12 km from El Campello (30 minutes direct on TRAM, 13 by car) lies La Vila Joiosa, one of the most photogenic villages in the entire Valencian Community. Painted colourful houses in the old town, century-old chocolate factories and a blue-flag beach. Must-visit if you stay in the area.
The old town of Villajoyosa has the most picturesque seafront facade on the Costa Blanca: steep alleys with houses painted intense blue, dusty pink, lemon yellow, terracotta. Local legend says fishermen painted them this way to recognise their homes from the sea on foggy days. One of the most Instagram-shared corners in the whole province.
Villajoyosa has been the chocolate capital of Spain since the 19th century. Three historic factories are still active: Valor (the most famous, with museum and free guided tour by reservation), Pérez (artisanal, open to the public), Clavileño (historic store). In winter they organise excellent "hot chocolate with sea view" tours.
Playa Centro (blue flag, lively promenade, restaurants). Playa Paradís (quieter, 3 km north). Playa Bol Nou (virgin cove to the south, golden sand). If you enjoy walking, there is a coastal route between coves of about 8 km that is very pretty in spring.
TRAM Line 1 towards Benidorm: 30 minutes direct, runs every 30 min. By car: 13 minutes via N-332 or AP-7 (very short toll). By bike on the coastal lane: 50 minutes easy. Walking is also possible (3 hours along the coast, very pretty route).
Any month works. But the Moors and Christians festival in Villajoyosa (last weekend of July) is the most spectacular in all the Valencian Community: 5000 costumed people parade and the Moorish landing on the beach is recreated. Book parking ahead if going by car.