Nestled on the stunning Costa Blanca, Javea is a proper Spanish hidden treasure. This gorgeous coastal town splits into three distinct areas: the medieval old town with cobbled streets and Gothic church, the buzzing port area with fresh seafood restaurants, and the beachfront Arenal with its brilliant sandy shores. With dramatic cliffs, turquoise coves voted among Spain's best beaches, and the impressive Montgó mountain as a backdrop, it's brilliant for travellers seeking authentic Spanish vibes without the crowds.
Why visit Javea?
Stunning beaches and coves 🏖️ - From Granadella's crystal-clear waters to Arenal's sandy shores, you're spoilt for choice
Authentic Spanish charm 🏰 - Medieval old town and working fishing port keep things proper traditional
Gorgeous scenery ⛰️ - Dramatic cliffs, hidden caves, and Montgó Natural Park create jaw-dropping backdrops
Year-round sunshine ☀️ - Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, around 300 sunny days
Good to Know
Fun fact 🐘 - The Montgó mountain that towers over Javea looks like an elephant lying down - locals call it "the sleeping elephant"! The mountain's a proper landmark you can spot from miles away.
Best beach nearby 🏖️ - Cala Granadella (about 15 mins drive) is regularly voted one of Spain's best beaches. Crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and brilliant snorkelling make it absolutely worth the trip. Get there early as parking's limited!
Must-try food 🍽️ - Fresh seafood from the port's fish market, arroz a banda (local rice dish cooked in fish stock), and pulpo (octopus). Hit the Thursday market in the old town for local produce and handicrafts.
Getting around 🚗 - Javea's three areas (old town, port, Arenal beach) are spread out, so hiring a car's brilliant for exploring. Buses connect the main areas but aren't frequent. Taxis are always available but may need to be booked in advance at certain times.
Top Hotels in Javea
Parador de Javea - Stunning 4-star right on Arenal beach with gorgeous gardens and Mediterranean Sea views. Set in exotic surroundings with palm trees and bougainvillea, the outdoor pool overlooks the bay. Guests rave about the "outstanding location" with all rooms offering sea or garden views.
El Rodat - Peaceful spa hotel nestled among pines and palms about 4km from Javea centre and 1.5km from the beach. Features heated outdoor pool, spa facilities, and two restaurants. All rooms come with private balconies or terraces, perfect for enjoying the tranquil setting. Dead handy if you want a relaxing base away from the bustle while still being close to beaches and town.
Pinosol - Modern apartment complex in a quiet suburb with three outdoor pools, kids' playground, and onsite gym. The self-catering apartments feature kitchenettes and living areas, brilliant for families or groups wanting flexibility. Mediterranean restaurant onsite when you don't fancy cooking. About 2.5km from the beach with shops, bars, and restaurants nearby.
What to do in Javea
🏖️ For beach lovers
Spend days on Arenal Beach with its sandy shores, shallow waters, and beach volleyball nets
Head to Cala Granadella - voted one of Spain's best beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters
Snorkel at Cala Portixol among incredible underwater rock formations
Try kayaking into sea caves around Granadella cove or paddleboarding from the port
👨👩👧👦 For families
Splash about on Arenal Beach's calm, shallow waters with climbing frames for kids
Hike up Montgó mountain for breathtaking views (easier trails available for little ones)
Explore Denia's medieval castle and fortifications just up the coast
Take boat trips from the port to spot marine life and swim in secluded coves
🍽️ For foodies
Visit the port's fish market (4-9pm) when fishermen unload proper fresh seafood
Try traditional tapas and local specialties in the old town's authentic bars
Sample paella or arroz a banda at beachfront restaurants along Arenal
Browse the Thursday market for local produce, cheeses, and cured meats
🥾 For adventurers
Climb Montgó mountain for spectacular views over Javea and Denia
Hike to Cova Tallada ancient stone quarry caves you can swim into
Try cliff diving at spots along the rocky coastline (go with a guide)
Kayak and snorkel in the San Antonio Marine Reserve exploring underwater caves
🗓 When to visit Javea
June-September (Peak season sunshine)
There's a reason everyone flocks here in summer! Temperatures hit 28-32°C with barely a cloud in the sky. All beach facilities are open, water sports centres in full swing, and the town's buzzing with energy. The beaches get properly busy July-August, especially Granadella and Arenal, so arrive early for parking. Sea temperatures are gorgeous for swimming, reaching 26°C by August. Book hotels well ahead as it's the most popular time for jollies from the UK and Ireland.
April-May, October (Brilliant shoulder season)
Proper sweet spot for visiting. Spring (April-May) warms to comfortable 20-25°C, perfect for beach days without melting. The coves are quieter, parking's easier, and hotel prices drop. October stays warm at 22-27°C with calmer seas gorgeous for swimming. Many beach restaurants and facilities still open. You'll get authentic Spanish atmosphere as more locals are about and fewer tourists crowd the sights.
November-March (Mild and peaceful)
Don't write off winter! Temperatures stay mild at 12-18°C - chilly for swimming but brilliant for hiking Montgó and exploring the old town. The coastline's stunning and peaceful with dramatic waves and fewer crowds. Prices drop significantly, making it proper value. Just be aware many beach facilities close, and some restaurants have reduced hours. Perfect if you want walking holidays with gorgeous Mediterranean scenery.
Popular Javea hotels
More Javea hotelsWeather in Javea
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Javea has New Year temperatures averaging around 13°; Celsius, with summers of over 30°; Celsius! Don't be fooled by the time of year, blue skies mean sun rays, so whether you're chilling by the hotel pool or out on the beach swimming or jet-skiing, slap on the sun cream to stay safe on your Javea holidays!
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FAQs
What's the best beach in Javea?
What's the best beach in Javea?
Cala Granadella wins hands down - it's regularly voted one of Spain's best beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic cliff surroundings. The snorkelling's brilliant, though it gets rammed in peak season so arrive early. For families, Arenal Beach is better - it's sandy with shallow waters, beach volleyball nets, and loads of facilities nearby.
How do I get around Javea?
How do I get around Javea?
The three main areas (old town, port, Arenal beach) are quite spread out, so if you're up for driving, hiring a car's your best bet for proper flexibility. Local buses connect the areas but aren't very frequent and don't run late. Taxis are available but prices can add up if you're doing lots of hopping about. Many of our guests who prefer not to drive base themselves in one area and walk to nearby spots, then just plan a few day trips to the other areas.
Is Javea good for families?
Is Javea good for families?
Absolutely brilliant! Arenal Beach has shallow, calm waters perfect for young kids, plus climbing frames and play areas. The port's great for grabbing ice cream and watching boats. Loads of easy walking trails for family hikes, and boat trips let kids spot marine life. It's much quieter than Benidorm so you get authentic Spanish vibes without the chaos.
What's the nightlife like in Javea?
What's the nightlife like in Javea?
It's pretty chilled compared to Benidorm or other Costa Blanca party spots. You'll find beach bars, cocktail lounges, and traditional tavernas perfect for evening drinks and live music. A few clubs stay open late in peak season, but Javea's more about relaxed al fresco dining and sunset drinks than all-night raves.
Is it Javea or Xabia?
Is it Javea or Xabia?
They're the same place! Javea (pronounced ha-vee-a) is the Spanish name, while Xabia (pronounced sha-vee-a) is the local Valencian dialect. You'll see both used interchangeably, though Javea's more common in tourist areas like the Arenal. Signs often show both names, so don't worry - you're in the right spot!
How far is Javea from Alicante Airport?
How far is Javea from Alicante Airport?
About 90km - roughly 90 minutes by car. The drive's straightforward along the AP-7 motorway then coastal roads. We can arrange your airport transfers when you book your jollies with us or of course you can sort yourself if you prefer. Some visitors fly to Valencia Airport instead (about 100km north), which takes a similar amount of time.