Alicante, the sun-soaked jewel of the Costa Blanca, is home to a diverse coastline with everything from long, golden beaches to hidden rocky coves. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly Blue Flag beach, a local secret, or a spot for water sports, Alicante has it all.
Here’s your complete guide to all Alicante beaches, from the bustling city sands to the quiet natural escapes.
Quick Overview of Alicante Beaches
✅ Urban beaches close to the city center
✅ Family-friendly options with calm waters
✅ Hidden coves for snorkeling & naturism
✅ Dog-friendly beaches for your furry friends
✅ Natural dune beaches away from crowds
Let’s explore them one by one!
1. Playa del Postiguet
The heart of Alicante’s beach life.
Located right below Santa Bárbara Castle, this urban beach is perfect if you want easy access, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. It’s popular with both locals and tourists and offers Blue Flag waters, playgrounds, and a beautiful promenade.
👉 Read the full guide: Playa del Postiguet
2. Playa de San Juan
The most famous and largest beach in Alicante.
With 7 km of fine golden sand, it’s ideal for families, sports lovers, and anyone who wants plenty of space. Restaurants, chiringuitos, and beach clubs line the promenade, making it a perfect full-day destination.
👉 Read the full guide: Playa de San Juan
3. Playa del Cocó
A small, cozy city beach.
Next to Postiguet, Cocó Beach is more relaxed, with a local vibe. It’s great for a quick swim or a calm sunset. Easy to reach, and less crowded than the main urban beach.
👉 Read the full guide: Playa del Cocó
4. Playa de San Gabriel
Quiet southern retreat.
Located near the fishing district, San Gabriel offers calm waters and a simple promenade. A true local beach, perfect for a peaceful swim.
👉 Read the full guide: Playa de San Gabriel
5. Playa de la Albufereta
Family-friendly with history.
Calm waters, easy access, and Roman history nearby (Lucentum ruins). A great spot for families and locals who want a quieter option than San Juan.
👉 Read the full guide: Playa de la Albufereta
6. Playa del Saladar – Urbanova
Natural dunes and peaceful vibes.
Stretching for over 5 km, this beach south of Alicante is ideal for nature lovers, couples, and anyone seeking a quieter, semi-wild coastal escape.
👉 Read the full guide: Playa del Saladar – Urbanova
7. Playa de Agua Amarga
Alicante’s dog-friendly beach.
Perfect for visitors traveling with pets. It has pet showers, a dog play area, and is designed so your furry friend can enjoy the Mediterranean too.
👉 Read the full guide: Playa de Agua Amarga
8. Calas del Cabo de la Huerta
Rocky coves for snorkeling & naturism.
These hidden coves between San Juan and Albufereta are popular with snorkelers and naturists. Stunning crystal-clear waters and rocky landscapes.
👉 Read the full guide: Cabo de la Huerta Coves
9. Playa de la Almadraba
A small, calm bay.
Nestled between San Juan and Cabo de la Huerta, Almadraba is a protected bay with calm waters – perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking.
👉 Read the full guide: Playa de la Almadraba
10. Playa de Muchavista
Endless beach next to Alicante.
Technically in El Campello, but directly connected to San Juan. Muchavista is huge, spacious, and perfect for water sports like windsurfing or paddleboarding.
👉 Read the full guide: Playa de Muchavista
Which Alicante Beach Should You Choose?
- For families: Postiguet, San Juan, Albufereta, Almadraba
- For peace & nature: Saladar–Urbanova, Cabo de la Huerta coves
- For pets: Agua Amarga
- For sports: San Juan, Muchavista
- For snorkeling: Cabo de la Huerta coves
- For pure local vibes: San Gabriel
FAQs about Alicante Beaches
Are Alicante beaches free?
Yes, all are public and free to access.
Which beach is closest to the city center?
Playa del Postiguet is right in the city, below the castle.
Do Alicante beaches have lifeguards?
Yes, the main Blue Flag beaches (Postiguet, San Juan, Albufereta, Urbanova) have lifeguards in summer.
Can you do water sports?
Yes! San Juan and Muchavista are great for paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing.
Are there nudist beaches?
Yes, Cabo de la Huerta coves are popular with naturists.
Final Thoughts
Alicante’s coastline offers something for everyone – from lively city beaches to quiet natural dunes and hidden rocky coves. Whether you want family fun, a romantic escape, or an active day with water sports, you’ll find the perfect spot.
For deeper info, check out the detailed guides to each beach above and plan your perfect Alicante beach day!
