The best beaches on the coast – living the dream
The Costa Blanca North is an exceptionally popular destination for many reasons for both holiday makers and an idyllic location to live all year around for those fortunate enough to be able to work remotely or be retired.
Quite often friends and family living in northern Europe will say we are living the dream which is probably true. The Marina Alta in particular has much to offer compared to other alternatives on the coast of the med.
Aside from the convenient location, halfway between two large, attractive cites, Alicante and Valencia are both about an hour drive away with international airports and the facilities you would expect in modern European cities including the wonderful Science Museum, Aquarium, Zoos, water parks and shopping, there are no shortage of activities. Both Alicante and Valencia do not disappoint.
Denia, Javea and Moraira are the closest mainland points to Ibiza, famous worldwide for the beaches, the mainland beaches are of a comparable quality and the weather is also similar.
Unlike Ibiza, the Marina Alta has a low cost of living, is not very seasonal and is not isolated.
Driving south of Calpe there is a marked difference in the landscape, you will notice the land becomes more arid and there are few forested areas. Temperatures also get higher and perhaps more uncomfortable in summer months. Driving north of Valencia the mountains are still lush and the beaches are very pretty, but the winter months get much colder and the sea never really gets warm enough in summer to not give you a sharp intake of breath.
This places the Marina Alta as the Goldie Locks location: It’s not too cold, it’s not too hot. It’s just about right.
Aside from the incredible hiking in the national parks and pretty towns and villages with amazing restaurants and plentiful facilities, there are dozens and dozens of beaches to choose from here and most people choose their favorite based on what they like to do at the beach. Swimmer and Snorklers would likely prefer La Granadella, Les Rotes or the Portichol over the Arenal or Las Marinas.
Las Marinas in the summer is a welcome relief in the peak summer months where smaller beaches become very busy. The endless sandy beaches and dunes of Las Marinas allow plenty of space for even in peak months.
The Arenal is popular with young families as the children can play on the beach, slides and climbing frames all within sight of the parents enjoying a drink and a bite to eat at one of the many exceptionally good restaurants and bars along the promenade.
The Marina Alta is a popular hub for sailing and has one of the largest number of sailboats on the coast of Spain. A little-known fact is that our coastline has some of the largest sea caves along the coast of Spain, all of which are best explored with Kayaks as power boats are prohibited from getting too close to these protected areas.
Power boats and jet skis are a superb way to explore a large part of the coast and allows an unforgettable opportunity to explore otherwise unaccesable coves with crystal clear turquoise waters. It offers unique chances to have some of the best picnicks ever and some stunning snorkeling.
To rent a small powerboat or jet ski in Spain you are required to pass a test and show your capability to control the boat. We can recommend good sailing schools that will suggest a suitable course based on your experience.
Some prefer to remain on land with their feet firmly on terra firma which is also not an issue as there are a huge selection of award-winning beaches on the Marina Alta that appeal to all types from those who prefer solitude and good book, families or adventurous thrill seekers.