Is Benitachell a good place for a beach holiday?
Benitachell is a great destination for a beach holiday if you enjoy exploring secluded coves with clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and a natural, rugged landscape. It's particularly suited for those who like hiking to reach hidden beaches and enjoy activities like snorkeling and diving. The main village is slightly inland, so a car is recommended to access the coastal areas and nearby towns.
What are the beaches in Benitachell like, sandy or pebble?
The beaches in Benitachell, such as Cala del Moraig, Cala dels Testos, and Cala Llebeig, are primarily pebble or gravel beaches. You won't find large expanses of fine sand here, but the pebbles contribute to the clarity of the water. Water shoes are often recommended for comfort.
How do you get to Cala dels Testos and is it difficult?
Accessing Cala dels Testos is challenging. You can reach it by a demanding hiking trail that involves steep descents with ropes in some sections, known as the Barranc de l'Infern (Hell's Ravine). This route is not recommended for people with vertigo, young children, or those without good physical condition and proper footwear. Alternatively, you can access it by sea, for example, by kayak from Cala del Moraig, which is about 400 meters away.
What's the best way to get to Cala Llebeig?
Cala Llebeig is a secluded cove accessible only on foot or by sea. You can hike there via the Ruta de los Acantilados (Cliffs Route) from Cala del Moraig (taking about 45 minutes to an hour) or from the Teulada-Moraira side. Good footwear is essential for the hike. Parking is limited near the trailheads, so arriving early is advised.
Are there accommodations with easy beach access in Benitachell?
Most accommodations in Benitachell are in the village itself or within the Cumbre del Sol urbanization, which is on the cliffs above the coves. While many properties in Cumbre del Sol offer stunning sea views, direct 'walk-out-onto-the-beach' access is rare due to the cliffside geography. Access to coves like Cala del Moraig from Cumbre del Sol involves a drive or walk down steep roads or paths. For easier beach access, you might consider staying in nearby towns like Moraira or Javea, which have more beachfront properties.
Do I need to pay for parking at Cala del Moraig?
Yes, parking at Cala del Moraig is generally subject to a fee for non-residents during peak season (typically April 1st to October 15th, from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm). The fee is a single daily rate (around €12). You can pay via the Cala Moraig Reservations app, online at calamoraig.es, or at the parking meter. Residents registered in Benitachell who pay their vehicle tax (IVTM) in the municipality can park for free but still need to obtain an authorization. Motorcycles are often exempt from the fee but have designated parking areas.
Are there any facilities like toilets or beach bars at the Benitachell coves?
Cala del Moraig, being the most developed, offers some facilities, especially during high season, including lifeguards, toilets, first aid, and sometimes a beach bar (chiringuito). However, the more secluded coves like Cala dels Testos and Cala Llebeig are natural and unspoiled, meaning they do not have any facilities. You'll need to bring your own water, food, and any other essentials.
When is the best time to visit the beaches in Benitachell?
The best time to visit Benitachell's beaches for warm weather and swimming is from late June to early September. During these summer months, the weather is sunny, and the sea temperature is ideal. However, this is also the busiest period. For a quieter experience with pleasant weather, consider May, early June, or late September. The town itself can be beautiful in February when almond trees are in bloom.
Can you swim in the coves at Benitachell and what is the water like?
Yes, you can swim in the coves of Benitachell. The water is known for being crystal clear and turquoise, especially in Cala del Moraig, Cala dels Testos, and Cala Llebeig. These coves are excellent for swimming and snorkeling due to the water clarity and rocky surroundings which attract marine life. The beaches are typically pebble or gravel.
Are Benitachell beaches suitable for families with children?
Benitachell's coves can be challenging for families with young children. The access to coves like Cala dels Testos and Cala Llebeig involves difficult hikes not suitable for little ones. Cala del Moraig is more accessible, especially with the summer bus service, and has some facilities, but it's a pebble beach, and the descent to the beach can still be steep. Nearby towns like Moraira or Javea might offer more traditionally family-friendly sandy beaches with easier access and calmer waters.
Are there any nudist beaches in or near Benitachell?
Yes, there are options for naturists. A designated nudist area is located on the far left side of Cala del Moraig. Cala dels Testos is also known to be a nudist-friendly beach due to its secluded nature. Nearby, in Javea, Cala Ambolo is an official nudist beach.
How do Benitachell's beaches compare to Javea or Moraira?
Benitachell's beaches are characterized by rugged, natural coves with pebble shores and dramatic cliffs, ideal for adventure and snorkeling, but often with challenging access (e.g., Cala dels Testos, Cala Llebeig). Javea offers a wider variety, from the sandy Arenal beach (very family-friendly and bustling) to picturesque pebble coves like Granadella and Portixol, some of which are more easily accessible than Benitachell's wildest coves. Moraira is known for smaller, charming sandy beaches like El Portet and L'Ampolla, which are generally easier to access and popular with families. Benitachell's coves are often considered more 'wild' and secluded.
What is the Cova dels Arcs and where is it?
The Cova dels Arcs (Cave of Arches) is a stunning natural sea cave with impressive rock arches, located at Cala del Moraig. It's a popular spot for photography and is also the entry point for an underwater cave system, making it a point of interest for experienced divers. You can access it from Cala del Moraig beach.
Is Benitachell more for a quiet holiday or a party scene?
Benitachell is definitely more suited for a quiet, relaxing holiday focused on nature, hiking, and enjoying secluded coves. It's a small village with a tranquil atmosphere. If you're looking for a lively party scene, larger nearby resorts like Benidorm or parts of Javea would be more appropriate.
Do I need a car to get to the beaches in Benitachell?
Yes, a car is highly recommended for visiting Benitachell and its beaches. The main village is located slightly inland, and the coves are situated along the coast, often accessed via the Cumbre del Sol urbanization. While there is a free bus service to Cala del Moraig during the summer months from Benitachell town, a car offers more flexibility to explore all the coves and the surrounding area.
