- Postiguet is right in the city center – best for quick swims, sunset walks, and combining beach time with sightseeing.
- San Juan is wider, calmer, and more “resort-like” – ideal for full beach days, families, and long walks (easy by tram).
- Stay central for maximum flexibility: walk to Postiguet, tram to San Juan, and come back for restaurants and nightlife – no car needed.
Explore all room options:
Table of contents
- Best Beaches in Alicante – Quick Comparison: Postiguet vs San Juan
- Playa del Postiguet: Best Times, Promenade & Facilities
- Playa de San Juan: Why Go & How to Reach by Tram
- A Perfect Beach Day: What to Pack
- Where to Stay For Easy Beach Access
- FAQ
Alicante is one of those rare Mediterranean cities where urban life and beach life blend effortlessly. You can start your morning with a coffee downtown, swim in the sea before lunch, and watch the sunset without ever touching a car. Two beaches define this experience: Playa del Postiguet and Playa de San Juan. Both are excellent – but some different. Let’s see which one fits your travel style best.
Best Beaches in Alicante – Quick Comparison: Postiguet vs San Juan
Postiguet Beach is located right in the city center, offering fine golden sand, a lively urban vibe, and easy access to cafés, shops, and cultural attractions. It tends to be busier, especially during midday, and is best suited for short swims, sunset walks, and travelers who want the beach at their doorstep.
San Juan Beach lies about 7 kilometers north of the center and feels much more open and spacious. With wide, light-colored sand and a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere, it’s ideal for full beach days, families, and long seaside walks. Even in summer, it rarely feels overcrowded.
You might also like our Alicante Travel Guide: everything a traveler needs to know about the city and the region
Playa del Postiguet: Best Times, Promenade & Facilities
Playa del Postiguet on the map
Best time to visit this beach
Early mornings (8:00–11:00) are calm and perfect for swimming, while late afternoons and evenings offer softer light and beautiful sunsets. Midday in summer can be lively and crowded, but the atmosphere remains vibrant and energetic.
Promenade & surroundings
One of Postiguet’s greatest advantages is how seamlessly it connects beach life with the city. Step off the sand and you are immediately on the famous Explanada de España promenade, shaded by palm trees and lined with cafés, ice cream parlors, and terraces buzzing with life. From here, the old town, museums, shops, and restaurants are all within easy walking distance, making Postiguet perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with spontaneous swims in the sea – no planning, no transport, just pure convenience.
Facilities
Postiguet is fully equipped to make beach time easy and comfortable, especially for visitors staying in the city center. The beach offers sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, clean showers and restrooms, and clearly marked swimming areas supervised by lifeguards during the high season. There are also beach volleyball courts and accessible pathways, ensuring that everyone – from families with children to travelers with limited mobility – can enjoy the sea safely and comfortably.
Not sure how to plan your Alicante weekend route? See our guide: The best 2–3 day itinerary to discover Alicante
Playa de San Juan: Why Go & How to Reach by Tram
Why choose San Juan Beach?
San Juan Beach is the place to go when you want space, fresh air, and a true Mediterranean beach experience. Its wide shoreline and soft, light-colored sand make it feel open and uncrowded, even during the busiest summer months. The gentle slope into the sea is ideal for families with children, while the steady coastal breeze attracts surfers, runners, and anyone who enjoys an active lifestyle. With long promenades, beachfront cafés, and plenty of room to relax, San Juan is perfect for travelers who prefer slow, unhurried beach days that last from morning until sunset.
How to reach San Juan
The easiest and most scenic way to get there is by tram. Take Line L4 or L5 from central stops such as Luceros or Mercado. The journey takes approximately 25–30 minutes and drops you close to the beach, allowing you to travel comfortably without a car or parking concerns.
A Perfect Beach Day: What to Pack
A perfect beach day in Alicante is all about feeling relaxed and prepared without over-packing. Thanks to the city’s easy access to beaches and excellent infrastructure, you only need a few essentials to enjoy the sea, sun, and Mediterranean atmosphere. What you bring often depends on your travel style and whether you’re visiting solo, as a couple, or with family.
To make your stay as comfortable as possible:
For digital nomads
A beach day for digital nomads is often a balance between work and rest. A lightweight backpack with a power bank ensures your devices stay charged, while sunscreen, sunglasses, and a quick-dry towel keep you comfortable under the Mediterranean sun. Beaches like San Juan are especially appealing, offering space, long promenades, and nearby cafés for flexible work breaks.
You might also like our article Workation in Spain – Remote Work by the Beach: Why Alicante Is the Perfect Workation Destination
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For couples
For couples, a beach day is all about comfort and atmosphere. A beach blanket, good sunscreen, and enough water allow you to relax without interruptions. Bring a book, shared headphones, or simply enjoy the sound of the waves together – especially in the late afternoon, when the light softens and the beach becomes more romantic.
For families
Families’ benefit from a little extra preparation. Shade is essential, whether it’s a sun umbrella or a small beach tent, along with snacks, refillable water bottles, and sunscreen for all ages. Sand toys and spare clothes for children make the day smoother and more enjoyable, allowing parents to relax while kids play safely by the sea.
You might also like our article Alicante’s Top Sights: What to See and Why This City Is Truly Special
Where to Stay For Easy Beach Access
Staying in the city center is the smartest way to enjoy Alicante’s beaches without sacrificing comfort or flexibility. From a central location, you can walk to Postiguet for a quick swim, take the tram to San Juan for a full beach day, and return in the evening to restaurants, culture, and nightlife – all without needing a car. Having a kitchenette also makes beach days more relaxed, letting you prepare breakfast, snacks, or a light dinner on your own schedule.
Discover the perfect blend of modern living at Alicante Smart Apart Hotel. Located in the heart of the city, the hotel offers everything you need for a perfect vacation. Guests enjoy easy access to Alicante’s city center, beaches, and cultural attractions, all while staying in modern, thoughtfully designed rooms. A relaxing swimming pool area provides a quiet escape after a day in the sun, and the hotel’s location – just a five-minute walk from the center – makes it effortless to move between beach life and urban exploration.
Recommended rooms:
Superior Double Standard
A modern, cozy room with a kitchenette – ideal for couples who want comfort, privacy, and flexibility after a beach-filled day.
Terrace Room
A bright room with a private terrace, perfect for enjoying morning coffee or unwinding in the evening with a gentle sea breeze.
FAQ
Which beach is closest to the city center?
Playa del Postiguet is located directly in the heart of Alicante.
How do you get to San Juan Beach by tram?
Take tram line L4 or L5 from Luceros or Mercado; the ride takes around 25–30 minutes.
Are beaches crowded in summer?
Postiguet can be busy during peak hours, while San Juan remains more spacious even in high season.
Can you visit beaches without a car?
Yes, both beaches are easily accessible on foot or by public transport.
Best room for couples after a beach day?
The Terrace Room is ideal for couples thanks to its privacy and relaxing outdoor space.