The most beautiful beaches of Xàbia (Jávea)

Playa del Arenal and the marina of Xàbia (Jávea)
Photo: Joergsam, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Xàbia (Jávea) has over twenty kilometers of coastline, from wide sandy beaches to small rocky coves with crystal-clear water. Which beach is right for you depends on what you are looking for: a long day with the kids in the sand, snorkeling among the rocks, or a quiet bay with views of the island of Portitxol. In this guide, we list the most beautiful beaches and coves, with tips from our own team on the ground.

Playa del Arenal: the sandy beach for families

The Arenal is the most famous beach in Xàbia: a bay with fine sand and shallow water, ideal for small children. Along the promenade you’ll find restaurants, ice cream parlors and beach bars, and in the evening it’s very lively and busy. Those who arrive early have the quietest hours and find it easiest to find a parking spot.

Cala Portitxol (La Barraca): the most beautiful bay

Cala Portitxol (La Barraca) with the island of Portitxol, Xàbia (Jávea)
Photo: Joanbanjo, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

For many, the most beautiful place in Xàbia: a pebble bay with turquoise water, white fishermen's houses with blue doors, and views of the island of Portitxol. The water is clear and good for snorkeling. The road to get there is narrow and parking is limited in summer; during the high season, access may be restricted. Villa La Palma is located in Portitxol, with sea views of this bay.

Cala de la Granadella: between the cliffs

Cala de la Granadella in Xàbia (Jávea)
Photo: Joanbanjo, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Granadella is located in a nature park, surrounded by pine trees and steep rock walls. The bay has pebbles and very clear water, making it a favorite among snorkelers and kayakers. Because the place is so popular, the municipality often regulates access by car in the summer (sometimes with a shuttle bus). Check the Xàbia municipality website before you leave to see what is in effect that year.

Cala Blanca: swimming from the rocks

Rocks and clear water at Cala Blanca, Xàbia (Jávea)
Photo: Joanbanjo, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Along the Cala Blanca there is a coastal path with flat rocks from which you can enter the sea. There is no sandy beach, but it is calm, the water is clear and it is a wonderful place for an early dive or a walk at sunset. Casa Calablanca is located about a minute's walk from the sea; restaurants and bars are within walking distance.

Playa de la Grava: right in the port district

Playa de la Grava and the port of Xàbia (Jávea)
Photo: Joanbanjo, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Next to the harbor is Grava, a pebble beach with a lively promenade. It’s convenient if you want to swim and then have lunch on a terrace or visit the fish market. Bring water shoes: the pebbles can be quite rough.

Playa del Muntanyar: long and quiet

Playa del Muntanyar in Xàbia (Jávea)
Photo: Joanbanjo, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Between the harbor and the Arenal is Muntanyar, a long beach of round stones with a walking and cycling path running alongside it. It is rarely crowded, and in the morning it is one of the most beautiful routes for a run along the sea.

Practical tips

  • Water shoes: Most bays have pebbles or rocks; for children they are almost indispensable.
  • Go early: in July and August the bays are at their best before ten, and that is also when parking is easiest.
  • Flags: Note the lifeguards’ daily flag (green, yellow, red). Which beaches have a blue flag changes each year.
  • From the water: Many bays are most beautiful when viewed by kayak or boat. Feel free to ask us about boat or kayak rental in the area.

Staying close to the beach

Private Home Collection rents luxury villas with private pools in Xàbia, personally managed by our own team. View all villas in Xàbia (Jávea) or get in touch with us for availability and advice on the beach that suits you best.