Sun, sea, mountains, culture and cuisine — yep, the Costa Blanca really does have it all. But what makes this stretch of Mediterranean coastline truly special is that it’s a destination that works all year round. From the buzzing streets of Alicante to traditional towns like Altea, there’s something for every holiday-seeker. Get ready to be welcomed with open arms... 

A year-round destination  

With its sun-drenched summers and balmy winters, the Costa Blanca’s got that all-season appeal that keeps people coming back time after time. Whether it’s February or August, strolls along the beach and al fresco dining are still firmly on the cards – just maybe with a light jacket rather than your flip-flops! Meanwhile, the coastal towns keep their buzz, with seafront cafés open, markets in full swing and locals enjoying the day-to-day, no matter the month. If the time’s right, you might even catch one of the local festivals, like the Bonfires of San Juan, which is hosted in June. Fireworks light up the sky, while the historic centre of Alicante comes alive with a medieval market and a range of shows. 

The beating heart of the Costa Blanca 

Over in cosmopolitan Alicante, the heart and soul of the Costa Blanca really comes alive with cultural attractions, buzzy bars and bags of culture. In the streets of the Old Town, colourful squares give way to sunlit terraces, with cafés serving aromatic coffee and meat-stuffed bocadillos. Fancy a spot of history? Santa Bárbara Castle watches over the city from its hilltop perch, offering views that never fail to make you pause for a photo. Even in the cooler months, Alicante hums with winter festivals and local markets that keep the vibes going. 

The best of the coast  

The Costa Blanca’s coastline is its crowning jewel! Think golden beaches, hidden coves and sparkling blue waters that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Levante Beach in Benidorm is a firm favourite, thanks to its exciting water sports and nearby bars and restaurants. If you’re staying in Calpe, Playa de la Fossa is a huge hit, boasting Blue Flag status and a gentle slope into the water, making it perfect for pint-sized paddlers. If you’re after more of a go-slow day on the sand, make a beeline for Albir or Moraira, where sunshine days tick by at a slightly slower pace.  

Beyond the beach 

While the coastline often steals the show, there’s so much more to the Costa Blanca beyond its beaches. Villages like Guadalest are chock-full of character, with a warren of whitewashed houses, a Moorish church and views of the turquoise reservoir below. And the best bit? It’s only a 30-minute drive from Benidorm! It’s tucked within the wider Guadalest Valley too, so you can expect jaw-dropping views on your way there. For those who love a scenic wander, the Medio Vinalopó valley offers peaceful riverside trails and plenty of wildlife to spot – ahh, bliss!  

Tapas, traditions and timeless flavours 

This gorgeous Costa is as much a feast for the taste buds as it is for the eyes. And you’re in luck, because the delights of this gastronomic scene are available all year round. Picture yourself tucking into fresh seafood by the sea, sampling plates of jamón ibérico in one of the area’s Old Towns or a bowl of patatas bravas in Benidorm’s famous Tapas Alley. Wine lovers are in for a treat too. The region’s vineyards, particularly around Villena and Novelda, produce some excellent reds, whites and even dessert wines. 

Activities for all  

The Costa Blanca’s got that all-age appeal – families can enjoy theme parks, waterparks and sandcastle-building, while couples might prefer romantic village wanderings, rooftop bars in Alicante or sunset cruises along the shore. For adventurous types, the mountains and the valleys beckon with hiking and cycling trails that reward you with far-reaching panoramas and an escape from the hustle and bustle. Water sports are a year-round option too, from sailing to paddleboarding – although you might benefit from a light wetsuit in the cooler months! Culture lovers aren’t left out either. Museums, historic towns, local markets and lively festivals pop up throughout the year, giving every visit a sense of discovery, whatever the month.