The Best Surf Guide: Alicante
Surfing in Alicante does not have decades of history as in other corners of the world, but what it has is passion, perseverance and good vibes. It began to take shape in the late 80s and early 90s, when some pioneers, attracted by the conditions of the Mediterranean in winter, began to explore its beaches with board in hand.
Although the sea does not offer constant waves all year round, when a good east swell comes in, the Alicante coast can surprise. Since then, a strong local community has been building up, with schools, surf camps and surfers who never miss a session. Today, to talk about surfing in Alicante is to talk about a way of life: early risers, good atmosphere in the water and a constant connection with the sea.
Index of Our Alicante Surf Guide
When to travel to Alicante if you are looking for surfing?
Although it is not a constant wave destination, Alicante has its golden moments for surfing, especially if you are attentive to the part and flexible with your board.
Autumn and winter (October to March):
The best time to surf in Alicante. Mediterranean squalls generate decent swells, especially with easterly winds. Waves can exceed one meter on good days, with sessions lasting hours. In addition, the water temperature is warm and the atmosphere is calm.
Spring and summer (April to September):
It is less constant, but there can still be interesting sessions, especially if some swell or thermal lift appears. It is also a good time to longboard, paddle surf or get started on the board. And if there are no waves… the beach, beach bar and sun are guaranteed.
How to get around Alicante if you go surfing
One of the advantages of surfing in Alicante is how easy it is to move around the city and get to the spots. Whether you come by car or if you are staying in the city, there are convenient options.
Public transportation:
Streetcar (TRAM), city buses and even commuter train if you stay outside. You can easily reach beaches like San Juan or Muchavista, even with your board on your back.
Bicycle or scooter:
Perfect for getting around the coastal area. There are bike paths and wide promenades. Many local surfers cycle from Cabo de las Huertas to the beach with their boards under their arms.
Car:
If you are going to explore spots like Urbanova, Arenales del Sol or more remote coves, a car is ideal. Most beaches have parking nearby, although in the middle of summer it can be a bit more difficult to find a spot.
The best surf spots in Alicante
San Juan beach:
One of the best known spots in Alicante. It is an urban beach, wide and sandy bottom, ideal both for beginners and to improve maneuvers. It has multiple peaks, so you can move according to the wind and tide. On days of good levante, the wave can be fast and fun, with long sections for turns. Very frequented by schools and local surfers.
Tide: Medium
Wind: East – Southeast
Background: Sand
Swell: East – East
Difficulty level: Beginner / Intermediate
Access: On foot from the promenade
Location: North of the city, direct access by streetcar (TRAM).
Direction: Left and right
Length: Medium
Swell required: Medium
Surfers: Quite a few, especially on weekends and in the area in front of schools.
El Campello:
Further north of San Juan, El Campello has areas with more marked peaks, and on good days can offer more powerful waves. Less crowded than San Juan, it is a spot that allows you to enjoy more calmly. It has space for medium level surfers looking for cleaner sessions. Ideal for surfing during the week.
Tide: Rising
Wind: East / Southeast
Sea bottom: Sand and some rock in some areas.
Swell: East / Southeast
Difficulty: Intermediate
Access: By car or TRAM, direct descent to the beach.
Location: Center area of El Campello
Direction: Right / Left
Length: Medium / Long
Swell required: Medium / High
Surfers: Few to moderate, ideal if you are looking for tranquility.
Muchavista:
It is a natural extension of San Juan, but with less construction and more free space. Ideal for those looking to practice without so much pressure, with sandy bottoms and softer waves. Good rights and lefts are formed when the wind comes in, and it also responds well to days with swell.
Tide: Medium – High
Wind: East – East
Background: Sand
Swell: East / Southeast
Difficulty: All levels
Access: Easy, direct from the street or promenade
Location: Between San Juan and El Campello
Address: Variable
Length: Medium
Swell required: Medium
Surfers: Quiet in general, with more secluded areas.
Urbanova:
Located south of Alicante, near the airport, Urbanova is a lesser known spot but very popular with local surfers when the levante comes in. It has sections where the wave breaks with more power and verticality, especially with strong swell. Sand bottom with some rocky spots depending on the area.
Tide: High
Wind: Strong easterly
Bottom: Sand and small rocks
Swell: Powerful Levant
Difficulty level: Intermediate / Advanced
Access: By car, easy parking
Location: South of Alicante, near the San Gabriel neighborhood.
Direction: Clean right / Some beach breaks
Length: Medium
Swell required: High
Surfers: Few, spot more local and technical
Arenales del Sol:
A little further from the center, in the direction of Santa Pola, this spot can surprise on days of good swell. It is a big and open beach, ideal for longer sessions without crowds. The waves tend to be soft and long, which makes it good for longboarders or beginners.
Tide: Rising
Wind: Levante
Background: Sand
Swell: East – Southeast
Difficulty level: Beginner / Intermediate
Access: Car + short descent
Location: South of Alicante, after Urbanova
Direction: Right / Left
Length: Long
Swell required: Medium
Surfers: Few, ideal for a quiet session.
Coves of Cabo de las Huertas:
For those looking for something different, the small coves of the Cape are a very special option. It is not a spot for beginners: access is more difficult, there is rock and shallow depth. But when it breaks well (with a powerful levante), it can offer technical and clean waves, with little wind and zero overcrowding.
Tide: High
Wind: East – East
Background: Rock
Swell: Powerful Levant
Difficulty: Advanced
Access: Hiking on rocky trails
Location: Between San Juan and the center of Alicante
Direction: Fast right
Length: Short / Technical
Swell required: High
Surfers: Very few, secret spot for locals only.
Where to stay if you go surfing in Alicante?
Playa de San Juan: the heart of Alicante’s surfing area
It is the most sought after area for those who come to surf. San Juan beach is wide, open to the swell and very active: surf schools, equipment rental, showers, parking and a perfect promenade to relax after a session in the water.
- Ideal for: surfers of all levels, group travelers, families.
- Advantages: direct access to the sea, variety of restaurants and cafes, good atmosphere all year round.
- Transport: the TRAM connects this area with the center in less than 20 minutes.
If you want to get up, look at the sea from the balcony and decide whether to enter the water, this is your area.
Cabo de las Huertas: more privacy
Located right between Playa San Juan and Albufereta, Cabo de las Huertas is a more residential and quiet area. Here there are not so many tourist services, but there are rocky coves and small beaches that offer a natural and relaxed environment.
- Ideal for: surfers looking for tranquility, couples, teleworkers.
- Advantages: less noise, spectacular views, good quality of accommodations.
- Extra: some of the Cape ‘s coves are perfect for snorkeling or paddle surfing on days without waves.
Downtown Alicante: urban life near the sea
If you prefer to be in the heart of the city, the center of Alicante is also an interesting option. Even if you are not next to the waves, you can easily move to the spots by streetcar (TRAM) and enjoy in the afternoon the cultural life, the tapas, the stores or a stroll along the port.
- Ideal for: travelers without their own board, urban leisure lovers, short getaways.
- Advantages: everything at hand, good choice of accommodation and bars, lots of atmosphere in the evenings.
- Access to the surf: connects in 20-30 minutes with the beaches of San Juan, Muchavista or El Campello.
Many surfers choose this area to have a balance between surfing and tourism, especially if they do not know how many days there will be waves and want to take advantage of the rest of the trip.
Plans to get to know Alicante
Alicante is a versatile city, with history, amazing views, lots of culture and a gastronomic life that catches. Here are some ideas to squeeze the coast, even if your board stays in the rack.
Santa Barbara Castle and old town
Climbing the Castle of Santa Barbara is almost mandatory if you visit the city. From the top of Mount Benacantil, more than 160 meters above sea level, you will have a total panoramic view: the Mediterranean, the port, the old town and even the Playa de San Juan in the background on clear days.
- You can walk up from the Santa Cruz neighborhood, a short and picturesque route with decorated staircases, white houses with flowers and urban art murals.
- The interior of the castle includes exhibits, tunnels and restored areas with historical information. Admission is free most of the year.
- If you don’t feel like walking up, you can take the elevator from the Explanada, next to the Postiguet.
And while you’re there, explore the old town, a pedestrian area full of narrow streets, traditional bars and a bohemian/local atmosphere.
Archaeological Museum (MARQ)
If you are interested in history or just want a cool plan for a day without waves, the MARQ is a must. This museum is much more than showcases with ancient pieces: it is an interactive experience that transports you from prehistoric times to medieval times, passing through the Iberians, Romans and Muslims who left their mark on the Costa Blanca.
- Audiovisuals, immersive recreations and a careful staging make even the most skeptical visitors enjoy the visit.
Located near the center, you can combine it with an urban route through the castle or the beach.
Ideal for curious surfers who want to understand the Mediterranean soul of Alicante.
MACA (Museum of Contemporary Art)
Right next to the church of Santa Maria, in the heart of the old town, hides this modern and free treasure. The Museum of Contemporary Art of Alicante (MACA) houses an amazing collection with works by Picasso, Miró, Dalí, Tàpies and Chillida, among others.
The architecture is modern and bright, the atmosphere is calm and welcoming, and it also has temporary exhibitions, workshops and spectacular views of the old city.
A perfect plan if you love art or just want to breathe local culture between surf sessions.
Route along the Explanada de España: Alicante’s most iconic promenade
This promenade is a living postcard of the city. Paved with more than 6 million tesserae forming an undulating mosaic, the Esplanade of Spain is a meeting point for locals, travelers and street artists.
On one side you have the marina, with its boats and restaurants facing the sea. On the other, palm trees and terraces ideal for sunset drinks.
From here you can walk to the Postiguet Beach, reach the old town or continue to the Santa Cruz neighborhood.
Perfect for slowing down, taking pictures, having an ice cream or just watching the Mediterranean life go by.
Postiguet Beach
Located at the foot of the Castle of Santa Barbara, this is the most central and accessible beach in Alicante. Although it is not a strong surf spot, it is perfect for relaxing after a walk or paddle a while with the board if the sea is calm.
You can paddle surf or snorkel, read overlooking the castle or lie on the sand to unwind. It also has showers, beach bars and hammocks for rent. You can also get there by streetcar or bus without complications.
Ideal for surfers who want to “do nothing” but still be in front of the sea.
Albufereta Beach: more calm, same blue
A little further from the center, Albufereta Beach is a small bay with calm waters, very frequented by locals. Here the pace slows down, the tourists are fewer and there is a more relaxed atmosphere.
As it faces east, it is ideal for watching incredible sunrises while paddle boarding or doing yoga in front of the sea.
It has easy access, shaded areas, services and, most importantly, plenty of space to be quiet.
Tapas, terraces and local ambience
Not everything in Alicante is waves. Its gastronomic and tapas culture is an essential part of the local lifestyle. It is easy to find authentic bars and terraces where you can eat well, without spending too much.
- Santa Cruz and El Barrio are perfect for tapas in the evening. Try the classic tapas such as tellinas (coquinas), cuttlefish with alioli or montaditos.
- In the area of the Central Market you will find bars frequented by locals, with fresh produce of the day and lots of atmosphere. Perfect for lunch after a frustrating surfing session.
- If you prefer something with a view, the Marina and the Muelle 12 area have terraces ideal for dining or having a drink in front of the sea, with a relaxed atmosphere and more modern options.
Low cost plans for surfers in Alicante
Traveling with a board, a backpack and a desire for the sea doesn’t have to be expensive. Alicante has that perfect balance between Mediterranean city and surf destination, where it is easy to move around, discover charming spots and enjoy without leaving half a budget. Here are some ideas to make the most of your day without breaking the piggy bank.
Bicycle along the promenade
One of the cheapest (and most fun) ways to get around Alicante is by bike or scooter. The city is fairly flat, with well-marked bike lanes, especially by the sea.
The star route for surfers is the one that goes from Postiguet Beach to San Juan, along the coast by Albufereta and Cabo de las Huertas. It is about 6 km of walk with constant views of the Mediterranean, perfect to stop when you feel like a swim or take a picture.
- Local apps such as Bicisanvi or electric scooter services offer very affordable prices.
- In summer, early or late in the day is when it is best enjoyed: less heat and magical light.
Viewpoints and sunsets
Even if you don’t go in the water, you can close the day with an unforgettable view. Alicante has several points from where to see how the sun hides behind the mountains or merges with the sea. The best part: they are all free.
- Cabo de las Huertas: a place that not many tourists know. Trails by the sea, rocky and quiet environment. Perfect to see how the sky is dyed in colors.
- La Ereta Park: halfway between the castle and the historic center, with breathtaking panoramic views. Ideal for reading, resting or having a picnic.
- Serra Grossa: an urban hill with paths through pine trees and viewpoints overlooking the bay. Great for an express getaway without leaving the city.
Natural areas without spending too much
- Lo Morant Park: spacious, with shadows, picnic areas and local atmosphere.
- Serra Grossa: again, perfect for walking, exercising or contemplating the sea from above.
- Salinas de Santa Pola: 25-30 min by car or bus. Protected natural park with flamingos, migratory birds and unique landscapes. Free and little overcrowded.
Plans with children in Alicante
Surf lessons for children on the beaches of Alicante
If you are looking for a fun, active plan in contact with the sea, sign the little ones up for a surf class. surfing class in Alicante is a safe bet.
Beaches such as San Juan or Albufereta have schools with soft boards, specialized instructors and small groups.
It is a safe way to introduce them to surfing, with a relaxed atmosphere and mild Mediterranean conditions, perfect for learning without scares.
Quiet days on safe family beaches
It’s not all about catching waves. Alicante also offers several wide beaches and calm waters ideal for children:
- Playa del Postiguet: next to the center, with easy access.
- San Juan beach: huge, with playgrounds and showers.
- Urbanova: further south, less touristy and relaxed.
All have lifeguards, bathrooms, bars and are perfect for families. Also, ideal for paddle surfing if there are no waves.
Boat trip + snorkeling at Tabarca Island
A trip to Tabarca Island is a star plan for families. It can be reached by boat from Alicante or Santa Pola in less than an hour.
The island is a marine reserve, with crystal clear waters, colorful fish and lots of charm.
Snorkeling here is a unique experience: caves, schools of fish and rocky bottoms full of life.
You can also stroll through the old town, taste rice dishes or get on a glass-bottomed boat.
Water and marine sports in Alicante
Surf in Alicante
Alicante is not the capital of surfing in Spain, but it has surprising corners. The best time is usually autumn and winter, when the sea enters and blows levante.
- For starters: beaches like San Juan or El Postiguet, with gentle waves and sandy bottoms, perfect for learning without scares.
- For medium-advanced level: Cabo de las Huertas, more demanding and with powerful waves on good days.
There are several schools that offer lessons and rentals, so you don’t need to come loaded with equipment to enjoy the sea.
Paddle Surf and Kayak
When the sea is flat at dawn (which happens a lot in Alicante), it is time to change board for paddle.
- Paddle surfing is enjoyed in quiet beaches such as Albufereta, La Almadraba or in the coves of Cabo de las Huertas. Clear water, calm and postcard views.
- With the kayak you can reach hidden caves and inaccessible corners from the shore. Many guided tours include snorkeling in the middle of the tour.
Snorkeling and diving in Tabarca
If there is a place that no sea lover should miss is Tabarca Island. Marine reserve, crystal clear waters and a seabed full of life.
- Snorkeling: posidonia meadows, colorful fish and rocky caves.
- Diving: baptism options for those who want to try something new.
The boat from Alicante leaves you in less than an hour in this small paradise.
Boat excursions
Another way to experience Alicante from the sea.
- Excursions from the port with stops for swimming, paddle boarding or snorkeling.
- Catamaran trips to Tabarca, a mix of sailing and relaxation.
- Private sailboat charter for groups, perfect if you are looking for a more exclusive experience.
- Even sport fishing for those who want to exchange waves for rods.
Nature trails and getaways near Alicante
Serra Grossa: mountain overlooking the city
An urban elevation that takes less than an hour to climb and offers brutal panoramic views: Alicante bay, port, Postiguet beach and even Tabarca on clear days.
Quick and perfect plan for before or after surfing. Easy trails and lots of local atmosphere.
There are several schools that offer lessons and rentals, so you don’t need to come loaded with equipment to enjoy the sea.
Serra Helada: adventure by the Mediterranean Sea
Between Benidorm and Altea stands this natural park of cliffs and endless viewpoints.
- Classic route: from the Albir lighthouse, with an accessible path and spectacular views.
- For the more intrepid: the route along the ridge, with more intense climbs and unique panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Half-day plan ideal for combining exercise, nature and photography.
Gastronomy in Alicante: what, where and how to taste the city.
Typical dishes of Alicante that you cannot miss
Alicante cuisine is based on rice, sea and land. It is simple but tasty, and each dish tells a story.
- Arroz a banda: made with fish broth, accompanied by aioli. A classic on the coast.
- Rice with crusttypical of the interior, with sausage and baked egg au gratin.
- Caldero: fish with rice cooked in its broth. Very tasty.
- Mojama and salted fish: dried tuna, fish roe or cured bonito. They are usually served as a tapa.
- Esgarraet or pericana: salads of roasted peppers with cod or mojama.
- Coca de mollitas: crunchy dough with bits of flour and salt. Ideal as a snack.
- Handmade ice cream and nougat: especially in summer or as a dessert after a good meal.
Typical drinks: to cool off after surfing
After a good surfing session in Alicante, you have to hydrate… and here they also know how to do it with flavor.
- Wines from Alicante: especially reds and muscatels from the Marina Alta. Try some with denomination of origin.
- Horchata and slushies: very popular in summer. They are sold in ice cream parlors and neighborhood horchaterias.
- Alicante-style Agua de Valencia: some bars prepare it with local orange and a drier touch.
- Local beer: brands such as Santa or Postiguet have an Alicante seal and are served cold on terraces facing the sea.
Neighborhoods where to eat well in Alicante
Knowing where to eat in Alicante is as important as knowing what to order. Here we leave you the most recommended neighborhoods according to your plan:
- El Barrio and Santa Cruz (Old Town): Perfect for getting lost among charming alleys and finding taverns serving tapas, rice dishes and local wines. Ideal for an atmospheric dinner after surfing or exploring the center.
- Central Market and Carolinas: Ideal area to try market food, traditional bars and daily menus with excellent value for money. Here you eat like a local.
- Playa de San Juan and Cabo de las Huertas: Perfect if you are looking to eat in front of the sea, with paellas on the beach or restaurants with fresh fish. Many surfers stay here after a good day of waves.
- Benalúa and Ensanche Diputación: Quieter and residential, but with creative proposals, fusion cuisine and places with zero kilometer products. An area to savor calmly.
Tabarca Island: a natural jewel a few kilometers from the surf of Alicante
Tabarca Island is the only inhabited island of the Valencian Community and a true Mediterranean paradise. Located about 22 km from the port of Alicante (and just 8 km from Santa Pola), it is perfect for a day trip if there are no waves or if you want to disconnect from the urban rhythm.
From Alicante you can take a tourist boat (the trip takes about 50 minutes), although from Santa Pola it is faster (15-20 minutes) and more frequent. Ideal if you have a car or you can move by transport.
Once there, crystal clear waters and protected areas for snorkeling among fish, algae and rock formations, a walled old town with low houses and quiet alleys and the best: the caldero tabarquino, a typical fish stew that only tastes like this on this island.
For those who come tosurf in Alicante, Tabarca is that change of pace that allows you to recharge energy and enjoy the most natural part of Alicante’s Mediterranean.
Barrio de Santa Cruz: the essence of Alicante among narrow streets
It is one of the most charming corners of Alicante. This neighborhood is like a small Andalusian village embedded in the city: white houses with railings and flowers, narrow and steep streets, and neighbors who still greet each other by name.
The best thing to do here is to get lost aimlessly. It is ideal for a walk at sunset after a day of surfing at Playa del Postiguet or a walk along the Cabo de las Huertas, climb the castle on foot and enjoy the best views of the city center.
Have a drink in one of the small squares or hidden terraces, away from the tourist bustle.
In addition, in spring and summer the neighborhood is filled with colorful decorations and there are often traditional festivals.
Lucentum: Roman Alicante under the ground
In the heart of the neighborhood of La Albufereta, one of the most popular areas among surfers in Alicante for its gentle waves and quiet atmosphere, is Lucentum, the ancient Roman settlement that gave rise to the present city.
It is about 15 minutes by car or streetcar from the center of Alicante and the visit takes between 1 and 2 hours and is ideal to combine with a swim in the Albufereta Beach or a paddle surfing session.
It is a window to the past: Roman streets, remains of houses, forums, baths and walls, all outdoors and well signposted. If you are a history lover or just looking for a different experience near the sea, Lucentum is an ideal plan.
And if you are traveling with children, it is also a place where they can learn and run around without any problem!
Jardín de la Ereta: views and calm in the center of town
The Ereta Garden is one of those places that many tourists overlook… and that is why it retains its quiet magic. It is located on the hillside of the Castle of Santa Barbara, between the old town and the fortress. You can reach it in about 10 minutes on foot from the Santa Cruz neighborhood or from the Postiguet Beach.
This park-viewpoint offers panoramic views of Alicante and its coastline ideal for relaxing after a surfing session, quiet paths for strolling, shady benches and green spaces for yoga, reading or disconnecting, and a quiet, almost meditative atmosphere with the sea always present in the background.
It is perfect for those looking for a quiet connection with the city and the natural environment, without having to leave Alicante. In addition, being at altitude, it is one of the best spots to watch the sunset.
Leisure and nightlife in Alicante: where to go out and have a good time?
After a good surfing session in Alicante, nothing like going out to discover the nightlife of this Mediterranean city. With options for all tastes – from quiet bars facing the sea to streets full of music and lively terraces – Alicante has that perfect balance between sea, culture and partying that is so appealing.
Here we tell you the best areas and plans to enjoy the Alicante nightlife like a local (or almost).
Beach bars in front of the sea: Playa del Postiguet, San Juan and El Cabo
If your thing is surfing and relaxed, start the night in one of the beach bars by the sea. On the Playa del Postiguet, a stone’s throw from the center, you can have a drink with a view of the castle while listening to chill or soft electronic music.
On the Playa de San Juan or in the Cabo de las Huertas area, the beach bars fill up with young people at sunset. Perfect for a light dinner, mojitos and that coastal atmosphere you crave after a day of waves.
Ideal if you are looking for quiet plans or to start the night in a relaxed way and overlooking the Mediterranean.
Terraces and bars with a surfing atmosphere
In neighborhoods like El Barrio (old town) or Raval Roig, classic bars, terraces with tapas and cocktail bars are mixed with a younger and more casual aesthetic. Whether you come with a surfboard or in surfer mode, you will find people with the same desire to disconnect.
Places like Concerto, Hemingway, or Marmarela Beach Club (by the sea) combine good music, neat decoration and local and international atmosphere. In addition, many bars offer acoustic concerts, DJ sessions or monologues.
El Barrio and Santa Cruz: festive soul between alleys
The Barrio de Alicante, in the heart of the historic center, is the heart of the party. At nightfall, its streets are full of life with bars, pubs, terraces and nightclubs for all tastes. It is easy to move from one place to another without the need for transportation.
Right next door, the Barrio de Santa Cruz offers a quieter alternative but with a lot of charm: traditional taverns, squares with music and that bohemian touch that is so popular. If you go up a bit, you have incredible views of the illuminated city.
Night markets and outdoor events
During the summer months or on special dates, Alicante organizes night craft markets in areas such as the Explanada de España, the Marina or the Castle of Santa Barbara. In them you can find everything from clothing and decoration to local food, craft beer and live performances.
It is also common to see concerts in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, film screenings on the beach or festivals in parks and squares.
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