Semi-urban / Long | Families, quiet vibe | Full services | TRAM L3 + buses | Wide, calm, less crowded than San Juan | Windy days can bring waves |
| Playa de la Albufereta | Urban | Families, calm swims | Basic services | TRAM L4, L5 + buses | Sheltered, shallow water, safe for kids | Small, fills quickly |
| Playa de Urbanova (Saladares) | Semi-urban | Relax, sunsets | Full services | Bus 27 + car | Natural dunes, peaceful setting | Farther from city |
| Cabo de la Huerta | Natural coves | Snorkeling, diving, sunsets | Minimal services | TRAM L4, L5 + buses | Crystal-clear waters, great for snorkeling | Rocky, no lifeguards |
| Arenales del Sol | Urban / Natural | Sports, families, long walks | Full services | Bus from Alicante & Elche | 3 km of fine sand, dunes, natural park | Busy on summer weekends |
| Playa de Villajoyosa | Urban | Culture + beach | Full services | TRAM L1 + ALSA bus | Colorful old town right by the beach | 30 min from Alicante |
| Platja del Carrer de la Mar | Urban | Families, promenade | Full services | TRAM L3 + buses | Central in El Campello, full facilities | Crowded in summer |
| Playa Cap Blanc | Semi-urban | Couples, quiet local vibe | Basic services | TRAM L1, L3 + buses | Relaxed, less crowded, calm water | Limited parking, some pebbles |
Which of Alicante’s Top Beaches Will You Choose?
Each beach along Alicante’s coast has its own personality. Postiguet is lively and central, San Juan stretches endlessly under the sun, Cabo de la Huerta hides rocky coves with crystal water, and Villajoyosa brings you golden sand right next to its colorful old town. Go a little further and you’ll find Arenales del Sol with its dunes, or the quieter corners of El Campello like Cap Blanc.
My advice? Don’t settle for just one. Try them at different times of the day — a morning swim, an afternoon walk, a sunset drink. That’s when you really understand what living by the Mediterranean means.
Remember: Toro Tours is here to help you.
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