Hang out with locals and dine at waterfront restaurants at Poniente Beach (Playa de Poniente). Stretching west from the Old Town, Poniente Beach has almost 1.9 miles (3 kilometers) of soft golden sand and warm Mediterranean water to enjoy. The beach’s name derives from the Latin word for setting (or west) and this is where you’ll witness the day’s last moments of sunshine in Benidorm.

Beach lovers come here to benefit from a more secluded and tranquil atmosphere than at neighboring Levante Beach. The huge sweep of sand at Poniente Beach means you are more than likely to find a quiet spot to spend the day. Town workers clean the sand every night and leave it in an impeccable condition for the early risers. There’s also a service that enables visitors with restricted mobility to access the beach.

Follow the locals' example and spend your time topping up your tan and swimming in the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, which provide welcome shade from the sun. Relax as the kids burn off some energy at one of several playgrounds.

Get active by walking the entire length of the beach. To the west it merges with the quiet La Cala Beach. Stroll to the eastern end, adjacent to Benidorm Marina, where there’s a beach library and public-use chess tables. The views from the Balcón del Mediterráneo lookout are unmissable, as is the sheltered cove called Cala del Mal Pas.

Poniente Beach’s curving esplanade is the perfect place for food and drinks at any time of the day. Find everything from ice cream parlors to pubs, seafood restaurants and tapas bars. More drinking and dining options line the streets of the nearby Old Town and Levante Beach promenade.

Parking is limited at Poniente Beach, especially during the summer season and on weekends, so it’s advisable to get here on foot. A tourist train connects the beach with the neighborhoods of Benidorm Centro and Cala.