Reimagined Coastal Towns of Alicante, Valencia, and Castellón

Vila Joiosa (Alicante)

For weekend planners seeking a fresh itinerary, the town of La Vila Joiosa offers more than its natural beauty. It is famed for its clear waters, inviting beaches, and the iconic rows of colorful houses that create a vivid rainbow along the shoreline. This visual spectacle makes the town a favorite stop for photographers and travelers alike, who come seeking the best catch of moments and memories. The area preserves a strong fishing heritage, and proximity to fish farms means the waters host a steady supply of fresh seafood that adds to the town’s practical charm.

La Vila Joiosa is deeply rooted in one of the province’s richest fishing traditions, a feature that complements its scenic coastline and easy access to marine life.

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Denia (Alicante)

Positioned near the border with Valencia, Dénia stands as one of the province’s largest and most important coastal municipalities. Its beaches and coves attract travelers and divers who appreciate the diverse marine life found in the Cabo de San Antonio Natural Park. The town also hosts a luxurious marina and a lively promenade where boats continually dock, contributing to a refined coastal atmosphere. Denia maintains a direct sea link with the Balearic Islands, making it a convenient short journey for island-hopping enthusiasts.

Denia’s maritime vibe is rich, with a castle and harbor that anchor the waterfront. The port area remains a hub for sightseeing, dining, and quiet evenings by the water.

Denia Castle and harbor

Santa Pola (Alicante)

Situated in the southern part of Alicante, Santa Pola is a town known for its deep fishing roots in the Baix Vinalopó area. It features a distinctive bay and calm waters that create a welcoming stage for catching a wide range of seafood, including fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. The town’s traditional fishing boats continue to populate the nets and harbor scenes that visitors enjoy exploring.

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Close to Tabarca Island, marine reserves shape the region and provide a scenic bridge by sea that makes a day trip feasible in about 20 minutes by boat. Santa Pola itself offers a celebrated gastronomy scene, with bay fish and a uniquely crafted cauldron featured on many menus.

Santa Pola fishing port

Cullera (Valencia)

Cullera sits along the Júcar river banks, about 30 kilometers from Valencia’s capital. Beyond the river’s reach, the town also boasts a striking castle and the Estany lagoon, where the river meets the sea and becomes a lively fishing ground. To the north, the San Lorenzo lagoon hosts abundant reeds and the natural fauna of the Albufera de Valencia Natural Park, enriching the landscape and wildlife experiences for visitors.

Cullera Castle

Perellonet (Valencia)

El Perellonet, El Saler, Pinedo, El Palmar and similar areas along Albufera de Valencia are renowned coastal zones. Surrounded by the lagoon on one side and the Mediterranean on the other, these locations form a thin, busy arm of the coast that attracts many tourists. The Albufera Natural Park remains a tranquil retreat where caravans and beachgoers savor peaceful sunsets and tranquil sunrises.

Sunset in Albufera Natural Park in Valencia

Port Saplaya, Alboraya (Valencia)

Known as Little Valencia Venice, Alboraya offers an idyllic fishing port where waterways weave through the heart of the town in true Venetian fashion. The port’s canals shimmer under the sun, and boats and jet skis dot the water. Port Saplaya draws visitors who enjoy strolling along the channels and savoring the unique canal-side atmosphere.

Saplaya Harbour, Alboraya

Vinaròs (Castellón)

Vinaròs is celebrated as a premier fishing ground, particularly for shrimps, and its gastronomy is complemented by a family-friendly tourism vibe. The town features broad beaches and a lively summer scene that entertains both locals and foreign visitors seeking sun, sea, and seaside dining.

Vinaròs promenade

Eight of Spain’s best fishing villages

Many towns near Vinaròs share a coastal charm, with beaches that meet the sea and a working fishing port that remains a central focus of daily life. The shoreline here offers a blend of authentic fishery culture and relaxed seaside charm that appeals to travelers seeking real coastal Spain.

Vinaròs promenade

Peníscola (Castellón)

Peníscola stands out as one of Castellón’s most popular towns. It features a broad beach with calm waters and a promenade that buzzes with summer energy. The Citadel sits at the right end of the main beach, offering panoramic views and a historic centerpiece for visitors. The old town’s cobblestone streets host family-run shops and eateries that add local flavor. A cave-like sea cave near the shore creates a dramatic scene when waves crash against the rocks, echoing the town’s maritime heartbeat.

Night view of Peñíscola beach and castle

Benicàssim (Castellón)

Benicàssim lies just beside Castellón de la Plana and has become a premier summer destination for residents and visitors. The area is famous for energetic festivals such as the Benicàssim festival season, as well as a vibrant coastal scene. Beaches and the surrounding coast are the main attractions, along with notable sites like the Santo Tomás Parish, the historic train station, and the Benicàssim theater, all contributing to a lively cultural atmosphere.

Benicàssim Beach

The best tips for traveling cheap by train

Exploring Spain by rail offers a budget-friendly option for travelers who want to hop between coastal towns and inland landmarks. Planning ahead, choosing off-peak times, and using regional passes can help reduce costs while maintaining comfort and speed during trips.

3 canyons you can visit in the Community of Valencia

From river landscapes to protected gorges, the Community of Valencia hosts several canyons that showcase dramatic scenery and opportunities for hiking, photography, and quiet reflection. Each canyon offers its own distinct route and natural features, making them ideal day trips for nature lovers.