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So you’ve seen Benidorm on TV and now you’re curious about visiting? Well, let me tell you – the real Benidorm is much better in real life, and brilliant for any type of holiday!
Benidorm has an incredible mix of gorgeous sandy beaches, endless sunshine, and is packed with activities galore.
Let me share all my favourite spots and insider tips to help you plan the best trip to Benidorm.
Where is Benidorm?
Benidorm is in the province of Alicante, with nearby its nearby city being Alicante, and towns including Villajoyosa, Calpe and Altea.
Benidorm is only about a 35 minute drive from Alicante-Elche Airport (45km), so you can land and be in holiday mode in no time. I’ve also written a guide on travelling from Alicante Airport to Benidorm to help find the most convenient way to get there.
Beaches in Benidorm
One of Benidorm’s biggest draws is its beaches, and trust me, you’re spoilt for choice here.
Levante Beach
Levante beach is lively and packed with sunbeds, water sports, and plenty of beachfront bars.
Perfect if you love a bit of buzz. I recommend heading here if you enjoy a fun beach vibe – there’s always something going on.
Poniente Beach
If you prefer something a bit more laid back, Poniente Beach is the place to be. It’s longer, quieter, and feels a bit more local. Great for families or anyone who wants to chill out.
The sunset views from here are absolutely gorgeous, so grab a spot in one of the bars along the promenade and watch the day fade away.
Mal Pas Beach
Okay, here’s a little secret – this beach is a bit more hidden and sits snugly between the Old Town and the marina. I love coming here when I want to escape the crowds but still stay close to everything.
What to Do in Benidorm
You’ll never be short of things to do in Benidorm. Whether you’re travelling with family, or friends, or on a stag or hen do, there’s something to keep everyone happy.
Aqualandia
If you’ve got kids with you, or you just fancy reliving your childhood, Aqualandia is a great water park with plenty of thrilling water slides to keep you entertained all day.
! Don’t forget to pack extra sunscreen though, as you’ll be out in the sun most of the day.
Terra Mítica
This is one for the thrill-seekers. Terra Mítica is a theme park based on ancient Mediterranean civilisations. The roller coasters are fantastic, and there’s a good mix of live shows too. Definitely worth a visit if you’re after a day of adventure.
Mundomar
Mundomar is an aquatic zoo. Its a lovely spot if you want to see some marine life. Mundomar has dolphin and sea lion shows and is a hit with younger visitors.
It’s nice to spend a few hours here if you’re looking for something a bit more relaxed.
Benidorm Palace
For a special night out, head to Benidorm Palace for an unforgettable cabaret show. It’s all glitter, glamour, and amazing entertainment.
Perfect if you fancy dressing up a bit and enjoying a fun night with a group.
Old Town
Benidorm’s Old Town is the complete opposite of its modern beachside vibe. The narrow streets, traditional Spanish shops, and tapas bars give it an authentic feel. The church of San Jaime y Santa Ana is worth a visit, and the views from the top are stunning. I love wandering through here when I need a break from the busier parts of the city.
Balcony of the Mediterranean
If you’re after a photo-perfect spot, this is it. The Balcony of the Mediterranean offers the most beautiful views over the sea, right where Levante Beach meets Poniente Beach.
It’s a great place to take a breather, and the sea breeze makes it even better!
Benidorm’s Nightlife
Benidorm is famous for its nightlife, and you’ll find everything from quiet beachfront bars to all-night clubs. If you’re here to party, this is the place to be.
The Strip (English Square)
For those looking for THE Benidorm nightlife experience, head to ‘The Strip’, or also known as the English Square on Avenida de Mallorca. If you’re on a hen do or a stag do, I imagine you’ll be here a lot.
This is where you’ll find all the main bars and nightclubs, and stay out till the sun rises. There’s honestly a bit of everything, from nightclubs, strip clubs, the famous Sticky Vicky, live music, even karaoke, you’ll find it all.
Old Town Bars
If you’re more into a less clubby but fun evening, the Benidorm Old Town offers a great selection of traditional Spanish bars.
You can sip on sangria, snack on tapas, and watch the world go by. It’s a much more relaxed scene, perfect for winding down after a day of sightseeing.
Beachfront Bars
Both Levante and Poniente beaches have some lovely beachfront bars that offer the perfect spot for evening drinks.
I personally love sitting in Chiringuito Beach Benidorm with drinking cocktails as the sun sets.
Outdoor Adventures
If you love the great outdoors, Benidorm has some excellent options that show off the natural beauty of the Costa Blanca.
- Sierra Helada Natural Park: Just beyond the city, Sierra Helada offers hiking trails with breathtaking views over the Mediterranean. It’s a great way to see a different side of Benidorm, away from the hustle and bustle. The trails can be a bit challenging, but the views are worth it.
- Watersports: If you’re into watersports, you’ll love it here. Jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boats are all on offer along Levante Beach. If you’re looking for something a bit more serene, paddleboarding is another fantastic way to explore the coast.
- Boat Trips: Hop on a boat trip over to Benidorm Island, just off the coast. The island itself is a nature reserve, and it’s a brilliant spot for snorkelling.
Where to Stay in Benidorm
Benidorm has accommodation options for every budget, so whether you’re after a luxurious escape or something more affordable, there’s plenty to choose from.
- Luxury: If you’re looking to splash out, I highly recommend the Hotel Villa Venecia. It’s perched right on the cliffs with stunning views over the sea. It’s a fantastic choice if you want to treat yourself to a bit of luxury.
- Mid-Range: For something more budget-friendly but still comfortable, try Hotel Helios. It’s close to Levante Beach and offers great value for money.
- Budget: If you’re on a tighter budget, Hostal Irati in the Old Town is a charming and affordable option. It’s close to the beach and gives you that traditional Spanish experience.
Practical Tips
Getting to Benidorm
Benidorm is about a 35-minute drive from Alicante-Elche Airport. You can hire a car, take a shuttle bus, or grab a taxi. If you prefer public transport, there are regular buses from the airport to the city.
Getting Around
Benidorm is really walkable, especially if you’re staying around the beaches or the Old Town. If you want to explore further, local buses and Benidorm taxis are easy to find.
Best Time to Visit
The weather in Benidorm is best during the summer (June to September) is the busiest time, with plenty of sun and temperatures around 30°C. If you prefer it a bit quieter, try visiting in the spring or autumn when it’s still warm, but you’ll avoid the big crowds.
