10 great places to visit on the Orihuela Costa and nearby
Spain’s Orihuela Costa is a very popular region for both those visiting on holiday as well as expats looking for a place to settle permanently – you may have seen the area featured many times on Channel 4’s A Place In The Sun!
Although it’s located in the Alicante Province on the Costa Blanca, Orihuela Costa is closer to the region of Murcia.
The area is very diverse, made up of expats from many different countries, so an ideal location if you are looking for somewhere with lots of fellow expats to socialise with. However, if you’re looking for a typical Spanish area you would probably be better looking a bit further afield.
That said, when it comes to things to do for the whole family, the Orihuela Costa has lots to offer. With 16km of Blue Flag beaches you’ll be spoilt for choice of places to spend the day if you’re in the area.
Is the Orihuela Costa worth visiting?
If you’re looking for the best sandy beaches with plenty of amenities nearby then Spain’s Orihuela Costa is definitely worth a visit. The area is ideal for family holidays to Spain as everything you need is on your doorstep from great self-catering accommodation to restaurants and bars, and entertainment for all ages.
So if you are planning a visit, here are a few recommendations of places to visit on the Orihuela Costa…
Playa Flamenca
Located close to the vibrant town of Torrevieja, Playa Flamenca is home to beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Playa Flamenca beach has a great flat promenade for walking and is ideal for children to scoot or skate along, with several bars and cafés. You can also find Zumba classes, concerts and other events held on the Playa Flamenca promenade in the summer months.
There is also a commercial center with lots of diverse restaurants and bars to suit all tastes so you’ll have plenty of places to spend your time of an evening.
Cabo Roig
Cabo Roig has a picturesque marina where you can take a lovely stroll along the beach side promenade in both directions. You can also relax on the sandy beaches, have a drink at the Chringuito, hire a boat, or take part in various water sports activities during the summer.
Set back from the beach front is a long strip of bars, restaurants, and fast food joints, ideal for those looking for some nightlife.
La Zenia
Well known for the popular Zenia Boulevard Shopping Centre, this is a great area for shopping, dining, and entertainment as well as sunbathing. La Zenia Beach is home to several beautiful beaches and a great restaurant with wonderful sea views where you can also hire a sunbed for the day around their swimming pool.
La Zenia beach is one of our favourite places to visit on the Orihuela Costa as we love to go for a walk along the long promenade stretching all the way to Cabo Roig.
Punta Prima
Punta Prima Beach is known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning views. The calm water here makes it an ideal place for children to play on the beach and in the sea. Above the beach is a long promenade stretching towards Torrevieja, as well as a restaurant looking over the beach.
In the summer you can find a Chiringuito on the beach serving delicious snacks and tapas, plus live music acts.
Villamartin
Villamartin started as a golf complex before growing to include many urbanisations as well as commercial centres. There are lots of things to do in Villamartin for all ages and interests. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the Villamartin Golf Club, and Villamartin Plaza is a very popular location to grab a drink and a bite to eat, along with a children’s area for younger visitors.
The area isn’t within walking distance of a beach though, so it’s best to hire a car if you plan to stay here.
The Orihuela Costa is also a great base to explore other nearby towns and cities, including…
Torrevieja
Located right next to the Orihuela Costa, Torrevieja is a vibrant town with lots to offer. Visit the historic pink salt lakes, stroll along the promenade flanked by bars and restaurants, spend the day on the beach, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city center. There is also a open air shopping mall called Habaneras if you’re in need of a bit of retail therapy.
Guardamar del Segura
Approximately 8km south of Orihuela Costa is the beautiful seaside town of Guardamar del Segura. Here you’ll find stunning beaches alongside sand dunes and pine forests. The Reina Sofia Park and Guardamar Castle are just a couple of the popular attractions worth visiting, and the night market and funfair during the summer months are always a hit with tourists and locals alike.
Alicante
If youre staying on the Orihuela Costa you must take a day trip to the city of Alicante. Explore the Santa Barbara Castle, visit the Explanada de España promenade, shop, eat, and soak up the lively atmosphere of the Old Town and indoor market.
Murcia
Approximately 60km from the Orihuela Costa is the city of Murcia, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. Explore the Murcia Cathedral, visit the Real Casinode Murcia, admire the Santa Clara Monastery, stroll through the charming streets, and enjoy the local cuisine. There are also 2 large indoor shopping malls and IKEA on the outskirts of the city.
Elche
The nearby city of Elche is famous for its palm grove (Palmeral) and the UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Elche Palm Grove. Explore the historic city centre, visit the Archaeological museum, shop, eat, and sit in one of the beautiful plazas to watch the world go by.
Where to stay on the Orihuela Costa
If you are planning a trip to the Orihuela Costa, here are a few deals for accommodation in the area…
Booking.comReady to book your holiday to the Orihuela Costa?
If you’re ready to book your holiday to the Orihuela Costa, these links may help…
- Find great value flights and accommodation at Expedia
- Prebook your airport transfer at HolidayTaxis
- Check hotel reviews at TripAdvisor
- Book your tours and excursions at GetYourGuide
- Get your travel insurance from Civitatis
If you find yourself on the Orihuela Costa you will find plenty of things to do! Whether you’re visiting on holiday or looking for a permanent base, we hope this list has given you some suggestions of a few places to visit in the Orihuela Costa and nearby.
