Platja de Llevant: Complete Beach Travel Guide
Overview
Platja de Llevant is one of Benidorm's most popular beach destinations, located on the eastern coast of this vibrant Mediterranean resort town in Spain. This expansive sandy beach stretches along the Alicante province in the Valencian Community, offering visitors a perfect combination of natural beauty, modern amenities, and endless entertainment options. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed beach holiday, Platja de Llevant delivers an authentic Spanish coastal experience that attracts millions of visitors annually.
The beach is characterized by its golden sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and well-maintained facilities that cater to both families and solo travelers. With its proximity to Benidorm's bustling city center, Platja de Llevant serves as an ideal base for exploring the region while enjoying quality beach time.
Where Is Platja de Llevant Located?
Platja de Llevant is situated in Benidorm, Spain, a renowned coastal city in the Alicante province of the Valencian Community (Comunitat Valenciana). The beach occupies the northeastern section of Benidorm's coastline, stretching from the iconic Punta Canfali headland northward. The beach is easily accessible from Benidorm's city center, located just a short walk or brief bus ride away.
The nearest major airport is Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC), approximately 40 kilometers south of Benidorm. This international hub connects to major European cities and provides convenient access to the region. The beach's strategic location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the Costa Blanca coastline and the broader Valencian region.
Why Visit Platja de Llevant?
Platja de Llevant stands out as a premier beach destination for several compelling reasons:
Accessibility and Infrastructure: The beach features excellent facilities including lifeguard stations, shower facilities, beach bars, and rental services for sun loungers and umbrellas. The well-maintained promenade provides easy access and a pleasant walking environment.
Versatile Activities: Whether you're interested in swimming, water sports, leisurely walks, or photography, Platja de Llevant accommodates diverse interests and activity levels.
Family-Friendly Environment: The beach's gentle slope, calm waters in designated areas, and abundance of nearby amenities make it particularly suitable for families with children.
Cultural Immersion: Benidorm itself offers a rich blend of Spanish culture, Mediterranean cuisine, and modern tourism infrastructure, allowing visitors to experience authentic local life alongside resort-style conveniences.
Value for Money: Compared to other Mediterranean beach destinations, Benidorm and Platja de Llevant offer excellent value, with reasonable accommodation prices and affordable dining options.
What Makes Platja de Llevant Special?
Several distinctive characteristics set Platja de Llevant apart from other Spanish beaches:
Consistent Quality: The beach maintains high cleanliness standards year-round, with regular maintenance and environmental management ensuring a pleasant experience.
Urban Beach Experience: Unlike isolated beaches, Platja de Llevant combines natural beauty with urban convenience, offering immediate access to restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
Diverse Visitor Base: The beach attracts an international crowd, creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere while maintaining Spanish authenticity.
Modern Beach Culture: Platja de Llevant exemplifies contemporary European beach culture with its combination of traditional Spanish elements and modern leisure facilities.
Scenic Views: The beach offers stunning Mediterranean vistas, especially during sunset, with the opportunity to photograph dramatic coastal landscapes and the distinctive Benidorm skyline.
Best Things to Do
1. Swimming and Water Sports
Platja de Llevant offers excellent swimming conditions with designated safe zones monitored by lifeguards. Beyond traditional swimming, the beach provides opportunities for paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing through rental services along the shoreline. The gentle slope of the beach makes it ideal for swimmers of all abilities.
2. Beach Walking and Promenade Strolls
The extensive promenade running alongside Platja de Llevant offers scenic walking paths perfect for morning jogs or leisurely sunset walks. The well-paved walkway extends for several kilometers, providing opportunities to explore different sections of the beach and nearby coastal areas while enjoying Mediterranean breezes.
3. Photography and Sunset Viewing
Platja de Llevant delivers exceptional photography opportunities throughout the day. Capture golden-hour images during sunrise and sunset, photograph the vibrant beach culture, or document the distinctive architecture of Benidorm's skyline. The beach's natural lighting and varied compositions make it a photographer's paradise.
4. Relaxation and Sunbathing
The ample sandy beach provides plenty of space for sunbathing and relaxation. Rent a sun lounger and umbrella to create a comfortable personal retreat where you can read, nap, or simply soak in the Mediterranean sun.
5. Beach Bar and Dining Experiences
Numerous beach bars and chiringuitos (casual beach restaurants) line Platja de Llevant, offering refreshing beverages, snacks, and full meals without leaving the sand. Sample local specialties like paella, fresh seafood, or traditional Spanish tapas while enjoying beachfront views.
6. Family Activities and Children's Entertainment
The beach features designated family areas with shallow water zones perfect for young children. Several beach clubs offer organized activities, and the nearby promenade includes playgrounds and entertainment facilities suitable for families.
7. Snorkeling and Marine Exploration
While not a dedicated snorkeling destination, Platja de Llevant's clear waters allow for shallow snorkeling experiences. Explore underwater flora and fauna in the designated safe zones, or take guided snorkeling tours departing from nearby beaches.
8. Beach Volleyball and Water Sports Courts
Public volleyball courts and other recreational facilities are available on Platja de Llevant, offering opportunities to engage in active beach sports or join casual games with other visitors.
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (June to September): Summer months offer warm temperatures (25-30°C / 77-86°F), perfect beach weather, and lively atmosphere. However, expect larger crowds and higher prices. August is the busiest month.
Shoulder Seasons (April-May and September-October): These months provide ideal conditions with pleasant temperatures (18-25°C / 64-77°F), fewer crowds, and reasonable prices. May and September are particularly recommended for balancing comfort with accessibility.
Winter Months (November to March): While temperatures drop (10-17°C / 50-63°F), winter offers peaceful beach experiences, significantly lower accommodation costs, and clearer skies for photography. Swimming is less comfortable but still possible.
Spring (March to May): Spring brings awakening flora, mild temperatures, and increasing daylight hours, making it excellent for nature photography and outdoor exploration.
How to Get There
By Air: Fly into Alicante-Elche Airport, approximately 40 kilometers from Benidorm. Budget airlines and major carriers operate regular flights from across Europe and beyond.
From the Airport: - Rent a car for maximum flexibility (approximately 45-minute drive) - Use shuttle bus services connecting the airport to Benidorm - Arrange private transfers through accommodation providers - Take the train from Alicante to Benidorm (approximately 1 hour)
By Car: If traveling within Spain, Benidorm is accessible via the AP-7 motorway. Parking is available throughout Benidorm, though beachfront parking can be limited during peak season.
By Train: RENFE trains connect Benidorm to major Spanish cities including Barcelona, Valencia, and Alicante, providing a scenic and economical travel option.
Local Transportation: Once in Benidorm, local buses (ALSA) efficiently connect the city center to Platja de Llevant. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available.
Suggested 1-Day Itinerary
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Begin your day early at Platja de Llevant to secure a good beach spot before crowds arrive. Enjoy a refreshing swim and breakfast at a beachfront café. Capture morning light photography while the beach remains relatively quiet.
Midday (12:00 PM - 3:00 PM) Relax on your sun lounger, read, or engage in water sports. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beach restaurant, sampling local Mediterranean cuisine. Take a walk along the promenade to explore different beach sections.
Afternoon (3:00 PM - 6:00 PM) Continue relaxing or participate in beach activities. Visit nearby shops and boutiques along the promenade. Enjoy refreshments at a beach bar while watching the afternoon activity.
Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM) Position yourself for sunset photography at Platja de Llevant, capturing the golden hour light. Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant specializing in fresh seafood. Take a post-dinner walk along the illuminated promenade.
Suggested 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Morning: Arrive at Platja de Llevant early, settle into accommodation, and enjoy your first beach experience with swimming and sunbathing.
Afternoon: Explore Benidorm's Old Town (Casco Antiguo), visiting the Church of San Jaime and browsing local shops and galleries. Sample traditional Spanish tapas at local bars.
Evening: Return to Platja de Llevant for sunset viewing and dinner at a beachfront establishment.
Day 2
Morning: Enjoy a final beach session at Platja de Llevant with swimming and relaxation. Visit a local market if available to purchase fresh produce and local products.
Afternoon: Explore nearby attractions such as Punta Canfali headland or visit Benidorm's Aqualandia water park. Alternatively, take a boat tour along the Costa Blanca coastline.
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a recommended restaurant, reflecting on your beach experiences before departure.
Where to Stay
Beachfront Areas: Accommodations directly along Platja de Llevant offer immediate beach access and sea views. This prime location commands higher prices but provides unmatched convenience.
City Center Benidorm: Hotels in central Benidorm provide easy access to beaches, restaurants, and entertainment while offering more moderate pricing than beachfront properties.
Nearby Residential Areas: Neighborhoods slightly inland from the beach offer better value accommodations while remaining within walking distance or a short bus ride to Platja de Llevant.
Family-Friendly Zones: Areas near family beaches and parks provide amenities specifically designed for visitors with children, including play facilities and calm water zones.
Budget Accommodations: Hostels and budget hotels in Benidorm's secondary areas offer economical options for cost-conscious travelers while maintaining reasonable beach access.
Food and Local Experiences
Traditional Spanish Cuisine: Sample authentic paella, a signature dish of the Valencia region, prepared with local seafood, saffron-infused rice, and fresh vegetables. Restaurants along Platja de Llevant specialize in this iconic dish.
Fresh Seafood: Enjoy daily catches prepared simply to highlight natural flavors. Grilled fish, gambas (prawns), and mussels represent typical Mediterranean offerings.
Tapas Culture: Experience Spanish social dining by visiting local bars offering small plates of jamón ibérico, patatas bravas, croquetas, and regional specialties accompanied by local wines or vermouth.
Beach Chiringuitos: Casual beachfront restaurants serve refreshing beverages, fresh fish sandwiches, and light Mediterranean fare perfect for lunch between beach activities.
Local Markets: Visit Benidorm's weekly markets to purchase fresh produce, local cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal products from regional vendors.
Wine and Vermouth: Sample local wines from the Valencia region or enjoy traditional Spanish vermouth served with ice and a lemon slice—a popular beach aperitif.
Safety Tips
Swimming Conditions: Check daily flag warnings indicating water conditions. Green flags indicate safe swimming, yellow suggests caution, and red prohibits swimming. Always swim in designated areas monitored by lifeguards.
Sun Protection: Apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly, especially between 11 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are strongest. Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses to prevent sun damage and heat-related illness.
Currents and Tides: Be aware of local current patterns and tidal changes. Ask lifeguards about specific conditions before swimming, particularly if you're unfamiliar with Mediterranean waters.
Personal Belongings: Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach. Use hotel safes for passports, large amounts of cash, and expensive electronics. Keep beach bags close and consider hiring beach security services if available.
Local Rules and Regulations: Respect beach regulations including designated swimming areas, alcohol restrictions, and noise ordinances. Follow lifeguard instructions and heed warning signs.
Marine Life Awareness: While dangerous marine encounters are rare, be aware of local marine life. Avoid touching unfamiliar creatures and ask locals about any specific hazards before entering the water.
Crowd Management: During peak season, beaches become crowded. Arrive early to secure good spots and avoid peak hours (1-4 PM) if you prefer quieter experiences.
Health Precautions: Carry basic first aid supplies, stay hydrated, and take breaks from sun exposure. Seek medical attention from lifeguards or nearby facilities for injuries or health concerns.
Nearby Attractions
Benidorm Old Town: Explore historic architecture, narrow winding streets, and the Church of San Jaime in Benidorm's charming old quarter, located just inland from Platja de Llevant.
Punta Canfali Headland: Hike to this scenic headland offering panoramic coastal views and opportunities for nature photography and exploration.
Aqualandia Water Park: One of Spain's largest water parks features thrilling slides, wave pools, and family attractions suitable for all ages.
Mundomar Marine Park: Experience marine life through dolphin shows, sea lion performances, and interactive animal encounters in this popular marine park.
Island Boat Tours: Take guided boat excursions to nearby islands and coastal caves, discovering secluded beaches and marine environments inaccessible by land.
Terra Mítica Theme Park: Explore this Mediterranean-themed amusement park featuring attractions based on ancient civilizations and modern rides.
Benidorm Museum: Learn about local history, archaeology, and cultural heritage through exhibits showcasing regional artifacts and contemporary art.
Nearby Beaches: Explore alternative beaches including Playa Centro, Playa Poniente, and more secluded coves along the Costa Blanca coastline.
Photography Tips
Golden Hour Magic: Photograph during sunrise (6-7 AM) and sunset (7-8 PM) for warm, flattering light that enhances beach landscapes and portraits.
Composition Techniques: Use leading lines from the promenade, frame subjects with beach elements, and incorporate the distinctive Benidorm skyline for dynamic compositions.
Water Photography: Capture wave textures, reflections, and water movement using appropriate shutter speeds. Experiment with long exposures for smooth water effects.
People and Culture: Document beach activities, local interactions, and cultural moments respectfully. Capture candid moments of families enjoying the beach and vendors selling local products.
Architectural Elements: Photograph beach bars, distinctive umbrellas, and colorful beach equipment that characterize Mediterranean beach culture.
Lighting Challenges: Manage harsh midday sun by using polarizing filters to reduce glare and enhance sky colors. Shoot during overcast conditions for even, flattering light.
Perspective Variations: Experiment with different vantage points—shoot from the water, elevated positions, and ground level to create varied and interesting compositions.
Equipment Considerations: Bring weather-resistant gear to protect cameras from sand and saltwater. Consider waterproof cases for underwater or shallow water photography.
Is Platja de Llevant Worth Visiting?
Absolutely yes, Platja de Llevant represents an excellent beach destination offering exceptional value, accessibility, and diverse experiences. The combination of natural beauty, modern amenities, family-friendly environment, and proximity to cultural attractions makes it worthy of your travel time and investment.
The beach successfully balances tourist convenience with authentic Mediterranean character, appealing to diverse visitor preferences from relaxation-seekers to adventure enthusiasts. Whether you're planning a quick beach escape or an extended coastal holiday, Platja de Llevant delivers memorable experiences and reliable quality that justifies its popularity among millions of annual visitors.
The reasonable pricing compared to other European beach destinations, combined with excellent infrastructure and entertainment options, makes Platja de Llevant particularly worthwhile for budget-conscious travelers and families seeking value-oriented vacations.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Platja de Llevant? A: Summer (June-September) offers warm weather and lively atmosphere, though crowds peak in August. Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) provide ideal conditions with fewer crowds and moderate temperatures. Spring and early autumn are particularly recommended for balancing comfort with accessibility.
Q: How much does it cost to visit Platja de Llevant? A: Beach access is free. Costs vary based on accommodation, dining, and activities. Budget accommodations start around €30-50 per night, meals range from €8-25, and activities vary widely. Overall, Benidorm offers excellent value compared to other Mediterranean destinations.
Q: Are there lifeguards at Platja de Llevant? A: Yes, lifeguards monitor designated swimming areas during peak season and maintain safety standards. Always swim in supervised zones and follow their guidance regarding water conditions.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks to the beach? A: While regulations may vary, many Spanish beaches permit personal food and non-alcoholic beverages. Alcohol is typically prohibited. Check current local regulations or ask beach staff upon arrival.
Q: Is Platja de Llevant suitable for families with young children? A: Absolutely. The beach features gentle slopes, designated family areas with shallow water, lifeguard supervision, and nearby family-friendly facilities. The calm conditions in designated zones make it ideal for young swimmers.
Q: What water sports are available at Platja de Llevant? A: Rental services offer paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and parasailing. Swimming and snorkeling are also available. Equipment rental prices vary; expect to pay €15-40 for hourly rentals depending on the activity.
Q: How do I get from Alicante Airport to Platja de Llevant? A: Rent a car (45-minute drive), use airport shuttle buses, arrange private transfers, or take the train from Alicante to Benidorm (approximately 1 hour). Multiple transportation options exist at varying price points.
Q: Is Platja de Llevant crowded year-round? A: Summer months, particularly July and August, experience significant crowds. Shoulder seasons offer moderate crowds with pleasant conditions. Winter provides peaceful beach experiences with minimal visitors. Visit during shoulder seasons for optimal crowd levels.