Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Beach GatG, Party GatG

Europe has some fantastic beach destinations, especially Spain and one destination that has been popular for many decades is Benidorm.

Benidorm can be a good option if you're from the UK and are looking for a week away in the sun. It's been years since I've been to Benidorm, but it is a fun, lively destination. It may not be Ibiza, but with a vibrant party scene, it is a good alternative to the White Isle.

Every year, this coastal town welcomes around 5 million visitors. Nearly 15% of the people that visit Spain head straight to Benidorm. So, what is so special about this relatively small seaside town? If you're looking for things to do in Benidorm, I've included why it's so popular below. 

Things to do in Benidorm

1. Go To The Beach

Well without a doubt the fact it has three beautiful beaches helps. All of them have been awarded Blue Flags, which means the water and sand meet high standards of cleanliness. Each beach has lifeguards on patrol during the high season. The disabled and elderly visitors are also well catered for.

Levante

If you want to see a spectacular sunrise or sunset, this is the beach to stroll along. During the day it is very busy. There are over 5,000 sunbeds for hire, as well as areas that are given over to those who just want to lay out a beach towel. The wet playground that is anchored off the beach is great fun, with slides, rafts and diving boards for all to enjoy. It is very popular with teenagers and families. Behind the beach, there is a broad promenade that is full of bars, restaurants and shops. The town is just a short walk away.

Poniente

This beach is a bit further away from the town, so it is less crowded. There are still quite a few cafes, bars and shops to enjoy. You can still hire a sunbed, but far more of the beach is given over to people who just want to stretch out on a towel to sunbathe and enjoy a dip in the sea.

Mal Pas

This is a small sandy cove, which is located near the old town. It is quieter than the other two.

2. Explore Benidorm's Old Town

One of the best things to do in Benidorm is to explore the historic town. It is actually the prettiest place in the city. You can see beautiful cobblestone streets, white-washed houses and important buildings like Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Ana.

Walking in Benidorm's Old Town is like stepping back to the past when it was just a fishing village.

3. Visit Sierra Helada Natural Park

If you love nature, Sierra Helada Natural Park is a place to add to your Benidorm itinerary. This natural park offers spectacular views of Costa Blanca and is well-known for its diverse landscapes; you can see hanging fossil dunes, caves and beautiful coves accessible by boat or kayak.

Within the park, you can find hiking trails for all levels, but one of the most popular ones is The Lighthouse Walk, which is a 4.5-kilometre round trip.

4. Enjoy The Views From La Cruz de Benidorm

La Cruz de Benidorm (Cross of Benidorm) is the best viewpoint in Benidorm. It is just on the edge of the Sierra Helada Natural Park, but if you don't want to hike there, you can also access it by car. The views are breathtaking, and watching the sunset there too!

5. Do Water Sports in Benidorm

As you would expect, water sports are big in Benidorm. You name it, you can try it here, or nearby. If you're a water Girl about the Globe, you'll love all the water sports here, whether it's kayaking, paddle-boarding, on the back of an inflatable banana, windsurfing or going underwater and scuba diving. You can even try flyboarding or just sail along the coastline taking in the views.

If you’ve never tried it before you can go parasailing and see the views of the city from above. Or you can go on a jet ski tour with an instructor instead whilst riding past the cliffs of Sierra Helada and the skyscrapers. * Check price for jet ski tour

6. Go To a Theme Park

There are several theme parks in the area and a great one to cool off at is Aqualandia which has more than 20 water rides. * Get tickets for Aqualandia here

Terra Mitica is a quirky theme park with a 1km wooden roller coaster, which is a particularly popular attraction. There are also shows and performances to enjoy in the Roman, Greek and Egyptian areas of the park. In July and August, the Iberian and Islands sections are also open. There is also a big spa area to enjoy.

The three other big theme parks are called Aqualandia, Terra Natura and Aqua Natura. All of them are open during the peak season. If you’re planning to visit 2 or 3 of the amusement parks: Terra Mitica, Mundomar or Aqualandia you can save money with a combo ticket. * Check prices and availability for combo ticket

7. Go On a Day Trip to Villajoyosa

Benidorm is surrounded by beautiful small towns that are worth visiting. One of them is Villajoyosa, located 15-minute drive from Benidorm.

The town is famous for its colourful buildings and stunning beaches. On a day trip to Villajoyosa, don't miss the opportunity to visit its beaches, but if you visit outside the summer season, consider going to the town's museum.

In addition to these activities, if you have a sweet tooth, head to Valor Chocolate Museum, where you can learn everything about chocolate and taste different flavours.

If you prefer to be guided for your trip, you can visit both Villajoyosa and Altea on a 5-hour sightseeing day trip. * Check prices and availability: Villajoyosa tour

Other Benidorm Activities

If you want to get away from the town and enjoy something a little different a round of golf or a walk in the hills and mountains behind Benidorm are both great ideas. You can also find companies offering other activities like riding and mountain biking.

There are plenty of nice towns and villages nearby to visit. They are much more Spanish than Benidorm, so are they good places to experience the local cuisine. However, there are also some nice traditional Spanish restaurants in Benidorm itself, especially in the old town. Tapas Alley is a particularly good place to head for if you want traditional Spanish food. 

As well as food, Benidorm is also known for its lively nightlife. Admittedly not as chic or trendy as Ibiza, Benidorm does have its more tacky side with cabaret shows, tribute acts, karaoke and of course – foam parties.

At Night: Benidorm Attractions

Head to The Square for the party area, the centre of the nightlife, where you can jump on a podium and throw a few shapes. This area isn’t just limited to the evening either. Rock up during the day and grab a bite to eat whilst listening to live music playing in the afternoon.

You’ll see names that you’ll recognise from England, such as the Red Lion and the Guinness Bar, which offers cocktails amongst its aptly-named drink – Guinness. Heartbreak is a fun bar with a huge yellow car inside, and it also doubles up as an internet cafe too.

Champions Bar is one of the most lively venues here, but prepared to be open-minded. Amongst the electronic and pop music, you’ll find a mechanical bull to try and tame. Beachcomber, situated on Avenue de Mallorca, is a cool place to party and one of Benidorm’s best clubs, or head to the Hippodrome Club for dance music until the early hours.

The bars and clubs here play a range of music from R&B, funky house and trance, and you’ll even find a pool party or two amongst the nightlife at The Top Road with professional clubbing dancers.

If the thought of walking into a club alone is too nerve-wracking, one great place to visit as a solo is the Cuba bar. This sociable venue isn’t just a taste of Latin America and the Caribbean upon the European continent, but it’s also a place to learn how to dance like a Latina. Every Sunday they hold salsa lessons – for free! If you love to dance, this is the place to show off your bachata or cha cha skills.

Consider joining a pub quiz to meet others at the New Life Pub with a happy hour that lasts all night. If you prefer to party at the beach, head to KM Playa, with a myriad of bars at night and pre-parties during the day. For those who do want to go cabaret-style, Chaplin’s is where it’s at. Named after the famous actor, you’ll find statues of the man himself inside and lots of cabaret acts to choose from.

Benidorm is really safe to go out with lots of tourists around but if you prefer company for an evening, join one of the bar crawls. Benidorm Bar Crawl claims to be the biggest and craziest bar crawl culminating with a foam party.

If partying isn't your thing, join a sunset sailing cruise and enjoy a glass of cava as you cruise along the Mediterranean Sea. * Check prices and availability: Benidorm sunset cruise

Or if you prefer to watch a show, the Benidorm Palace offers a Vegas-style production of dancers, acrobats and musicians and is a great way to spend an evening. * Check prices and availability: Benidorm show

Where To Stay in Benidorm

Benidorm offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit your budget. From budget-friendly to luxurious resorts, Benidorm has numerous hotels throughout the city, including beachfront and city centre locations.  You'll find self-catering apartments with your own kitchen if you prefer to cook for yourself or choose an apart-hotel where you can have your own studio or apartment-style room with kitchen facilities. 

Budget-conscious travellers can find hostels offering shared dormitory-style rooms, ideal for backpackers and solo adventurers. Or you can even camp in one of the campsites here which come complete with toilets, showers and communal areas. If you are coming here in the peak tourist season make sure to pre-book your accommodation as it gets busy. I've included the best area to stay in Benidorm below and recommended accommodation options too! For all other accommodations in Benidorm, click here.

Best Area To Stay in Benidorm

There are several areas where you could stay in Benidorm depending on what type of experience you want to have.

Old Town: The charming Old Town of Benidorm is a picturesque area with narrow streets, historic buildings, and traditional Spanish architecture. It's a great place to stay if you want to experience the local culture, visit traditional tapas bars, and explore quaint shops.

Levante Beach: This area is popular for its lively atmosphere, beautiful sandy beach, and proximity to a wide range of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options. It's a great choice if you enjoy being at the heart of the action.

Poniente Beach: Situated on the western side of Benidorm, Poniente Beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere. The beach is spacious, and the area is known for its scenic promenade and stunning views.

Rincon de Loix: Located on the eastern end of Levante Beach, Rincon de Loix is known for its vibrant nightlife and a wide range of entertainment venues. It's a popular choice for young travelers and party enthusiasts.

La Cala: Situated between Poniente Beach and the Old Town, La Cala offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for those seeking a tranquil stay while still having easy access to the beach and amenities.

Recommended Accommodation in Benidorm

Budget

Hostel Benidorm Beach – If you’re looking for sociable budget accommodation, this hostel is perfect for the party solo as it’s in the heart of the nightlife. Prices from €27 * Check prices and availability: Hostel Benidorm Beach

Pension La Orozca – Near Levante beach this 3-star hotel is situated near to restaurants, tapas bars and discos so you’re guaranteed some nightlife. Prices from €70 * Check prices and availability: Pension La Orozca

Casa Don Juan – Located in Benidorm’s Old Town and just a couple of minutes from the beach, this 3-star property has a fridge and a balcony. Prices from €75 * Check prices and availability: Casa Don Juan

Comfort

Hotel Fetiche Alojamiento con Encanto – This 2-star property is located in the Old Quarter, close to the beaches and cafes, shops and restaurants. Prices from €89 * Check prices and availability: Hotel Fetiche Alojamiento

Prince Park – Situated in l’Aiguera Park in Benidorm, this 3-star property has an outdoor pool and a gym and the choice of a balcony in your room. Prices from €89 * Check prices and availability: Prince Park

Hotel Alameda – This 3-star hotel is in a pedestrianised zone so it’s a bit quieter but you can still find local restaurants and bars nearby. Prices from €107 * Check prices and availability: Hotel Alameda

Luxury

Apartamentos JAP Pino – Less than 700 metres from both Levante and Poniente Beach are these clean and stylish one-bedroom apartments. Prices from €150 * Check prices and availability: Apartamentos JAP Pino

Mercure Benidorm – Located near Mal Pas Beach and not far from the Old Town, Mercure Benidorm is a short walk from tapas alley with restaurants serving Spanish and Mediterranean dishes. Prices from €153 * Check prices and availability: Mercure Benidorm

The Agir Springs Hotel by Medplaya – This 4-star hotel is close to Levante beach with gorgeous views over the Mediterranean. Prices from €168 * Check prices and availability: Agir Springs Hotel

Frequently Asked Questions About Benidorm, Spain

• What's Benidorm famous for? Benidorm is famous for its skyscraper buildings, golden sand beaches, waterparks and large expat community.
• Which part of Benidorm is best? The old town of Benidorm is the best area for solo female travellers.
• Is Benidorm cheap? Benidorm is cheaper than other popular summer Spanish destinations like Tenerife.

My Verdict

  Is Benidorm good for solos? Yes. It's an easy place to meet others especially Brits. That's why I've given it 4 out of 5 stars. 

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