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Whether you’re in Calpe for a relaxing holiday getaway, or on a road trip of the Costa Blanca, there’s amazing things to do in Calpe to have the best experience.
Here’s my guide to the top things to do in Calpe! I’ve listed the best activities, and will continue to add to this list as new things pop up.
1. Climb Calpe Rock (Peñón de Ifach)
The Peñón de Ifach is the iconic landmark of Calpe. Its a huge limestone rock rising over 300 metres from the sea. Hiking up Calpe Rock is a must if you’re looking for one of the best views on the Costa Blanca.
The climb is rather challenging for beginners, but the views are breathtaking and well worth the effort. Throughout the hike, you’ll be graced with incredible views along the coastline to Altea and even Benidorm on a clear day.
2. Relax on one of Calpe’s many beaches
Calpe’s beaches are some of the most aesthetic in the region They’re perfect for family days out as they’re spacious and well-equipped. Swimming in the sea is dependent of the Calpe weather at the time – with the months from May to October being the best times to swim.
Some of the beaches I’d recommend include:
- Playa de la Fossa (Levante Beach): One of the most popular beaches in Calpe, and ideal for families thanks to its gentle waters. The promenade is lined with restaurants and bars, so you won’t need to stray far from your sunbed for a bite to eat.
- Arenal-Bol Beach: A long stretch of golden sand right in the centre of town, this beach is a favourite for both locals and visitors. There are sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, and it’s a great spot for an evening stroll along the seafront.
- Cala el Racó: If you love snorkelling, head to Cala el Racó, just below the Peñón. The water here is crystal clear, making it perfect for exploring underwater life. Bring your snorkel gear and enjoy!
3. Wander through Calpe Old Town
Calpe’s Old Town is full of charm. The narrow streets are lined with colourful houses, murals, and traditional bars. There’s plenty to discover.
The Old Town really comes alive in the evenings, so it’s a great place for a relaxed dinner, with many of the restaurants serving local dishes like seafood paella or caldero.
4. Explore Baños de la Reina
Just along from Arenal-Bol beach, you’ll find the Baños de la Reina – ancient Roman fish farms and baths carved into the rocks.
It’s a fascinating spot if you’re into history, and there’s something really special about seeing these ancient pools against the backdrop of the modern town. You can walk among the ruins and even spot some fish in the water.
5. Spot Flamingoes at the Salt Flats (Las Salinas)
Just behind the beaches, Calpe’s Las Salinas are a reminder of the town’s wealth around its salt production. Today, it’s a natural park where you can spot flamingos and other birdlife.
It’s a lovely spot for a walk, especially in the late afternoon when the light softens and the flamingos are most active.
You can get some great photos of the birds with the Calpe rock as the perfect backdrop.
6. Take a Boat Trip
A boat trip along the coastline is one of the best ways to take in the beauty of Calpe and the surrounding area. There are lots of options, from quick trips around the Peñón, to longer excursions that take you down to Benidorm or Altea.
For something extra special, you can also take a glass-bottom boat to see the marine life below.
7. See the Fishermen’s Market (La Lonja)
If you’re a fan of fresh seafood, don’t miss the daily fish auction at La Lonja. This is where the local fishermen bring in their catch and auction it off – it’s a real glimpse into traditional life in Calpe.
If you prefer to eat rather than buy, there are plenty of restaurants nearby serving up freshly caught fish and seafood.
8. Catch the Sunset from Mirador Monte Toix
For a fantastic view of the coastline, head to the Mirador Monte Toix. Its a 15 minute drive from Calpe, and about a 10 minute walk after parking your car. The view is so worth it though!
It’s a great spot for watching the sunset, so make sure you take plenty of pictures.
9. Paddleboarding at Playa Arenal-Bol
You can try stand-up paddleboard in Playa Arenal-Bol. The waters are calm and clear, so it’s perfect for beginners!
Calpe is also a great place for diving. There are several diving schools where you can book a dive to explore the coastline’s underwater caves, reefs, and even a shipwreck or two. If you’re not a diver, snorkelling is just as rewarding, especially at Cala el Racó where the water is teeming with fish.
10. Sample traditional Spanish cuisine at Calpe’s many restaurants
One of the highlights of any trip to Calpe is the food. Being right on the coast, fresh seafood is the star of most menus, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants serving traditional paella and seafood stews.
For a special meal, head to Puerto Blanco, a lovely restaurant near the marina known for its fresh fish and Mediterranean dishes. If you want something more casual, the seafront promenade is packed with places offering everything from seafood tapas to wood-fired pizzas.
11. Visit the Fairground
This place is great for family entertainment, as there tons of different attractions for all ages. Rides are a little expensive, but there are offers on when buying tickets.
It offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages, including trampolines, a bouncy castle, bungee-jumping fun, bumper cars, a rollercoaster, a Caribbean Pirate Ship, Free Fall Drone, Grand Prix Experience, Flying Chairs, Crazy Kangaroo, 2-seater go-karts, and a virtual rollercoaster. Wristbands are available for unlimited access to most rides and attractions, with the exception of the go-karts and virtual reality experiences.
12. Catch the Calpe Tourist Train
Hop aboard the famous Calpe tourist train!
The route starts at Hotel Esmeralda by Fossa beach, takes you into the centre of the city, close up to the Penoch de Ifach, around the beaches and the port.
Tickets cause 4 euros each. Don’t forget to wave at everyone throughout the journey!
13. Visit Torreó de la Peça
A centuries-old cylindrical bastion was constructed as part of the defensive walls protecting the city.
They are the existing remains of the Villa Wall. It was exposed after the partial demolition of the Wall in 1947. In 1981 its restoration began.
14. Hike up the Sierra de Bernia
Okay, this is outside of Calpe, but not too far! Sierra de Bernia is Benissa’s closest mountain, and makes for a fantastic climb.
There are two routes including the Forat de Bèrnia, which will lead you up to mountain through to a tunnel, which then opens up to this incredible opening on the side of the mountain.
15. Visit the Saturday Market
There is a weekly market in Calpe, which is held on Saturday morning from 9:00am to 2pm. One section of the market sells locally grown fruit and vegetables, while the other section sells clothes, handmade jewellery, leather, antiques and more.
It is located on Av. de Rumania.
16. Practice yoga on the beach with stunning views
Practice Hatha Yoga with Patricia Piper on Saturdays at 10am with fantastic views of the Peñón de Ifach in the distance. She runs weekly morning sessions on the Cantal Roig beach, open to all.
You can book a class on the Patricia Piper site, through the contact form.
17. Shop at the Plaza Central Calpe
Shop till you drop at the local shopping centre! There are clothes shops including Sprinter, Pepco and Mango, as well as a Tedi for homeware goods, and finally, a large Masymas supermarket.
There are also restaurants including Burger King. If you want a larger shopping centre, visit La Marina in Benidorm.
