Summer is finally here, and we are all craving the beach, a cold drink in the sun, and a chance to unwind. If you are looking for the perfect spot for a weekend getaway, Alicante and its Costa Blanca have so much to offer away from the typical spots.
From DoYouSpain we have put together this guide with 3 summer weekend getaways around Alicante, packed with tips and recommendations. Grab your suncream, your water shoes, and your driving licence, and get ready to hit the road!
Javea is a massive summer favourite, and it is easy to see why. It is a really versatile spot that works for any kind of trip. Perfect whether you want the quiet vibes of June and September or the lively buzz of July and August. Plus, the beaches look like they belong in the Caribbean.
As soon as you pick up your hire car, head straight to La Siesta for breakfast right by the sea. Once you are fueled up, go for a wander through the beautiful historic centre. If you are looking to travel around Spain on a budget this summer, joining a free tour is a brilliant idea. You will get to see the fortress-church of San Bartolomé, the town hall, and the prettiest little corners of the town without overspending. Just make sure to stop by Bar Mercat for a quick drink and a snack before you leave.
Wondering where to park in the centre of Javea? The town centre has underground car parks as well as a really handy blue zone, which runs from Monday to Sunday (including bank holidays) from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm during the summer. If you want free parking, leave the car just outside the town centre, it is only a short walk and saves you buying a ticket.
If you enjoy the outdoors, hiking up the Montgo mountain is an absolute must for incredible views right across the coast.
When evening comes around, dive into the famous Spanish 'tardeo', the local pre-dinner drinks scene, at spots like La Terreta or Cala Clemence for a drink by the water. For dinner, book a table at Cala Bandida, which serves fresh local food with spectacular views.
To get the absolute most out of the sea, we recommend hiring a kayak so you can explore the hidden coves right from the water.
Here are the spots you cannot miss:
Cala del Portitxol: The most famous beach in Javea, known for its iconic white and blue fisherman houses. The water here is crystal clear and perfect for snorkelling (remember your water shoes!).
Playa del Arenal: With its calm waters, busy promenade, and plenty of facilities, this one is perfect for families.
Cala Sardinera: The path down to this one is a bit hidden, so make sure to pop the GPS on in your hire car.
Public transport does not reach most of these beaches and coves, making a car essential. Hiring a car in Javea with DoYouSpain is the easiest way to explore at your own pace without worrying about timetables.
If you want a weekend getaway that truly surprises you, Tabarca Island is the place to go. It is definitely not your average beach destination. With barely 50 local residents, it is the perfect spot to completely switch off.
The only way to get there is by ferry from Alicante (45 minutes) or Santa Pola (20 minutes), with return tickets costing between €8 and €13.
Cars are not allowed on the island. The best plan is to hire a car in Alicante with DoYouSpain to get to the port easily, leave it in the car park, and have it ready for the rest of your trip.
When it comes to planning your trip to Tabarca, you have two great ways to do it:
Stay in Alicante or Santa Pola: This is the most budget-friendly choice if you are booking accommodation last minute. You can just spend the day on the island and catch the last ferry back.
Stay overnight on Tabarca: There are a few hotels and apartments if you want the full experience, though you will need to book well in advance as they are in high demand.
Take a stroll through the old town, passing through the Levante Gate, walk along the fortress walls, and check out the Church of San Pedro, the local shops, and the Tabarca Lighthouse. If you want to learn about the island’s past, entry to the Nueva Tabarca Museum is completely free.
Once the last boat leaves for Alicante, those staying on the island get to enjoy an incredible sunset before sitting down to dinner for the local star dish: caldero tabarquino (a traditional fish and rice stew). Here are our favourite restaurants to try it:
Don Jeronimo
Restaurante Amparin
Restaurante Casa Gloria
To finish off the evening, grab a drink at the Isla Bonita beach bar or Taberna Engañosa (which stay open a bit later than the restaurants). Just keep in mind that Tabarca is not the place to go if you are looking to party late.
A lot of people visit the island purely for snorkeling. Because it is a protected Marine Reserve, the crystal-clear waters are full of life; you will see tons of fish right by the shore and some amazing underwater vegetation.
It is also brilliant for families because the water is calm and safe, with lifeguards on duty during high season.
Named one of the most beautiful towns in Spain by National Geographic, it looks exactly like a classic Mediterranean postcard: white houses, a maze of streets with blue details, and incredible views of the sea.
When you get to Altea, spend your first day wandering through the old town. You will run into balconies filled with flowers, art everywhere, and loads of independent shops selling handmade clothes and pottery. While you are exploring, you can't miss Calle San Miguel, it is the town's most famous street and has the best atmosphere.
As you walk through the historic centre, head up towards the top of the hill to check out the Portal Vell viewpoint and discover the Church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo. Take your time hanging around up there, because you’re bound to fall in love with the endless views across the Mediterranean.
Hiring a car in Alicante gives you the freedom to explore away from the tourist areas. To finish your day on a high, make the most of having a car and head to these three hidden gems just outside the town, all less than 20 minutes from the old town:
The Garden of the Senses (El Jardín de los Sentidos): A wild, tucked-away garden with fish ponds, perfect for relaxing with a cup of tea right in the middle of nature. It is also a great choice if you are looking for an authentic place to stay during your weekend getaway in Altea.
The Russian Orthodox Church: The very first one built in Spain. It is located in Altea Hills and is a great stop on your drive.
Enrique Mendoza Winery: A brilliant plan if you are travelling as a couple, fancy doing something a bit different for the afternoon, and want to try the best local wines.
You can't leave Altea without checking out its coastline, so day two is all about getting your swimming costume on. Your hire car will be your best friend again, as public transport doesn’t reach these hidden coves.
Here are the spots you need to save for the best crystal-clear waters:
Playa de l’Olla: Quiet and perfect for switching off, with lovely views of its own tiny island.
Playa de la Roda: Really easy to get to, close to the town centre, and has all the facilities you need. We highly recommend booking a table for lunch at Olla de los 6 Caprichos.
Playa de Mascarat: Ideal for snorkelling and exploring the nearby underwater caves.
Extra trip: Drive about 40 minutes up into the mountains to discover Guadalest, a stunning medieval village. Once there, you can visit its museums, enjoy the hiking trails, or head over to the Fonts de l'Algar to take a dip in the natural pools and waterfalls.
Whether you are getting around the town centres, hopping between hidden coves, or making sure you catch the ferry to Tabarca on time, having a hire car is the easiest way to get things done comfortably and hassle-free during your weekend getaway in Alicante this summer.
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