When most people think of Benidorm, Spain, they imagine lounging on the beach all day and partying all night. But during my five days in the city, I discovered there’s so much more to do beyond sunbathing and nightlife. If you’re planning a holiday and looking for inspiration, this Benidorm travel guide covers some of the best activities, day trips, and unique experiences.
I have also written a separate post titled The Best Viewpoints in Benidorm. Check it out for more inspiration!
Rent an Electric Bicycle and Explore Sierra Helada Natural Park
One of the most enjoyable activities was renting an electric bike and cycling around Sierra Helada Natural Park. With its steep hills and Mediterranean heat, a regular bike would have been exhausting, but the e-bike made the ride fun and manageable. The park offers dramatic cliffs, coastal trails, and spectacular sea views. For rentals, check out Tao Bikes, which has a good selection of e-bikes. Check out Tao Bikes if you would like to rent a bike.
Take a Boat Trip & Try Paddle Boarding
A boat trip is a fantastic way to escape the busy beaches and enjoy the calm, turquoise waters around Benidorm. Many trips stop at small coves where you can swim in peace. If you want more adventure, rent a paddleboard and test your balance—it’s harder than it looks, but definitely worth it!
Go Jet Skiing
If you’re after speed and adrenaline, jet skiing along Benidorm’s coastline is one of the most exciting things to do in Benidorm. Rental points can be found along Levante Beach, and it’s a thrilling way to see the city from the water.
Try Scuba Diving
Another great water sport in Benidorm is scuba diving. I honestly didn’t expect much, but the experience surprised me. The dive site wasn’t very deep (less than 10 meters), yet the water was crystal clear with some of the best visibility I’ve had in a long time. You won’t find exotic tropical fish here, but there’s still plenty to see—schools of small fish, vibrant underwater landscapes, and even an octopus during my dive. The underwater landscapes around Benidorm Island are especially beautiful for divers.
Jeep Safari Adventure
If you’d like to explore beyond the city, Marco Polo Expediciones organizes jeep safaris through the surrounding mountains and countryside. It’s a great way to see waterfalls, villages, and landscapes you’d otherwise miss.
Spend a Day at Terra Mítica Theme Park
Terra Mítica is Benidorm’s famous theme and adventure park, featuring roller coasters, shows, and attractions inspired by ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome. It’s a fun day trip for families or thrill-seekers.
Wine Tasting at Enrique Mendoza Winery
Just outside Benidorm, you can visit Enrique Mendoza Winery, known for its high-quality Alicante wines. They offer guided tours of the vineyard and wine cellars, followed by a tasting session paired with local snacks. It’s a relaxing and cultural experience away from the beach crowds.
Eat Tapas in the Old Town
No Benidorm travel guide would be complete without mentioning tapas. In the evening, head to Calle de Santo Domingo, also known as “Tapas Alley,” in the Old Town. The street fills with locals enjoying traditional Spanish tapas. Vegan-friendly options include patatas bravas, olives, mushrooms, and fried zucchini. And of course, pair it with a refreshing glass of sangria.
Watch the Sunset
One of my favorite things to do in Benidorm is watching the sunset. The best spots are the Balcón del Mediterráneo(also called the Castle Viewpoint), which offers panoramic views over both beaches, and the rooftop bar at Hotel Madeira Centro. Both are perfect for ending the day with beautiful golden-hour views. You can read more about these in my other guide: The Best Viewpoints in Benidorm.
Relax on the Beach
It wouldn’t be a proper Benidorm travel guide without mentioning the beaches. Benidorm is famous for its long stretches of golden sand. If you prefer a lively atmosphere with plenty of bars and water sports, head to Levante Beach. For something quieter, choose Poniente Beach, which is more relaxed and less crowded.
Where to Stay in Benidorm
For a central location, I recommend Sol Costablanca Hotel in Benidorm. It’s one of the few hotels right on the beachfront, meaning you can wake up with ocean views and have everything within walking distance. Despite its prime location, the rooms are quiet at night, ensuring a good night’s sleep after a busy day of exploring.
If you’re heading to Madrid too, read more about the things to do in Madrid.
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2 comments
Benidorm is a place about which I haven’t heard before, Gabriela. Thanks to your post, I fell in love with this place. How many days would you recommend staying there to see all the highlights?
I was there five days, and I think that’s the minimum amount of time to spend there 🙂