After years living in Spain, Javea has recently become one of our favorite towns on the stunning Costa Blanca. While it’s small enough to enjoy on a day trip, it’s so easy to fall in love and spend a week or more! From the sparkling beaches to the vibrant old town and port, here are the best things to do in Javea Spain on your first visit.
How to Get to Javea Spain
Javea has the perfect location on the Costa Blanca directly in between two major cities. Alicante is 1 hour and 10 minutes to the south, and Valencia is just under 1.5 hours to the north.
This makes it easy to fly into either airport and pick up a rental car. It’s actually much cheaper to rent car in Alicante or Valencia, as prices are typically much higher to rent locally in Javea.
Having a vehicle will give you the freedom to explore the nearby towns such as Denia, Moraira, Calpe, and Villajoyosa. However, if you don’t plan on driving, you can always utilize the affordable Benniconnect Shuttle from the airport.
The good news is that once you get to town, it’s easy to walk or take a quick taxi pretty much everywhere. You’ll have no problem getting to all the best things to do in Javea by foot!
Where to Stay in Javea
There are three areas of Javea Spain that you should know about before your visit. Arenal is the main sandy beach (more on that next!) with a lively restaurant and bar scene.
Just up the coast, you’ll find the fishing port and pebbly La Grava Beach. Then, if you head up the hill behind the port, it’ll take you to the streets of Javea Old Town.
We’ll dive much further into each area of Javea Spain in this article. Yet, know there aren’t a TON of hotel options. Javea more caters towards Airbnb-style holiday rentals, with many people renting out their 2nd homes during the summer.
If it’s your first trip to Javea, we recommend basing yourself in the port or somewhere near Arenal beach.
Javea Port Hotels
- Nomad Hotel – A high end boutique hotel with views of La Grava Beach and stylish cafe on the lower level.
- Botanico Boutique Suites – Cute accommodation that feels very homey. Also, very close to the popular La Siesta beach bar.
Arenal Beach Hotels
- Parador de Jávea – This is the main hotel overlooking Playa del Arenal. It’s complete with a beautiful swimming pool and you can walk right out your door to the beach.
- Hotel Soul de Javea – Located on the road leading to the port 5 minutes walking from Arenal. Travelers can enjoy the coastal views and swimming pool bar area.
Javea Old Town Hotel
- Ca La Portella – There aren’t many traditional hotels in Old Town, so small holiday homes like Ca La Portella are a great option. It even has a small dip pool if you’re visiting in the summer!
Best Things to do in Javea Spain
1. Have Beach Day at Arenal
Playa del Arenal is the sparkling gem of Javea Spain! Not only is it the lone sandy beach in town, but the boardwalk is filled with awesome restaurants, bars, and boutique shops.
We’ve spent a lot of time soaking in the sun at Arenal, and a beach day here is a must on your visit. One of the best things to do in Javea is grab drinks and food by the sea.
Austriaco Cafe Wien, Geographic, and La Fontana are some of our favorite breakfast spots. Also, don’t miss out on Chabada and La Bambula for a morning coffee or sunset drinks!
→ 7 Reasons We Love Arenal Beach Javea (And You Will Too!)
2. Coastal Walk to Javea Port
After a big meal at Arenal, nothing feels better than taking a coastal walk! There is a gorgeous stretch that goes along the sea from Arenal Beach all the way to the port.
The entire trail takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on your pace. One side of the road is blocked to cars, giving plenty of space for your scenic stroll. Some areas have dirt paths that cut closer to the water and the Tosca stone formations.
During the summer months, there are pop up beach bars set up along the coastal path. Also, don’t miss out on the La Siesta restaurant for drinks, which is around the halfway point.
3. Paella Lunch in the Port
Paella time! Javea is in the heart of the Valencian region, which is the true home of the country’s national dish.
There are plenty of fantastic restaurants to try this dish at, but our absolute favorite has become La Cantina de Javea. It’s located on the backside of the port where fresh fish comes in each day, giving it a local and authentic feel.
Know that if you’re planning to have paella here, you’ll need to call it in at least a day in advance. On weekends especially, you’ll be reserving your table for the entire afternoon. Many families go here on Sunday and spend the whole day eating, drinking, and enjoying the atmosphere.
We recommend trying the traditional Valencian paella with rabbit, chicken, beans, and artichokes. They have all kinds of great seafood as well since the restaurant is connected to the actual fish market.
The breakfast sandwiches are delicious here, too! Just note that they only serve drinks from December to February during winter.
4. Hike to the Cap de San Antoni Lighthouse
When looking up from the port, you will see a massive lighthouse out on the cliffs. This is Faro del Cabo de San Antonio, built in 1855.
One of our favorite hikes in Javea is to go from the port and back! There are many ways to get here depending on your starting point. Typically, we park in the port area and weave our way up through the villas and mansions to the top.
From the lighthouse, there is a beautiful path that winds around the cliffs and back into the Javea port area. The start of that trail is next to the Tango restaurant where the port jetty begins.
You should also know it’s also possible to drive to the lighthouse. Either way, it’s well worth it for the spectacular views of the coast inside Montgo National Park. Here is the official trail if you’d like to learn more.
5. Explore Javea Old Town
With all the amazing beaches and sea views, it’s easy to forget that Javea has an old town to experience! It’s located just above the port area and has so much to see.
We love strolling through the colorful streets and taking in the local life of Javea. It was originally built high up on the hill to stay protected from constant pirate attacks on the Mediterranean. Some of the architecture dates back to the 15th century, including the stunning Iglesia de San Bartolome Church in the town center.
Right next to the church, you’ll find Mercat Municipal de Xabia. This is a sprawling indoor market with tapas restaurants, produce, and fresh seafood. We love visiting around lunch time when it’s most lively.
The downtown area is not massive, but you’ll find so many cute boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. This is also where many events and festivals take place during the summer months.
→ Why You Can’t Miss Javea Old Town: Food, Markets & More!
6. Market Day in Old Town
Speaking of Javea Old Town, this is the place to be every Thursday morning! The market takes place from 8am to 2pm when the entire area is bustling with vendors.
The main part of the market is in a public square called Placa de la Constitucio, but it extends through the streets. There is a large underground parking lot directly underneath the plaza if you plan to drive.
The main market area has fruits, vegetables, olives, and other treats. In the center of all the produce, you’ll also find clothing and souvenirs.
We love having a coffee and bocadillo at Cafetería – L’Encant in their outdoor seating overlooking the market. In the lower part of old town, Olivo y Laurel Restaurant has a chorizo sandwich that we swear by if you’re up for a heavier sandwich.
7. Tapas and a Movie Night
Did you know Javea port has a movie theatre? That’s right! Cine Jayan is a traditional theatre tucked just back from La Grava Beach.
They play all kinds of international movies, from Hollywood blockbusters to classics from the 1950’s. The pictures are also played in multiple languages, so non-Spanish speakers can check the schedule.
We love a good movie night now and then. However, the real star of the show is across the street! Taberna Andares Ibéricos is a tapa bar that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to Seville or Madrid.
As soon as you walk in, you’ll see jamon legs hanging from the ceiling, locals chatting it up, and drinks flowing. The bar and movie are the perfect combo if you can time it right!
8. Portxixol & Granadella Beach
Arenal and La Grava are very popular for their proximity to Javea. Nevertheless, two of its most famous beaches are just a short drive away!
You may recognize Cala del Portixol from the photos of the blue doored fisherman houses. We love taking the hike out to Cap Prim and hitting this beach on the way back. There is also an incredible restaurant named Cala Cala Clemence with sea views.
A few minutes down the road is Playa de la Granadella, which is known as one of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa Blanca. Just beware that it will be completely packed in the summertime!
You’ll want to get there bright and early to find a parking spot, as they cap the small beach at 300 people during the peak months. A super unique way to see Granadella is by joining a kayaking tour.
Keep in mind that these beaches are pebbly stones and not sand. Water shoes and beach chairs are a great idea to stay comfortable.
These Javea beaches are ideal for snorkeling in the summer, especially along the rocky cliffs. They also have small beach bars for snacks and drinks.
9. Hop on a Catamaran Cruise
Ready to get out on the water?? One of the best things to do in Javea is taking a Catamaran Cruise!
Mundo Marino offers a multitude of different cruises departing from Javea port depending on what you’re looking for. There are full 2.5 hour coastal excursions, sunset sailings with sparkling cava, and BBQ boat trips with swim stops.
There are even short bay cruises that go to some of the beaches we mentioned above further down the coast. Mundo Marino even operates as a ferry back and forth from Denia in the peak season!
10. Experience a Festival in Javea Spain
If you’re lucky, you may be visiting Javea during a local festival. Many of the most popular take place during the summer months when thousands of people descend on the small beach town.
They range from outdoor jazz concerts to religious holidays, and food & heritage celebrations. We recently were in town for the end of Fogueres de Sant Joan and it blew our minds!
On the eve of the actual holiday, they hold Nit dels Focs (night of fire). In addition to the music and fireworks, the streets of old town are lit up. From midnight on you’ll see people old and young jumping over the lit flames for good luck.
Here are a few more of the must-see festivals in Javea Spain:
- Fiestas de Sant Antonio Abad (Mid-January)
- Mar de Javea (Early April)
- Jesus Nazareno (Late April)
- Semana Santa (Easter Week)
- Xabia Folk Festival (April & May)
- Fogueres de Sant Joan (Late June)
- Bous a La Mar (Late July)
- Javea Jazz Festival (August)
- Moros y Cristianos (Early August)
Javea Day Trip Ideas
Now that you know about the best things to do in Javea, how about a day trip? There are so many more unreal towns on the Costa Blanca to experience!
Many are very close to drive to, which is yet another reason to rent a car for your visit.
Climb to the Denia Castle: Just over the Montgo is the vibrant city of Denia. It has an amazing restaurant scene, long sandy beaches, and much more.
Yet, the crown jewel is the 1,000 year old Denia Castle. Take a hike through the castle ruins from town if you have a chance! Read more about the best things to do in Denia Spain.
Jesus Pobre Market: Jesus Pobre is a tiny village just 15 minutes inland from Javea. On Sundays, they hold a fun artisenal market with crafts, food, and live music. Here is a closer look at what you’ll find at the Jesus Pobre Market.
Altea: This is a bit further away, but still worth the Javea day trip! Walk the cobblestone streets that lead up to the blue domed Church of the Virgin of Solace.
Villajoyosa: You might’ve seen pictures of these colorful buildings before. Villajoyosa is famous for its beachfront architecture and Valor Chocolate Museum.
Gata de Gorgos: Interesting stop inland from Javea. This town is known for its basket making and guitars.
Spend a Day in Moraira: If we could pick one other town to visit on the Costa Blanca, this would be it! Moraira is a small charming coastal town with nice beaches and cafes.
We have visited here often for the Friday market, but you could spend an entire afternoon enjoying the sun and port area. Here’s exactly how we would spend one day in Moraira if you have time.
Have any questions on this article or want to share more of the best things to do in Javea Spain? Leave us a comment below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
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We’re Brigitte and Jake! American travel bloggers currently based in Spain. If you can believe it, we started Nothing Familiar way back in 2015 on an Ipad in the Ecuadorian jungle. Ever since, we haven’t stopped traveling! We’ve now been to over 60 countries around the world, with our expertise being Europe and Southeast Asia. We love outdoor adventures, tasting local specialties, and island hopping through tropical destinations. Hopefully, our guides and authentic experiences will inspire you on your own travels!
