Benidorm
Benidorm is a coastal town located in the Province of Alicante, in the Valencia Community of southeastern Spain. Known for its vibrant tourism industry, striking skyline, and beautiful beaches, Benidorm is one of the most famous and popular resort destinations on the Costa Blanca. It offers a mix of sun, sea, and fun, attracting millions of tourists each year from all over the world.
Benidorm Overview
• Region: Alicante Province, Valencia Community (Costa Blanca).
• Population: Around 70,000 permanent residents, though this number can swell to over 200,000 during the peak summer months due to the influx of tourists.
Key Features
• Beaches:
• Playa de Levante: Benidorm’s most famous beach, known for its wide stretch of golden sand, calm waters, and vibrant atmosphere. It is lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, making it a hotspot for tourists.
• Playa de Poniente: A quieter beach located to the west of the town, offering a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for families and those looking for a peaceful day by the sea.
• Cala Tio Ximo: A smaller, more secluded beach located at the foot of cliffs, ideal for those looking for a quieter, more natural spot to enjoy the Mediterranean.
• Skyline: One of the most distinctive features of Benidorm is its skyline, which is dominated by high-rise hotels and apartment buildings. With some of the tallest buildings in Spain, Benidorm’s skyline is often compared to cities like New York or Miami.
• Old Town (Casco Antiguo): Benidorm’s Old Town is a charming area filled with narrow streets, whitewashed houses, tapas bars, and small shops. It is a great place to wander, experience traditional Spanish life, and enjoy local cuisine.
• Mirador de la Cruz: A viewpoint located on top of a hill, offering panoramic views of Benidorm, its beaches, and the surrounding coastline. It’s a popular spot for photos and a great place for a leisurely hike.
• Parque de Elche: A lovely park located near Playa de Levante, featuring lush greenery, palm trees, and fountains. It’s an ideal place to relax, have a picnic, or take a peaceful stroll.
Economy and Industries
• Tourism: Benidorm’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism. The town has earned its reputation as one of Europe’s top beach destinations, attracting visitors from the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, and beyond. Known for its package holidays, Benidorm offers a variety of attractions and activities for all types of travelers, from families and couples to partygoers and retirees.
• Hospitality and Entertainment: The hospitality sector is a significant part of Benidorm’s economy, with numerous hotels, resorts, restaurants, and bars catering to tourists. The town is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of clubs, bars, and entertainment venues.
• Real Estate: Benidorm has a well-established real estate market, driven by both tourism and long-term residents. The town offers a variety of properties, including high-rise apartments, beachfront villas, and holiday homes.
• Leisure and Theme Parks: Benidorm is home to several leisure attractions, including Terra Mítica, a large theme park with rides and attractions based on ancient civilizations, Aqualandia, one of the largest water parks in Spain, and Mundomar, a marine animal park. These parks play an important role in attracting family visitors and contributing to the local economy.
Lifestyle and Culture
• Expatriate Community: Benidorm is a popular destination for expatriates, particularly from the UK, and has a large community of retirees who have chosen the town as their permanent home due to its warm climate, affordable living costs, and high quality of life. The town has a variety of amenities tailored to the expat community, including international schools, social clubs, and a range of English-speaking services.
• Cuisine: The culinary scene in Benidorm is diverse, with both traditional Spanish dishes and international cuisine available at numerous restaurants and eateries. Local specialties include paella, tapas, seafood, and the famous turrón (almond nougat). The town’s proximity to the sea ensures an abundance of fresh seafood, including anchovies, calamari, and shellfish.
• Nightlife: Benidorm is renowned for its lively nightlife, which includes a mix of bars, clubs, and pubs. The English Square and The Rincon de Loix area are particularly famous for their bustling party atmosphere, catering to a range of tastes, from karaoke bars to dance clubs. There are also plenty of venues offering live entertainment, including music, comedy, and tribute acts.
• Festivals and Events:
• Benidorm Fiesta: An annual event that celebrates the town’s history and culture with parades, music, dancing, and fireworks.
• La Semana Santa (Holy Week): Benidorm celebrates Holy Week with processions, religious ceremonies, and various cultural events.
• Benidorm International Song Festival: An annual festival where international artists perform and compete, attracting large audiences and entertainment industry professionals.
Outdoor Activities and Natural Attractions
• Hiking and Nature: Benidorm is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the Sierra Helada Natural Park, a protected area with cliffs, forests, and walking trails. The Serra Gelada mountain range offers excellent hiking opportunities, with routes that lead to scenic viewpoints offering stunning views of Benidorm and the Mediterranean Sea.
• Watersports: The beaches of Benidorm offer plenty of opportunities for watersports, such as jet skiing, wind surfing, parasailing, and diving. The calm waters of the bay make it ideal for swimming and other water activities.
• Golf: Benidorm is home to several golf courses, such as Villaitana Golf, providing opportunities for golfers to enjoy a round while taking in beautiful views of the surrounding area.
• Boat Trips: The town offers various boat trips, from relaxing cruises along the coast to more adventurous excursions, such as deep-sea fishing or diving trips.
Why visit, live or invest in Benidorm
Benidorm is a vibrant and dynamic destination that has earned its place as one of Spain’s most popular holiday resorts. With its iconic skyline, beautiful beaches, thriving tourism industry, and lively cultural scene, Benidorm caters to a wide range of tastes and interests. Whether you’re looking for a lively beach holiday, a quiet getaway, or an active lifestyle, Benidorm offers something for everyone. Its combination of sun, sea, and entertainment, along with its welcoming atmosphere, makes it an ideal location for tourists and expatriates alike.
Benidorm is located approx. a 70 minute drive from our apartments in Playa Flamenca.