Benidorm Holidays: Best Areas, Beaches, Weather & Travel Tips
Benidorm is one of Spain’s most recognisable holiday resorts, combining skyscraper hotels, long sandy beaches, lively nightlife and year round sunshine on the Costa Blanca.
Whether you’re planning a family beach holiday, a budget short break or a nightlife focused trip, this guide covers everything you need to know about Benidorm.
Quick facts about Benidorm
Country: Spain
Region: Valencian Community
Province: Alicante
Coast: Costa Blanca
Population: around 70,000–75,000 residents
Nearest major airport: Alicante–Elche Airport (ALC)
Typical transfer time: 45–60 minutes (about 60 km / 37 miles)
Main beaches: Levante Beach, Poniente Beach
Flight time from the UK: around 2 hours 15 minutes from London to Alicante
Best for: families, budget holidays, nightlife, sun seekers
Where is Benidorm in Spain?
Benidorm is located on Spain’s eastern Mediterranean coast, in the province of Alicante, within the Valencian Community. It sits on the Costa Blanca, between Alicante city to the south and the mountainous inland areas to the north.
Despite its reputation as a resort town, Benidorm’s location makes it a surprisingly good base for exploring the wider Costa Blanca.
Nearby destinations
- Altea – a quieter coastal town with whitewashed streets
- Calpe – known for its dramatic rock formation (Peñón de Ifach)
- Villajoyosa – famous for colourful houses and chocolate history
What airport do you fly to for Benidorm?
Almost all international visitors fly into Alicante–Elche Airport (ALC), the main gateway for the Costa Blanca.
From the airport, Benidorm is typically 45–60 minutes away by road, depending on traffic and transfer type.
Transfer options from Alicante Airport to Benidorm
- Shared shuttle transfers
Budget friendly; journey times typically 60–90 minutes due to stops. - Private transfers
Faster and more comfortable, usually 45–60 minutes door to door. - Car hire
Useful if you plan to explore surrounding areas like Altea or Guadalest. - Public transport (bus + connections)
Cheapest option, but less convenient with luggage or late arrivals.
For most holidaymakers, a pre booked transfer offers the best balance of cost and convenience.
👉 See all transfer options from Alicante Airport to Benidorm
Best areas to stay in Benidorm
Choosing the right area in Benidorm can completely change your holiday experience. The resort is divided into distinct zones, each with a different atmosphere.
Levante Beach
The most lively and well known area. Expect bars, restaurants, nightlife and a busy beachfront. Ideal for younger travellers and those who want everything on their doorstep.
Poniente Beach
Quieter and more relaxed. Popular with families and couples looking for space, calmer beaches and a slower pace.
Old Town
The historic heart of Benidorm. Narrow streets, tapas bars, boutique feel and a more traditional Spanish atmosphere. A good balance between authenticity and convenience. The Old Town becomes noticeably more relaxed in the evenings compared to the nightlife heavy New Town area.
Rincón de Loix
A modern, high rise area popular with international visitors. Close to nightlife but slightly less chaotic than the main strip.
👉 Explore the best areas to stay in Benidorm
What is Benidorm like by month? When is the best time to visit?
Benidorm benefits from a Mediterranean climate with long summers and mild winters, making it a year round destination.
Summer (June–September)
Hot, dry and busy. Temperatures often exceed 30°C. Best for beach holidays and nightlife.
Spring (March–May)
Warm and comfortable with fewer crowds. Ideal for sightseeing and relaxed travel.
Autumn (September–November)
One of the best times to visit. The sea is still warm, but crowds are smaller.
Winter (December–February)
Mild compared to northern Europe. Popular with long stay visitors and retirees.
Overall, late spring and early autumn offer the best balance of weather and availability. October is often considered one of the best months to visit because sea temperatures remain warm while crowds begin to thin after peak summer.
👉 See what Benidorm weather is like month by month
Is Benidorm expensive?
Compared to many Mediterranean resorts, Benidorm remains relatively affordable, especially outside peak summer.
Typical costs
- Budget accommodation: low to mid range pricing year round
- Mid range hotels: strong value compared to other Spanish coastal cities
- Food and drink: generally cheaper than UK averages, especially local restaurants
- Nightlife: varies widely depending on venue
Where you stay and when you travel has a major impact. Peak summer significantly increases prices, while shoulder seasons offer much better value.
Ways to save money
- Booking all inclusive packages
- Visiting outside July and August
- Eating in local tapas bars instead of tourist heavy zones
👉 See how expensive a Benidorm holiday really is
What to do in Benidorm: Things to do
Despite its reputation for beaches and nightlife, Benidorm offers a wide range of activities.
Popular experiences include:
- Relaxing on Levante or Poniente beaches
- Exploring the Old Town
- Boat trips along the Costa Blanca coast
- Theme parks and water parks nearby
- Shopping, bars and live entertainment
Benidorm works well for both active and relaxed holidays, depending on how you structure your stay.
👉 Discover the best things to do in Benidorm
Benidorm beaches guide
Benidorm’s beaches are one of its biggest draws, with wide sandy stretches and clear Mediterranean waters.
Levante Beach
The busiest and most famous beach. The beach is over 2 km long and is packed with activity, watersports and beachfront bars.
Poniente Beach
Longer, quieter and more family friendly. Around 3 km long, this beach has a more relaxed atmosphere overall.
Cala Tío Ximo
A smaller cove ideal for snorkelling and escaping crowds.
Cala Almadrava
A hidden style beach with clear water and a calmer vibe.
👉 Explore the best beaches in Benidorm
Family holidays in Benidorm
Benidorm is one of Spain’s most family friendly resorts thanks to its infrastructure and variety of attractions.
Highlights include:
- Water parks such as Aqualandia
- Theme parks like Terra Mítica
- Wide, safe beaches with shallow waters
- Family oriented hotels and entertainment programmes
Many hotels are designed specifically for families, offering kids’ clubs, pools and entertainment. Many families choose Poniente over Levante because the beachfront is quieter and less nightlife focused.
👉 See why Benidorm is popular with families
Day trips from Benidorm
One of the advantages of staying in Benidorm is access to nearby attractions.
Popular day trips include:
- Altea – artistic coastal town with whitewashed streets
- Guadalest – mountain village with castle views
- Villajoyosa – colourful seaside town with chocolate heritage
- Alicante City – museums, shopping and marina life
These trips add variety to a beach focused holiday.
👉 Explore the best day trips from Benidorm
Benidorm FAQs
Start planning your Benidorm holiday
Whether you’re looking for a budget friendly escape, a family beach holiday or a lively nightlife trip, Benidorm remains one of Spain’s most flexible and accessible destinations.
From golden beaches to mountain day trips, everything is close, easy to navigate and designed for visitors.
Explore next
Compare the best areas to stay in Benidorm
Discover the top things to do in Benidorm
See what Benidorm weather is like throughout the year
Learn how much a Benidorm holiday typically costs
Plan your transfer from Alicante Airport to Benidorm
