Today we’re looking at some other things to do in Benidorm, away from the pubs, clubs and nights out on the Strip. I first visited here about 30 years ago and I recall talking to a group of lads who were my sort of age, who were out on the beer at 10am. They had basically landed at the airport ( kept calling it Benidorm Airport, by the way ), got the holiday company coach to their hotel, dropped their bags in their room and been on the lash 3 days solid. From what I remember back then is they had ‘discovered a handful of bars they loved and a couple of clubs and that was as far as they had managed to venture.
In Benidorm, you can take in spectacular views at the Balcony of the Mediterranean, then stroll along Playa de Poniente for relaxation. Enjoy delicious tapas at bustling spots along Tapas Alley or catch a thrilling show with gourmet dining at Benidorm Palace. For adrenaline-pumping fun, head to Terra Mítica’s exhilarating rides or explore family-friendly excitement at Aqualandia water park. But these suggestions are just the start of unforgettable moments awaiting you in Benidorm.
Balcony Of The Mediterranean / Balcón del Mediterráneo
Perched dramatically atop Benidorm’s Cerro Canfali Rock, the Balcony of the Mediterranean offers sweeping views across two of the city’s most famous beaches, Levante and Poniente.
Follow narrow streets and steep steps through the old town to reach this bright white viewing platform, built on the remains of a 14th-century fortress. From here, you’ll see Benidorm Island on the horizon and the charming historic quarter behind you, creating an unforgettable 360-degree panorama.
Visit at dawn or dusk to spot glowing jellyfish drifting beneath the waves. Benches invite you to relax and soak in the scenery.
Artists and musicians often perform nearby, adding to the lively atmosphere. To avoid large crowds, visit early morning or late evening, noting the viewpoint isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Tapas Alley
Right in the lively core of Benidorm’s old town, you’ll discover Tapas Alley—a vibrant foodie haven stretching along Calle Santo Domingo. Packed with some of the area’s best bars and restaurants, this bustling street invites you to dive straight into Spain’s exciting culinary scene.
Tables spill onto the pavement, welcoming you to enjoy the lively atmosphere that fills the air each evening. Here, you’ll find an authentic array of Spanish tapas dishes, where you can savor bite-sized delights like patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo, or jamón ibérico.
Don’t miss the pintxos either—Basque Country’s delicious spin on tapas, creatively served atop fresh bread. Tapas Alley guarantees a memorable evening filled with great food, good company, and an unbeatable taste of Spanish culture.
Tapas Square
Tucked away in Benidorm’s Old Town, Tapas Square is a buzzing hotspot where locals and tourists alike gather for a proper bite and a glass of something cold. It’s packed with charm, noise, and the smell of sizzling garlic. A couple of standouts include La Cava Aragonesa, known for its massive range of tapas and good Rioja, and Tapas Bar Aurerra, which serves up rich Iberian ham and cracking seafood bites. It’s the sort of place where you pop in for a quick snack and end up staying the whole evening.
Tapas Square and Tapas Alley in Benidorm are essentially part of the same lively area in the Old Town—just a stone’s throw from each other. Tapas Alley is the nickname for Calle Santo Domingo, a narrow street lined with tapas bars, and Tapas Square is right at one end of it. You could walk from one to the other in under a minute. Most people visiting one will naturally end up in the other without even realising it—it all blends into one buzzing, food-filled maze.
Aqua Natura
When you’re ready to cool off after exploring Benidorm’s vibrant streets, Aqua Natura awaits with thrilling water rides, pools, and plenty of relaxation.
Just a quick 10-minute drive north of town, this water park offers excitement for all ages. Zip down maze-like slides such as the Aqua Snake, plunge into the darkness of the Black Hole, or dare yourself on La Cresta—claiming a zero-gravity experience.
Little ones will adore riding Eye of the Cyclades alongside parents.
Relax at Zorba Beach’s spacious pool, surrounded by waterfalls, geysers, and palm-covered islands. Unwind on comfy sunbeds along the sandy artificial beach, grabbing invigorating drinks and tasty snacks from onsite cafés and restaurants.
Open daily from May to October, Aqua Natura promises family fun and cool refreshment.
Playa de Poniente
If you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, head to Playa de Poniente—Benidorm’s quieter alternative to the buzzing Playa de Levante. Here, you’ll find a pristine, golden beach stretching for kilometers around the bay’s gentle curve. Relax on the soft sand, soak up the sun, or take leisurely strolls along the scenic shoreline.
Although calmer, Playa de Poniente isn’t short on amenities. You’ll have everything you’d need for a relaxing beach day within easy reach, from umbrellas and loungers to convenient beach bars offering invigorating cocktails and tasty snacks.
If you’re craving a bit more action, water sports are available too. Whether you’re unwinding with a good book or enjoying a swim, Playa de Poniente is the ideal spot for peaceful beach indulgence. Benidorms beaches do get very busy in the tourist season, please be aware!
Llevant Beach
For a livelier scene than Playa de Poniente, head to Levante Beach—Benidorm’s vibrant, bustling shoreline famous for its golden sands and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters.
This popular 1.2-mile beach attracts everyone from families to partygoers with its pristine sands, shallow waters, and lively atmosphere. Arrive early to catch a spectacular sunrise, then find your group easily using the colorful markers along the shore.
Take advantage of the watersports here; go jet skiing, parasailing, or water-sledding. Kids will love the playgrounds and watching impressive sand sculptures being built.
Stroll along the promenade, stopping for paella, ice cream, or invigorating drinks at seaside eateries. After sunset, watch as streetlights illuminate the promenade, creating a charming setting perfect for evening walks and lively nightlife.
Terra Natura
Terra Natura offers a wildlife experience unlike any other, immersing you in natural habitats where barriers between you and the animals practically disappear.
Explore this innovative zoo through four fascinating zones: Asia, Europa, América, and Pangea, each filled with exotic animals from around the globe.
In Asia, marvel at majestic elephants bathing in ponds and spot fearsome king cobras.
Europa takes you to the Greek village of Kalicameni, home to swans, fallow deer, and an entertaining sea lion show.
América introduces you to Mayan culture alongside jaguars and playful monkeys, while Pangea showcases intriguing reptiles and amphibians.
Kids will love puppet shows, donkey rides, and interacting with costumed entertainers.
Grab a bite at one of the restaurants offering great views of animals roaming nearby.
Casco Antiguo (Old Town)
Although modern skyscrapers dominate Benidorm’s skyline today, you can still catch a glimpse of its humble past in the charming streets of Casco Antiguo.
Wandering through this historic quarter, you’re reminded that Benidorm was once a quiet, whitewashed fishing village. Stroll through narrow lanes lined with quaint houses, small boutiques, and picturesque cafés that feel worlds away from the bustling modern resort city.
Head uphill along winding streets until you reach the spectacular ‘Balcony of the Mediterranean,’ set right on the headland dividing Benidorm’s two golden beaches.
Once there, pause and soak up breathtaking panoramic sea views.
Casco Antiguo offers the perfect contrast to Benidorm’s modern attractions, providing an authentic atmosphere, photogenic spots, and a peaceful break from the city’s energetic pace.
La Cruz de Benidorm
If you’re up for a rewarding hike and breathtaking views, head toward La Cruz de Benidorm, a giant metal cross perched high on a rocky bluff overlooking the city.
The cross, built from old railway tracks, stands as a surprising historical monument originally erected in protest against bikinis being allowed in town.
You can hike there from the city center in around three hours or reach it within 45 minutes from Levante Beach. Alternatively, drive most of the way and hike the final stretch.
At the summit, take in sweeping panoramas of Benidorm’s skyscrapers, golden beaches, charming Old Town, and surrounding mountains.
Pack water, snacks, and a picnic blanket—all essentials for relaxing atop this peaceful viewpoint and fully appreciating this scenic spot.
Aqualandia
Thrill-seekers and families alike flock to Aqualandia, one of Spain’s longest-standing water parks, where slides, pools, and wave machines promise endless fun.
Plunge down exhilarating slides like Verti-Go, Europe’s tallest water slide, offering a thrilling 13-story free-fall sensation. Test your bravery on Big-Bang’s rapid descent, or experience adventure in pitch darkness on the exciting Black-Hole ride.
Younger visitors will love splashing around Adventureland’s colorful fountains, gentle slides, and cones. There’s also the Wave Pool and Mini Zig-Zag ride, perfect for toddlers.
Refuel at various snack bars serving burgers, pizza, ice cream, and waffles. Stroll the lush gardens, admire exotic vegetation, or find a picnic spot on the grass.
Purchase an all-day or discounted afternoon ticket to maximize your visit.
Benidorm Palace
Everyone loves a great night out, and Benidorm Palace serves up exactly that with its dazzling mix of cabaret, live music, and world-class dining. Open since 1977, this iconic venue offers nightly shows featuring everything from traditional Spanish flamenco to daring acrobatics and burlesque performances.
The shimmering, metallic exterior resembles Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum, adding to the glam factor before you even step inside.
Settle into your candlelit table to savor an upscale dinner, complete with dessert and wine, as spectacular dancers and musicians transport you from Vegas casinos to exotic Argentinian plains.
Past performers include legends like Louis Armstrong and Gloria Gaynor, alongside stellar tribute acts for Elvis and Queen.
Check their website for schedules and ticket options, and prepare for a night you’ll never forget.
Terra Mítica
After enjoying a glamorous evening at Benidorm Palace, keep your adrenaline flowing at Terra Mítica, one of Spain’s largest and most exciting theme parks.
Here you’ll discover thrilling areas inspired by ancient Mediterranean civilizations like Egypt and Greece. Ready to test your nerves? Hop aboard the Titánide, an inverted roller coaster that screams along at 100 km/h, flipping you through loops and rapid drops.
Or challenge yourself on the dizzying, disk-shaped SkyKope.
Not into extreme rides? No worries—there’s still plenty to keep you entertained. Enjoy engaging shows, or splash around in rejuvenating pools and fun water attractions.
Whether you’re an adrenaline enthusiast or prefer something calmer, Terra Mítica offers unforgettable excitement that’ll keep you smiling all day long.
Benidorm Centro
Right at the heart of Benidorm lies Benidorm Centro, a vibrant district packed with sunny beaches, buzzing streets, and endless entertainment.
Stroll along wide, tree-lined boulevards, relax on sandy beaches like Poniente, Playa de Mal Pas, and Levante, or venture out on boat trips to nearby coastal towns.
Explore history at the 18th-century San Jaime y Santa Ana Church, located on a picturesque peninsula jutting into the sea. Enjoy breathtaking views from Plaza Santa Ana and Mirador de Punta Canfali viewpoint.
Kids will love Mini Marina’s mini-golf, Festilandia Park, and Ozone Bowling Benidorm.
As evening falls, catch lively cabaret performances or sample delicious tapas at local bars.
Benidorm Centro offers fun, culture, and excitement year-round, with mild winters and sunny summers aplenty.
Anything Else?
One thing that is for certain is that people love or loathe Benidorm, with a passion. The strip is one of the first thing that comes to mind, especially for people looking at their first visit here.
The next thoughts are usually: Sun, sand, sea and sex. cheap beer, English grub and did I mention sunshine?
Beyond the tapas and nightlife, Benidorm has plenty to offer for those who want a bit more than sunloungers and sangria. One of the standout sights is the Balcón del Mediterráneo, a whitewashed lookout perched between the two main beaches—Levante and Poniente. It’s perfect for panoramic views, especially at sunset when the light hits the sea just right.
Not far off, Parque de l’Aigüera, designed by Ricardo Bofill, offers a touch of greenery and space to cool off from the hustle. It’s also worth wandering through the narrow streets of the Old Town, where you’ll find quirky shops, hidden bars, and a bit more of Benidorm’s original character.
If you’re up for something more active, head up to the Sierra Helada Natural Park, where walking trails lead you along rugged cliffs with cracking views over the Mediterranean. For families, Terra Mítica and Aqualandia are top-tier amusement and water parks that are proper fun for a day out. And of course, no visit is complete without at least a stroll along Levante Beach—yes, it’s busy, but it’s iconic for a reason. Whether you’re after nature, a bit of culture, or just a good time, Benidorm’s got enough variety to keep you entertained.
