Best Beaches Costa Blanca — Ranking of 12 Beaches for 2026
From the wild dunes of Carabassi to crystal-clear Granadella — a complete guide to the finest beaches
Costa Blanca spans over 200 kilometres of coastline in the Alicante province, stretching from Denia in the north to Torrevieja in the south. Along this stretch you will find hundreds of beaches — from wide sandy bathing areas with full infrastructure to wild rocky coves accessible only on foot. After three years of living in Gran Alacant and visiting dozens of beaches in the region, I have prepared a subjective ranking of the 12 best Costa Blanca beaches, rating each on sand quality, crowds, parking availability, snorkeling conditions, family-friendliness, and nudist options.
How Was This Ranking Created?
Each beach was personally assessed based on six key criteria:
• Sand/Pebbles — type of surface and comfort of walking barefoot
• Crowds — how crowded the beach gets in season (less = better)
• Parking — availability and cost of parking
• Snorkeling — water clarity and richness of underwater life
• Family — safety and infrastructure for children
• Nudist — whether there is a designated zone or acceptance of naturism
Which Costa Blanca Beach Is the Best? — Comparison Table
| # | Beach | Sand | Crowds | Parking | Snorkeling | Family | Nudist |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Playa de Carabassi | ***** | ** | **** | ** | *** | YES |
| 2 | Cala Granadella | ** | *** | ** | ***** | ** | NO |
| 3 | Playa de San Juan | ***** | **** | *** | * | ***** | NO |
| 4 | Playa de la Zenia | **** | *** | **** | ** | **** | NO |
| 5 | Playa del Postiguet | **** | **** | ** | * | **** | NO |
| 6 | Playa Poniente | ***** | *** | *** | ** | ***** | NO |
| 7 | Playa Arenal-Bol | **** | *** | *** | *** | **** | NO |
| 8 | El Portet (Moraira) | *** | *** | ** | ***** | *** | NO |
| 9 | Cap Blanc | ** | * | *** | **** | * | YES |
| 10 | Isla de Tabarca | *** | *** | none | ***** | *** | NO |
| 11 | Playa del Torres | *** | * | *** | *** | ** | YES |
| 12 | Playa de Guardamar | ***** | ** | **** | * | **** | YES |
Scale: * (poor) to ***** (excellent). Crowds: higher rating = more people. Nudist: YES = designated zone or acceptance.
Why Is Playa de Carabassi Number 1 in the Ranking?
Playa de Carabassi, Gran Alacant
Arenales del Sol — Gran Alacant | 3.2 km length
Carabassi is our favourite beach and the absolute number one in this ranking. Over three kilometres of wild sandy coastline surrounded by dunes and natural Mediterranean vegetation. It is one of the last undeveloped beaches in the Alicante province — no beach bars, hotels, or concrete promenades means you feel like you are at the edge of the world. The southern part is an officially designated nudist zone. Fine golden sand, clean water, and minimal crowds even at the peak of summer — this is a beach where you can truly relax. The drive from Gran Alacant takes just five minutes, and parking is free.
Read our detailed guide: Carabassi Beach — Complete Guide
What Makes Cala Granadella in Javea Special?
Cala Granadella, Javea
Javea (Xabia), Marina Alta | 160 m length
Cala Granadella is the gem of the northern Costa Blanca and has been repeatedly recognised as one of the most beautiful coves in all of Spain. Surrounded by steep cliffs covered in pine trees, it offers crystal-clear water of an extraordinary turquoise colour. This is absolutely the best spot for snorkeling on the entire coast — underwater visibility reaches up to fifteen metres, and the richness of marine life is astonishing. The beach is pebbly, so water shoes are essential. The winding mountain road access and limited parking mean arriving early in the morning is advisable, ideally before nine. A single bar-restaurant serving paella and fresh fish completes the picture of this paradise cove.
Why Is Playa de San Juan Perfect for Families?
Playa de San Juan, Alicante
San Juan de Alicante | 3 km length
San Juan is the most popular city beach in Alicante and undoubtedly the best option for families with children in the entire region. Three kilometres of wide, fine sand with a very gentle slope into the water guarantee safety even for the youngest. Lifeguards are on duty from June to September, along the promenade you will find dozens of restaurants, ice cream parlours, and playgrounds. Accessible by TRAM from central Alicante (line 1), eliminating the parking problem. In season it can be crowded, especially on weekends. Blue Flag and full infrastructure: showers, toilets, sunbed rental, ramps for pushchairs and wheelchair users.
Beaches #4-12 — Quick Overview
#4 Playa de la Zenia, Orihuela Costa
A favourite beach of expats and Northern European tourists. Fine sand and calm water ideal for swimming. The biggest draw is proximity to La Zenia Boulevard — the largest shopping centre in the Alicante province. Free parking available at the beach and shopping centre. Popular among families thanks to the gentle entry and lifeguards in season.
#5 Playa del Postiguet, Alicante
The beach in the heart of Alicante, at the foot of Santa Barbara Castle. The only beach in the ranking you can reach on foot from the train and bus station — ideal if you do not have a car. Fine light sand, clean Blue Flag water. Can be very crowded in season due to its central location. After sunbathing, take the lift up to the castle (free) or stroll along the Explanada de Espana.
#6 Playa de Poniente, Benidorm
The less-known but in our opinion better beach of Benidorm compared to popular Levante. Over three kilometres of wide fine sand with a modern promenade designed by Carlos Ferrater. Gentle entry and smaller crowds than Levante make it significantly more pleasant for families. Blue Flag, lifeguards, and full beachside infrastructure at the highest standard.
#7 Playa del Arenal-Bol, Calpe
The main beach of Calpe offering one of the most spectacular views on the entire Costa Blanca — the iconic Penon de Ifach rock (332 m) towers over the beach. Fine light sand, clean Blue Flag water. The promenade is full of restaurants serving fresh seafood and paella. Snorkeling near the rock formations is better than at typical sandy beaches.
#8 El Portet, Moraira
A charming cove in exclusive Moraira surrounded by the Cap d'Or peninsula with ruins of a 16th-century watchtower. A calm, well-sheltered bay with a mix of sand and pebbles offering excellent snorkeling conditions. Less crowded than nearby Benidorm beaches, attracting mainly affluent residents and those in the know. A great starting point for a hike to Cap d'Or with panoramic coastal views.
#9 Cap Blanc, El Campello
Wild, rocky coastline between El Campello and Coveta Fuma that is absolutely not suitable for families with small children but is paradise for adventure seekers and experienced snorkelers. White cliffs drop vertically to crystal-clear water, creating natural pools and rock platforms perfect for sunbathing. No infrastructure whatsoever — bring everything you need. Partially practised naturism on more remote stretches.
#10 Isla de Tabarca
The only inhabited island of the Alicante province and one of the most magical places on the Costa Blanca. Surrounded by a marine reserve with restricted fishing, it offers some of the best snorkeling conditions in the entire western Mediterranean. Ferries run from Santa Pola (20 min), Alicante (60 min), and Torrevieja. Try the caldero — a traditional fisherman's dish from Tabarca.
#11 Playa del Torres, Villajoyosa
A hidden cove between Villajoyosa and El Campello, one of the best-known nudist beaches on the Costa Blanca. Surrounded by high cliffs and accessible only via a steep path, it offers absolute privacy and a sense of isolation. Mix of sand and pebbles with exceptionally clean water and good snorkeling near the surrounding rocks. Crowds practically non-existent even at peak season.
#12 Playa de Guardamar del Segura
A small town with disproportionately beautiful coastline — eleven kilometres of fine golden sand surrounded by pine forest and dunes. The pine forest reaching almost to the shoreline provides natural shade — no parasol needed! A rarity on the Costa Blanca and a huge advantage on hot days. Significantly less crowded than nearby Torrevieja. Several stretches have designated nudist zones. Free parking at every beach entrance.
How to Choose the Best Costa Blanca Beach for You?
Choosing the ideal beach depends on your priorities. Here is a quick guide tailored to different traveller profiles:
Families with Children
San Juan (#3), Poniente (#6), La Zenia (#4) — gentle entry, lifeguards, infrastructure, playgrounds.
Snorkelers
Granadella (#2), Tabarca (#10), El Portet (#8) — crystal-clear water, marine reserves, abundant fish.
Naturists
Carabassi (#1), Del Torres (#11), Guardamar (#12) — designated zones, acceptance, privacy.
Peace Seekers
Carabassi (#1), Cap Blanc (#9), Del Torres (#11) — no crowds, wild nature, tranquillity.
How to Plan a Costa Blanca Beach Road Trip by Car?
To visit all twelve beaches from our ranking, you will need a car and at least four to five days. Here is a suggested plan:
Day 1 — South: Gran Alacant and Surroundings
Carabassi (#1) morning, afternoon on Isla de Tabarca (#10) via ferry from Santa Pola.
Day 2 — Alicante City
Postiguet (#5) morning + Santa Barbara Castle, San Juan (#3) afternoon.
Day 3 — El Campello and Villajoyosa
Cap Blanc (#9) morning (snorkeling), Del Torres (#11) afternoon.
Day 4 — Benidorm and Calpe
Poniente (#6) morning, Arenal-Bol (#7) afternoon + hike up Penon de Ifach.
Day 5 — North: Moraira and Javea
El Portet (#8) morning, Granadella (#2) afternoon — the best snorkeling saved for last!
Optional — South: Orihuela Costa and Guardamar
La Zenia (#4) and Guardamar (#12) — a comfortable day trip from Gran Alacant.
Practical Tips Before Heading to the Beach
• SPF 50+ sunscreen — the sun on the Costa Blanca is intense even in May and October. Reapply every two hours.
• Water shoes — essential on pebbly beaches (Granadella, El Portet, Cap Blanc, Tabarca).
• Arrive early — at small coves (Granadella, El Portet) arrive before 9:00 to find parking and a spot.
• Water and food — wild beaches (Cap Blanc, Carabassi, Del Torres) have no beach bars. Bring supplies.
• Snorkel mask — worth owning your own on the Costa Blanca. Rental quality is often poor.
• Avoid weekends in July-August — city beaches (San Juan, Postiguet) are extremely crowded then.
• Check the flags — green (safe), yellow (caution), red (swimming prohibited). Jellyfish are indicated by an additional flag.
• Aemet app — Spain's official weather app. Check the marine forecast before heading out.
How to Care for Costa Blanca Beaches During Your Visit?
Costa Blanca is one of the most beautiful stretches of Mediterranean coastline, but tourism puts pressure on local ecosystems. Each of us can help preserve these beaches for future generations:
• Take your rubbish — wild beaches have no bins. Take everything you brought with you.
• Stay off the dunes — dunes at Carabassi and Guardamar are protected. Use designated paths.
• Do not touch marine fauna — in marine reserves (Tabarca) it is forbidden to fish, collect shells, or touch animals.
• Use biodegradable sunscreen — standard UV filters harm marine ecosystems, particularly in reserves.
• Park only in designated areas — parking on dunes and vegetation is an ecological offence and carries a fine.
Rafał Prońko
Właściciel Brisa Alacant
Właściciel apartamentu wakacyjnego Brisa Alacant od 2023 roku, regularnie odwiedzam Costa Blanca i znam region z własnych doświadczeń. Wszystkie miejsca opisane na blogu odwiedziłem osobiście — zdjęcia i porady pochodzą z moich własnych wizyt. Pomagam gościom odkrywać najlepsze atrakcje regionu Alicante.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Costa Blanca beach is best for families with children?
For families with children the best beach on the Costa Blanca is Playa de San Juan in Alicante, which offers over three kilometres of wide fine sand with a very gentle slope into the water, ideal for toddlers. The beach has full facilities including lifeguards on duty from June to September, toilets, showers, and sunbed and parasol rental. Along the promenade you will find numerous restaurants, ice cream parlours, and playgrounds for children. An alternative is Playa Poniente in Benidorm, also with a gentle entry and excellent infrastructure. If you prefer smaller crowds, consider Playa del Arenal-Bol in Calpe where children can admire the iconic Penon de Ifach. Avoid Cala Granadella and El Portet with small children because the entry is rocky and the depth increases quickly. Playa de la Zenia works well for families who value convenience since the La Zenia Boulevard shopping centre is right next door. San Juan also has an excellent tram connection from central Alicante, eliminating the parking problem.
Where can you go snorkeling on the Costa Blanca?
The best place for snorkeling on the Costa Blanca is undoubtedly Cala Granadella in Javea, repeatedly recognised as one of the most beautiful coves in all of Spain. Crystal-clear water with visibility reaching up to fifteen metres and rocky seabed full of underwater formations make it a paradise for snorkelers. You will encounter schools of colourful fish, octopus, starfish, and rich underwater flora. The second outstanding location is Isla de Tabarca, the only inhabited island of the Alicante province, surrounded by a marine reserve with restricted fishing that guarantees abundant underwater life. El Portet in Moraira is also worth visiting, where a calm bay with a rocky bottom hides a fascinating underwater world. Cap Blanc near El Campello offers wild rocky coastline excellent for experienced snorkelers seeking adventure. At all these locations I recommend wearing water shoes due to the rocky bottom and bringing a good quality mask and snorkel to fully enjoy the underwater world of the Mediterranean Sea.
Are there nudist beaches on the Costa Blanca?
Yes, on the Costa Blanca you will find several established nudist beaches, and the best of them is Playa de Carabassi in Gran Alacant, which is our number one in the entire ranking. Carabassi is over three kilometres of wild sandy coastline with dunes and natural vegetation where the southern part of the beach is officially designated as a nudist zone. It is one of the few places on the Costa Blanca where naturism is fully accepted and has been practised for years. The beach has no developed infrastructure, which provides a sense of wilderness and privacy with no beach bars, sunbeds, or crowds typical of urban beaches. Access by car is easy and parking is free at the beach entrances. Other popular nudist beaches in the region include Platja de l Almadrava in Alicante and stretches of beach near Guardamar del Segura. In Spain naturism is legal on all beaches but designated zones guarantee greater comfort and acceptance from other beachgoers.
When is the best season for beach going on the Costa Blanca?
The beach season on the Costa Blanca lasts significantly longer than at most European destinations, from May to October you can comfortably enjoy the beaches. However the best period is from mid-May to the end of June and September to early October when air temperatures are twenty-five to thirty degrees Celsius, the water is a pleasant twenty-two to twenty-four degrees, and crowds are much smaller than during the peak July and August season. In July and August temperatures exceed thirty-five degrees, beaches are overcrowded, and accommodation prices are the highest of the year. If you are planning a holiday with relaxed beach time and swimming in mind, avoid those two months. April and November offer pleasant temperatures for beach walks but the water is still too cold for most people. Even in winter from December to March the Costa Blanca enjoys mild weather with temperatures of fifteen to twenty degrees, making beaches excellent for walks though swimming requires some bravery.
How do you reach the best Costa Blanca beaches without a car?
The Costa Blanca has well-developed public transport that allows access to many popular beaches without a car. The TRAM Alicante-Denia tram line connects central Alicante with Playa de San Juan, El Campello, Benidorm, and further towns along the coast, often stopping right by the beaches. This is the most convenient and cheapest way to visit beaches along the stretch from Alicante to Denia. Playa del Postiguet in Alicante is accessible on foot from the city centre and train station, making it the most easily reachable beach in the region. You can get to Benidorm and its Poniente and Levante beaches by ALSA bus from most Costa Blanca towns. Regular ferries run to Tabarca Island from Alicante, Santa Pola, and Torrevieja, with crossings taking fifteen to forty-five minutes depending on the port. However beaches in smaller coves such as Granadella or El Portet require a car as public transport either does not reach them or runs very infrequently. Electric bikes and scooters are an increasingly popular way to reach nearby beaches.
Źródła i odnośniki
- Turismo Costa Blanca - Official Tourism Portal of Alicante Province(dostęp: 2026-04-28)
- Generalitat Valenciana - Blue Flag Beaches of Comunitat Valenciana(dostęp: 2026-04-28)
- Reserva Marina Isla de Tabarca - Ministerio de Medio Ambiente(dostęp: 2026-04-28)
- Bandera Azul Espana - Fundacion para la Educacion Ambiental (FEE)(dostęp: 2026-04-28)
- AEMET - Agencia Estatal de Meteorologia, Maritime Forecast(dostęp: 2026-04-28)
Explore the Best Costa Blanca Beaches from Gran Alacant!
Our Brisa Alacant apartment in Gran Alacant is the perfect base for visiting all the beaches in this ranking. Carabassi Beach (#1) is just a five-minute drive, and you can reach Alicante, Benidorm, Calpe, or Javea in under an hour. After a day at the beach, relax by the complex pool or on the terrace with a view of the Mediterranean Sea. Check availability and plan your Costa Blanca beach holiday!
Discover More Costa Blanca Attractions
If you love beaches, be sure to read our detailed guide to Carabassi Beach — our number one in the ranking. Planning an island trip? Tabarca Island is a day adventure with a marine reserve and 18th-century walls. Looking for views from above? Penon de Ifach in Calpe offers a panorama you will never forget.
Przeczytaj również
Carabassi Beach — Complete Guide
Wild beach with dunes, nudist zone and fine sand just 5 min from Gran Alacant.
Day TripsTabarca Island — Day Trip
Marine reserve, snorkeling, caldero and 18th-century defensive walls.
NaturePenon de Ifach — Hiking and Views
The iconic Calpe cliff with Costa Blanca panorama. Trail, tips, and nearby beaches.