{"id":179,"date":"2026-09-23T12:37:01","date_gmt":"2026-09-23T10:37:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alicanterunaway.com\/blog\/things-to-do-in-benidorm\/"},"modified":"2026-09-23T12:37:02","modified_gmt":"2026-09-23T10:37:02","slug":"things-to-do-in-benidorm","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alicanterunaway.com\/blog\/en\/things-to-do-in-benidorm\/","title":{"rendered":"Things to Do in Benidorm: Beaches, Old Town and Activities"},"content":{"rendered":"

Benidorm is much more than high-rise hotels and nightlife. The resort combines two long urban beaches, a former fishing quarter, Mediterranean viewpoints, small coves and a wide choice of activities for most of the year. This guide covers the best things to do in Benidorm on a first visit and shows how to plan your day without rushing from place to place.<\/p>\n

Explore Benidorm Old Town<\/h2>\n

The Old Town, between Levante and Poniente beaches, is the best place to begin. Its narrow streets feel very different from the modern resort. Walk up to the Church of Sant Jaume and Santa Anna, then continue to the Mirador del Castillo, often called the Balcony of the Mediterranean.<\/p>\n

Punta Canfali divides the two main bays and provides views in both directions. It is one of Benidorm’s most photographed spots and is particularly pleasant early in the morning or towards sunset, when the light is softer and temperatures are usually more comfortable.<\/p>\n

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The Mirador del Castillo between Levante and Poniente beaches.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Choose between Levante and Poniente beaches<\/h2>\n

Levante is the livelier and more instantly recognisable beach, backed by a promenade with caf\u00e9s, restaurants and services. Choose it if you enjoy a busy atmosphere and want everything close at hand. Poniente is longer and many sections feel more relaxed. Its seafront promenade is ideal for a long walk with uninterrupted skyline views.<\/p>\n

Small Mal Pas beach sits beside the Old Town, making it easy to combine sightseeing with a swim. For a more secluded setting, Cala del Tio Ximo and Cala Almadrava lie towards the Serra Gelada. Check access and sea conditions before setting out.<\/p>\n

See the Benidorm skyline from the sea<\/h2>\n

Benidorm looks completely different from the water. One flexible option is to start in Villajoyosa with a self-drive boat that does not require a licence<\/a>. The listing offers several rental durations and the chance to explore the Marina Baixa coast towards Benidorm Bay and the island, subject to sea conditions, navigation rules and availability.<\/p>\n

Before booking, check what the price includes, fuel arrangements, the security deposit, required identification and permitted navigation area. Never assume a particular route is guaranteed: the person in charge of the boat must follow the briefing and adapt the plan to the conditions.<\/p>\n

If you are comparing formats, our guide to boat trips in Alicante and the Costa Blanca<\/a> explains the differences between ferries, catamarans, shared excursions and private rentals.<\/p>\n

Walk in Serra Gelada and visit La Creu<\/h2>\n

Serra Gelada Natural Park rises at the northern end of Benidorm. The walk towards La Creu rewards you with one of the broadest views over the resort and coast. It involves a steady uphill climb, so take water, sun cream and comfortable walking shoes, particularly outside winter.<\/p>\n

For longer routes, check the itinerary, difficulty and weather beforehand. Avoid the middle of hot days and remain on authorised paths. The vegetation and cliffs belong to a protected natural area.<\/p>\n

Family attractions and easy-going days<\/h2>\n

Benidorm has water parks, theme parks and wildlife attractions nearby. Opening calendars, ticket conditions and timetables change during the year, so consult each attraction’s official website before travelling. For a simpler day, combine the beach with L’Aig\u00fcera Park and a walk through the centre.<\/p>\n

When travelling with children, allow time for breaks. A beach, the Old Town and one pre-booked activity usually make a more comfortable day than attempting several parks or towns at once.<\/p>\n

What to do in Benidorm in the evening<\/h2>\n

After sunset, the Old Town offers pedestrian streets and terraces, while Levante has the liveliest entertainment areas. For a quieter evening, walk along Poniente as the skyline lights up. The programme varies by season and day of the week, so check times and book ahead for a particular show or restaurant.<\/p>\n

Getting from Alicante to Benidorm<\/h2>\n

Benidorm is connected with Alicante by the TRAM network and coach services. If you use public transport, check the official journey planner on the day because timetables, engineering works and connections can change. Drivers should expect parking near Levante and the Old Town to be difficult during busy periods.<\/p>\n

For a day trip, decide where you will arrive and group nearby sights together. The Old Town, Mal Pas and Mirador del Castillo form one compact area; Levante, Serra Gelada and La Creu form another; Poniente works best for a long seafront walk and a relaxed meal.<\/p>\n

A one-day Benidorm itinerary<\/h2>\n
    \n
  • Morning:<\/strong> explore the Old Town, Church of Sant Jaume and Mirador del Castillo.<\/li>\n
  • Lunch:<\/strong> stop in the centre or beside one of the beaches without overfilling the schedule.<\/li>\n
  • Afternoon:<\/strong> swim and walk along Levante or Poniente, or enjoy a pre-booked sea activity.<\/li>\n
  • Sunset:<\/strong> return to the viewpoint, walk along Poniente or head to La Creu if time and conditions allow.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    With two days, devote one to the centre and beaches and the second to Serra Gelada, an attraction or a trip on the water.<\/p>\n

    Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n

    Is Benidorm worth visiting if I am not interested in nightlife?<\/h3>\n

    Yes. The Old Town, beaches, viewpoints, Serra Gelada and sea activities provide plenty to do for a trip focused on scenery, local character and the coast.<\/p>\n

    Which Benidorm beach is quieter?<\/h3>\n

    Poniente generally feels quieter than Levante, although crowds vary by section, time and season. Mal Pas is smaller and can fill quickly.<\/p>\n

    Can I visit Benidorm without a car?<\/h3>\n

    Yes. TRAM and coach services connect the resort with Alicante, and much of the centre, seafront and Old Town is walkable. Always check official timetables for your date.<\/p>\n

    How many days do I need in Benidorm?<\/h3>\n

    One day is enough for the Old Town, a viewpoint and a beach. Two days allow time for Serra Gelada, an attraction or a sea experience without rushing.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Discover the best things to do in Benidorm, from beaches and the Old Town to viewpoints, boat trips and practical tips for a day out from Alicante.\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":174,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-179","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-alicante-guides"],"aioseo_notices":[],"aioseo_head":"\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t