Postiguet Beach
Valenciana, Comunidad
Postiguet Beach, located in the heart of Alicante, Spain, is a cherished urban beach bordered by the palm-lined Paseo de Gómiz. It features a wide stretch of golden sand and tranquil waters, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Situated at the foot of the historic Santa Bárbara Castle, the beach offers picturesque views of Mount Benacantil's southern slope, including the famous rock formation known as "the Moor's face." Historically, the beach was originally rocky and used by local fishermen until it was transformed into a sandy beach by the late 19th century, coinciding with Alicante's rise as a tourist destination connected by rail to Madrid. The eastern end of the beach, known as Playa del Cocó, is traditionally the launch site for fireworks during the Hogueras de San Juan festival. Recent efforts have focused on preserving the beach's sand and water quality through coastal management projects, including the construction of a new breakwater to prevent sand loss and protect the urban environment. Postiguet Beach remains a cultural icon in Alicante, celebrated in local songs and festivals, symbolizing the city's coastal heritage and vibrant community life.
Plan your trip to Spain with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Postiguet Beach is during the late spring to early autumn months when the weather is warm and ideal for swimming. It is advisable to visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid peak crowds. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the palm-lined Paseo de Gómiz or explore the nearby Santa Bárbara Castle for panoramic views. Purchasing tickets for the castle in advance is recommended during high season. The beach has regained its Blue Flag status, indicating high environmental and quality standards. Public transport and parking are available nearby, but arriving early is advisable during festivals such as the Hogueras de San Juan when the beach hosts fireworks displays.
Interesting facts
- •The name 'Postiguet' comes from a small gate ('postigo') in Alicante's old city walls that once provided access to the beach area.
- •The beach is located directly beneath the Santa Bárbara Castle, a historic fortress atop Mount Benacantil.
- •The eastern end of Postiguet Beach, known as Playa del Cocó, is the traditional site for launching fireworks during the Hogueras de San Juan festival.
- •Postiguet Beach was originally rocky and primarily used by fishermen before being transformed into a sandy beach in the late 19th century.
- •The beach regained its Blue Flag status after urban redevelopment and coastal management improvements.
- •In 2025, construction began on a new breakwater to prevent sand loss and improve water quality at the beach.
History
Originally a rocky shoreline used by fishermen from the Raval Roig neighborhood, Postiguet Beach was transformed into a sandy beach by the late 19th century as Alicante developed as a tourist destination.
The name derives from a small gate ('postigo') in the old city walls that once provided access to the area.
In the early 20th century, the beach hosted several eclectic-style bathing establishments built on wooden stilts, which were destroyed during the Spanish Civil War and later replaced by larger facilities.
The beach has remained central to Alicante's urban and cultural life, notably serving as the site for traditional festivities and evolving through coastal preservation efforts to maintain its sandy shore and water quality.
Place Guide
Paseo de Gómiz
A scenic palm-lined promenade that borders Postiguet Beach, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying views of the Mediterranean Sea and the beach itself.
Santa Bárbara Castle9th century origins, expanded in later centuries
An imposing historic fortress perched atop Mount Benacantil overlooking Postiguet Beach, offering panoramic views of Alicante and the coastline. The castle dates back to medieval times and is a key cultural landmark.
Playa del Cocó
The eastern section of Postiguet Beach, adjacent to the La Marina station and Vistahermosa neighborhood, known for being the traditional site of fireworks displays during the Hogueras de San Juan festival.