Top 10 Beaches Near Javea and Moraira
The northern Costa Blanca coastline near Javea and Moraira offers an exceptional collection of beaches and coves ranging from expansive family-friendly stretches of sand to intimate secluded rocky inlets. This Mediterranean coastline provides crystal-clear water, dramatic rocky outcrops, and Mediterranean pines creating one of Spain's most spectacular coastal regions. Each beach offers distinct character, amenities, and appeal to different visitors.
1. Arenal Beach Javea
Arenal Beach represents Javea's main urban beach and primary focal point of the town. This expansive sandy beach extends for nearly one kilometer with excellent facilities and strong family orientation.
Characteristics: Fine golden sand, gently sloping entry, approximately 100 meters wide at high tide. The beach features full-service amenities including lifeguards during summer months, beach bars (chiringuitos), shower facilities, and WC. Parking is readily available in nearby streets and public parking areas. The beach water is calm and clear, ideal for swimming and children's activities. During summer months the beach becomes quite busy with tourists and residents.
Facilities: Multiple beach bars serve drinks, ice cream, and light meals throughout the day. Restaurants and shops line the promenade. Jet ski rentals and water sports equipment are available. During July and August, lifeguard service operates from 10am to 6pm.
Best Time to Visit: May through June offers warm weather with fewer crowds. September through October provides similar conditions with warm water temperature. July and August attract peak crowds. Winter months (November-March) offer peaceful beach walking with fewer facilities operating.
Special Features: The Javea promenade directly overlooks the beach with excellent restaurants and cafes providing shaded seating. The beach forms a natural amphitheater with surrounding hills creating stunning views, particularly at sunset. The beach serves as natural gathering point for Javea's social life during summer months.
2. La Granadella
La Granadella ranks among the most beautiful and picturesque beaches on the entire Costa Blanca, featuring a perfect horseshoe cove with crystal-clear water and dramatic rocky surroundings.
Characteristics: Pebble beach approximately 150 meters wide with fine pebbles and clear Mediterranean water. The cove is enclosed by rocky headlands creating perfect water conditions even when sea swells affect other beaches. Water clarity is exceptional, often allowing visibility of 10+ meters enabling stunning snorkeling. The beach accommodates approximately 300-400 people making it feel exclusive while remaining accessible.
Facilities: Single beach bar/restaurant operates during summer months offering drinks, snacks, and light meals. No lifeguard service. Limited parking available in designated area requiring 10-minute walk to beach. WC facilities are minimal and weather-dependent closures occur.
Best Time to Visit: May through September provide warm water and reliable weather. June and September offer optimal conditions with good weather and moderate crowds. The beach is less accessible during winter months when the access road is sometimes closed due to winter rains.
Special Features: Outstanding snorkeling opportunities with rocky underwater formations, diverse fish species, and occasional octopuses and sea urchins. Dramatic geological formations and Mediterranean pines create spectacular landscape photography opportunities. The enclosed cove creates perfect water conditions for swimmers seeking protection from open sea.
3. Cala Ambolo
Cala Ambolo represents a stunning secluded cove accessible primarily by foot or boat, providing genuine Mediterranean beach experience with minimal development and few crowds.
Characteristics: Small sandy beach approximately 50 meters wide enclosed by rocky cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation. The cove provides perfect water protection and clarity. The beach is backed by cliffs with no development or facilities directly on the sand.
Facilities: No facilities whatsoever on the beach itself. No parking area. Access requires hiking approximately 45 minutes through coastal paths from Javea waterfront or taking private boat from Javea port. No lifeguard, shops, or restaurants.
Best Time to Visit: May through September for warm weather and clear water. Hiking is most pleasant in spring and fall when temperatures are moderate. Summer provides warmest water but involves strenuous hiking heat.
Special Features: Exceptional snorkeling and diving location with clear water and interesting underwater rock formations. The accessible-only-by-foot character preserves natural authenticity and provides escape from developed beaches. Mediterranean pines and coastal plants create dramatic natural setting. Popular with locals seeking genuine natural beaches.
4. Portitxol
Portitxol is a small charming beach in Javea's harbor area, functioning as extension of Javea's waterfront with excellent combination of beach access, restaurants, and town services.
Characteristics: Small sandy beach approximately 60 meters wide adjacent to Javea's fishing harbor. Clear water protected by harbor breakwater. Very calm water conditions making it ideal for children and weak swimmers. The beach remains relatively uncrowded even during peak summer months.
Facilities: Multiple seafood restaurants directly overlook the beach. Shower facilities and basic amenities available. Paid parking in Javea town center with short walking distance. Lifeguards present during summer months.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round accessible with good facilities. Summer months offer warmest weather and water. Spring and autumn provide pleasant conditions with fewer crowds. Winter beach walks offer peaceful Mediterranean atmosphere.
Special Features: Authentic harbor atmosphere with local fishing boats, fresh seafood restaurants, and genuine maritime character. The combination of beach and harbor creates dynamic environment with activity and local life. Excellent for families combining beach time with restaurant meals.
5. Cala Barraca
Cala Barraca offers a secluded rocky cove with intimate character, clear water, and minimal development, appealing to swimmers and snorkelers seeking quieter alternatives to main beaches.
Characteristics: Small pebble beach approximately 40 meters wide with clear water and rocky surroundings. The cove provides good water protection and natural beauty. The beach can accommodate approximately 50-100 people making it feel exclusive and intimate.
Facilities: Single small chiringuito (beach bar) operates during summer months. Limited parking approximately 5-minute walk from beach. No lifeguard service. Basic WC facilities.
Best Time to Visit: May through September provide warm weather and water. June and September offer excellent conditions. The beach is accessible year-round with reduced services during winter months.
Special Features: Outstanding snorkeling with clear water and rocky underwater formations. Quiet beach atmosphere with minimal crowds despite reasonable accessibility. Mediterranean vegetation and small scale creates intimate environment perfect for those seeking escape from crowded main beaches.
6. El Portet Moraira
El Portet represents Moraira's small but attractive main beach, functioning as village beach with excellent local character, restaurants, and accessibility to Moraira town services.
Characteristics: Small sandy beach approximately 80 meters wide with clear water and protected harbor setting. Water is typically calm and clear. The beach accommodates approximately 150-200 people making it feel locally-oriented rather than tourist-focused.
Facilities: Several excellent seafood restaurants directly overlook the beach. Complete facilities including showers, WCs, and beach services. Parking available in surrounding streets and dedicated areas. Lifeguards operate during summer months.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round accessible with good facilities. Summer provides warmest conditions. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather with moderate crowds. Winter offers peaceful beach atmosphere for walking and contemplation.
Special Features: Authentic fishing village character with working harbor, local restaurants, and maritime atmosphere. The small scale and local character create unique appeal different from commercialized main beaches. Excellent seafood restaurants serve fresh fish caught by local boats. Moraira's charming village setting with narrow streets and traditional architecture enhances the beach experience.
7. L'Ampolla
L'Ampolla offers a peaceful sandy beach with fewer crowds than main Javea areas, providing good balance between facilities and tranquility.
Characteristics: Sandy beach approximately 120 meters wide with moderate facilities and crowds. Water is clear and calm with good protection from prevailing winds. The beach maintains relatively quiet atmosphere despite adequate amenities.
Facilities: Chiringuito beach bar operates during summer. Showers and basic WCs available. Nearby street parking. Lifeguards during summer months. Nearby restaurants in surrounding area.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round accessible. Summer provides warmest weather. Spring and autumn offer excellent conditions. Fewer crowds than Arenal Beach throughout the year.
Special Features: Good balance between facilities and natural character. Quieter than main Javea beaches while maintaining good amenities. Ideal for families seeking beach experience without intense commercialization.
8. Cala Cap Blanc
Cala Cap Blanc is a small scenic cove near Moraira featuring pebble beach, clear water, and quiet character with minimal development.
Characteristics: Small pebble beach approximately 50 meters wide with clear protected water. The cove provides intimate atmosphere for approximately 50-100 people. Rocky surroundings and Mediterranean vegetation create scenic natural setting.
Facilities: Single small beach bar operates seasonally. Limited parking nearby requiring short walk. No lifeguards. Basic facilities. Quieter setting with minimal commercial activity.
Best Time to Visit: May through September for warm weather. June and September offer optimal conditions. Year-round accessible with reduced amenities during winter months.
Special Features: Exceptional snorkeling and diving with clear water and interesting underwater formations. Quiet beach atmosphere with minimal crowds. Mediterranean natural beauty with pines and rocky formations. Popular with locals seeking natural beaches.
9. Cala Fustera
Cala Fustera combines accessible location with natural character, offering sandy beach with good facilities while maintaining quieter atmosphere than main urban beaches.
Characteristics: Sandy beach approximately 100 meters wide with clear water and good protection. The beach provides good balance between facilities and natural character. Moderate crowd capacity with fewer crowds than main Javea beaches.
Facilities: Beach bar and restaurant operate during summer. Showers and WCs available. Adequate parking. Lifeguards during summer season. Nearby restaurants and shops.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round accessible. Summer provides warmest conditions. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather. Winter offers peaceful alternative to crowded main beaches.
Special Features: Balance of accessibility and natural character. Good facilities without excessive commercialization. Family-friendly beach with calm water. Quiet alternative to Arenal Beach for those seeking similar amenities with fewer crowds.
10. Cala Llebeig
Cala Llebeig is a remote scenic cove providing dramatic Mediterranean coastline experience with minimal access and authentic natural character.
Characteristics: Small pebble beach approximately 40 meters wide surrounded by dramatic rocky cliffs and Mediterranean vegetation. Water is exceptionally clear. The cove accommodates only 30-50 people making it truly intimate. Access is challenging and intentionally limited to preserve natural character.
Facilities: No facilities whatsoever on beach. Access requires hiking approximately one hour from Javea through coastal paths or by private boat. No parking area or shops. No lifeguard or commercial services.
Best Time to Visit: May through September for warm weather and clear water. Spring and autumn offer pleasant hiking temperatures. Hiking is most difficult during summer heat.
Special Features: Dramatic coastal scenery with steep cliffs, Mediterranean pines, and pristine natural environment. Outstanding snorkeling and diving with clear water. Genuine escape from tourism and development. Popular with experienced hikers, nature enthusiasts, and serious photographers. Authentic Mediterranean beach experience requires effort to access but rewards with natural beauty and solitude.
Comparative Guide by Use
Best for Families with Children
Arenal Beach Javea offers expansive sandy beach, full facilities, lifeguards, and calm water ideal for children. Portitxol provides calm harbor waters and nearby restaurants for family meals. L'Ampolla offers quieter alternative while maintaining good facilities.
Best for Couples and Romantic Setting
La Granadella provides stunning scenic beauty and intimate cove atmosphere. Cala Barraca and Cala Cap Blanc offer peaceful quiet settings with romantic natural surroundings. El Portet Moraira combines fishing village authenticity with excellent seafood restaurants.
Best for Snorkeling and Swimming
La Granadella and Cala Ambolo provide exceptional water clarity and underwater rock formations. Cala Fustera, Cala Barraca, and Cala Llebeig offer good snorkeling with fewer crowds. Clear water, rocky formations, and minimal pollution create excellent conditions across all these locations.
Best for Avoiding Crowds
Cala Ambolo, Cala Llebeig, and Cala Barraca require access effort ensuring intimate atmosphere. L'Ampolla and Cala Fustera provide quieter sandy beaches than main Arenal. El Portet Moraira offers local character away from tourist focus.
Best for Water Sports
Arenal Beach Javea offers jet ski rentals and equipment. La Granadella provides excellent diving and snorkeling. Protected coves like Portitxol offer calm water for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Planning Your Beach Day
Summer Considerations
July and August attract significant crowds. Arrive early to secure parking and beach space. Main beaches offer facilities but can feel commercial. Off-season visits provide better experience if weather permits.
What to Bring
Sun protection is essential with Mediterranean sun intensity. Bring sunscreen, hat, and protective clothing. Water shoes protect against rocky areas. Snorkeling equipment enhances small cove experiences. Picnic supplies allow independence if traveling to remote coves.
Safety Considerations
Monitor weather and water conditions. Lifeguarded beaches provide safety monitoring. Strong swimmers should attempt remote coves. Respect marked swimming areas. Mediterranean sun intensity requires consistent sun protection. Carry fresh water particularly when hiking to remote beaches.
Seasonal Appeal
Spring (April-May) offers warm weather, clear water, and moderate crowds. Summer (June-August) provides warmest conditions with peak crowds and full services. Autumn (September-October) offers excellent weather with reducing crowds. Winter (November-March) provides peaceful beach walking with reduced services and cooler temperatures.