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11 Best Things to Do in Benidorm: Beaches, Views, and More

ByTina Riegelnegg Updated on
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Benidorm is a city in Spain like no other. Its skyscrapers give it a cosmopolitan vibe, even more so than Madrid in some places. With countless souvenir shops and British fish and chip spots, it also feels like the least Spanish city I’ve ever visited in Spain.

I visited this unique city on a day trip filled with all the best things to do in Benidorm and while I didn’t do all the things this list myself, rest assured that I’ve done my research to bring you the ultimate guide.

1. Find Your Favourite Beach

A secluded cove in Benidorm, Spain, surrounded by rocky cliffs and natural vegetation with a lot of green bushes in the front of the picture. The crystal-clear waters and a few beachgoers enjoying the serene atmosphere make this one of Benidorm's hidden beach gems.
Cala Tio Ximo is a stunning and remote beach

My favorite part about Benidorm is its stunning beaches. While Levante Beach was a bit too crowded for me, I loved the more remote spots like Cala Tio Ximo. The water is crystal clear, and the surroundings are just beautiful.

Find your favorite beach in Benidorm and enjoy relaxing, swimming, snorkeling, or whatever you like. Here’s a guide to the beaches in Benidorm to help you choose the right one.

For a really quiet sandy beach, I recommend a day trip to Villajoyosa. Relaxing on the quiet beaches in this beautiful coastal town is just one of the great things to do in Villajoyosa.

2. Do Some Water Sports

Levante Beach and Poniente Beach offer a variety of water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. These activities are perfect for those looking for some excitement and adventure on their trip.

At Levante Beach, you can even try cable skiing, which is like water skiing or wakeboarding, but instead of a boat, you’re pulled by a cable lift.

There are ticket booths at the beach selling different water activities where you can buy your tickets or you can buy them online beforehand to make sure you get a spot.

🌊 Book your jet ski tour right now!

3. Take a Tour to the Benidorm Island

Benidorm Island, also known as “Isla de los Periodistas” (Island of Journalists), is a small island located just off the coast of Benidorm. It’s accessible by boat from Benidorm harbour.

On the island, you can explore its flora and fauna, and enjoy some beautiful views of Benidorm.

You can buy the tickets for the boat tour right at the harbour.

4. Soak in the Stunning Views at Balcón del Mediterráneo

A square with arches around it and a checkers floor, you can also see a blue sky over the square.
Balcón del Mediterráneo
People walking down some steps to a platform just above sea level. It's one of the best attractions in Benidorm Spain
One of the most picturesque spots in Benidorm

Balcón del Mediterráneo is a viewing point located between Levante and Poniente beaches, right at the end of Benidorm’s old town. It’s a great spot to take in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city.

Don’t miss the view of the blue domed roof of the Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Ana right next to the anchor statue.

If you love this church, be sure to visit Altea, just a 20-minute drive from Benidorm. It’s one of the most picturesque towns in Spain, with its main attraction being the stunning blue domed church.

5. Explore the Old Town

A narrow street in the old town of Benidorm, the buildings on both sides have an orangy colour. Exploring the old town is one of the best things to do in Benidorm Spain.
Wander through the narrow streets of Benidorm’s old town

Speaking of Benidorm’s old town, it’s definitely worth strolling through its narrow streets and soaking in the charming atmosphere.

However, Benidorm isn’t worth visiting solely for its old town. There are more charming old towns in Spain, like Guadalest, easily accessible on a day trip from Benidorm.

Still, it’s worth taking a stroll through the old town while you’re in the city.

6. Rest in the Shade of a Tree at Parc d’Elx

A sunny pathway lined with tall palm trees in Benidorm, Spain. The walkway is bordered by circular planters filled with greenery, leading towards a view of modern buildings in the background. This serene spot is one of the things to do in Benidorm for a relaxing stroll.
Rest in the shades of the palm trees

If you need a break from the sun and the beach, head to Parc d’Elx. This park is located right next to Poniente Beach. You can sit down and relax in the shade of palm trees.

It’s also great for families with kids as there are playgrounds and activities for them in the evening, during the day some of them are closed.

At the end of Parc d’Elx is the pigeons fountain, where countless pigeons fly around and a drinks stall sells pigeon food. If you’ve ever wanted photos with pigeons, here’s your chance!

7. Shop at the Weekly Market

Market stalls selling clothes, people strolling through the market and in the back you can see some skyscrapers.
The market is on twice a week

Every Wednesday and Sunday morning there’s a big market in Benidorm where you can find all sorts of things, from clothes and accessories to fresh produce and souvenirs.

Strolling through the busy market is a must-do activity in Benidorm, especially if it’s your first time at a Spanish market. It offers a unique atmosphere, though quite similar to other weekly markets in Spain.

Tip: You can find the market under MERCADILLO DE LOS DOMINGOS on Google maps.

8. See a Show at Benidorm Palace

If you’re looking for some evening entertainment in Benidorm, Benidorm Palace is the place to go. It’s an event venue with seasonally changing shows.

You can either just watch the show or combine it with some tapas or dinner and wine. There are a few menus available, including a vegetarian option, but unfortunately, they don’t offer any vegan dishes.

Just make sure to book your tickets in advance to get the best seat available.

🤩 Book your show right now!

9. Visit a Theme Park

5 signs about theme parks near Benidorm
You see advertisement of the theme parks all over the city

The best thing to do in Benidorm with kids is to visit a theme park or water park. There’s a great selection just outside the city. Here are the top ones:

  • Terra Mítica: A theme park based on ancient civilizations such as Greece, Egypt, and Rome.
  • Aqualandia: A water park with plenty of slides and pools.

While there are also many parks with animals in Benidorm, such as Mundomar, I have concerns for animal welfare and therefore don’t recommend visiting those attractions.

🤩 Book your ticket for the Terra Mítica amusement park!

10. Party All Night Long

The outside of a pub in Benidorm, if you love to party, you should answer the question "Is Benidorm worth visiting?"
There are plenty of pubs and bars in Benidorm

Benidorm is known for its vibrant nightlife with countless bars, pubs, and clubs. So if you’re looking to party all night long, this city won’t disappoint you.

The most popular area for nightlife is Calle Gerona in the New Town, near Levante Beach, where you can find a variety of bars and clubs open until the early hours of the morning.

11. Take a Day Trip

If you have extra time in Benidorm, consider a day trip to explore the surrounding areas. This will let you experience more of the beautiful Costa Blanca region and its unique culture and landscapes.

Some popular destinations for day trips from Benidorm include:

  • Altea: A picturesque town known for its blue domed church and charming streets.
  • Guadalest: A tiny village built on a rocky outcrop with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Dénia: A coastal town with a castle, beaches, and great restaurants.
  • Alicante: The capital of the province with a beautiful old town and castle is worth a visit.
  • Villajosa: A small town with a beautiful sandy beach and colorful houses.
  • Calpe: Another coastal town known for its iconic rock formations and sandy beaches.

🤩 This epic day tour to Guadalest and Algar Waterfalls combines culture with fun!

Final Thoughts: What to Do in Benidorm

Benidorm offers beautiful beaches, exciting activities, and vibrant nightlife. If you’re unsure whether this Costa Blanca city is right for you, read my post on whether Benidorm is worth visiting. It’s a popular tourist destination for a reason, but it may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

If you do decide to visit Benidorm, use this list as your guide to experiencing the best of what the city has to offer.

If you think it’s not the right fit, check out my guide to the best cities on the Costa Blanca instead.

Read more about Costa Blanca:

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A vibrant aerial view of a crowded beach in Benidorm, Costa Blanca, Spain, with the city skyline and mountains in the background. Text overlay reads 'Best Things to Do Benidorm Costa Blanca, Spain.'
Best Places to Visit in Benidorm

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Tina Riegelnegg is the founder of Veganderlust. She's a vegan with wanderlust, who shares tips and stories from her travels to 31 countries as a vegan minimalist. After 2.5 years of full-time travel with just a personal item-sized bag, she’s now based in Vienna, helping fellow travelers explore the world with ease and compassion.

Tina Riegelnegg

Tina Riegelnegg is the founder of Veganderlust. She's a vegan with wanderlust, who shares tips and stories from her travels to 31 countries as a vegan minimalist. After 2.5 years of full-time travel with just a personal item-sized bag, she’s now based in Vienna, helping fellow travelers explore the world with ease and compassion.