Seven kilometres south of Alicante, you will find a beach with quite a distinctive vibe to that in the city itself. Take the Number 27 bus (Santa Pola) or hire a car for the short trip to Playa del Urbanova, aka Playa del Saladar or Playa de los Saladores.
There is plenty of parking when you get there, and the residential district of Urbanova is peaceful and greatly removed from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The beach is extensive and stunning, about 50 metres wide and 1.6 kilometres long – stretching all the way to Los Arenales del Sol.
In addition to the large sandy beach, a pristine wetland area offers a welcome escape into the midst of nature, with dunes and marshlands that were originally an important source of salt. Hence the name of the beach: Playa del Saladar (saladar = salt marsh).
There are ample public facilities including toilets, showers, sports pitches and a children’s play area. There is a lifeguard and watch towers during high season, disabled access, and shops and restaurants.
Beach umbrellas and sun loungers are available for rent.
Playa del Urbanova is ideal for sunbathing as well as nature walks, with moderate waves making the water safe for wading or swimming.
Despite its size, Urbanova doesn’t attract as many tourists as other areas, simply because it is less well known. This means you can make the most of the chilled and laidback ambience, as well as the magnificent views of Alicante in the distance.
Other beaches in Alicante include:
Playa de San Juan – the biggest and most famous beach in Alicante, offering an ample range of restaurants, beach bars, sports areas (beach volleyball, football, windsurfing, etc.), an educational play area for the intellectually disabled, and an area with disabled access during the summer months.
Playa del Postiguet – excellent city centre location situated just in front of Castillo de Santa Barbara, and renowned for the quality of its sand, palm tree boardwalk and cafés.
Playa de la Albufereta – located to the north-west of the city, a small, cosy and open beach that is ideal for families and popular with the locals.
Playa de Almadraba – a small beach, relatively free of crowds, great for relaxing and enjoying fantastic sunsets.
