The ultimate family guide: The 20 best places to visit on the Northern Costa Blanca

24 05 - 2026

Welcome to our big blog series:
Family adventures on the northern Costa Blanca

A family holiday on the northern Costa Blanca is so much more than just sun, sand and paella. Anyone exploring the Alicante region and its northern treasures will soon realise that a new adventure awaits around every bend. In this new blog series, we’ll take you to the 20 most exciting, child-friendly and impressive destinations in the region. We’ll take a look behind the scenes at the major theme parks, climb historic castles and immerse ourselves in cool natural wonders. Pack your sun cream and your sense of adventure – let’s go!

💡How to use this guide: Simply click on the headings for each destination to go straight to the detailed articles containing all the information on prices, how to get there and my personal restaurant recommendations!

1. The crown jewel: Castillo de Santa Bárbara (Alicante)

The experience: Perched high atop Mount Benacantil stands one of Europe’s largest medieval fortresses. For children, the castle is a huge adventure playground complete with cannons, secret passages and a knightly atmosphere. The view over the port of Alicante is simply breathtaking.
The vibe: Epic and steeped in history. You can feel the spirit of knights and pirates in every nook and cranny.
Getting there: The easiest way is to take the lift directly opposite Postiguet Beach (Calle Jovellanos). If you fancy a bit of exercise, walk up through the picturesque Santa Cruz district.

Food: There’s a nice café in the courtyard for snacks. For a real highlight, head into town afterwards to El Portal (upmarket) or to Cervecería Sento for authentic tapas.

2. A journey back to prehistoric times: DinoPark Algar (Callosa d’en Sarrià)

The experience: This is where children’s dreams come true. Set amidst a beautiful botanical garden, there are life-size, moving dinosaurs that can even roar! There’s a 3D cinema, a ‘sandpit’ for budding archaeologists and water features to cool off in.

The vibe: Educational, exciting and perfect for photos. Logistics: Located on the CV-715. There is plenty of free parking.

Food: The snack bar in the park offers standard fare.

Our tip: Pack a picnic and make use of the shaded areas.

3. Non-stop action: Terra Mítica (Benidorm)

The experience: A top-class theme park, divided into Egypt, Greece and Rome. From the giant wooden rollercoaster to splash-filled water rides, there’s something for every age (and every level of bravery).
The vibe: A Hollywood atmosphere on the Mediterranean coast. Getting there: Take the AP-7, exit 65A. Parking is available right by the park (approx. €7).
Food: Restaurante Palamas offers a decent buffet to top up your energy reserves for the next rollercoaster ride.

4. Natural cooling: Fonts de l’Algar (Callosa d’en Sarrià)

The experience: Forget the pool! Here you can bathe in natural waterfalls and springs. The water is crystal-clear and refreshingly cool all year round.

The vibe: Pure nature and wonderfully invigorating.

Getting there: The CV-715 takes you straight there.
Please note: Book online in summer, as visitor numbers are limited!
Food: Restaurante Les Fonts offers a fantastic view of the waterfalls and serves excellent paella.

5. Safari in your own car: Safari Aitana (Penàguila)

The experience: genuine wilderness at an altitude of 1,000 metres. You drive your own car through the enclosures of lions, tigers, giraffes and elephants. It’s not a traditional zoo, but a sprawling reserve.

The vibe: Adventurous and respectful towards the animals. Logistics: The drive takes you up the winding CV-70 into the mountains – allow plenty of time for the journey!

Food: Restaurante Canibal at the entrance is known for its hearty, traditional Spanish meat dishes.

6. Pirate Island: Isla de Tabarca

The experience: A day trip to Spain’s smallest inhabited island. Crystal-clear water, historic city walls and no cars.

The vibe: a Caribbean feel in the Mediterranean.

Logistics: The fastest boats (water taxis) depart from Santa Pola. The journey takes just 15 minutes.
Food: Be sure to order the ‘Caldero’ (fish stew) at Restaurante Nou Port.

7. A fairytale mountain village: El Castell de Guadales

The experience: A village that can only be reached via a tunnel carved into the rock. It sits high above a turquoise-blue reservoir. Children are particularly fascinated by the quirky miniature museums.

The vibe: Magical and absolutely photogenic.

Logistics: Park in the large car park at the entrance to the village and take a leisurely stroll up.

Food: Restaurante Xorta offers regional cuisine with a panoramic view you’ll never forget.

8. Underwater Safari: Terra Natura & Aqua Natura (Benidorm)

The experience: A ‘zoo immersion’ concept where you can get up close to the animals without any visible barriers. Right next door is the water park with fantastic slides.

The vibe: A perfect blend of education and water fun.

Getting there: Right on the AP-7, with clear signposting.

Food: Restaurante Estiatorio – a good selection and child-friendly.

9. Sea life up close: Mundomar (Benidorm)

The experience: See dolphins, sea lions and parrots. The shows are beautifully put together and you can learn a lot about marine conservation.

The vibe: Tropical, colourful and full of wonder.

Getting there: Located in the Rincón de Loix neighbourhood, easily accessible by bus or car.

Food: Nearby is Restaurante El Niño, a favourite with families.

10. Mysterious Underworld: Cueva de las Calaveras (Benidoleig)

The experience: A huge stalactite cave with bizarre formations. The path is well-lit and flat, so it’s safe even for younger children.

The vibe: A sense of adventure underground.

Practical information: Right on the road to Benidoleig, with its own car park.

Food: Try the tapas at the L’Era bar and restaurant right in the village.

11. Chocolate Dreams: Museo Valor (Villajoyosa)

The experience: Visit the factory of Spain’s most famous chocolate. The smell of cocoa is everywhere, and of course there’s a tasting at the end!

The vibe: Sweet, tempting and entertaining.
Logistics: Located in Villajoyosa. The tours are free, but you often have to get a ticket (on site) in advance.

Food: Treat yourself to churros con chocolate right in the in-house chocolatería.

12. The Guardians of Dénia: Castillo de Dénia

The experience: The castle offers not only history but also a fantastic view of the marina. Children love the tunnel that runs underneath the castle.

The vibe: Relaxed and historic.

Getting there: Park at the harbour and take the short walk up.

Food: Afterwards, head to the Els Magazinos food market – there’s something for every member of the family.

13. Peacocks and palm trees: Parc Reina Sofía (Guardamar)

The experience: A beautiful park with ponds where turtles swim and peacocks roam freely. There is a huge playground.

The vibe: A green oasis of tranquillity.

Getting there: Easily accessible via the N-332.

Food: Having a picnic in the park is almost a tradition here.

14. The rocky island: Isla de Benidorm

The experience: The trip on the glass-bottomed boat (“Aquascope”) is the highlight. On the island, you can go for a short walk and enjoy the view of the skyline.

The vibe: A quick getaway from the city.

Practical info: Boats depart regularly from Benidorm harbour.

Food: Take some snacks with you; the restaurant on the island is often expensive and crowded.

15. Hiking with a pushchair: Faro de l’Albir

The experience: A fully paved path along the coast to the lighthouse. There’s plenty to discover along the way (old mines, fossils).

The vibe: Active, sunny and relaxed

Logistics: Large car park at the entrance to the nature reserve in Albir.

Food: Restaurante Universal in Albir offers great set menus for families.

16. Toys from days gone by: Museo del Juguete (Dénia)

The experience: Show your children what people used to play with. From tin cars to doll’s houses – a trip down memory lane.

The vibe: Nostalgic and charming.

Location: Centrally located in Dénia’s old railway station.

Food: Calle Loreto offers great outdoor seating for tapas.

17. Huge caves: Cuevas del Canelobre (Busot)

The experience: One of Spain’s highest caves, which feels almost like a cathedral. The acoustics are incredible.

The vibe: Impressive and cool.

Logistics: The drive there offers spectacular views of the coast.

Food: The village of Busot has cosy spots such as Restaurante Ca La Josefa.

18. The rock in the sea: Peñón de Ifach (Calpe)

The experience: The Costa Blanca’s landmark. The lower section of the trail is easily manageable even for children and offers fantastic views.

The vibe: Majestic.

Logistics: Parking at Calpe harbour.

Please note: You must register online in advance for the climb! Food: Fresh fish right by the harbour at Restaurante Baydal.

19. Archaeology made exciting: MARQ Museum (Alicante)

The experience: One of the most modern archaeological museums in the world. It is highly interactive and specifically designed to bring history to life for children.

The vibe: Informative and modern.

Getting there: Easily accessible in Alicante, including by tram (TRAM).

Eating: There are plenty of small cafés nearby in the Pla district.

20. Elephants and more: Rio Safari Elche

The experience: A mix of safari and zoo. You travel through the park on a train and can even feed the elephants. In summer, there’s also a small splash park.

The vibe: Family-friendly and welcoming.

Location: Situated between Santa Pola and Elche.

Food: There’s a restaurant in the park, but the picnic areas are also very popular.

My personal tip for planning:
Mix things up! After an action-packed day at Terra Mítica, a leisurely walk to the Faro de l’Albir works wonders for the family atmosphere.

Don’t forget to book tickets for the major parks online in advance to save time and money, and always pack an extra supply of water and sun cream for your nature outings.

Whichever destination you choose, the shared memories you create here under the Spanish sun are the most precious souvenir you’ll take home.