Exploring Costa Blanca’s Hidden Beach Treasures

Exploring Costa Blanca’s Hidden Beach Treasures

If you’re dreaming of uncovering some of Costa Blanca’s lesser-known beaches and scenic spots, this tour might catch your eye. It promises a day filled with gorgeous viewpoints, tranquil coves, and a bit of local history. While it’s not billed as a luxury experience or a comprehensive beach-hopping spree, what it offers is a chance to see some of the coast’s quieter, more natural sides.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the focus on serene spots like Granadella Beach—a peaceful cove perfect for swimming and snorkeling—and the chance to hike through pine forests to Sant Marti’s hilltops for some truly panoramic views. The addition of visiting an abandoned hillside town adds a hint of eerie charm and history that can spark curiosity. Lastly, ending the day at Xabia Beach, the only sandy beach in southern Costa Blanca, rounds out a varied and scenic itinerary.

That said, one potential snag is that the tour’s beaches might not match everyone’s expectations—some reviews mention crowded conditions and rocky terrains, despite the tour’s promise of “hidden” beaches. Also, since the trip doesn’t include hotel pickup or food, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a bit of planning ahead. Overall, if you’re into landscapes, hiking, and exploring quieter coastal corners, this experience could be quite rewarding.

This tour suits those who love a mix of nature, light adventure, and scenic coastal views—perfect if you’re looking to escape tourist crowds and enjoy a relaxed day on the water and in nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Focus on tranquility: The tour highlights peaceful beaches like Granadella, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• Hiking and scenic views: The pine forest hike to Sant Marti’s hilltops offers stunning coastal vistas.
• Unique history: Visiting an abandoned hillside town adds a layer of curiosity and visual interest.
• No food included: Be prepared to bring your own snacks or plan for a meal afterward.
• Small group experience: Limited to 5 participants, making for a more personalized outing.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

This 6-hour tour from VSI Tour starts with a focus on some of the coast’s most tranquil spots. The day kicks off at Granadella Beach, a cove known for its clear waters and rocky cliffs. It’s a place that feels just removed enough from the crowds, but some reviews suggest it can get busy, especially in peak times. The water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the setting—surrounded by striking cliffs—is quite photogenic. The guide usually provides water and takes care of transportation, but you’ll want to bring your own essentials like sunscreen and swim gear.

Next, the adventure shifts to Sant Marti’s hilltops. The tour includes a scenic hike through pine forests, offering fresh air and lovely views. This part of the trip is especially appealing for nature lovers and those who enjoy a gentle trek rather than a strenuous climb. The panoramic vistas you’ll get from the hilltops are worth the effort, providing excellent photo opportunities and a chance to truly appreciate Costa Blanca’s rugged coastline.

A more unusual stop is the abandoned hillside town, which used to be a residence for wealthy residents. The ruins are atmospheric, with decaying villas set against the sea. It’s an evocative reminder of past eras and adds a slightly mysterious element to the day. Visitors get a taste of history while enjoying the scenic, somewhat eerie beauty of the abandoned structures—an unexpected highlight for many.

The final destination is Xabia Beach, renowned as the only sandy beach in the south of Costa Blanca. It’s a lively spot with golden sands and calm waters, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. While not a hidden gem, it offers a classic Mediterranean beach experience, with opportunities to unwind and take a swim.

Finally, the tour wraps up with an opportunity to enjoy local cuisine at a beachfront restaurant. While food isn’t included in the price, many travelers find this to be a perfect way to reflect on the day and enjoy fresh seafood with a view.

What You Should Know Before Booking

The tour costs $113 per person, which is reasonable considering the guided nature, transportation, and water included. However, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring your own snacks or plan for a meal afterward. The small group size—limited to five participants—means you get more personalized attention, but it also means spots can fill up quickly.

The tour duration is around 6 hours, with availability depending on the day. Check the schedule beforehand to match your plans. Since there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

The experience is offered in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, and German, making it accessible to a broad audience. The guide is described as friendly and willing to help, which can make the experience more enjoyable.

Authentic Perspectives from Travelers

One reviewer expressed disappointment with a last-minute cancellation, reminding us that plans can sometimes fall through despite the promise of a scenic day. Another shared that although the beaches visited were lovely, they were crowded and not exactly the “hidden” treasures one might expect—highlighting that the beaches can be busy, especially in summer.

On the brighter side, a traveler praised the guide as “super willing” and described having a “nice day,” emphasizing that the tour’s success often hinges on the guide’s attitude and the group’s vibe.

The reviews reflect a mixed but generally positive picture: some travelers loved the views and the relaxed pace, while others found the beaches less secluded and the transportation less comfortable than hoped.

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Final Thoughts

This tour offers a relaxed way to explore some of Costa Blanca’s quieter coastal spots. It’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic walks, nature, and a bit of history, rather than beach-hopping for sunbathing or seeking isolated beaches. The price point is reasonable, especially considering guided support and transportation, but keep expectations in check regarding crowd levels at some beaches.

The highlight for many will be the combination of stunning viewpoints, the unique abandoned town, and the chance to unwind at Xabia Beach. If you’re after a peaceful day out that balances nature, history, and lovely scenery without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour could be a good choice.

FAQs

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  It’s not specifically geared towards children, but families comfortable with light hiking and outdoor activities should be fine. Keep in mind the walking involved.

• Do I need to bring my own food?
  Yes, food and drinks are not included. It’s smart to bring snacks or plan to eat at the end of the tour at a local restaurant.

• Are there any hidden beaches on this tour?
  The tour highlights “hidden” beaches like Granadella, but some reviews mention they can be crowded, so not all spots may feel secluded.

• What should I wear?
  Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and outdoor activities are recommended. Sun protection is also a good idea.

• Does the tour include hotel pickup?
  No, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

• How long is the tour?
  It lasts around 6 hours, with specific start times depending on the day.

• What languages is the guide available in?
  The tour is offered in English, French, Spanish, and German.

• Can I cancel this tour?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re looking for a way to see some lesser-known beaches and enjoy scenic views with a relaxed pace, this tour could be worth considering. Just remember that beaches might be busier than expected, and some spots may not be completely private or secluded. It’s a solid option for travelers wanting a taste of Costa Blanca’s natural beauty without the hassle of heavy planning or crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here: