Benidorm · Things to do

Two sandy beaches either side of the old-town headland. Levante is the busier and more British-facing of the two; Poniente is longer, quieter and used more by Spanish visitors and residents. Both are lifeguarded through the season and both have showers and marked swimming zones.

The white balustrade on the headland between the two beaches, on the site of the old castle, with the original fishing village immediately behind it. Calle Santo Domingo and the streets around Plaza de la Constitución are where the Spanish tapas bars are, and where Benidorm looks least like its reputation.

Theme park at Partida del Moralet, about 4 km inland from the beach, with areas themed on Greece, Egypt and Rome. The Iberia water area opens from late June and the park runs Horror Nights through October; booking online in advance is cheaper than the gate.

Water park on the Rincón de Loix hill above Levante beach, open for the summer season only. Gate prices are €41 for adults and €33 for 4–12s and over-65s, and the slides shut half an hour before the park does, so go early rather than late in the day.

A zoo at Partida de Foia del Verdader with conservation and education programmes, laid out as recreated habitats grouped into Pangea, the Americas and Asia. The adjoining Aqua Natura water area covers around 40,000 m² and is usually sold as a combined ticket in summer.