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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Spain

Iconic Landmarks

Benidorm's most famous sites blend its historical past with its modern, present. Each offers unique views and atmospheres.

These locations are central to the Benidorm experience, drawing visitors with their distinct character and accessibility.

Must-Visit Sites

  • Balcón del Mediterráneo: A prominent viewpoint with spectacular panoramic views. Historically, the site of Benidorm Castle.
  • Levante Beach: Benidorm's most famous and lively beach, over 2 kilometers of golden sand, backed by high-rise buildings and a bustling promenade.
  • Poniente Beach: The longest beach, stretching over 3 kilometers. A more tranquil and family-oriented atmosphere with a beautifully redeveloped modern promenade.
  • La Cruz de Benidorm (Cross of Benidorm): High in the Serra Gelada Natural Park, this viewpoint presents panoramic views of Benidorm's entire skyline.

Tips for Visiting Iconic Landmarks

Visiting the Balcón del Mediterráneo

  • Open 24/7. Entry is free. Accessible by walking through the Old Town.
  • Visit at sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views and photographic opportunities.
  • Awareness of crowds during peak hours, especially evenings. Early morning provides a quieter experience.
  • A popular spot for photographs.
  • Only remnants of the original Benidorm Castle walls remain.
  • The walk through the Old Town adds to the experience.

Beach Visit Information

  • Beaches are public and open 24/7. Access is free.
  • Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent.
  • Lifeguard services operate during the main season.
  • The promenades along both beaches are perfect for people-watching or leisurely strolls.

For more space on Levante, arrive early or late. Poniente is ideal for families and relaxation.

Less Crowded Times

  • Balcón del Mediterráneo: Early morning, just after sunrise, is the best time for photography and fewer people.
  • Beaches: Early morning (before 10 AM) or late afternoon (after 5 PM) present more space and quieter enjoyment.
  • La Cruz de Benidorm: Less crowded than the Balcón, offers truly breathtaking vistas, especially at sunset.
  • La Cruz: Reachable by local bus, taxi, or a relatively steep walk or drive.

Secret Viewpoints

  • La Cruz de Benidorm:

    Sits high in the Serra Gelada Natural Park. Panoramic views of Benidorm's entire skyline, both beaches, and the coastline. A fantastic sunset spot.

  • Puerta de Tierra:

    Remnants of Benidorm's old city walls near the Balcón del Mediterráneo. Offers a quiet moment to reflect on the town's past.

  • Elche Park's Small Waterfall:

    Within Parque de Elche, a peaceful waterfall and pond area for a tranquil escape, often overlooked by visitors.

  • Altea Old Town:

    A short tram ride away. Its charming white-washed houses and blue-domed church offer a scenic contrast to Benidorm's bustle.

  • Guadalest Valley:

    An inland area with its castle perched on a rock. Stunning mountain scenery and unique museums. A popular day trip destination.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

Benidorm features some cultural spaces, though it does not hold renown for extensive museums.

Major Museums

  • Museo Boca del Calvari (Benidorm Local Museum)

    Located in the heart of the Old Town. This small museum functions more as a cultural exhibition space than a traditional museum with a permanent collection.

  • Exhibition Focus

    It hosts temporary exhibitions that often focus on local history, art, photography, or cultural themes relevant to Benidorm. Exhibitions change periodically.

  • Visitor Information

    Opening hours vary depending on the exhibition schedule; check local listings or the Benidorm tourist information website. Entry is usually free. Often closed on Sundays and Mondays.

  • Specialized and Niche Museums

    Benidorm maintains limited specialized museums. For more extensive museum experiences, a day trip to Alicante city is advisable.

  • What to Expect

    Visitors seeking comprehensive art or historical collections typically find them in larger cities.

  • Travel Considerations

    Plan excursions to nearby cities for diverse museum visits.

Historical Sites

Explore Benidorm's past through its historical remnants and charming old quarter.

Old Town Casco Antiguo

The historic heart, featuring narrow, cobbled streets and traditional Spanish architecture. It gives a more authentic Spanish experience.

Religious Sites

The Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana stands in the Old Town, a peaceful sanctuary with historical roots.

Archaeological Sites and Ruins

The remains of the old Benidorm Castle sit on the promontory that now hosts the Balcón del Mediterráneo.

  • El Castell (The Castle): While only fragments of the walls and some foundational structures remain, the site provides a sense of the town's defensive past.
  • It functions more as a historical viewpoint than an archaeological excavation site.
  • This site is easily accessible and integrated into the popular Balcón del Mediterráneo area.

Natural Attractions

Beyond the beaches, Benidorm features parks and natural wonders for relaxation and exploration.

The diverse landscape offers a contrast between urban development and protected natural beauty.

Parks and Gardens

Benidorm features urban green spaces ideal for leisurely strolls and relaxation.

Parks

  • Parque de Elche (Dove Park): Located at the western end of Poniente Beach, known for its palm trees and pigeons. A peaceful spot with a small waterfall feature.
  • Parque de la Aigüera: A large, neoclassical urban park designed by Ricardo Bofill. It contains open-air auditoriums hosting concerts and events.
  • Both parks present pleasant green spaces for a walk, offering respite from the urban bustle.

Scenic Viewpoints and Geological Features

Benidorm's dramatic coastline and hills provide spectacular vistas.

Views

  • La Cruz de Benidorm: High on a hill within the Serra Gelada Natural Park, this cross offers comprehensive panoramic views of Benidorm's skyline and coastline, popular at sunset.
  • Serra Gelada Natural Park: A dramatic coastal mountain range featuring towering cliffs and rugged coastline. This represents a significant natural wonder with breathtaking views.
  • The dramatic cliffs and secluded coves within Serra Gelada Natural Park are prominent geological features, shaped by the sea and wind over millennia.

Wildlife Viewing Areas

Benidorm and its surroundings present opportunities for wildlife observation.

Locations

  • Isla de Benidorm: A protected island accessible by boat. Known for resident peacocks. Its rocky shores and surrounding waters are a protected marine reserve, good for snorkeling and diving.
  • Terra Natura Benidorm: An innovative "zoo-immersion" park where animals live in nearly invisible barriers. Offers close encounters with species from around the world.
  • Mundomar: A marine and exotic animal park specializing in marine mammals (dolphins, sea lions) and various exotic birds and primates. Features shows and interactive experiences.
  • Serra Gelada Natural Park: A diverse flora and fauna habitat. Birdwatchers might spot various sea birds, including Audouin's gull and European shags, especially along the cliffs.

Beaches, Lakes, and Waterways

Benidorm's coastal environment offers diverse aquatic spots.

Coastal Gems

  • Mal Pas Beach (Playa del Mal Pas): A smaller, quieter cove nestled between the Old Town and Poniente Beach. Its sheltered position makes for calm waters, ideal for a peaceful swim.
  • Almadraba Cove & Tío Ximo Cove: Smaller, more secluded coves at the far eastern end of Levante beach. They feature a more natural setting for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, with rocky areas and clearer waters.
  • These coves present a quieter alternative to the main, bustling beaches, ideal for those seeking tranquility.

Hidden Gems

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

  • Parque Natural de la Serra Gelada Lighthouse Walk: A rewarding and relatively easy hike to the Faro de l'Albir lighthouse. The paved path presents stunning coastal views.
  • Benidorm Indoor Market (Mercado Municipal): A daily hub for locals, a more authentic glimpse into daily life. Fresh produce, meats, fish, and local specialties.
  • This market displays local commerce and culture, often overlooked by visitors.

Local Favorites Rarely Visited by Tourists

  • Puerta de Tierra: Remnants of Benidorm's old city walls near the Balcón del Mediterráneo. Many visitors walk past them without realizing their historical significance.
  • Elche Park's Small Waterfall Feature: Within the larger Parque de Elche, a small, peaceful waterfall and pond area for a tranquil escape, often overlooked.
  • These spots deliver unique perspectives and quiet contemplation away from the crowds.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture the essence of Benidorm with these prime photography locations.

La Cruz de Benidorm Sunset

Offers arguably the most spectacular views of Benidorm's illuminated skyline at sunset.

Balcón del Mediterráneo

Presents a classic shot of both Benidorm bays, a postcard-perfect view.

Distant Skyline Shot

Capture the entire Benidorm skyline from a distance, perhaps from the road entering the city or from the hills of Serra Gelada.

Promenade Views

Poniente Beach Promenade

Its distinctive wave-like architecture provides interesting angles for photography, especially at sunset.

Levante Beach Promenade

Capture the lively atmosphere and the high-rise backdrop of Benidorm's famous beach.

Old Town Cobblestone Streets

Find charming, traditional Spanish architecture and narrow alleys for atmospheric shots.

Benidorm Island

The island's unique profile against the sea or the town skyline presents compelling compositions.

Local Life Moments

Capture candid moments of locals and visitors enjoying Benidorm's atmosphere.

Historical Districts & Architecture

Benidorm's Old Town displays the town's original fishing village charm.

Old Town Features

  • The area comprises a labyrinth of narrow, charming, cobbled streets winding up to the Balcón del Mediterráneo.
  • Architecture includes traditional white-washed houses, a sharp contrast to the modern high-rises.
  • You will find independent shops, traditional tapas bars, and an authentic Spanish ambiance here.

Religious & Spiritual Sites

A central spiritual landmark in Benidorm's Old Town.

Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana

  • This prominent blue-domed church sits in the Old Town, adjacent to the Balcón del Mediterráneo.
  • It dates back to the 18th century and dedication goes to Benidorm's patron saints.
  • The church interior is simple but beautiful, a peaceful sanctuary.
  • The church is open daily for visitors. Entry is free. Visitors dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered).

Additional Sightseeing Advice

Consider a boat trip to Benidorm Island. Regular excursions from the port, often featuring glass-bottom boat sections for underwater viewing. A fun way to see the protected marine reserve.

For tickets to attractions like theme parks or shows, consider booking through platforms like GetYourGuide.

Poniente Beach Highlights

Poniente Beach presents a wide expanse of sand and a modern promenade, ideal for leisurely walks and relaxation.

Features of Poniente

Poniente Beach stretches over 3 kilometers to the west, offering a distinct experience.

Relaxed Atmosphere

  • Offers a more tranquil and family-oriented atmosphere compared to Levante.
  • Its beautifully redeveloped promenade features a modern, wave-like architectural design.
  • The promenade provides a beautiful space for strolling and enjoying the coastal scenery.

Visitor Experience

Poniente Beach appeals to a diverse European and Spanish clientele, seeking a calmer atmosphere.

Benefits for Visitors

  • More tranquil environment.
  • Suitable for families due to its quieter nature.
  • Offers stunning sunset views.

Beach Attributes

Poniente Beach features wide sands and ample space for enjoyment.

Sand & Space

  • The beach is wide and less crowded than Levante.
  • Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent.
  • Lifeguard services are present during the main season.

Access to this public beach is free and open 24/7. Good bus connections connect it to other parts of the city.

Promenade Design

The promenade's modern design enhances the beach experience.

Architectural Highlight

  • The distinctive wave-like architecture provides an aesthetic appeal.
  • This design makes for interesting angles for photography.

A delightful area for a leisurely evening walk, offering beauty and tranquility.

Family & Leisure Focus

Poniente Beach caters well to families and those seeking relaxation.

Leisurely Pursuits

  • Its calmer atmosphere benefits families.
  • Offers a peaceful setting for sunbathing and swimming.
  • A good spot for quiet contemplation and enjoying the sea breeze.

The beach maintains cleanliness and safety, making it a preferred choice for many visitors.

Overall Experience

Accessibility

Easily reachable, with good public transport links to other parts of Benidorm.

Ambiance

A tranquil and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for a peaceful beach day.

Family Suitability

The calm waters and spacious sands are perfect for families with children.

Sightseeing Tip

Poniente Beach offers a wide expanse of sand and a modern promenade, ideal for leisurely walks.