Our guide on the most common mistakes to avoid in Benidorm and how to avoid them for your next trip.
Benidorm, located on Spain’s Costa Blanca, is a popular holiday destination known for its beaches, nightlife, and stunning skyline. While it’s a favorite spot for many tourists, especially from the UK and Europe, there are some common mistakes visitors make that can hinder their experience.
Benidorm is a vibrant and diverse destination that offers more than just sun and sand. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be able to enjoy everything the city has to offer, from its beaches and nightlife to its rich cultural history and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another holiday, this guide will help ensure your trip to Benidorm is both enjoyable and memorable.
Here’s a guide to help you avoid those pitfalls and ensure you make the most of your trip to Benidorm.
Read here One day Benidorm Itinerary, how to get from Alicante airport to Benidorm and Alicante airport to city center.
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Mistakes to Avoid in Benidorm
1. Sticking Only to the Beaches
Mistake:
Many tourists come to Benidorm only for its beaches—Levante Beach and Poniente Beach—but miss out on other experiences the region has to offer.
How to Avoid It:
Explore Beyond the Beach: While the beaches are fantastic, Benidorm offers much more. Take time to explore the Old Town, visit nearby natural parks like Serra Gelada Natural Park, or hike up to the Cross of Benidorm for panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Day Trips: Benidorm is close to some beautiful destinations like Altea (a charming white-washed town), Guadalest (a historic village perched in the mountains), and Calpe (known for its iconic Peñón de Ifach rock and beaches). These spots are worth a visit and provide a different experience from the bustling beaches.
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2. Visiting Only in Peak Summer
Mistake:
Many visitors come to Benidorm during the peak summer months (July and August), which means crowded beaches, packed restaurants, and higher prices.
How to Avoid It:
Visit During the Shoulder Season: The best times to visit Benidorm are in the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October), when the weather is still warm but the crowds have thinned. You’ll enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, and accommodation prices are lower.
Winter Sun: Benidorm has mild winters, making it a great winter getaway for those seeking warmth. This season is perfect for exploring the town, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors without the summer heat.
3. Overpacking Nightlife into Every Night
Mistake:
Benidorm’s nightlife is famous, with numerous bars, nightclubs, and cabaret shows. While it can be tempting to go out every night, overdoing it can leave you too tired to explore the other amazing aspects of the city during the day.
How to Avoid It:
Pace Yourself: Plan your evenings out in moderation so you can enjoy the beaches, parks, and cultural attractions during the day. There are plenty of low-key bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a relaxed night out without feeling drained the next day.
Mix it Up: Combine energetic nightlife with more relaxed activities, such as enjoying a quiet beach sunset, dining in a local restaurant, or attending a live music event at one of Benidorm’s more laid-back venues.
4. Ignoring Local Cuisine
Mistake:
Many visitors stick to international or British-style food while in Benidorm, overlooking the delicious Spanish and local Valencian cuisine that the area has to offer.
How to Avoid It:
Try Local Dishes: Make sure to try traditional Spanish dishes like paella, tapas, gazpacho, and seafood. Look for local specialties like arroz a banda (a rice and seafood dish from the Valencian region) and turrón (a sweet nougat dessert).
Eat at Local Restaurants: Venture away from tourist-heavy areas and try local restaurants and tapas bars. The Old Town area of Benidorm has some excellent traditional Spanish eateries. Avoid eating in places right on the beach or in touristy zones, as they tend to have higher prices and lower quality.
5. Not Booking Accommodation in Advance
Mistake:
During the high season, accommodation in Benidorm can fill up quickly, and waiting until the last minute can lead to either overpaying or staying far from the main attractions.
How to Avoid It:
Book Early: If you’re traveling during peak season (summer), it’s best to book your accommodation several months in advance. Look for hotels, apartments, or vacation rentals that fit your needs, whether you prefer beachfront luxury or budget-friendly options.
Consider Location: Depending on your preferences, choose your accommodation wisely. If you want to be near the nightlife, stay close to Levante Beach. If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe, consider staying near Poniente Beach or in the Old Town.
6. Overlooking Public Transport and Walking Options
Mistake:
Some visitors rely heavily on taxis or rental cars to get around, missing out on the convenience and affordability of Benidorm’s public transport system and the opportunity to walk and explore on foot.
How to Avoid It:
Use Public Transport: Benidorm has a great public transport system, including buses and trams that can take you around the city and to nearby attractions like Terra Mítica theme park or Aqualandia water park. The tram is also a good option for day trips to nearby towns.
Walk or Bike: Benidorm is a walkable city, especially along the beach promenades. Walking through the Old Town, along the beachfront, or hiking nearby trails can give you a more immersive experience of the city.
7. Missing Out on Cultural Events and Festivals
Mistake:
Many visitors focus solely on the beaches and nightlife, overlooking the rich cultural events and festivals that take place in Benidorm throughout the year.
How to Avoid It:
Attend Local Festivals: Plan your trip to coincide with one of Benidorm’s famous festivals, like Las Fallas in March (a traditional Valencian festival with parades and fireworks), Benidorm Pride in September, or the Fiestas Mayores Patronales in November, which features parades, live music, and fireworks.
Check Local Events Calendars: Look for concerts, outdoor cinema, and other cultural events happening during your stay. Many events are held in Plaza de la Senyoría or along Levante Beach.
8. Underestimating the Sun
Mistake:
The Mediterranean sun in Benidorm can be intense, especially in the summer, leading to sunburns or dehydration for those who are not prepared.
How to Avoid It:
Use Sunscreen: Apply a high-SPF sunscreen regularly, especially if you’re spending a lot of time on the beach. Reapply after swimming or sweating.
Hydrate: Carry water with you, especially if you’re out exploring or hiking in the nearby mountains. It’s easy to get dehydrated in the summer heat.
Seek Shade: Take breaks in the shade, especially during the midday hours when the sun is at its strongest (12 PM to 4 PM). You can rent umbrellas on the beach or find a café to relax in.
9. Thinking Benidorm is Only for Families or Party-Goers
Mistake:
Benidorm is often perceived as a family holiday destination or a party hotspot, but many travelers miss out on its offerings for other types of visitors, such as solo travelers, couples, or outdoor enthusiasts.
How to Avoid It:
Explore Adventure Activities: Benidorm is a great destination for outdoor adventures, with activities like hiking, snorkeling, and parasailing. The Serra Gelada Natural Park offers beautiful trails with scenic views.
Relax in Quiet Areas: If you’re seeking a more relaxed vibe, spend time at Poniente Beach or explore the quieter streets of Old Town. These areas offer a more laid-back experience compared to the busy Levante Beach and the nightclub scene.
10. Disrespecting Local Etiquette
Mistake:
While Benidorm is tourist-friendly, some visitors don’t follow local customs or show respect for the local environment, leading to unnecessary conflicts or a poor travel experience.
How to Avoid It:
Respect Local Dress Codes: While the beach culture is relaxed, it’s considered rude to walk around town in just swimwear. Cover up when you’re not on the beach or at a pool.
Respect the Environment: Keep Benidorm’s beaches and natural areas clean by disposing of trash properly. Avoid using single-use plastics when possible and be mindful of water usage, especially during the summer months.
Learn Basic Spanish: While many people in Benidorm speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will show respect for the local culture and enhance your interactions with locals.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.