Benidorm is a city of two parts, the New Town area which is where most of the entertainment takes place and incorporates Levante Beach, but there is another very Spanish side to Benidorm the Old Town area.
In the Old Town of Benidorm you will find traditional white-washed houses, wonderful churches and the famous El Mirador de la Punta del Canfali, (The castle look out point), beaches Mal Pas and Poniente and of course Benidorm Port, lovely parks (Parque de Elche and Parque de L´Aiguera) and a maze of cobbled streets with some fantastic shops, boutiques, dozens of quaint restaurants and 100´s of bars all bursting with character and of course for traditional Tapas a visit to Tapas Alley is a must. The Old Town is a complete contrast to the New Town.
THE WALKING STREET is Passeig de la Carretera this is the pedestrian street that runs through the old town more or less parallel to the sea. Here is the main shopping area, with loads of bars and restaurants from the streets that run off here.
To get there walk down Av. Mediterraneo to the very end. Go down the road between Bankinter and El Italiano restaurant. Walk underneath the bridge. Turn left at Hotel Bristol Park. Keep going straight and you will come to a pedestrian street. This is 'walking street'.
Another way is, at the end of Av. Mediterraneo take the street to the left of Bankinter. You will see Specsavers optician on your left. Turn right just passed Specsavers then left at Ale Hop. This is 'walking street'.
If you continue along 'walking street' you will come to Dove Park. You cannot miss it.
At one point you will come to a fork in the road by Pinocchio. The right fork is 'walking street’ but if you take the left fork and keep walking straight ahead and up the hill you will come to the blue domed church of San Jaime y Santa Ana and the famous Balcon del Mediterraneo (the mirador)
The city of Benidorm has been gay-friendly since late 19th century and is amongst the oldest gay-friendly towns in Spain. With a friendly gay scene, Nightlife is also famous among the gay visitors. Read more HERE
The Old Town area is also where nearly all the Fiesta Parades take place.
Benidorm the Old Town - NIGHTLIFE
The Old Town's evening and late night entertainment can only be described as diversified. There's karaoke, cabaret and even transvestite bars, all of which guarantee a night of top class entertainment.
BEACHES
Cala Mal Pas
This is the name given to the small cove that separates the two main beaches in Benidorm it is situated between Punta Canfali and the port, and at only 120 metres long with fine golden sand offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. More information HERE
Poniente Beach
At more than 3km long Poniente Beach is the longest beach in Benidorm, making it an ideal place to stroll along during the day or evening, it is usually much quieter and features a new modern promenade designed by the architect Carlos Ferrater, there are a wide selection of restaurants, bars and clubs. More information HERE
Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Ana (St James Church)
The church of “Saint James is dedicated to the patron saint of the town, is set at the very top of the Old Town on Canfali hill. It is a Neoclassical building, built in the 18th Century with the typical blue Mediterranean tiled dome.
Inside you´ll find a statue of the Virgen del Sufragio, the well-loved patron saint of Benidorm. The Virgin has her own small chapel containing the little wood sculpture which, as the story goes, was found on a boat adrift on the high seas.
The legend of the Virgin says that in 1740 the residents of Benidorm were surprised by the arrival of a ship who had sailed there without crew. It was thought that perhaps the cause of the disappearance of the crew was the plague and this instilled dread in the local villagers. The authorities decided to burn the boat to keep people safe. It was burned without removing anything. When the flames were extinguished, the children searched amongst the remains and found “intact and shining” an image of the Virgin with the Child Jesus in her arms. The Fiesta day of the Virgen del Sufragio is always held on the second Sunday of November.
The church is open for Mass at 10am until 13.00 and then is closed until the evening Mass is at 7pm then one at 8pm, On Sunday various Masses are celebrated throughout the day and the church is open until after the last Mass. Beautiful music is piped during the day throughout the building and it really is a stunning church well worth seeing whilst in Benidorm
THE BENIDORM VIEW POINT, EL MIRADOR de la Punta del Canfali
The castle/fortress was situated on the big rock that divides the two beaches (Levante and Poniente) and its main purpose was to guard against invasions of the Berber pirates. The castle was thought to have stood here around 1325, this is the highest point in Benidorm, with its characteristic white balustrade it is one of the symbols of the city. The viewpoint has two parts, a top with benches and rest areas, and another viewing point down quite a few quite steep steps which offers views closer to the sea.
Sadly the castle sustained significant damage during the peninsular war and was then abandoned and most of it disappeared in 1812. Today only a few remains of the walls and one arch are still visible, which you can see on the lookout rocks (Mirador), this area is also known as "Balcony of the Mediterranean." and one of Benidorm Old Towns most visited tourist spots with panoramic 360º views.
You will see in the sea a Geiser, this was in working order up to a few years ago but, It was detected that the water was eroding the structures in the area, such as the balustrade, the buildings and the rocks that make up Punta Canfali and sadly is no longer functional.
To get to the Plaza del Castell, there are many streets that converge to it, all of them with their own special charm. A nice hike is for example Alameda Street. When you get to the beginning of Calle Mayor, turn left, it is a street that leads directly to the sea and takes the first right, to climb the area of Callejón, you will see many old buildings, cobbled and narrow streets and stone arches. A small slice of what was, within what is now a modern city.
THE PORT
Enjoy a wander round the port, watching the boats come and go to the Benidorm Island, Tabarca and Calpe.
Maritime Cultural Centre
Situated opposite the port on Paseo de Colon, is the Maritime Museum, where you will find a permanent display of various model ships. The centre was established as a permanent reminder of the achievements of local seamen. Entrance is free of charge.
PARQUE de ELCHE
The famous Elche park is home to hundreds of beautiful white doves and know to many as Dove Park, it is also known for its spectacular palm trees.
It is located just in front of Poniente Beach,and is close to Benidorm Harbour. This is a lovely shady park and a great place to sit and people watch..
TAPAS ALLEY - Officially runs from Pl. de la Constitutio, and along Santo Domingo
Head into the little cobbled streets in the historic old town you can enjoy mouth-watering morsels of Spain from the many tapas bars
The small dishes of tapas are perfect for sharing and for trying food that you may not feel comfortable ordering as a main course in case you don't like it. It is also perfect for getting a taste of some of the more expensive dishes, such as Denia Red Prawns or the more expensive Spanish Jamon, without running up a massive bill. Find out more HERE
Benidorm The Old Town Municipal Market
Glorious groceries. This indoor market is where locals stock up on fresh foodstuffs. The fruit and veg stalls dazzle in greens and reds, and the delicatessens entice passers-by with the scent of ham. Pick up some Spanish classics like “jamón ibérico” (cured ham), “churros” (fried dough sticks) and some of the region’s famous oranges.
Benidorm Old Town Market day is Wednesday.
PLAZA MAYOR SQUARE
For a main square, Benidorm’s Plaza Mayor is quite small but still worth a visit. Despite its relatively small size for a main square, the Plaza Mayor is still a fairly iconic part of Benidorm. Sip sangria inside in one of the quaint bars and restaurants as the sun sets behind the rooftops. Just outside are a series of shops too if you fancy a few impulse buys on the way home too!
THE HOUSE OF L`HORT DE COLON MUSEUM - House Museum - Casa Museo de Benidorm
The house of l'Hort de Colón which is one of the few houses of the nineteenth century that still stand in the city. The house has an area of just over 280 square meters distributed over two floors, and reflects the type of homes that were built for the well-to-do families of the town.
The house is used as a museum and for cultural activities throughout the year and is well worth a visit. Permanently on display in the museum are a variety of paintings and sculptures, along with seasonal exhibitions. You will find this museum on at 16 Calle de Tomás Ortuño.
BOCA DEL CALVARI MUSEUM
This small museum is located in the spot where until the mid-1970s the old town hall was located, the original house was completely demolished and a new building was built to serve as the museum's headquarters. The present museum has been open since 2015.
The museum hosts temporary exhibitions of different themes which change every few months, check the boards outside for what is currently on display. This museum can be found right on the corner of Calle Tomás de Ortuño
General Opening Hours - Monday: Closed. Tuesday: 5:0 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 10:30 - 13:30 and 17:00 - 20:30 Saturday and Sunday: 10:00h - 13:30h
THE PARQUE DE L’AIGUERA – KNOWN AS THE GREAT CENTRE OF BENIDORM
This is a long, extensive public park in the neoclassical style, designed by architect Ricardo Bofill. It´s a truely beautiful park and well worth a visit. The park separates the old city from the modern buildings and it has two amphitheatres used for cultural events in the summer months. The Benidorm song festival takes place in the Julio Iglesias auditorium in the park for two days in the month of June, and various other music festivals are held during the year. The park ends at the Bullring and an enclosure which is used for fairs during fiestas.
BENIDORM BULLRING (Plaza de Toros)
Several bullfights with top named matadors are held every year. If you’ve ever doubted the popularity of the sport, wait ’til you see how packed it gets. The bullring is also used during fiesta times for The running with the bulls and amateur bullfights.
The bullring in Benidorm was opened in 1962. Capacity of 9,971 people.
January 2021 Benidorm to turn the bullring into a library and civic center. This area stopped hosting events due to structural problems two years ago
The City Council is putting out to ender the drafting of the project, included in the EDUSI, (European development funds for sustainable growth) which will be ready in three years.
Services planned are: a central library with multiple spaces, including study rooms and an auditorium; youth and youth information center with a large exhibition hall, hotel room for associations, multipurpose, rehearsal and training, and kitchen room; and a multicultural and multifunctional center with offices and warehouses for associations. It also includes the creation of a stage in the stands of the bullring and the installation of a fixed stage and sound and lighting equipment.
The project has a global budget of 8,695,691 euros and will be ready throughout 2023
HOTELS AND APARTMENTS IN BENIDORM OLD TOWN
Hotels in the centre of Benidorm are ideal for those wanting to take advantage of the beach and also for those who are perhaps looking for something a little different from their holiday in Benidorm! Most are situated on the charming cobbled streets. All have a very good reputation and most important of all they prove very good value for money.
USE THIS PAGE TO FIND YOUR PERFECT HOTEL OR APARTMENT SITUATED IN THE OLD TOWN AREA
Did you know Benidorm actually has 5 beaches? Levante, Poniente, Mal Pas, Almadrava (Almadraba) and Tio Ximo.
Beaches in Benidorm
The best beaches on the Costa Blanca
No sitting on the first 6 meters near the sea is permitted, this rule was made due to Covid, but proved a great success so will continue, this allows bathers easy access to the sea and a place where walkers can enjoy the area without tripping over towels etc This also allows easy access for emergency services.
FREE wifi is available at Levante, Poniente and Mal Pas Beaches.
Did you know - Benidorm town hall collects water samples to be analysed, at the towns own private laboratory. Samples are collected at nine different points from the different coves and beaches, to be analysed for any harmful substances. Tests are carried out at 15 day intervals in the winter and daily in the peak summer months.
Sand samples from the beaches, and also swabs from the bases of the beach showers and foot washers are also taken for analysis.
Benidorm is the only town in the entire province of Alicante that has a private lab, testing to maintain standards in this way.
Which ever beach you are using, please DO NOT use the unlicenced beach vendors, find out why HERE
Keep your valuables safe whilst on the beach.
ALWAYS take note of the beach WARNING FLAGS
LEVANTE BEACH also know as Sunrise Beach
The price of sunbeds and umbrellas on the beaches of Benidorm are 6 euros, (maximum allowed by the City Council).
Levante Beach in Benidorm runs for almost 2km from Punta Pinet to Punta Canfali, Levante Beach is one of the best known beaches in Europe, the beach is south facing, so enjoys the sun all day.
This is the busiest beach in Benidorm. There are hundreds of bars and restaurants along the promenade offering everything from just ice creams to live music and everything in-between.
Length - 2,084 metres, average width - 55 metres, sand area - 125,785m square.
Beach Facilities
Life surveillance positions - 5
Sun loungers (11 months): 4,600 in 10 areas
Parasols (11 months): 1,400 in 10 areas
Foot showers, 19 modules of 10 pipes/taps
Boarded walkway access - 19
Beach library - The Library on Levante Beach is located where the Avenida's Madrid and Europa meet - This beach library is operational all year except from January 15th to February 15th. (the dates when ALL beach furniture is removed to allow the sand to be turned over which aids natural disinfection). Open open Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 to 16:00.
The Levante beach library, a point where most international users are concentrated, offers items in several languages.
Children´s playgrounds.
Litter bins - 115 (beach), Promenade 49
Floating Platforms (July - Sept)
Cable-Ski (Easter - October) - 1
First Aid Stations (Easter - Oct)
Play Grounds - 3
Area of sports and recreational activities - 2
Security Flags - 6
Ecological Toilets - 2
Disabled accessible points - 1
PONIENTE BEACH, Sunset Beach
At more than 3km long Poniente Beach is the longest beach in Benidorm, making it an ideal place to stroll along during the day or evening, it is usually much quieter and features a new modern promenade designed by the architect Carlos Ferrater, there are a wide selection of restaurants, bars and clubs. Poniente has a full range of services and leisure facilities including floating platforms, a beach library, children's playgrounds, recreational games, sports and shaded areas and is an accessible beach for the disabled.
Length - 3.100 metres, average width - 74 metres, Sand Area - 146,239m square
18th April 2024 - Benidorm expands Poniente beach leisure offer with the installation of a zip line
With a length of 20 meters of cable, it caters to an audience of 6 to 14 years old. The new ride is located in the sand between Alfaz del Pi and Vigo streets
The installation of the zip line was completed last Friday, so it is now operational, though maximum usage will be recorded on summer dates when there is a greater number of beach users.
The zipline, with animal-themed and marine motifs, has a cable length of 20 meters and allows users to slide from the highest end taking advantage of gravity action. Made with a hot galvanized steel structure, it features smooth braking thanks to a cushioned top at the end of the ride. Also, the tension of the cable is adjustable with an anti-vandalism system.
The Councilor of Beaches, Monica Gomez, has indicated that "the new zip line adds to the extensive leisure services that the beach already offers such as water activities, floating platforms, the eight children's play areas, the twelve recreational-sports play areas, biblioplays, skates, kayaks and jet bikes".
Beach Facilities
Boarded walkway access: 44
Foot showers: 122 modules of 2 pipes/taps
Litter Bins on beach: 145
Litter Bins on Promenade: 137 pick-up bins urban solid waste, 32 selective collection (paper and packaging),
Parasols (11 months): 440 in 10 areas.
Sun Loungers (11 months): 1,700 in 10 areas.
Floating platforms (July-September): 1
First aid stations: 2 (Easter to October)
Life Guard surveillance positions (Summer) points: 5 and 2 in other periods.
Playground: 6
Area of sports and recreational activities: 12
Security flags: 5
Ecological toilet cabins: six modules of public toilets with 20 WC, 4 of which are adapted
Beach-Library: 2 Beach Libraries one situated next to Paseo de Colón and the 2nd on Avenida Vicente Llorca Alós, very close to the intersection with Calle Aigües. Open from 1st June to October 31st. Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 to 16:00.
Disabled accessible point: 2
Beaches in Benidorm - CALA MAL PAS
Photo by Benidorm Seriously member Des Gardner
This is the name given to the small cove that separates the two main beaches in Benidorm it is situated between Punta Canfali and the port, and at only 120 metres long with fine golden sand offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. Opposite Cala Mal pas is the "I´lla de Benidorm" or Benidorm Island, which houses a submerged platform know as La Llosa, which is an important marine reserve and treat for scuba divers.
Length - 120 metres, Average Width - 20 metres, Sand area - 2,400m square
Beach Facilities
Foot showers - 4
Litter Bins - 5
Parasols - one area
Sun Loungers - 1 area
First Aid Station (Easter to Oct) - 1
Security Flags - 1
Boarded Walkway access - 1
CALA TIO XIMO
Cala Tio Ximo is situated at the base of steep cliffs off the Sierra Helada, to the North of Benidorm. The road goes down to this beach with road side parking. This is a small cove where visitors can escape from the hustle and bustle of the busier beaches and is used by locals as a nudist beach out of season. Combining fine sand and rock, this cove is ideal for snorkelling, as it has crystal clear waters, where you can view the beautiful rocky seabed.
Did You Know? This beach is actually named in honour of a well known Benidorm resident - Tio Ximo, you may have noticed the old abandoned house on the road down to the beach, this house was owned by Tio Ximo who loved Benidorm and its people so much that when young couples were married he let them use his house for their honeymoons. This gesture was appreciated by many over the years and upon his death this cove was named after him.
Length - 60 metres
Beach Facilities
Parasols - 16
Sun Loungers - 47
Life Guard (summer only)
Security Flags - 1
CALA ALMADRAVA (Cala Almadraba)
Cala Almadrava again lies at the foot of the Sierra Helada mountains, where its calm, clear waters, along with its rock seabed and abundant marine life have made it a popular place for snorkelling and swimming. This beach is not accessible by road, there are quite steep steps down the cliff face. This again is used as a nudist beach out of the main season.
Length - 100 metres
Beach Facilities
Sun Loungers - 47
Security Flags - 1
PLEASE FOLLOW THE BEACH SAFETY FLAGS AT ALL TIMES
Beach Fines - average prices
Entering beach between midnight and 7am – FINE: 750 - 1,200 euros
Sleeping or camping on the beach - FINE 1,200 euros
Placing parasols and towels to reserve space – FINE: 150 euros
Playing ball games outside designated areas – FINE: 120 euros
Swimming when the red flag is flying – FINE: 1,000 euros
Stripping off on an Non Nudist Beach - FINE 650 euros
Urinating in the sea – FINE: 150 euros
Using soap and shampoos etc at the beach showers - FINE up to 650 euros
Building Sand Sculptures – FINE: 150 euros (not children´s sandcastles, but any that are large enough to impede the nightly cleaning of the beach)
Fishing with a rod or net – FINE: 750 euros. Fishing with a harpoon – FINE: 1,100 euros
Drinking alcohol on the beach – FINE: 750 euros - DO NOT use the beach vendors, they are all illegal.
Smoking on the Beach - Fines of up to 2,000 euros
Sex on the beach – FINE: 750 euros
When leaving the beach and hitting the streets please cover up, men put your shirts on, ladies cover up your bikinis or you could be fined up to 300€
NO fires or BBQs are permitted on any of Benidorm´s Beaches.
For Some Great webcam views of Benidorm Beaches and more, visit Wxyz Web Cams...Click Here
PHOTOS BY BENIDORM SERIOUSLY GROUP MEMBERS
Poniente Beach by Des Gardner
Poniente Beach by Margaret Edwards
Poniente Beach by Petra Spanjaard
Photo by Caroline Moffat, Christmas 2019
Protecting Your Valuables on the Beach
Terra Natura Benidorm is a new-generation wildlife park where you can discover the “Zooimmersion” experience – a new concept in habitat design which will enable you to come into contact with the animals as if there were no barriers between you – at least, no visible ones! The 320,000 square metres of the Benidorm park are divided into four themed areas: Pangea, the entrance to the park, America, Europe and Asia.
At Terra Natura Benidorm you can see more than 1,500 animals from 200 different species, 50 of which are in serious danger of extinction, and over 2,500 examples of more than 160 species of trees, shrubs and ground cover plants from these regions. As well as the hugely varied collection of wildlife, our educational information (through placards with biological details and information points), the architectural theming and the range of shows, entertainment and adventure activities make Terra Natura the venue of choice for families looking to spend an interesting and entertaining day in a natural setting.
With its zoological collection, fantastic shows, landscaping and architecture, Terra Natura is one of the absolute musts for anyone visiting Benidorm and the Costa Blanca.
Venomous Creatures: Tarantulas, reptiles, scorpions, insects, plants, mushrooms, minerals… a hugely varied range of species that have one thing in common: poison.
Mascots: Watch out, wild animals might pounce on you… to have their photo taken with you, from March to October.
Feeding Elephants: You’ll be amazed to watch our keepers working with these, while the elephants put on a show that demonstrates their strength, intelligence and versatility.
The Flight of the Birds of Prey: The beauty and dexterity of these wonderful birds will captivate you. You can marvel at the majestic flight of two peregrine falcons, a triple cross-breed falcon, a female eagle owl, a common kestrel and two Harris hawks. The exhibition features fascinating explanations of the birds’ characteristics, such as their acute vision and the tremendous speeds they can reach in flight.
Feeding the animals: This is a fascinating experience which allows you to witness the voracity of wild animals when they feed on their prey.
Up close with the animals: Learn about a whole variety of creatures and meet their keepers through friendly, personalized talks throughout the park. And always keep your eyes peeled, because you never know which wild beast might surprise you on your journey (or fly over your head!).
Donkey rides: The perfect occasion for the little ones to take a ride out into the countryside by the Greek ruins on a gentle donkey. Weekends only.
How to get here
Terra Natura is in Benidorm, one minute from the AP7 motorway and the N-332 highway. It lies right along side the Terra Mitica theme park. The address is Foia del Verdader, 1 (03502) Benidorm, Alicante province..
By car
On the AP-7 motorway, take exit 65 if approaching from Valencia or exit 65A if coming from Alicante. Yu can also get here int he N-332. Access to the Park is very well signposted. Put on your GPS: Avda. Alcalde Eduardo Zaplana, cross with CV-70
By bus - Línea E. Autobuses - Europa - Triangular - [Aigüera/ Rufaza] - Jaime I - Pº Poniente - Bali - Calas - [Carrefour - T. Mítica / T. Natura]
Línea Finestrat Pueblo - [Balcón de Finestrat - Golf Bahía] / [Tapiada Umbria - Terra Natura] - Centros Comerciales - Calas Finestrat y Villajoyosa - Bali
Bus timetables HERE
By train
The railway network of the Generalitat Valenciana (FGV): trains stop at Benidorm station from where there are buses going to the park. (Avda. Benidarda).
By taxi
There are taxi ranks in both Benidorm and the park itself providing services to and from the park.
You can discus Terra Natura Benidorm with Members of our Facebook Group who have visited
TAPAS ALLEY BENIDORM - If you are fed up with pie & chips and fancy a taste of real Spain then head to Tapas Alley – so called because the entire street is made up of tapas bars, where you can sample some top-quality Spanish Tapas.
Situated in the Old town officially runs from Plaza. de la Constitutio, and along Santo Domingo, If getting a taxi, or you need to ask for directions ask for the Royal Queens Hotel which is situated right opposite the entrance to Tapas Alley or La Cava Aragonesa (click here for interactive map).
Tapas, Pinchos and Montaditos - Whats the difference
Tapas has evolved over the years and varies depending on region. In Tapas Alley the selection is vast to say the least and most are so beautifully presented that they look like little works of art. The British normally associate the word tapas with all the little snacks, but officially they are categorized as either tapa, pinchos and montaditos. Traditionally Tapas come in little terracotta dishes, which can be hot or cold but need to be eaten with a folk. Pinchos or Pintxos are more from the North of Spain and are served on a toothpick, pintxo" in Basque language or "pincho" in Spanish means thorn or spike. Montaditos more from the south of Spain are slices of bread with things on top and generally served cold, just to confuse things these can also be found with toothpick in them to stop toppings falling off the bread. Basically, they are all tapas ie small portions of food.
Learn more about the different tapas dishes HERE
How to order
The first thing to do is check whether you can order tapas at the tables. In some places they only serve tapas at the bar, and you have to order raciones (large plates) at tables or out on the terrace. Because tapas are informal, and the bars are often busy, they are commonly eaten standing up at the bar or at small tables or even upturned barrels, and the atmosphere is convivial and noisy.
The more rubbish on the floor the more popular the bar.
Once seated, don’t order everything at once. Many tapas are already prepared, and you could end up with 5-6 dishes arriving at once. Also, you may see something “walk by” that looks good, so best to start with just one or two tapas each and take it from there.
If they are all displayed in units, just point to what you like the look of, there is no need to worry about the Spanish names.
The barman will usually run a tab for you, which is paid after you have finished eating. Some bars, where food and drinks are taken outside, charge with each round of tapas and drinks. it is a general rule to tip 10% if you have been served at the table (and have had good service). If it´s only had a quick snack and a drink standing at the bar, then just leave the change.
History of Tapas
The word "tapas" is derived from the Spanish verb taper - meaning "to cover". According to legend, the tapas tradition began when King Alfonso X recovered from an illness by drinking wine with small dishes between meals. After regaining his health, he ordered that taverns would not be allowed to serve wine unless it was accompanied by a small snack or "tapa". The original tapas were slices of bread or meat which sherry drinkers in Andalucian taverns used to cover their glasses between sips to prevent fruit flies from hovering over the sweet sherry. The meat used was normally ham or chorizo - which being very salty encouraged more drinking .... even back then the proprietors weren't daft - and so began the tradition of serving a variety of snacks which in turn increased alcohol sales!
THE MAIN TAPAS BARS IN TAPAS ALLEY
TIP The messier the floor, the better the tapas.
Find lots of Tapas Bars here, complete with interactive maps, to help you find them.
La Cava Aragonesa
Busy and buzzing! Follow the noise of chatter and laughter to find this buzzing Tapas bar! Packed full of locals; a sure sign of great food, it's a great choice for anyone not familiar with tapas as all the dishes are temptingly displayed with a handy label in both Spanish and English and for a really authentic feel - sit and eat at the bar!
The Aurerra Group of eateries are the most established name on the street and have 7 different restaurants to cater for all tastes. There is a constant stream of visitors, both locals and tourists throughout the day, but it gets particularly busy in the evenings.
Aurrera El Bodegon
Authentic atmosphere an enticing Tapas restaurant with bags of character. All dark wood, barrels of wine, and proper Spain. There's ambience by the truckload here. So, get yourself a glass of Rioja, select your tapa and drink in the atmosphere.
Aurrera Sidreria
Very popular Bustling Tapas bar so popular you know it's going to be good.
Elizando Taberna
Typical Spanish Typically Spanish eaterie with choice of basic snacks or the 'extra' - Menu del Dia. And in a starring role... bread and sardines for 2.50? And the humble sardine tastes so good in the Med... how can you resist?
Bar Gaztelutxo Small and cosy Oooh! Here the Tapas are more Spanish than sombreros. Small, cosy with an authentic Basque feel.
Gambrinus
A hidden gem with great atmosphere This little place is a hidden gem, known mainly by the Spanish. It has a great atmosphere, cheap prices and delicious little tapas to keep you going. And the walls are dotted with photographs of old Benidorm before the tourism boom.
Braseria
This bijou tapas bar has now brought a modern, trendy space to Benidorm's 'tapas alley'. Sit outside at the stylish tables and watch the world go by as you muse over the menu that's based around Argentinian dishes. Or step inside into air-conditioned splendour and be tempted by photos of the dishes flashing across Plasma screens. And if you love steak, you won't be disappointed, Argentinian meat is amongst the best in the world.
Meson Plaza Mayor
Charcoal grilled meat and lots of tapas Anyone familiar with Benidorm will know this bar/restaurant. Situated in the Plaza Major (main square) its ideally placed for stopping off for a coffee mid-shop. But don't be fooled - step inside and take a look at the fabulous tapas you might have missed out on...and the huge grill, suspended over a charcoal fire, that's used to great effect for cooking meat. They also do a selection of meals partnered with selected wines.
General information on THE OLD TOWN and areas to visit
Find restaurants and bars in the old town listed in our Business Directory
Benidorm LGBTQ+ Guide - Benidorm has a large and friendly Benidorm LGBTQ+ scene, the majority of the bars are located near each other in the Old Town.
Where to stay in Benidorm
Benidorm is a large, busy town, so make sure you book your hotel or apartment near walking distance of the Old Town. There you will find all gay bars, clubs and sauna all next to each other Use this page to help you find Hotels and Apartments situated in the Old Town.
Benidorm LGBTQ+ Guide
Benidorm gay bars, clubs and saunas
Benidorm has an extensive gay night life scene. Almost all places are located very close to each other, in only a few streets in the Old Town. Many guys crawl from bar to bar. The majority of guys are from all parts of the UK. Several bars are British owned. Some terrace pubs are already busy from the afternoon with UK guys, but most of gay night life in Benidorm gets started at Spanish times, so late from about 23:00. There are about 30 gay places, here we list several to give you an idea what it is like. Some places are closed or are open limited times outside the season.
Benidorm LGBTQ+ Guide - Gay bars, cafes and pubs - Far too many to mention them all.
Bar 69 in the heart of Old Town open 11.00am to 02.00 am daily.
4 Plaça de la Constitució, next to the Queens Hotel.
03501 Benidorm, Spain
Calle Santa Faz 10, Benidorm Old Town 690 23 08 48Open every day from 19.00 - 02.00
Food served all day 10am-10pm. Selection of gluten free, vegetarian & vegan food available.
XS Men only, Blue Light Bar
Escape Bar
Bar Code
Bears Bar
Company Bar
Domino Bar
Eagle Bar
El Papagayo
Kafee Klee
Lovers Bar
Bar Code
Peoples Bar
Refuel Cafe Bar
Sensations
Spirit
The Lion
Growl Bar
Royal Queens Hotel
Gay clubs
Mercury
Calle De Alicante, 03501, Old Town Benidorm
Popular gay disco in Benidorm, with a younger crowd, dance floor, dance music and a dark room.
Peoples
Calle Santa Faz, 03501, Old Town Benidorm
Popular gay disco / bar, with dance floor, and upstairs a large dark room, video lounge.
mon-sun 22:00–04:00
Gay saunas and bath houses
H2O Sauna
Calle Tomás Ortuño, 46
In the heart of Benidorm Old Town´s gay scene. Best time is end of afternoon. Two levels of Hot Action plus Huge Spa, Sauna and Steam Room.
tue-sun 14:00–20:00
Benidorm LGBTQ+ beaches and parks
Levante Beach
At the old town end in front of the Don Cesar café. Find it by heading down to the beach from the square where the Queens and Bears bar is located.
Poniente Beach
Popular Gay beach area from the end of the Elche park where you will also find the Café Bar Refuel the place to meet up after the Poniente beach
Rocky gay nude beach and cruising area, 4 km west of Poniente beach. You can walk if you take the number 2 or 3 bus to La Cala (Bus 3 from Park Elx by Benidorm harbour.
Other Nudist Beaches in the area.
Big Benidorm LGBTQ+ events
Benidorm Pride – 4th - 10th September 2023 Find more information HERE
Benidorm Pride has quickly grown to become a week long event, focusing on the key ingredients that make Benidorm so unique and is now recognised as the European Summer Closing Pride.
With a week-long series of flamboyant events leading up to the Playa Levante big parade on which always takes place on a Saturday. Visitors can expect an exciting week in the resort that truly never sleeps.
The main attraction for visitors is the old town which is where you will find the pumping heart of the gay village still very much local and Spanish where we visitors can blend in and mix with our lovely hosts. Enjoy up to 30 hugely friendly but small and intimate gay bars and eateries all nice and each other.
If you have any questions comment below.