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Costa Blanca: Essential Information and Unforgettable Sceneries
21 07, 2025
The Costa Blanca, also known as the White Coast, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain. This region stretches for approximately 200 km along the Mediterranean coast in the province of Alicante, from the Gandia area to Torrevieja.
Tourists who choose the Costa Blanca have a wide range of options. Each resort has its own charm, suitable for all preferences. From vibrant and cosmopolitan cities, such as Alicante and Benidorm, to picturesque towns with a traditional charm, such as Moraira, located right on the seafront.
History
The Costa Blanca has a fascinating and rich history, illustrated by the numerous archaeological sites spread throughout the region, which attest to human presence since the Neolithic era.
Over time, this area has had major strategic importance and has been inhabited by numerous civilizations, such as the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Visigoths, Carthaginians and Moors. Each culture has left its mark on the region, contributing to its complex identity. Of all, the Roman and Moorish influences are the most visible and can still be found today in the architecture of the villages, in the historical monuments and in the cultural heritage of the Costa Blanca.
The natural environment
In the north of the region, mountains line up parallel to the coast, sometimes descending steeply into spectacular cliffs. In contrast, the southern part opens up into a vast plain, dotted with patches of fine sand, palm trees and salt pans that complete the scenery of the beaches.
The landscapes of the Costa Blanca are extremely varied, from valleys filled with orchards – which still bear the mark of Moorish influence – to the silhouettes of palm trees, of African origin, that dominate the horizon. Almond trees, vineyards, gardens and imposing palm trees give an oriental and picturesque air to the entire region.
Natural caves are hidden in the rocky slopes, accessible only by improvised ladders. These are known by the dramatic name of pesqueras de la muerte – “fishing grounds of death” – due to the dangerous conditions in which fishing was carried out in the past.
Towards the interior, travelers will discover, among the vineyards and fields, authentic examples of riu-rau – traditional dwellings characterized by an arcaded front, which served as a source of inspiration for many of the modern villas built in the area.
Towns and villages of the Costa Blanca
Denia is a cosmopolitan and charming town located along the Mediterranean coast, where the sun shines almost all year round. The mild climate, the long beaches with fine sand and the rocky coves over a length of 20 km make Denia an ideal holiday destination.
Benissa is located in the north of the Costa Blanca, close to the A-7 motorway, just over an hour's drive from Alicante airport. Between Calpe and Moraira, the coast offers a succession of quiet coves, with a spectacular landscape dominated by imposing cliffs and high mountains.
Javea is a small and historic town, without high-rise buildings, which offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. The clear, warm waters of the Mediterranean embrace the beaches and coves of the town, and the locals are known for their hospitality.
Moraira is a pretty coastal resort set in a picturesque mountainous area in the north-east of the region. Conveniently located between Alicante and Valencia airports, Moraira offers unspoilt natural scenery and a calm atmosphere, perfect for exploring the nearby villages.
Calpe, once a small fishing village, is now a popular tourist destination, located in the heart of the Costa Blanca in the Valencia region. Easily accessible from the A7 motorway and the N332 national road, the town is around an hour from Alicante airport and attracts visitors with its beaches and famous natural landmark, the Peñón de Ifach.
Benidorm, located in the heart of the La Marina Baixa region, is one of the most popular tourist resorts in Spain. Its excellent beaches, variety of hotels and restaurants, and numerous leisure activities make it a favourite choice for tourists from all over Europe.
Alicante, centrally located on the Mediterranean coast, is a vibrant city with a long maritime history. The promenade along the quay, decorated with marble in shades of red, cream and black, evokes the waves of the Mediterranean and offers a pleasant experience for strolls under the shade of palm trees.
Torrevieja is located about 40 minutes south of Alicante airport. Although it is not a typical tourist package resort, the city is very popular with Spaniards who spend their summer holidays here. The surroundings consist of modern urbanisations, with swimming pools and gardens, and the beaches with fine sand and crystal clear waters are truly spectacular.
Santa Pola is a small fishing port just 20 minutes south of Alicante airport. Famous for its variety of landscapes – from remote mountains to wild dunes – the city retains the authentic charm of the region.
Guardamar del Segura has a population of just over 11,000 and has played a strategic role throughout history as the guardian of the Segura River. Situated on a hill overlooking the Vega Baja, the town has been inhabited by various cultures, attracted by its favourable location.
Orihuela, the capital of the region of the same name, stretches from the coast to the interior of the peninsula. It is an important administrative centre that includes picturesque villages, three golf courses, two marinas and the popular beaches of La Zenia and Dehesa de Campoamor, alongside vast agricultural lands.
Climate
The Costa Blanca benefits from a pleasant Mediterranean climate, characterised by mild, wet winters and warm, sunny summers. Due to its south-easterly orientation, the region enjoys a mild and stable microclimate, with many sunny days throughout the year.
Average daily temperatures range from around 12°C in the winter months (January and February) to around 26°C in the hottest summer months (July and August). Even in winter, there is no shortage of sunny days, and daytime temperatures can frequently exceed 20°C. Episodes of intense cold are rare, and minimum temperatures rarely drop below freezing. Snowfall is practically non-existent, with the lowest recorded values reaching around -4°C.
In summer, the climate is warm, but generally bearable thanks to the sea breeze. However, during the heatwave, temperatures can rise to 38–40°C.
Precipitation is low, with an annual average of less than 300 mm, which gives the area an arid appearance. Rainfall follows the classic Mediterranean pattern, being concentrated mainly in the autumn and winter months (from September to March). During the summer, rain is rare. Although rainy days are few, sometimes intense showers can occur in a short time, which can lead to local flooding.
Activity
Along the Costa Blanca, you will discover a wealth of attractions: spectacular beaches, interesting museums, historical monuments, charming old urban centers and impressive natural parks. The combination of sea and mountains provides the perfect setting for a relaxing or active holiday, ideal for the whole family.
But the Costa Blanca is much more than just beaches. Almost every village or town is home to traditional street markets, where locals and visitors can discover local products, crafts, souvenirs or just enjoy the lively atmosphere. Every day of the week, a market takes place in a different town, giving you the opportunity to explore and enjoy the authentic rhythm of the region.
Another defining aspect of the area is its many festivals and traditional celebrations. The most famous are the “Moors and Christians” parades, impressive historical spectacles held in many towns, some of which are recognized as events of regional or national interest. Likewise, the Holy Week Processions are moments of profound religious significance, where participants, dressed in traditional clothes, carry holy icons on sumptuous thrones, in a solemn and emotional atmosphere.
In addition, the Costa Blanca offers a wide range of recreational activities: modern golf courses, water sports, cruises and plenty of shopping centers for shopping enthusiasts. Whatever your preferences, this region has something to offer every visitor.
Cuisine
The cuisine of the Costa Blanca, like that of the entire eastern coast of Spain, is centered around rice. The region is also known for its agriculture, especially the cultivation of vegetables and legumes, which play an essential role in the traditional dishes of the province of Alicante.
A visit to the Costa Blanca also means a special culinary excursion, where you can discover over 300 local rice-based recipes. Whether cooked in soup, in a dry or more creamy version, with vegetables, fish, seafood or meat, rice is the star of the local gastronomy, each dish having a distinct flavor.
Another strong point of the regional cuisine is the fresh fish and seafood, available in abundance in the local markets. Mediterranean red shrimps, lobsters, crayfish, squid and mussels are just some of the delicious ingredients that are frequently found in traditional dishes, especially those based on rice.
The combination of fresh local produce, Mediterranean influences and recipes handed down from generation to generation makes the Costa Blanca an ideal destination for lovers of authentic gastronomy.
The Costa Blanca is much more than a holiday destination — it is a complete experience that combines sun, sea, history, traditions and gastronomy in a unique way. From spectacular landscapes alternating between golden beaches and rocky mountains, to vibrant cities and villages with authentic charm, every corner of this region promises memorable discoveries.
Whether you come to discover the Mediterranean charm or to take advantage of the real estate potential, the Costa Blanca awaits you with real opportunities and the promise of a high standard of living.