The best beaches and coves in El Campello and nearby
El Campello has one of the most varied coastlines on the Alicante stretch: kilometres of golden Blue Flag sand, quiet rocky coves to get lost in, and a Roman site where you can snorkel. We live here, so this isn't a list copied from a guidebook — these are the spots we actually go to, with the right tide, parking and time of day for each one. Whether you come in summer or pick El Campello for a longer off-season stay, here's what's genuinely worth it.
The two big sandy beaches: Carrer la Mar and Muchavista
These are the classic beaches, and both fly the Blue Flag. Carrer la Mar is the town beach: fine sand, a promenade right behind it with bars and ice-cream shops, and all the services (showers, sunbeds, lifeguards in summer). Muchavista is the longest — over three kilometres running alongside the promenade towards San Juan, perfect for a sunrise walk or a bike ride. If you want space and fewer crowds, head for the southern end of Muchavista.
The quieter rocky coves
North of the harbour the coast turns to rock and clear water. Cala del Lanuza, next to the Mercé marina, has golden sand and calm water that families love. Further up you'll find Cala de l'Almadrava and the Cova del Llop Marí area, with smooth rock slabs ideal for stretching out and swimming without waves. These are small coves with no beach bar or sunbeds, so bring water, water shoes and some shade. In return, you get peace and quiet even in August.
Snorkelling at Illeta dels Banyets
This is our favourite spot to put your head underwater. The Illeta dels Banyets connects the archaeological site to the coast via a rocky platform, and that's where the Los Baños de la Reina snorkel route runs. The water is shallow and very clear, full of life — saupe, damselfish, the odd starfish. Bring your own mask and snorkel. Go early, when the sea is flat and the light comes through. It's not a swimming pool, so respect the rocks and the seagrass.
Nearby beaches by car or TRAM
If you fancy a change of scenery, it's all close by. San Juan beach in Alicante is about 10–15 minutes by car, huge and lively. Villajoyosa, with its row of brightly painted houses, is roughly 15 minutes north and has a fine-sand town beach. Best of all is the TRAM: the line towards Alicante stops at San Juan and Cabo de la Huerta, and the line towards Benidorm passes through La Vila Joiosa. Park the car once and travel with no parking stress.
Practical tips: when to go, parking and services
In July and August, arrive before 11am or after 5pm to find a spot and dodge the peak heat. In town there's paid parking near the promenade and some metered zones; the northern coves have limited parking, so it pays to go early. Carrer la Mar and Muchavista have showers, toilets, accessible ramps and lifeguards in season. Off-season, from October to May, the beaches are almost empty and the water is still pleasant around midday.
