Once you’ve discovered the diverse range of adventurous activities to partake in, in Costa Blanca, your plan to simply stay by the pool all day will quickly change. If you’re a thrill-seeker, or venturing on a fun family holiday, the selection of exciting water parks situated along this idyllic coastline will entice you in. Take a trip to Aqua Nature or the famous Aqualandia for a splash-tastic day out.
Aiguera Park was designed by architect Ricardo Bofill. Located in Benidorm beside the Avinguda de l'Aiguera, this public park boasts a Neoclassic style with traditional Greek architecture.
The park connects Benidorm’s commercial centre and the old town, making this the perfect scenic route to take if you are travelling from one district to another. If you are in search of somewhere to take a calming stroll in a picturesque environment, look no further than Aiguera Park. Take the weight off your feet and rest on a bench under a palm tree to take in the tranquillity of this oasis. There are two amphitheatres in the grounds, including the Julio Iglesias Auditorium, home of the Benidorm Song Festival in June. However, there is popular entertainment held in these theatres throughout the year.
There is also a small museum located at the Bullring end, so why not head inside for a look around when you pass?
Home to hundreds of cacti, the Algar Botanical Garden has been a labour of love for Pepe Perez, the owner, for many years. This private garden boasts at least 500 species of cacti, as well as other plants, which have been grouped into various exhibition areas.
If you have a passion for horticulture or mother nature, no trip to Costa Blanca would be complete without calling in at the Algar Botanical Garden. Broaden your knowledge of this fascinating subject by taking in the various exhibitions.
Take the kids to Dino Park, where they can explore the vast range of cacti on display amongst the model dinosaurs also on show. Each exhibition is featured alongside detailed explanations of the plants and groupings, so whether already possess an in-depth knowledge of cacti and other plants, or are a total novice, you can still enjoy the Algar Botanical Garden.
We advise you bring a swimsuit and towel for your trip (or dip) to the Algar Waterfalls. It is also a good idea to wear some reliable walking shoes as the terrain can get quite slippery. This attraction, which is suitable for the whole family, offers you a stunning view of a real miracle of nature.
Located 15 km from Benidorm, Algar Waterfalls is the ultimate tourist experience, providing environmental education and an experience never to be forgotten. The circuit of 1.5 km allows you to walk through the bed of the river Algar and view the absolutely spectacular waterfalls and springs. Take a revitalising swim in the crystal-clear waters, locally known as “source of health”. You even have the option to camp.
There’s ample parking and admission is €4 for adults and €2 for children up to 10 years old. You can also purchase some fresh fruit on the way out, which is absolutely delicious.
If your family fancies taking a dip in Benidorm, Aqua Natura is the place to do it. This water park has it all, from relaxing and soothing hydrotherapy to high speed water slides. In fact, there are over 800 metres’ worth of water slides at Aqua Natura, promising fun for children of all ages.
The children’s pool is guaranteed to excite the little ones, especially when the wave machine is turned on. In the meantime, parents can relax under an umbrella by the side of the pool, or on the sandy beaches.
There are also sea lion live performances, which provide entertainment for the whole family. Additionally, you can find out more information about these majestic creatures including their characteristics and habitat.
You should take the chance to dive into the world of sharks, rays and multicoloured shoals of fish, providing both entertainment and education. All these incredible attractions can be found at Aqua Natura in Benidorm.
Give the family a day out that they won't forget at Aqualandia. In a gorgeous natural setting, this water park promises a fun-packed day of experiencing water rides and exploring gardens.
Based in Barcelona, this water park ranks its attractions in tiers: Familiar, Moderate and Radical – if you are feeling radical, you can try out Verti-Go – a 33-metre-high water slide, with an average speed of 100 km an hour. For smaller children, Adventureland offers a variety of small slides and play areas to enjoy.
For those who love exploring, Niagara allows you to explore the mountain caves hidden behind the waterfall, as well as swim in the calm waters underneath.
Aqualandia has a wide range of facilities including picnic area, on-site snack vendors for burgers ice cream etc., as well as an on-site pizzeria. Showers, changing rooms and lockers are available on-site, as is a cash machine and currency exchange.
For a brilliant night of drinks, entertainment and fine dining, visit the award-winning venue, Benidorm Palace. Hosting compelling events for over 40 years, this fascinating venue offers some of the best shows in Europe, with an eclectic mix of performers and shows taking place inside this phenomenal event space.
The building itself is astounding, with its waved shape and mirrored exterior and colourfully lit up at night to attract nearby visitors. Benidorm Palace seats 1,500 guests and offers a charismatic atmosphere for all who attend.
The likes of Julio Iglesias, Lola Flores, Alejandro Sanz and many others have performed at this exciting venue, and famous artists continue to take to the Palace stage each year. Benidorm Palace offers a diverse range of entertainment options to choose from, not only hosting exciting entertainment shows such as circus, dancing, comedy and singing performances, but competition shows such as the Miss Spain contest, too.
Looking for an adult day or night out? Look no further than Benidorm’s Bingo Plaza. Serving a wide variety of drinks throughout the day and evening, you'll be well looked after as you play. The bingo hall comprises of very elegant and comfortable chairs, allowing you to play in comfort and style.
Don't feel restricted to just playing bingo, though. There is also an excellent Roulette wheel within the complex, so why not chance your luck on this old favourite? Tuck into a hot or cold meal from one of the Bingo Plaza’s food menus to keep up your energy levels. If you are visiting on a special occasion, they have a menu for that too, ranging from Mother’s Day to a wedding anniversary.
If you're feeling lucky, you can take your chances in the Betting room on a variety of sports including rugby and horse racing.
There is also onsite valet parking available if you are driving in.
For keen birdwatchers, take a trip to the serene Calpe Salt Mine, where you can witness a flock of flamingos feeding from the edge of the glittering lake. A stroll along this peaceful area takes you away from the hustle and bustle of central Calpe and gives you the opportunity to see eye-catching wildlife, without having to visit a local Spanish zoo.
The beauty of the Calpe Salt Mine is how unique it is; it provides stunning and surprising sights in the middle of sunny Spain. You can both drive and walk to this relaxing location, but for in-depth look, it’s best to take a stroll to experience the real life beauty of the hundreds of flamingos that roam here.
Calpe Sat Mine will give you quite the suntan, with less shade and more exposure to the warm Spanish sun. If you're planning to head to the salt mine, make sure you've packed your sun cream, ahead of your arrival.
Costa Blanca has proved to be the ideal holiday destination for golfers from all over the world for decades. With over 30 different golf courses to choose from, it means that golf lovers who holiday in Costa Blanca are never far from the chance of making 18 holes in the glorious Spanish sunshine.
It doesn't matter whether you are looking to book a holiday that revolves around golf or just take in a game or two as part of your time away, Costa Blanca can cater to all. If you're interested in a golfing holiday, you may want to consider booking into the Hotel La Finca Golf and Spa Resort. This five-star resort boasts three courses of varying difficulty levels.
Alternatively, the Melia Villaitana is a more affordable resort, which, aside from offering breath-taking surroundings, world-class food and incredible golf courses within the sprawling grounds.
Costa Blanca offers an exciting range of water sports to experience, providing a diverse range of activities for anyone and everyone to enjoy.
Looking for a thrilling ride along the shore? Rent a banana boat in Benidorm and race against your friends and family, while riding the ocean waves. If you're an adrenaline junkie, take a ride on the speedy Fly Fish in Benidorm – a fast speed inflatable boat experience. Or, if you want an island adventure, jump on a guided jet ski tour from Altea and whizz across the aqua waves.
For a relaxing water ride, book a parasailing adventure; sail above the ocean and overlook the breathtaking views of Costa Blanca’s scenic surroundings. Discover the stunning sea cave of Cova Talla on a Denia kayak tour; paddle your way round the deep sea waters and finish this experience off with a snorkelling adventure and witness the local sea life swimming in the depths of the ocean.