The Costa Blanca is one of the most family-friendly holiday destinations in Spain. Calm water, sandy beaches, water parks and a climate that is pleasant almost all year round. But where is the best place to stay with children, and what is there to do? After 8 years of welcoming families to our holiday homes, we know exactly what works.
Why the Costa Blanca is great for families
The Mediterranean has hardly any waves and almost no currents. Children can play safely in the shallow water. The beaches in Calpe and Torrevieja have Blue Flag status and lifeguards. The sea is warm enough for swimming from April to November.
Away from the beach there is plenty to do: water parks, renting a small boat, walking up the Peñón de Ifach and day trips to cities such as Alicante and Valencia. One week is honestly too short.
6 activities for kids
Aqualandia Benidorm
Age 3+ · 30 min from Calpe
One of the largest water parks in Spain, with slides for all ages. Easily fills a whole day. Book online for a discount.
Peñón de Ifach hike
Age 8+ · Calpe centre
The climb to the top of the rock takes about 2 hours. Kids love it. Bring water and sun protection, the last 30 minutes are steep.
Terra Mítica Benidorm
Age 5+ · 30 min from Calpe
Theme park built around ancient civilisations. Roller coasters, shows and a separate area for little ones. Combine it with Aqualandia over two days.
Torrevieja salt lakes
Age All ages · Torrevieja
The pink salt lakes are free to visit and a unique natural spectacle. Flamingos are a common sight. Bring binoculars for birdwatching.
Aquopolis Torrevieja
Age 2+ · Torrevieja
Compact water park right in Torrevieja. Smaller than Aqualandia but good for half a day and ideal for younger children. Less travelling, more splashing.
Boat hire in Calpe
Age 4+ · Calpe harbour
Small boats you can hire without a licence in Calpe harbour. Sail past the Peñón and watch fish and damselfish through the clear water. Kids love the freedom.
Calpe or Torrevieja with kids?
Both destinations are excellent for families, but they each have their own character.
Calpe is a little quieter and has the Peñón as an extra attraction. La Fossa is an ideal family beach with all facilities. Aqualandia and Terra Mítica in Benidorm are 30 minutes away. More nature, fewer crowds.
Torrevieja is more compact and everything is within walking distance. Aquopolis is right in town. The pink salt lakes are a special experience for children. Livelier, and more to do on foot.
Frequently asked questions
How old does my child need to be for the Costa Blanca?
There is no minimum age. Babies and toddlers travel just fine. The beaches in Calpe and Torrevieja have calm water, little current and are well sheltered. Bear in mind the heat in July and August: keep young children out of the strong sun between 12:00 and 16:00.
Is the water safe for children?
Yes. Playa La Fossa and Playa del Cura have Blue Flag status, lifeguards and calm, shallow water. The Mediterranean has almost no waves and little current. Ideal for children who are learning to swim.
What can you do on a rainy day?
Rain is rare but not impossible. Nearby options: the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MACA) or the MARQ archaeological museum in Alicante (1 hour), or a day in Valencia with the City of Arts and Sciences and the Oceanogràfic aquarium (1.5 hours). Indoor activities are thinner on the ground than you may be used to at home, though.
Are restaurants child-friendly?
Spain is generally very child-friendly. Restaurants in Calpe and Torrevieja almost always have a children's menu. Spaniards eat late (dinner from 21:00), but tourist restaurants serve earlier. Just go early.
Practical tips at a glance
- ✓Book an apartment with a kitchen: making your own breakfast and lunch saves a lot of money and stress
- ✓Bring inflatables and water toys, they are expensive to buy locally
- ✓High-factor sunscreen is essential, the Spanish sun is stronger than you think
- ✓Most supermarkets (Mercadona, Lidl, Aldi) are well stocked and often cheaper than in Northern Europe
- ✓Both towns have paediatric clinics, ask your host for a recommendation
- ✓If you are bringing a pushchair, choose an apartment with a lift
Planning a family holiday on the Costa Blanca?
Our apartments are fully equipped for families: kitchen, child-friendly surroundings, free parking and personal advice about the area. Cot or high chair available on request.