Is Benicàssim a good place for a beach holiday?
Yes, Benicàssim is considered an excellent destination for a beach holiday. It boasts over 6 kilometers of fine, golden sandy beaches along the Costa de Azahar. These beaches are known for their cleanliness and calm, transparent waters, with all of them having received the prestigious Blue Flag award. The town offers a lively atmosphere but is generally less crowded than some other coastal destinations, making it ideal for relaxation. Benicàssim's beaches are complemented by a promenade that stretches along the entire coastline.
What are the beaches like in Benicàssim? Can you swim there?
Benicàssim's beaches feature fine, golden sand and are known for their clean, calm, and transparent waters, making them ideal for swimming for both adults and children. Stone breakwaters help maintain the calmness of the water. All of Benicàssim's beaches have been awarded the Blue Flag for their quality. The water temperature is warmest in August, averaging around 25.7°C (78.3°F), while the coldest month for sea temperature is February at about 13.6°C (56.5°F).
When is the best time to visit Benicàssim for a beach holiday?
The best time for a beach holiday in Benicàssim is generally from May to October, with the warmest period for swimming and sunbathing being July to September. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny. The summer months are particularly popular for beach lovers and festival attendees. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the natural surroundings as well.
Is Benicàssim good for families with children?
Yes, Benicàssim is a great destination for families with children. The beaches have calm, shallow waters, making them safe for kids. Many beaches offer services like children's play areas. Almadraba beach, for example, has a fully pedestrianized promenade, allowing children to run around safely. Els Terrers beach is also considered family-friendly. Benicàssim has earned the Family Tourist Municipality seal from TOUR & KIDS.
Are there hotels directly on the beach in Benicàssim?
Yes, there are hotels located very close to or directly on the beachfront in Benicàssim. For instance, the Hotel Trinimar is situated at the foot of Heliópolis Beach. The Hotel Voramar is famously located along the Voramar beach, forming part of the 'Ruta de las Villas'. Several other accommodations are within easy walking distance of the various beaches, offering sea views and convenient access to the coast.
Are there many tourists in Benicàssim? Is it overcrowded?
Benicàssim's population increases significantly in the summer, from around 18,000 residents in winter to about 60,000 during peak season, in addition to many short-term tourists. While it's a popular destination, especially during its famous music festivals like FIB and Rototom Sunsplash, the beaches are generally described as not getting overcrowded, offering a more relaxed atmosphere compared to some other heavily touristed coastal areas. However, during major festival periods, the town can be very busy.
How do I get to the beaches in Benicàssim?
Benicàssim is accessible by car via the AP-7 highway. The town also has a train station with connections to larger cities like Valencia and Barcelona. The nearest airports are Castellón Airport (about 40 km away) and Valencia Airport (about 71-80 km away). Once in Benicàssim, the beaches are generally easy to reach on foot or by local bus, as they are located along the town's coastline and connected by a promenade.
Are there dog-friendly beaches in Benicàssim?
During the main tourist season (typically March 1st to October 31st), dogs are generally not permitted on Benicàssim's main beaches. However, from November 1st to March 1st, Benicàssim Town Council allows dogs on its beaches, provided owners keep them leashed, under control, and clean up after them. Potentially dangerous dogs must wear a muzzle. There are some beaches in the wider area, like Platja de la Renegá in Oropesa del Mar (a neighboring town), that have dog-friendly policies year-round or dedicated dog areas.
Are there nudist beaches in or near Benicàssim?
While Benicàssim itself doesn't have officially designated nudist beaches directly within the main town area, there are options nearby. Les Platgetes de Bellver, located at the southern end of Oropesa del Mar bordering Benicàssim, is a nudist beach. Other nudist beaches in the Valencia province, though further away, include Playa de El Saler (south of Valencia city) and Cala Puerto Negro (near Peñíscola). Public nudity is technically legal in Spain but is generally confined to designated nudist beaches.
What is the 'Ruta de las Villas' in Benicàssim and is it near the beaches?
The 'Ruta de las Villas' (Villas Route) is a famous walk along Benicàssim's seafront promenade, particularly along Voramar and Almadraba beaches. It showcases a collection of elegant late 19th and early 20th-century villas built by wealthy families, earning Benicàssim the nickname 'the Valencian Biarritz'. The route is divided into two sections: the 'Hell Route,' known for the lively parties once held in its villas, and the 'Heavenly Court,' characterized by its tranquility. Many of these historic homes are right on the backdrop of the beaches.
Which Benicàssim beach is best for watersports?
Els Terrers beach is particularly well-suited for watersports. It hosts the Escola de la Mar (Sea School) of the Generalitat Valenciana, where visitors can try sailing. The beach's breakwaters create calm inlets ideal for various water activities. Heliópolis beach also offers boat and surfboard rentals.
Is parking available near Benicàssim beaches?
Yes, parking is available in Benicàssim, though it can be more challenging to find free spots close to the beaches during peak season. There are public car parks, for example, near Termalismo street at the start of the Via Verde (near Voramar beach). Some beaches, like Almadraba, have parking options nearby. It's advisable to arrive early or consider walking or cycling if staying close by.
How does Benicàssim compare to Oropesa del Mar for beaches?
Both Benicàssim and Oropesa del Mar offer beautiful sandy beaches on the Costa de Azahar. Benicàssim is known for its long stretches of fine sand, Blue Flag quality, and the charming 'Ruta de las Villas' promenade. Oropesa del Mar also has popular beaches like La Concha and Morro de Gos, and some smaller coves. The Via Verde, a coastal path, connects the two towns, allowing visitors to easily explore the coastline of both. The choice may depend on preferences for atmosphere, specific beach characteristics, or proximity to other attractions.
Are there any beaches in Benicàssim with accessibility features for people with reduced mobility?
Yes, several beaches in Benicàssim offer accessibility features. For example, Almadraba beach is accessible for people with disabilities, providing walkways to the shore, adapted changing rooms and toilets, and amphibious chairs with qualified staff to assist with bathing. Heliópolis beach also has access for people with reduced mobility. Many Benicàssim beaches have received the 'Q' for Tourist Quality, which often includes accessibility considerations.
What is the atmosphere like on Benicàssim beaches?
Benicàssim beaches generally offer a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, especially outside of major festival periods. They are described as lively but not overly crowded. The long promenade invites leisurely strolls and cycling. Some beaches, like Voramar, are known for their tranquility and the backdrop of historic villas, while others, like Torre San Vicente, can be a hive of activity in summer with sports and events. Heliópolis beach is known for its summer activities like beach gymnastics and outdoor cinema.
