[2025 Alicante Attraction] Travel Guide for Explanada de España (Updated Mar)

#beachtime Alicante, located on Spain's southeastern coast, is a popular destination for beach lovers and travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure. Here are some travel notes for a trip to Alicante Beach: ### 1. **Beaches** - **Postiguet Beach**: Right next to the city center, this urban beach is ideal for those who want to enjoy the sand and sea without leaving the city. It’s equipped with facilities like sunbeds, showers, and restaurants. - **San Juan Beach**: About 7 km from the city center, San Juan is one of Alicante's most famous beaches, offering wide sandy areas, clear water, and a variety of beach bars (chiringuitos). - **Albufereta Beach**: A quieter spot compared to the other beaches, this small cove is great for relaxing with a peaceful view. - **Cabo de las Huertas**: Known for its crystal-clear waters and rocky coves, this area is perfect for snorkeling and swimming. ### 2. **Things to Do** - **Alicante Castle (Castillo de Santa Bárbara)**: A must-see historical site offering breathtaking views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. You can hike or take an elevator up to the top. - **Explanada de España**: This palm-lined promenade is perfect for a stroll by the beach, lined with cafes and boutiques. - **La Rambla**: Explore the lively street with local shops, restaurants, and cafés. - **Water Sports**: Alicante’s beaches offer opportunities for activities like windsurfing, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and more. ### 3. **Food & Drink** - **Seafood**: Alicante is known for its fresh seafood. Try local dishes such as **arroz a banda** (a rice dish cooked with fish) and **caldereta de langosta** (lobster stew). - **Tapas**: A variety of tapas bars are scattered around the city offering traditional Spanish bites. - **Chiringuitos**: Beachside bars serve refreshing cocktails and snacks with a great view of the sea. ### 4. **Best Time to Visit** - **Summer (June-August)**: Alicante is lively, with festivals, beach activities, and events. However, it can be hot and crowded. - **Spring and Autumn**: The weather is pleasant (mild temperatures), and it’s a good time for outdoor activities, including beach trips, without the peak season crowds. ### 5. **Getting Around** - **Public Transport**: Alicante has an excellent public transport network, including buses and trams, which will easily take you to the beaches. - **Walking**: The city is quite walkable, and you can explore most areas, including beaches, on foot. - **Bikes and Scooters**: Rent a bike or electric scooter to explore the city and nearby areas along the coast. ### 6. **Nearby Attractions** - **Tabarca Island**: A short boat ride from Alicante, this island offers beautiful beaches, clear waters, and a charming village. - **Guadalest Valley**: A picturesque mountain village and reservoir about an hour’s drive from Alicante, offering spectacular views and historical sites. - **Hiking**: The surrounding mountains provide opportunities for nature lovers to hike and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. Enjoy your trip to Alicante, combining beach relaxation with rich history and lively Mediterranean vibes!

#2024mapped Nestled on Spain’s Costa Blanca, Alicante is a city that combines the charm of a Mediterranean beach town with the vibrancy of urban life. Here’s a brief exploration of its highlights, perfect for a short getaway. **1. Santa Bárbara Castle** Perched atop Mount Benacantil, this iconic fortress offers panoramic views of Alicante and the azure Mediterranean Sea. Dating back to the 9th century, it’s a must-visit for history buffs and those seeking a bird’s-eye view of the city. The hike up is rewarding, but there’s also an elevator for convenience. **2. Explanada de España** This palm-lined promenade is a visual delight with its wavy mosaic tiles. It’s perfect for an evening stroll, offering a laid-back atmosphere filled with street performers, craft stalls, and open-air cafés. **3. Postiguet Beach** Alicante’s urban beach is a sandy haven just steps from the city center. Whether sunbathing, swimming, or people-watching, it’s a wonderful spot to unwind. Nearby bars and restaurants serve fresh seafood and refreshing drinks. **4. Barrio Santa Cruz** The old town’s narrow streets are alive with color, featuring whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant flowers. It’s a picturesque area to explore, especially in the evenings when the streets are illuminated, and the atmosphere becomes magical. **5. Mercado Central** This bustling market is a food lover’s paradise, offering fresh produce, seafood, cured meats, and regional delicacies. Sampling local treats like turrón (nougat) is a must! **6. Tabarca Island** A short ferry ride from Alicante’s marina takes you to Tabarca, a tiny island with crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Its quaint streets and seafood restaurants make it a delightful day trip. **Tips for Travelers** - Best time to visit: Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds. - Transport: The tram system is efficient for exploring nearby towns like Benidorm and Altea. - Cuisine: Don’t miss arroz a banda, a rice dish similar to paella but cooked with fish stock for a richer flavor. Alicante’s blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty makes it a destination worth savoring. Whether you’re an adventurer, a foodie, or a sunseeker, this Mediterranean gem won’t disappoint.

Beautiful, quiet, and some great flight deals around to get you there!