Protected from the winds by the surrounding mountains, Benidorm is known for its pleasant weather. It is sunny and warm from May to October, a bit too hot in August. Its two main beaches, the Playa de Levante (Sunrise Beach) and the Playa de Poniente (Sunset Beach) are irresistible: about 5 km long, golden, and kept meticulously clean, for which they are deservedly awarded the Blue Flag. Smaller and more secluded beaches can be found to the north. Benidorm is a heaven for water sports: sailing, water skiing, paragliding, scuba diving. You can admire marine life on the glass bottomed boat going to Peacock Island. For those keen on golf, there are four courses in the vicinity. Tennis is available, too.

There is no lack of attractions for families. You can easily spend a whole day at the Terra Mitica, Spain's largest theme park. It offers about 60 thrilling rides and shows. The inverted rollercoaster going at 100 km/hour, with 35-metre drop-offs is sure to boost your adrenaline. Reserve another day for Aqualandia, Benidorm's water park rich in slides, pools, and waterfalls. Mundomar is a marine park offering an adventure playground (rope slides, climbing walls, etc.), and quite a collection of beasts: dolphins, parrots, penguins, sea lions, etc. The dolphin shows twice daily are immensely popular.

The small old town is swarming with gift shops, cafes and restaurants, and so are the seafront promenades. You can have a nice walk in the evening, before dinner. There are fiestas every month, with parades, processions, fairs and fireworks, as well as concerts and other cultural events.

The food in Benidorm is as varied as can be. True, the resort receives a huge lot of British tourists every year, and restaurateurs cater to their needs: you are likely to encounter a lot of English-style pubs and bars. Many other national cuisines are also represented: Chinese, Indian, Italian, all major fast-food chains... A good Spanish meal can be had in the harbour area. Understandably, the focus is on seafood, as well as rice and the fresh produce of inland farmers, the emblematic dish being the paella. Benidorm is universally recognized as the place for clubbers: the myriad of nightspots all over the resort never seem to sleep.