If you’re looking for a day trip from Benidorm or anywhere on the Costa Blanca and fancy a break from the beaches, the Algar Waterfalls (Fonts de l’Algar) are an absolute must-visit! I’ve been many times and it’s always a brilliant experience with friends or family.
I’ve written up a guide on all the information you need to know, from how to get there, how to park, facilities, and what you can do there throughout the year.
You can also buy organized tour tickets below (at no extra cost to you!) from Get Your Guide, which will take you straight from Benidorm to the waterfalls:
Where are the Algar Waterfalls?
The Fonts de l’Algar are located near the village of Callosa d’en Sarrià, just 15 kilometres inland from Benidorm – its about a 30 minute drive inland.
They’re tucked away in a beautiful valley that feels worlds apart from the busy tourist spots on the coast.
How to get to the Algar Waterfalls
By car
The easiest way to reach Algar waterfalls is by car:
- From Benidorm: It’s about a 20-minute drive
- From Alicante: Around 50 minutes by car
- From Valencia: About 1 hour and 40 minutes
The site has a car park that costs around €5 for the day. In summer it can fill up quickly, so I’d recommend arriving early to secure a spot.
By public transport
If you don’t have a car, you can take a bus from Benidorm to Callosa d’en Sarrià and then walk about 1.5 km to the waterfalls. The walk is uphill, so be prepared if you’re visiting in the heat!
Organised tours
Many companies offer day trips to the Algar Waterfalls from Benidorm and other nearby towns. These usually include transport and time for lunch at a local restaurant. This will be really convenient if you don’t have a car and want a memorable day trip from Benidorm.
You can buy an organised tour ticket which departs from 2 spots in Benidorm on Get Your Guide using the link below:
A typical tour will include:
– Return transport a meeting point in Benidorm
– A guide who speaks English
– Entrance fees to the waterfalls
– Free time to swim and walk around the falls
– A visit to Guadalest village too
This particular tour to Algar Waterfalls also includes a visit to Guadalest, which sits on a rocky ridge with amazing views.
In Guadalest, you can walk through small streets, see the old castle, and enjoy the white houses typical of the area. It works really well as a combined day out – morning in Guadalest, afternoon swimming at the waterfalls.
Best time to visit Algar Waterfalls
The Algar Waterfalls are open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re after:
- Summer (June-September): This is when most people visit as the water is the best temperature to swim in. The water is refreshing in the heat, but be prepared for crowds, especially at weekends.
- Spring (April-May): My personal favourite time to visit – the water is flowing well after winter rains, there are fewer people, and the surrounding area is green and full of flowers.
- Autumn (October-November): Still warm enough to swim most days, with much smaller crowds.
- Winter (December-March): Very quiet, and while the water is too cold for swimming, the falls are often at their most powerful. Great for photos!
Opening hours vary by season, but generally, the site is open from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm.
What to do at the Algar Waterfalls
Swimming
The main attraction here is swimming in the natural pools formed by the waterfalls. The water is always cold (around 18°C/64°F), even in summer – but that’s what makes it so refreshing when the weather is hot!
There are several different pools connected by small waterfalls, with some deeper spots that are great for jumping in (always check the depth first though and if there are any rocks).
Walking trails
There’s a well-maintained walking route that takes you alongside the river and waterfalls. It’s about 1.5 km in total and offers fantastic views of the falls from different angles. The path has steps and can be slippery in places, so proper footwear is recommended.
For those wanting a longer hike, there’s the “Ruta de los Molinos” (Mills Route) which takes you past old water mills and through lovely countryside.
You can bring pets in the off peak season from 16 September to 14th of June to accompany you. They aren’t allowed in the river and you need to clean up after them.
Picnic areas
There are designated picnic spots throughout the area where you can enjoy lunch with a view.
The picnic area has tables, shade, toilets, a soft drink machine. Alcoholic beverages and glass containers are not allowed in the premises.
There’s even a children’s play area.
Botanical gardens
Near the entrance, you’ll find the Arboretum – a small botanical garden with plants native to the area. It’s a nice spot to wander through before or after your swim.
What to bring to the waterfalls
- Water shoes: The rocks can be slippery and sometimes sharp, so having shoes you can wear in the water is really helpful
- Towels: There are some grassy areas to lay out towels, but not much actual beach space
- Sun cream: Even though there’s shade from trees in places, the Spanish sun is strong so make sure to buy waterproof, high SPF suncream
- Water and snacks: There are shops and restaurants near the site, but it’s far more convenient to bring your own food
- Cash: Some facilities only accept cash
- Camera: if you’re a photographer, the waterfalls are stunning and you’ll definitely want photos!
Places to eat nearby
Many visitors bring their own food for a picnic, which is allowed in designated areas. Otherwise there are several restaurants and cafés near the waterfalls:
- Restaurante Casa Marcos Fuentes del Algar: Right at the entrance to the falls, serving Spanish dishes such as paella and omelettes. Also serves burgers and pizza.
- Restaurante El Algar de Don Joan: A small Mediterranean restaurant with grilled meats and rice dishes
- Restaurante El Valle: Serves traditional Spanish food, with appetisers including meats, fish and fries
Algar Waterfalls ticket prices
Prices change slightly each year, but as of my last visit in 2025:
- Adults: Around €5-6
- Children (4-10 years): Around €2-3
- Under 4s: Free
It’s worth checking the official website before you go as prices and opening hours can change seasonally.
Tips for visiting the waterfalls
- Arrive early: Especially in summer, it gets busy from around 11am as everyone starts arriving.
- Bring a waterproof bag: To keep your valuables dry.
- Bring shoes with rock protection: to protect your feed and you can walk around the area safely.
- Visit on weekdays: If possible, as weekends are much busier with tourists and families.
- Combine with nearby attractions: The town of Guadalest with its castle is just a short drive away and makes for a great combined day trip
Is it good day out for families?
Yes! The Algar Waterfalls are brilliant for families to visit. Kids love jumping into the pools and splashing around in the waterfalls.
There are some shallow areas suitable for younger children, but always keep a close eye on them as the currents can be stronger than they look in some spots.
The Algar Waterfalls make for a fantastic day out from Benidorm or other Costa Blanca resorts. They offer something completely different from the beach experience, with beautiful natural surroundings and refreshing waters.
Even if you’re not keen on swimming, the walking routes and stunning views make it worth the trip. It’s one of those places that reminds you there’s more to this part of Spain than just beaches and bars!
