Spain Travel Guide

A mecca for sun worshippers heading to Spain's Costa Blanca, the beaches of Benidorm offer an idyllic coastal setting where golden sands set amidst the cool waters of the Mediterranean are a reality and not just something one would find on a travel brochure! Made up of the Blue Flag beaches of Levante, Poniente and Mal Pas, Benidorm boasts of around six kilometres of coastline that provide countless hours of fun in the sun for young and old alike.

Visitors wanting a more active holiday can also take part in a variety of water sports such as jet skiing, waterskiing and paragliding. The main Levante and Poniente beaches have lifeguard patrols during summer and winter and are equipped with facilities that cater to the differently-abled as well.

Since these coastal areas are a popular draw amongst holidaymakers, there are a wide variety of Benidorm apartments and hotels near by that cater to couples and families as well as individual travellers. Here is a quick look at the different beaches of Benidorm and what one can expect when visiting them.

Known as sunrise beach, Playa Levante is a much loved seaside hotspot in Benidorm that is a perfect place for just lazing about in the sun or taking a refreshing dip in the clear ocean waters. Due to the beach's popularity it can get crowded during the summer months, though there is plenty of beach space to go around along with over 5,000 sun beds! Children will also enjoy a visit to Levante beach which has shallow sections for kids to paddle in, play areas as well as soft sand for budding sandcastle architects.

Located within easy reach of many Benidorm hotels, the Levante beach also has a seaside promenade which is a great place to soak up the resort's lively coastal atmosphere. Overlooking the bay, this coastal walkway is ideal for a leisurely stroll with loved ones and is home to a variety of bars and restaurants. Levante beach comes alive again at night when the surrounding area and promenade play host to some of Benidorm's hottest clubs and bars such as the Ku Beach Club and Penelope's. Those looking to escape from the masses that head to Levante beach can alternatively visit Poniente beach. Known as sunset beach, Playa Poniente spans over three kilometres in length and is the largest of Benidorm's beaches. Equipped with numerous sun beds as well, this laidback coastal area provides visitors with a relatively crowd free environment where one can get tanned, swim in the ocean and just spend the day basking in the sun. While the Poniente beach area is not known for having a happening nightlife it does present visitors with stunning sunsets that are well worth the wait.

The smallest of Benidorm's beaches, Mal Pas beach is situated near the port and makes for a relaxed setting where one can idle away under the summer sun. Home to soft sands, Playa del Mal Pas is popular amongst sunbathers and those looking for a change from the usual visits to the Levante and Poniente beaches.

These three beaches form one of resort's main attractions and it is little wonder that they are frequented by both local and foreign visitors during the summer season. Finding accommodation at Benidorm Hotels or apartment near these coastal areas should not be hard to do, though it is advised to book ahead especially if one is travelling in the summer and want to stay in a place right by the seaside. Those wanting more information on the different Benidorm beaches and what they offer can refer "A Beach Guide to the Benidorm Seaside!"