Activities Costa Blanca South - Tips for an unforgettable vacation

What to Do on the Southern Costa Blanca? Attractions and Fun Outings

The Southern Costa Blanca has much more to offer than just sun and beaches. Between Alicante, Elche, Santa Pola, Guardamar del Segura, Torrevieja, and Orihuela Costa, you’ll find nature reserves, historic towns, water parks, markets, hiking trails, and all kinds of fun day trips.

That makes the southern Costa Blanca attractive to families, couples, and active vacationers, as well as to people who want to live here permanently.

If you live here for an extended period, you’ll also discover that many great places aren’t actually right on the beach. It’s the inland areas, the nature parks, and the smaller Spanish villages that make this region so diverse.

Discover Torrevieja

Torrevieja is one of the largest coastal towns on the southern Costa Blanca, making it a good place to start.

You can take a walk along the boardwalk, check out the harbor, spend an afternoon at the beach, or explore downtown.

Well-known places include:

Playa del Cura;
Playa de los Locos;
the natural swimming pools along Paseo Juan Aparicio;
the harbor;
downtown;
and the salt lakes surrounding the city.

For those who want to get to know Torrevieja better, it's nice to mix up the beach and the boardwalk with nature and local markets.

The Pink Salt Lakes of Torrevieja

One of the best-known natural phenomena in the area is the Torrevieja salt lakes.

The Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Nature Park consists of two large lagoons. The Torrevieja lagoon, in particular, is famous for its pink to reddish color, which is visible under certain conditions.

The area is special not only because of its landscape, but also because of the birds that live there.

Among other things, you might see flamingos there.

The nature park is a protected area. Therefore, please use the designated trails and viewing areas, and do not venture outside the permitted areas toward the water.

Take the tourist train to the salt lakes

Tourist excursions to the salt flats and the pink lagoon are offered from Torrevieja.

This is a fun way to learn more about salt production, which has long been closely linked to the development of Torrevieja.

Rates and departure times are subject to change, so I wouldn't include the current price of €6.95 on this page permanently.

It would be best to mention that visitors should check the current schedule and ticket prices in advance.

La Mata and the Nature Park

La Mata isn't just interesting because of its long sandy beach.

On the other side of town lies the green lagoon of La Mata, which is part of the same protected nature reserve as the pink salt lake of Torrevieja.

Here are hiking trails and observation points where you can explore the nature reserve at your own pace.

For nature lovers, this is a nice change of pace from a day at the beach.

La Mata Beach

Playa de La Mata is one of the best-known beaches in the Torrevieja area.

The beach is long and wide and is surrounded by a boardwalk, restaurants, and amenities.

Thanks to its spaciousness, La Mata is popular with both families and people who enjoy long walks on the beach.

Anyone who wants to live in La Mata can enjoy the beach here, along with the proximity to Torrevieja and the nature park.

Aquopolis Torrevieja

For families with children, Aquopolis Torrevieja is one of the most popular summer outings.

The water park is located on Avenida Delfina Viudes and features water slides, swimming pools, and relaxation areas. According to the city of Torrevieja, the park is normally open during the summer months from June through August.

It's often a good idea to book tickets in advance, especially in July and August.

A visit to Aquopolis can easily be combined with other activities in Torrevieja.

Río Safari Elche

Another popular family outing is Río Safari Elche, located between Elche and Santa Pola.

The zoo has been in existence since 1983 and now also promotes itself as a European center for nature conservation.

In 2026, in addition to the zoo, the park will feature Splash Park, which includes swimming pools and water slides, as well as a separate Aventura Park with activities such as climbing courses and go-karting.

This makes it possible—especially in the summer—to combine a visit to the animal park with water fun in a single day.

Elche in El Palmeral

Elche is a great day trip if you want to mix up your beach time with some culture.

The city is best known for El Palmeral de Elche, the vast historic palm grove that is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In addition, in Elche you'll find:

historic buildings;
museums;
city park;
stores;
restaurants;
and at the Palacio de Altamira.

If you enjoy shopping, you can also combine your visit with a trip to the L'Aljub shopping center. You'll find more shopping options in our guide to shopping on the Costa Blanca.

Saint Paul

Santa Pola combines beaches, a harbor, fishing, and history.

In the center of town stands the Castillo-Fortaleza, a fortified complex that is an important part of the historic center.

After that, you can take a walk to the harbor, visit some seafood restaurants, or head to one of the beaches.

Santa Pola also has a very different atmosphere than Torrevieja: it’s more compact and closely connected to the fishing port.

By boat to Tabarca

One of the best day trips from Santa Pola is a boat trip to Isla de Tabarca.

This small, inhabited island lies off the coast of Alicante and is popular for:

the historic village;
clear water;
snorkeling;
small bays;
restaurants;
and go for a walk around the island.

Boats depart regularly from Santa Pola to Tabarca.

The island is popular in the summer and can get quite crowded. If you're looking for a more peaceful visit, it's best to leave early or go during the off-season.

Guardamar del Segura

Guardamar del Segura is best known for its long sandy beaches, but there is also plenty to see inland.

A large portion of the coast is protected by dunes and pine forests.

That makes Guardamar an attractive destination for people who like to combine beach time with hiking and nature.

In the city center and along the boulevard, you'll also find restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Reina Sofía Park in Guardamar

Parque Reina Sofía is a great place to visit with kids.

The park is located close to downtown and the coast and features plenty of greenery, water features, walking trails, and animals such as ducks and peacocks.

In the summer, there is often extra evening activity around the park and the coast.

Combine it with a walk along the boardwalk or to the beach, and you'll have a fun afternoon or evening without much planning.

The Dunes of Guardamar

The dunes of Guardamar are a distinctive feature of the landscape.

Behind the long beaches lie large areas of pine forests and dune vegetation.

Here, you can go for a walk or a bike ride without having to go far from the sea.

For people considering living in Guardamar, it is precisely the combination of the city, the beach, and green spaces that sets it apart from other coastal towns.

Rojales in Cuevas del Rodeo

Rojales is only a few kilometers inland, but it feels completely different from the coast.

One of the most famous attractions is the Cuevas del Rodeo.

These historic cave dwellings are now partly used as studios and cultural spaces.

The area is a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll and offers a very different view of Rojales than the nearby international Ciudad Quesada.

El Recorral

El Recorral is located between Rojales and Ciudad Quesada.

This nature and recreation area is suitable for:

hiking;
cycling;
picnicking;
playing with children;
and walking the dog.

For residents of Ciudad Quesada, it's one of the easiest places to get away from the city without having to drive far.

You can read more about the area in our comprehensive guide to living in Rojales.

Ciudad Quesada

Ciudad Quesada is primarily a residential area, but there are also various activities to enjoy here.

For example, you can:

playing golf at La Marquesa Golf;
Visit Aquapark Rojales;
dining out at one of the many international restaurants;
hiking in El Recorral;
or enjoy the view of the salt lakes from higher ground.

You can read more about Doña Pepa, La Marquesa, Pueblo Bravo, and Lo Pepín under Popular Neighborhoods in Ciudad Quesada.

Orihuela: Culture in the Interior

Many visitors are mainly familiar with Orihuela Costa, but the historic city of Orihuela is located further inland.

The city has a rich historic center with churches, palaces, and museums.

This makes Orihuela an interesting day trip for anyone who wants to learn more about the history of the Vega Baja.

The difference compared to the modern residential areas along Orihuela Costa is significant.

Orihuela Costa

On the coast, Orihuela Costa consists of various residential and beach areas, including:

La Zenia;
Flamenco Beach
Cabo Roig;
Campoamor;
Villamartín
in Los Dolses.

Here, you can easily combine the beach, dining, shopping, and golf.

For many vacationers, this is one of the most well-rounded recreational areas on the southern Costa Blanca.

Beaches of Orihuela Costa

Orihuela Costa has several beaches and smaller coves.

Well-known examples include:

La Zenia Beach;
Cala Capitán;
Cabo Roig Beach;
Campoamor Beach;
in Playa Flamenca

The beaches vary considerably in size and atmosphere.

If you want to explore different bays in a single day, you can easily drive along the coast and visit several spots.

La Zenia Boulevard

When it comes to shopping, La Zenia Boulevard is one of the most well-known destinations in the southern part of the Costa Blanca.

The open-air shopping center features fashion stores, restaurants, sports stores, and entertainment.

You can find more information about La Zenia Boulevard and other shopping centers in our guide to shopping on the Costa Blanca.

Especially in the summer, it can be nice to spend the hottest part of the day here and then head back to the beach later.

Golf on the Southern Costa Blanca

Golfers have plenty of options in this region.

You'll find well-known golf courses in the following areas, among others:

Ciudad Quesada;
Algorfa
Villamartín
Campoamor;
Las Colinas;
in Vistabella

As a result, places like Algorfa, Ciudad Quesada, and Orihuela Costa are popular among people looking for a home near a golf course.

What's more, golf here isn't just an activity that's fun in the summer.

It is precisely the milder months that are popular for playing.

Torrevieja Greenway

For hiking and biking, you can use sections of the Vía Verde de Torrevieja.

This route follows a former railroad line and winds through the countryside around the salt lakes.

It's a fun way to see a less touristy side of Torrevieja.

Be sure to bring plenty of water during the warmer months, and plan longer routes for early in the day.

Cycling along the coast

There are also cycling routes along various coastal towns.

Cycling is relatively easy, especially around Guardamar, Torrevieja, Pilar de la Horadada, and the surrounding flat areas.

The southern Costa Blanca is, on average, flatter than many areas along the northern Costa Blanca.

This makes cycling more accessible to recreational cyclists.

Hiking in the countryside

If you're looking for a bit more elevation, you don't have to drive far.

Around Orihuela, San Miguel de Salinas, and other inland areas, you'll find hills and hiking trails.

In the summer, the heat makes this less suitable in the middle of the day.

Spring, fall, and winter are actually great times for walks.

Visiting local markets

A Spanish market is a fun outing in and of itself.

Almost every day, a market is held somewhere in the region.

Well-known examples include:

Friday market in Torrevieja;
Wednesday market in Guardamar;
Thursday market in Rojales;
Tuesday market in Benijófar;
Saturday market in Playa Flamenca;
El Zoco on Sunday;
and the Lemon Tree Market near Guardamar on Sunday.

For dates, times, and locations, check out our comprehensive guide to markets on the Costa Blanca.

A Day of Shopping

Those who prefer to browse in stores also have plenty of options.

On the southern Costa Blanca, you can visit the following places, among others:

La Zenia Boulevard;
Habaneras in Torrevieja;
L'Aljub in Elche;
The Outlet Stores Alicante;
and the shopping districts of Alicante and Elche.

Check out our complete guide to shopping on the Costa Blanca.

Tabarca Island or the city of Alicante?

If you have a full day available, you have two options.

For the ocean, snorkeling, and a small island, choose Tabarca.

For shopping, culture, and city life, choose Alicante.

In Alicante, you can, among other things:

Visit the Castillo de Santa Bárbara;
Take a walk along the Explanada de España;
explore the historic center;
walk along the harbor;
and a day of shopping.

From much of the southern Costa Blanca, the city is easy to visit on a day trip.

Day Trip to Murcia

Murcia is also easily accessible from the southern part of the Costa Blanca.

The historic center, the cathedral, the squares, and the shops make Murcia the perfect place for a day that’s completely different from a day at the beach and by the sea.

For shopping, you can also visit commercial areas such as Nueva Condomina.

For residents of Orihuela Costa, Pilar de la Horadada, and Torrevieja, Murcia is often closer than visitors might think.

Pilar de la Horadada

Pilar de la Horadada is located in the very south of the province of Alicante.

The municipality extends all the way to the coast, passing through towns such as Torre de la Horadada and Mil Palmeras.

Here you'll find beaches, walking and biking trails, and a more peaceful atmosphere than in the central part of Torrevieja.

For those who want to explore further south, this is a nice transition toward the Costa Cálida.

San Pedro del Pinatar on the Mar Menor

If you drive a little further south, you'll reach San Pedro del Pinatar in the Murcia region.

Here, the landscape around the Mar Menor takes on a completely different character.

The salt lakes and wetlands of San Pedro del Pinatar are great for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.

This makes it an easy day trip from Orihuela Costa or Pilar de la Horadada.

What to do with kids?

There are plenty of options for families.

A few possibilities:

Aquopolis Torrevieja;
Río Safari Elche;
Splash Park at Río Safari;
Rojales Water Park;
Reina Sofía Park;
the beaches of Guardamar;
boat trip to Tabarca;
mini-golf and bowling;
local fairs and fiestas;
and water activities along the coast.

At Río Safari Elche, the offerings will be expanded even further in 2026: in addition to the animal park, the grounds will feature a water park and a separate adventure park.

What to do when it rains?

It rains sometimes on the Costa Blanca, too.

Then you can, for example:

shopping at La Zenia Boulevard;
to Habaneras;
visit a museum in Alicante or Orihuela;
to a movie theater;
bowl;
to an indoor arcade;
or enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the larger cities.

Elche, Alicante, and Torrevieja, in particular, have plenty of things to do to fill a day when the weather is bad.

What to do in the winter?

The southern Costa Blanca is actually just as interesting outside of the summer months.

In the winter, hiking, biking, and golf are often more enjoyable than in the middle of August.

You can then:

visiting nature parks;
explore cities;
visit markets;
take longer walks on the beach;
cycling;
play golf;
or explore various villages in the Vega Baja.

For people who spend the winter here or move here to retire, it is precisely that year-round selection that matters.

Local festivals and events

If you want to experience the authentic Spanish atmosphere, be sure to check out the local festival calendar.

Throughout the year, there are:

Holy Week—processions;
Moors and Christians;
patron saint festivals;
summer festivals;
Saint John
Christmas markets;
Epiphany parades;
and local ferias.

In towns such as Rojales, Torrevieja, Orihuela, Guardamar, and Santa Pola, a wide range of activities are regularly organized.

As a result, an ordinary week in Spain can suddenly turn into a big village festival.

Restaurants and Tapas

Eating out is, of course, an activity in and of itself.

Along the coast, you'll find plenty of fish and seafood, while inland, rice dishes, meat, and traditional Vega Baja dishes are also popular.

In Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa, the restaurant and bar scene is very international.

If you're looking for a more local atmosphere, you should head to:

Rojales;
Benijófar;
Los Montesinos;
Almorads;
of the city of Orihuela.

There, daily life in the hospitality industry often looks very different than it does on the coast.

Beach bars

During the warmer months, chiringuitos are a big part of beach life.

These are beach bars where you can have a drink and often get something to eat as well.

Opening and operating hours may vary by beach and season.

So don't just check old Google results when you're planning to drive out specifically to one particular chiringuito.

Along Guardamar, Orihuela Costa, and other coastal areas, you'll find a variety of options during the summer.

The best combination for a day

If you'd like to combine different activities, you could, for example, choose:

Torrevieja: salt lakes + downtown + Playa del Cura.

Guardamar: market + Reina Sofía Park + beach.

Rojales: Cuevas del Rodeo + El Recorral + dinner in Ciudad Quesada.

Santa Pola: harbor + castle-fortress + boat to Tabarca.

Elche: Palmeral + historic center + shopping.

Orihuela Costa: beach + La Zenia Boulevard + dinner.

That way, a day on the southern Costa Blanca doesn't have to be all about the beach.

Discover the Southern Costa Blanca if you're thinking of moving here

For anyone looking for a home on the Costa Blanca, these kinds of trips are actually a great way to get to know different places to live.

A place may seem appealing during a tour, but it's only when you spend a day there that you discover:

how far away stores really are;
where you like to eat out;
which beach you like;
how much traffic there is;
what the area outside the housing development is like;
and what you can do in your free time.

That is why we advise home seekers not to spend all their time driving from one open house to the next.

Be sure to take some time to explore the area as well.

Where to live on the Southern Costa Blanca?

After exploring the region, would you perhaps like to live on the Southern Costa Blanca yourself?

In that case, you might want to consider, among other things:

Every place has its own character.

If you're still undecided, check out our guide to the best places to live on the Costa Blanca.

Buying a Home on the Southern Costa Blanca

Would you like to explore the Southern Costa Blanca not only during vacations, but also to buy a second home here or live here permanently?

Casas Palmeras assists Dutch and Belgian buyers with buying a home in Spain.

View the current listings, discover the available new construction projects, or learn more about our approach.

Are you planning to move permanently? If so, be sure to check out our information on emigrating to Spain, health care in Spain, and NIE and residencia.

Would you like us to help you find a home in an area that offers the activities, beaches, and amenities that are important to you? If so, please fill out the home search questionnaire or feel free to contact Casas Palmeras.

The Southern Costa Blanca is much more than just a collection of beach towns. Within relatively short distances, you’ll find beaches, salt lakes, historic cities, nature reserves, markets, golf courses, water parks, and typical Spanish villages. It is precisely this variety that makes the region appealing for a vacation—and for those who eventually want to live there.