Alicante may be known for its long, lively beaches, but it is also home to secluded little havens tucked between the cliffs, where the Mediterranean seems to turn down the volume. Peaceful, uncrowded spots where you can go for a swim, snorkel together or simply wait side by side for the sun to set. We have mapped out a route featuring the perfect coves for a romantic getaway on the Costa Blanca.

Since the photogenic Portichol Beach, with its fishermen’s cottages, became an Instagram favourite, you might think there was nothing left to discover in Jávea. You would be wrong. This is a town where new beaches can quite literally appear. That is exactly what happened in 2020, when Storm Gloria caused extensive damage but also created a new stretch of coastline: Cala Paradís. It is only accessible by sea — kayaking is always a good option — and once you arrive, you can enjoy the paradise promised by its name: a beach inside a cave, nestled beneath imposing cliffs. With a little luck, you may have it all to yourselves.

What we love about these two little coves, besides their crystal-clear waters and their combination of the best of both worlds — fine sand and rock — is that they are just one kilometre from Moraira’s historic centre. It is the perfect distance for escaping the crowds without giving up the amenities that make a day at the beach more comfortable. And yes, having somewhere nearby to eat is certainly one of them. Around here, our choice would be El Chamizo, a restaurant specialising in rice dishes and fish, where you will want to secure a table on the terrace, a true viewpoint overlooking the Mediterranean.

The appeal of this cove is not only that it is one of Calpe’s wildest beaches, but also that its location beneath the ever-impressive Peñón de Ifach means it can sometimes go unnoticed. It is the perfect place to add an extra touch of privacy to your romantic Costa Blanca getaway, as well as a sense of adventure. Before heading down to the shore, check that the sea conditions are safe and make sure you wear suitable footwear for the walk there. Do not forget your snorkel and goggles either. With its rocky seabed, turquoise waters and gentle currents, Cala del Penyal hides an entire underwater world that you will love discovering together.

We will not pretend that this is an easy beach to reach. Access can be a little challenging. Once you are there, however, you will be amazed to find yourself in a completely unspoilt cove, surrounded by nature. Cala del Metge lies within Serra Gelada Natural Park. Privacy is guaranteed here, and so is a spectacular view. Before the sun goes down, walk to the Racó del Pallarés viewpoint. It will take around 15 minutes to reach the perfect spot to sit and watch the shifting light and colours of a Costa Blanca sunset.

We have fallen in love with the picture-perfect sight of Villajoyosa’s colourful seafront houses. You may like them so much that you think you know their order by heart — pink, yellow, blue, burgundy... They are impossible to stop looking at, especially from the beach they overlook. It is equally hard to resist strolling hand in hand through the town in search of its hanging houses, historic walls and famous chocolate factories. Once you have done all that, it is time to make your way to Racó del Conill. The path leading down to the beach ends on a rocky strip that divides it into two. On either side, you will find small stretches of sand, large rocks and crystal-clear waters. It is one of those Alicante coves made for a romantic day out.

You will not want to lose sight of the sea, not even when it is time to go to sleep. That is why we know you will love discovering that the Mediterranean can be seen from our Sercotel Maya Alicante hotel. Calm and inviting, it offers a glimpse of everything waiting for you when you head out to explore the area’s coves. Before you do, you may want to recharge with our buffet breakfast and see how good a refreshing dip in our outdoor swimming pool feels.