Explanada de España
#5 in Best Things To Do in Alicante
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2 of 3Key Info
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scorecard
- 5.0Value
- 0.0Food Scene
- 4.0Atmosphere
The ideal place to people-watch, the trademark Explanada de España is a marble-laden promenade, constructed from 6.5 million mosaic tiles. Lined by benches and several rows of palm trees, the walk is hemmed in by the shore on one side and several blocks of restaurants and nightclubs on the other.
Recent visitors said it's a great idea to stop for a drink or a bite to eat at one of the nearby restaurants and simply watch the world go by. They also agreed it's a safe place to walk, and it's especially peaceful in the early mornings before people begin flocking to the surrounding shops and eateries. In the summer months, you'll find many vendors selling souvenirs and food, as well as musicians and street performers bringing a cheerful vibe to the area. However, in the offseason, the stalls will usually only appear on weekends.
You'll find this iconic Alicante landmark between Puerta del Mar and the Canalejas Park. It is free to access.
More Best Things To Do in Alicante
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2 of 16#1 San Juan Beach
You'll find this stretch of shoreline just about 6 miles northeast of Alicante city. Playa de San Juan is known as one of Spain's best beaches; in fact, many recent travelers said it offers a better beach experience than Postiguet. The beach offers designated area for sports like volleyball and football. There's also a skateboarding area if you want to show off some tricks or just watch others. Not to mention, there are plenty of places to rent water sports equipment for surfing, kayaking, windsurfing and jet skiing. The beach also stretches about 2 miles, so you'll surely be able to carve out your own little space in the sand. It's accessible by tram or bus. Visitors recommend taking the L4 tram line to the Londres stop or the L3 tram line to El Campello; if you're on a bus, Costa Blanca, Costa Blanca-Milan and Plaza Coruña are all bus stops close to the beach.
Just behind the beach are restaurants, nightlife venues and even an 18-hole golf course. On a sunny day – most days – the strip is filled with people strolling. A bike path behind the beach makes it easily accessible; there is also a tram line that connects the beach with the city center and Dénia – a nearby coastal town. Public parking spaces and beachside hotels abound in this area as well. Access to the beach is free.
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