By Steve Wilson, Manchester-born wanderer now soaking up the Spanish sun
Hello there, fellow travel enthusiasts! Steve here, coming at you from my adopted home in sunny Spain. Today I’m absolutely chuffed to bits to share with you the delights of camping in Benidorm. Now, I know what you’re thinking – Benidorm? Isn’t that just all-inclusive hotels and British pubs serving full English breakfasts? Well, you’re not entirely wrong, but there’s a whole other side to this Costa Blanca gem that’s perfect for us camping aficionados.
Why Camp in Benidorm?
Let me tell you, camping in the Benidorm area is bloody brilliant! You get all the perks of this famous destination – gorgeous beaches, cracking nightlife, and fantastic attractions – without being cooped up in a high-rise hotel. Plus, it’s proper good value for money, which is music to my northern ears!
The weather here is simply smashing most of the year. Even in winter, temperatures rarely dip below 10°C, making it an ideal escape from the dreary British drizzle. And in summer? Well, it’s hotter than a vindaloo on a Friday night!
Now, let’s dive into some of the top camping spots that’ll have you packing your tent faster than you can say “dos cervezas, por favor!”
Top Camping Sites Around Benidorm
Camping Armanello
This little beauty is just 1.5km from central Benidorm and has become something of a home-away-from-home for me when I fancy a staycation. The bungalows here are modern and come with all the mod cons – Wi-Fi (essential for uploading those Instagram beach shots), flat-screen TVs, and even air conditioning for when the Spanish heat gets a bit too enthusiastic.
I particularly love the two outdoor pools – perfect for cooling off after a day of exploration. And the on-site restaurant? It serves up international dishes that’ll satisfy even the fussiest eaters (and trust me, I’ve brought some proper picky mates here before!).
The best bit? You can toddle down to Levante Beach in about 25 minutes on foot, and they offer discounted entry to nearby attractions like Mundomar, Aqualandia, and Terra Mítica theme parks. Sorted!
Camping Arena Blanca
On my last visit here, I woke up to the sound of birds chirping in the trees surrounding my bungalow, rather than the usual chorus of “Wonderwall” being belted out by sunburnt holidaymakers – an absolute dream!
Arena Blanca is a tranquil spot with a covered outdoor swimming pool and bungalows that all come with free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and a kitchenette. It’s about 2km from Levante Beach and 3.5km from the old town, which means you’re close enough to the action but can retreat to some peace and quiet when you’ve had your fill.
The on-site supermarket is a godsend for those evenings when you fancy whipping up a simple pasta dish rather than heading out. And if cooking’s not your bag (it certainly isn’t mine after a few sangrias), the café bar serves up some decent grub.
Camping Villasol
I stumbled upon this gem during a particularly adventurous cycling trip along the Costa Blanca. Villasol offers fully-equipped cabins just 1.5km from Playa Levante Beach, and blimey, they’ve thought of everything!
Each cabin has two bedrooms, a bathroom with shower, a living-dining area, and a small furnished patio where I spent many an evening nursing a glass of rioja and watching the sunset. The kitchenette includes a hob, microwave, and fridge – perfect for storing those essential cold beers!
The outdoor and indoor swimming pools are a massive bonus, especially if you visit during the shoulder seasons when the sea might be a tad nippy for my liking. And after a refreshing dip, the poolside bar is ideal for a cheeky refreshment or three.
Resort Camping Almafrá
If you’re after something a bit more upmarket (or as my dad would say, “fancy-schmancy”), Resort Camping Almafrá is your ticket. Located 7km from Benidorm’s Old Town, this place is more like a holiday resort than a traditional campsite.
The facilities here are top-notch – indoor and outdoor pools, a spa and fitness centre, sauna, hot tub, and even tennis and padel courts for the sporty types. I’m more of a lounger myself, but I did manage a game of tennis here once (let’s just say I won’t be troubling Andy Murray anytime soon).
The themed dinners and entertainment programme add a bit of pizzazz to your evenings, and the sports bar is a great place to catch up on the football if you’re missing Match of the Day.
Camping El Torres (Villajoyosa)
Just a stone’s throw from Benidorm in the lovely town of Villajoyosa, Camping El Torres is a cracking option if you want to be right by the beach. It’s literally 100 metres from El Torres Beach – I timed the walk once, and it took me exactly 87 seconds (and that was after a hearty Spanish lunch!).
The rooms here come with air conditioning, which, trust me, is an absolute lifesaver during those sweltering summer months when you’re melting faster than a 99 Flake in the midday sun.
Camping Alicante Imperium (Villajoyosa)
Another Villajoyosa option, this site is just 1.7km from the beach and offers access to a pool with a view that’ll have your Facebook friends green with envy. The garden is a lovely spot for a morning cuppa, and the concierge service adds a touch of luxury to your camping experience.
I once spent a delightful afternoon here, lounging by the pool with a good book and occasionally glancing up to admire the view. Pure bliss, that was!
Camping Fonts del Algar
Now, if you’re willing to venture a bit further afield (about 18km from Terra Natura), Camping Fonts del Algar offers an infinity pool that’s worth the journey alone. The free WiFi meant I could instantly share my pool selfies, much to the annoyance of my rain-soaked friends back in Manchester!
The air-conditioned accommodation with balconies provides stunning views of the surrounding area, and it’s a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Benidorm’s main strip.
Camping Costa Blanca
Dog owners, rejoice! Camping Costa Blanca is pet-friendly, so your four-legged friends can join in the holiday fun. It’s 800 meters from El Campello Beach and 17km from central Alicante, making it a good base for exploring more of the Costa Blanca beyond Benidorm.
I brought my sister’s dog, Bertie, here last summer, and he had an absolute whale of a time – I think he’s still dreaming of those long beach walks!
Camping La Colina (Albir)
In the nearby town of l’Alfàs del Pi, Camping La Colina offers a swimming pool with a view that’ll make your heart skip a beat. The sun terrace and lush garden provide perfect spots for relaxation, and the kids’ pool and games room make it a family-friendly option.
Cap Blanch Beach is just 2km away, and attractions like Aqualandia and Terra Natura are within easy reach at 5km distance. It’s a smashing location for those who want to be near Benidorm but not right in the thick of it.
Camping Santa Clara (Altea)
Last but certainly not least, Camping Santa Clara in Altea boasts a beachfront location that had me at hello. La Roda Beach is less than 1km away, and the site offers a range of outdoor facilities including a sun terrace, garden, and open-air bath.
The family rooms with garden views are a lovely touch, and each unit comes equipped with a washing machine, barbecue, and outdoor furniture. I spent a gloriously lazy weekend here last autumn, alternating between beach strolls and barbecue sessions – heaven!
Practical Tips for Camping in Benidorm
Now, before you start throwing flip-flops and sun cream into your suitcase, let me share some hard-earned wisdom about camping in these parts.
When to Visit
If you’re not a fan of scorching heat or crowds (and let’s be honest, who is?), avoid July and August like the plague. These months are hotter than a curry house kitchen and busier than Piccadilly Circus at rush hour.
May, June, September, and October are absolute winners in my book – warm enough for beach days but not so hot that you feel like you’re melting. Plus, the campsites are less crowded, and you might even bag yourself a bargain.
Winter camping is also an option here, unlike back home where you’d need thermal everything and possibly a survival course. December to February in Benidorm might require a light jacket in the evenings, but days are often sunny and pleasant – perfect for exploring without turning into a sweaty mess.
What to Pack
Right, listen up because this is important! Sun protection is an absolute must – I’m talking factor 50, a decent hat, and sunglasses. My first summer here, I thought my Manchester tan would prepare me for the Spanish sun. Spoiler alert: it didn’t, and I ended up looking like a lobster that had been left on the grill too long.
Insect repellent is another essential, particularly if you’re camping during the warmer months. Those little Spanish mozzies seem to find British blood particularly delicious – perhaps it’s all the tea we drink?
A decent cool box is worth its weight in gold, especially if your accommodation doesn’t have a fridge. Nothing worse than warm beer and floppy sandwiches, is there?
Oh, and don’t forget a good pair of walking shoes alongside your flip-flops. The area around Benidorm has some cracking walking trails that are worth exploring, especially in the cooler months.
Getting Around
While some campsites are within walking distance of Benidorm’s attractions, others require transport. The local bus service is reliable and reasonably priced – a far cry from the extortionate rates we pay back home!
If you’re feeling adventurous, bike hire is available throughout the region and provides a smashing way to explore at your own pace. I’ve cycled between several of these campsites, and it’s a lovely way to see the Costa Blanca coastline.
For those planning to venture further afield to places like Alicante or Valencia, car hire might be your best bet. Just remember, they drive on the “wrong” side of the road here, so take it steady until you get used to it!
Eating and Drinking
One of the joys of camping is self-catering, and the local supermarkets (Mercadona is my personal favourite) offer an amazing array of fresh produce at prices that’ll make you wonder why you ever shopped at Tesco.
The local markets are also worth a visit – the fruits and vegetables taste like they’ve actually seen the sun, unlike the pale imitations we sometimes get back in Blighty. And the cheese! Don’t get me started on the cheese…
That said, don’t miss out on eating out entirely. The menu del día (set menu of the day) offered by many restaurants provides exceptional value – usually around €10-15 for three courses including a drink. Absolute bargain!
And when it comes to drinking, pace yourself! The measures here are famously generous, and the Spanish sun amplifies the effects of alcohol. I learned this the hard way after an afternoon session of “just one more sangria” turned into a siesta that lasted until the following morning!
Also, if you’re out on a session, be aware of the scams that do sometimes happen, where they target tourists who have had a couple too many beers.
Language and Etiquette
While you’ll get by with English in most tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases goes a long way. “Por favor” (please), “gracias” (thank you), and “una cerveza, por favor” (one beer, please) will serve you well in most situations!
Spanish meal times take some getting used to – lunch from 2-4pm and dinner rarely before 9pm. The first time I rocked up to a restaurant at 6pm looking for dinner, the waiter looked at me like I’d asked for roast beef with Yorkshire pudding!
And remember, the Spanish siesta is still a thing in many areas. Shops and businesses often close between 2-5pm, so plan your day accordingly. I once stood outside a closed supermarket for 20 minutes before realizing my shopping would have to wait until later!
Final Thoughts
Camping in and around Benidorm offers a brilliant alternative to the high-rise hotel experience that the area is famous for. You’ll get more space, better value, and a chance to experience a side of the Costa Blanca that many package holidaymakers miss entirely.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a newbie to the canvas lifestyle, the variety of sites in this region means there’s something for everyone – from basic pitches for hardy tent-dwellers to luxury bungalows with all the mod cons for those who prefer their camping with a side of comfort (no judgment here – I’m firmly in the latter camp these days!).
So, pack your sunscreen, dust off your camping gear, and get ready for a Spanish adventure that’ll have you saying “adiós” to package holidays for good. Just don’t blame me when you find yourself, like me, extending your stay “just one more week” because you can’t bear to leave this sunny paradise!
Cheers, and happy camping!
Steve
P.S. Got questions about camping in Benidorm or other parts of Spain? Drop them in the comments below. Hasta luego!
