- Ciudad Quesada, Spain
- +44 7784 901230
Costa Blanca is one of the most picturesque regions of Spain, offering not only stunning beaches but also charming towns, historic landmarks, and natural attractions. It’s the perfect destination whether you’re looking for peaceful seaside relaxation or active exploration of local gems. Thanks to its exceptional climate, the region attracts visitors all year round.
Seaside towns along the coast – from Ciudad Quesada to Cape Nao.
Ciudad Quesada is a peaceful town near Torrevieja, offering plenty of amenities such as restaurants, shops, the La Marquesa golf course, and the Rojales Aquapark – perfect for families with children. It’s an excellent choice for those who value peace, safety, and comfort.
Thanks to its location, Ciudad Quesada is a great starting point for discovering the entire Costa Blanca coastline. In just 10–15 minutes, you can reach the sandy beaches of Guardamar del Segura, and within an hour – the attractions of Benidorm. The area also features numerous cycling and walking trails for those who enjoy active leisure.
Alicante is a vibrant port city known for the impressive Santa Bárbara Castle, offering panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Be sure to stroll along the Explanada de España promenade and explore the Santa Cruz district, with its narrow streets and colorful houses. The city beautifully blends modernity with tradition, offering something for everyone.
Culture lovers will enjoy Alicante’s many museums, galleries, and artistic events. Highlights include the Museum of Contemporary Art (MACA) and the annual “Las Hogueras de San Juan” festival – a spectacular celebration with fireworks, sculptures, and performances. A walk along the marina promenade is the perfect way to relax, with plenty of cafés offering sea views.
Approximately 40 minutes by car from Ciudad Quesada.
Known as the “New York of the Mediterranean,” Benidorm offers stunning beaches like Levante and Poniente, along with a vibrant nightlife. The city attracts visitors with numerous festivals and attractions, including the Terra Mítica theme park and the Aqualandia and Mundomar water parks.
Benidorm is also a haven for shopping lovers, tapas bars, and breathtaking views from the Balcón del Mediterráneo viewpoint. While famous for its lively atmosphere, it also offers quieter corners and natural trails in the nearby Sierra Helada Natural Park – perfect for hiking.
La Cruz de Benidorm – a scenic viewpoint on the Sierra Helada hill, offering panoramic views over the city and coastline, especially magical at sunset.
Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car from Ciudad Quesada.
Located about 1.5 hours from Ciudad Quesada, Calpe is a seaside town that blends the charm of traditional Spain with breathtaking natural wonders. It’s a must-visit destination on the Costa Blanca – perfect for both nature lovers and those seeking laid-back beach days.
The main attraction in Calpe is the iconic Peñón de Ifach, a towering limestone rock that rises more than 330 meters from the sea. It’s one of the most recognizable landmarks on the coast, often referred to as the “Gibraltar of Valencia.”
For active visitors, there’s a hiking trail that leads to the top of the rock. The path begins gently through a nature reserve filled with wild plants and nesting seabirds, then becomes more challenging and rocky toward the summit. The reward? Spectacular panoramic views of the entire coastline, the deep blue Mediterranean, and nearby towns. On a clear day, you can even see Ibiza!
You don’t have to be a seasoned hiker – reaching the lower viewpoint still offers unforgettable sights and fantastic photo opportunities.
Platja de la Fossa – one of Calpe’s most beautiful beaches, lined with a promenade full of restaurants and cafés – ideal for sunbathing and relaxation.
Approximately 1.5 hours by car from Ciudad Quesada.
Nestled between Calpe and Jávea, about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Ciudad Quesada, Moraira is one of the most charming and elegant towns on the Costa Blanca. Though small, it has preserved its authentic Spanish soul, offering peace, cleanliness, and the atmosphere of an intimate Mediterranean resort.
Moraira boasts several beautiful beaches – from sandy shores to pebbled coves. The most popular is Playa de l’Ampolla, a wide, well-equipped beach at the foot of an old coastal fortress. It’s ideal for families and those seeking relaxation.
For more privacy, there are picturesque, natural coves like Cala Andrago and Cala Portitxolet, known for their crystal-clear waters and perfect snorkeling conditions. Moraira is also a great spot for diving – with local schools offering courses and trips to underwater caves and reefs.
Although today filled with elegant villas and fine restaurants, Moraira grew from a humble fishing village. You can still feel its heritage – in the narrow streets of the old town, at the fish market by the harbor, or in the cozy local taverns.
Here, you’ll experience some of the region’s best cuisine – from charming tapas bars to fine dining restaurants with stunning views of the marina.
Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car from Ciudad Quesada.
Jávea (Xàbia) is one of the most picturesque spots on the coast, known for its turquoise coves, scenic hiking trails, and historic old town.
This elegant seaside town, located between Moraira and Dénia, captivates with its natural beauty. Surrounded by mountains and bays, Jávea offers a stunning mix of rugged coastline, hidden beaches, and breathtaking views of Montgó Mountain – often called the “sleeping elephant.” One of the most iconic spots is Cala Granadella – a postcard-perfect cove ideal for snorkeling and relaxing in crystal-clear waters.
Jávea combines the charm of a historic old town – with its stone-paved streets and the San Bartolomé church – with the modern vibe of its seaside port district. You’ll find everything from local markets to excellent restaurants serving fresh seafood and regional specialties. It’s a place that enchants with peace, authenticity, and harmony with nature.
Benissa – charm, history, and coastal paths
Benissa is one of the oldest towns on the Costa Blanca, enchanting visitors with its medieval architecture, narrow cobbled streets, and whitewashed houses. Located slightly inland, just a few kilometers from the coast, it offers the authentic atmosphere of a Spanish pueblo, complete with local markets, quaint squares, and the impressive Iglesia de la Purísima Xiqueta – known as the “Cathedral of Marina Alta.”
The municipality also includes the coastal area of Benissa Costa, where you’ll find scenic coves such as Cala Baladrar and Cala Advocat – perfect for peaceful seaside escapes away from the crowds. A walk along the Benissa Coastal Ecological Trail (Passeig Ecològic de Benissa) takes you along hidden coves and cliffs, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean, native coastal vegetation, and unforgettable sunsets.
Benissa is a true gem for those who appreciate tranquility, nature, and local character.
Cabo de la Nao, also known as Cap de la Nau, is a dramatic cliffside cape located in the municipality of Jávea, marking the easternmost point of the Costa Blanca. With cliffs rising up to 122 meters above sea level, this breathtaking viewpoint offers some of the most spectacular panoramas of the Mediterranean coast.
Situated on the border between Costa Blanca and Costa del Azahar, Cabo de la Nao is where sea meets sky – a must-see for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone in search of unforgettable views.
The Algar Waterfalls are a picturesque natural spot near Benidorm, where visitors can admire cascading waterfalls and swim in crystal-clear natural pools. It’s the perfect place to relax in nature, away from the city buzz. Trails winding through forests and over small bridges immerse you in the soothing sounds of the natural world.
On site, you’ll also find a botanical garden showcasing regional flora, as well as local eateries serving traditional dishes. It’s a fantastic attraction for families, couples, and photography lovers alike. The waterfalls are especially popular on hot days, offering refreshingly cool, clear water for a natural dip.
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Ciudad Quesada.
Located just off the coast near Alicante, Tabarca Island was once a pirate haven and is now a peaceful retreat with crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Boat trips to the island depart from Alicante, Santa Pola, and Torrevieja.
On the island, you’ll find charming whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and a laid-back Mediterranean vibe. Tabarca is also a protected marine reserve, home to unique underwater flora and fauna. Enjoy fresh fish and seafood in seaside restaurants with stunning views.
A walk around the island takes about an hour, but the memories last much longer.
Approximately 20 minutes by boat.
Altea is a charming town known for its whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and the iconic blue-domed church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo. It’s a haven for artists, painters, and travelers seeking the authentic spirit of the Costa Blanca. Its narrow streets are lined with small galleries, cozy cafés, and local boutiques.
In the evening, Altea transforms into a romantic setting – glowing lanterns, live music, and sea views from scenic lookouts create an unforgettable atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful stroll and a candlelit dinner, far from the noise of larger resorts.
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Ciudad Quesada.
Elche (Elx in Valencian) is one of the most unique cities in Spain, famous for its vast palm grove – Palmeral de Elche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to over 200,000 palm trees, walking through this green oasis feels like stepping into a desert paradise. Don’t miss the Huerto del Cura botanical gardens, filled with exotic plants and serene pathways.
The city also boasts a rich history – with the Santa María Cathedral, ancient Arab baths, and remnants of Roman settlements making it a fascinating destination for culture and architecture lovers. Interestingly, Elche is also renowned for its traditional footwear industry – you’ll find local boutiques and outlet centers offering high-quality shoes proudly made in Spain.
Approximately 30 minutes by car from Ciudad Quesada.
This spectacular cliffside walkway offers a thrilling hiking experience with transparent platforms and breathtaking views of canyons and mountains. Perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for unforgettable photo opportunities.
Pasarela de Relleu is one of Costa Blanca’s newest and most striking attractions. Suspended along the cliff face of the Sierra de la Marina mountains near the village of Relleu (about 1.5 hours from Ciudad Quesada), the trail consists of wooden walkways and glass platforms stretching high above the gorge – in some places more than 60 meters above ground!
It’s an ideal destination for those craving a mix of adrenaline, stunning landscapes, and a close connection to nature. The trail offers panoramic views over the canyon, pine-covered hills, and the Amadorio River valley. A perfect option for a half-day trip, topped off with a cozy coffee in the charming village of Relleu.
Approximately 1.5 hours from Ciudad Quesada.
Guadalest is a small but spectacular village nestled high in the mountains, about an hour from Benidorm. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and built around a medieval castle, it offers some of the most breathtaking views in all of Spain. The San José Castle and the Museum of Miniatures are must-see highlights.
Despite its size, Guadalest charms visitors with its atmosphere, local crafts, and authentic cafés overlooking a turquoise reservoir. It’s the perfect day-trip destination for those looking to combine nature, history, and tranquility – far from the crowds.
Approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes by car from Ciudad Quesada.
Stunning stalactites and a natural acoustic concert venue inside the cave!
Waterfalls and natural pools, perfect for a refreshing dip in a lush green setting.
(Parque Natural de las Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja) ideal for walking or cycling among extraordinary landscapes.
Santa Bárbara Castle (Alicante) – a medieval fortress with sweeping sea views.
Guadalest – a castle carved into the rock, turquoise reservoir, charming old streets and artisan shops.
Cartagena – ancient city with a Roman theatre, military fortifications and over 2,000 years of history.
Cuevas del Rodeo (Rojales) – colourful cave-houses turned into artist workshops. A lovely place for a creative family stroll.
DinoPark Algar – animated dinosaurs set among cacti and educational fun.
Río Safari Elx – zoo, mini safari and the chance to feed the animals.
Terra Natura (Benidorm) – a modern wildlife park divided by continents, with themed zones and up-close encounters. A full day of fun guaranteed!
Seasonal Aquaparks – in Quesada and Torrevieja: slides, pools and chill-out zones.
Santuario Virgen de la Esperanza (Calasparra) – a peaceful riverside sanctuary carved into the rock, combining nature and tranquillity.
Basilica of Vera Cruz (Caravaca de la Cruz) – one of Christianity’s five holy cities, home to the relic of the True Cross.
TIP: The best way to explore is by car giving you the freedom to visit hard-to-reach coves and hidden beaches accessible only on foot or by boat!
