10 best things to do in Benidorm (That Aren’t Just Lying by the Pool)
Benidorm might have a bit of a reputation, but scratch beneath the surface (or get just a little way beyond the beachfront bars), and you’ll find that it’s so much more than a beach holiday spot.
From wild landscapes perfect for exploring to incredible tapas and mountain-top vineyards, there’s something for every kind of adventurer here. If you’re looking for things to do in Benidorm that are a little more you, the kind that make you feel alive, connected, and like you’re actually experiencing a place, then this is your list.
These were the things I loved most when we visited, and the ones I keep recommending to friends, that I’d do again in a heartbeat.
Go on a Jeep Tour into the Mountains
One of the best ways to really see all that Benidorm and the area has to offer is to get out of it for a few hours. We booked onto a jeep tour and it ended up being one of my favourite things we did all week
We were picked up from our hotel, and after a few backstreet shortcuts and bumpy turns, we were on our way into the hills, wind in our hair, the, sun on our faces, and a lot of screaming ‘bumpy bumpy’ as we went off roading!
We stopped at the cross of Benidorm (La Cruz) for the classic panoramic shot, and later drove deep into the mountains where the views stretched on for miles. We finished with a stop at a local vineyard for a glass of wine in the sunshine.
Try Jet Skiing in Benidorm Bay
I’m not usually someone who goes for high-speed water sports, but this was surprisingly fun, and surprisingly easy too. We booked around an hour on the jet skis from Benidorm’s Levante Beach and had the best time zipping through the bay, bouncing over the waves and trying (not very successfully) to steer in a straight line.
It’s such a different way to see the coastline, and a proper adrenaline boost if you’ve had a few too many slow beach days.
Book your jet skiing tour here
Book an E-Bike Tour
This was one of those “I’m so glad we did this” holiday moments. The E-bikes make exploring so much easier, and our guide took us through parts of Benidorm I never would have found otherwise.
We stopped for photos at the lookout points, as well as into the national park area. If you want to get your bearings or do something active without overdoing it, this is a brilliant shout.
Watch Dinner and a Show at Exotica
Exotica is one of Benidorm’s best-kept secrets. Tucked away in the Rincon de Loix area, this cabaret-style dinner show is full of surprises – think feathers, sequins, vocals, and a three-course dinner with wine included.
The food here is incredible and really is the perfect way to spend an evening. Make sure to get there earlier and head up to the incredible rooftop bar for some stunning cocktails.
Eat Your Way Through Tapas Alley
Tapas Alley (officially Calle Santo Domingo) is one of the most atmospheric places in Benidorm’s Old Town. The narrow street is packed with tiny tapas bars, each one spilling over with locals, chatter, and the smell of sizzling garlic and grilled seafood.
It smells incredible, and it’s a brilliant atmosphere walking down here!
Have a Theme Park Day (Or Waterpark!)
Benidorm has three theme parks – Terra Mítica (think big rollercoasters), Aqualandia (one of Europe’s biggest waterparks), and Mundomar (more animal shows and marine life).
If you’re travelling with kids, or just want to feel like one for a day, this is an easy way to have a full day of fun.
Hike Through the Natural Parks
Benidorm sits on the edge of two gorgeous natural parks; Sierra Helada and Serra Gelada. Both offer hiking trails with views over the coast, wild cliff edges, and spots where you can see right down into turquoise sea.
If you go early (or later in the day), the heat isn’t too much, and the trails feel calm and peaceful, especially compared to the buzz of the town below. Pack water, wear proper shoes, and don’t forget your camera.
Go Wine Tasting in the Mountains
One of the biggest surprises of the trip? How good the local wine was.
We visited Bodegas Enrique Mendoza just outside Benidorm and had a relaxed tasting session in the garden, with jamón, cheese, and some incredible wines. It was such a lovely way to slow down for a couple of hours and soak up a different side of the region.
Don’t Miss Plaça del Castell
This beautiful square is the heart of Benidorm’s Old Town, perched between the two beaches with views out to sea and a backdrop of whitewashed buildings and blue-tiled domes.
It’s one of those places that just feels special, especially early in the morning! If you’re staying at Barcelo Beach Benidorm, it’s only a 5 minute walk to here (if that!), so head here before breakfast, watch the sunrise and have the place to yourself!
Go Kayaking in Benidorm Bay
If you want to get out on the water but prefer something calmer than jet skiing, kayaking is a great shout. You can hire them straight from Levante Beach or join a guided tour out to Benidorm Island.
It’s peaceful, great exercise, and you’ll get views of the city that most people miss.
Whether you’re here for a week or a weekend, Benidorm is full of surprises once you start looking beyond the obvious. There’s still space here for wild landscapes, golden hour strolls, proper good food, and moments that feel like you’re really in it. If you’re wanting a full long weekend guide, you can find our full 4 day itinerary here. If you’re ready to book your holiday to Benidorm, I can’t recommend booking with Jet2Holidays enough – its so easy to do, and you can relax from the moment you step onto the plane!
Try one or two of these microadventures, and I reckon you’ll come home with more than a sun tan. And if you do head to Benidorm soon and try anything from this list, let me know, I’d love to hear what you thought.
