Coupled with notoriously fabulous weather, a median average of 320 days of sunshine every year, and a climate that attracts an annual mass migration of visitors from Northern Europe, Orihuela Costa has something for everyone of all ages.

And that's all lovely – until it rains (which it does sometimes), or it's too hot for younger children (which often happens). So here's a selection of ideas for things to do with smaller kids in our area.

From soft play areas to great food, you'll find some much-needed inspiration for things to do with younger children when the weather isn't conducive to life in the great outdoors.

Play Cafe, Villamartin

Tucked away in a small corner of La Funeta Commercial Centre, rainy-day parents will discover a jungle-themed children's oasis replete with a play village, a large 3-tier soft-play adventure zone, a video game zone, a Lego wall, and a host of free-play toys for younger patrons.

Play Cafe combines a family-friendly casual dining cafe with integrated playtime experiences and specialises in fresh fruit smoothies and milkshakes. The venue has been commended for its upbeat setting and decor, with previous visitors noting the spotlessly clean environment and attentive, friendly staff.

An adult's menu offers a selection of healthy light bites such as paninis and a choice of sandwiches throughout the day, while the kids' menu focuses on food more acceptable to a younger audience, such as hot dogs, pasta, and a variety of cakes and cookies.

FACEBOOK > GOOGLE MAP > WEBSITE

Say Yes to Play, Los Dolses

When it's soaking outside, there's plenty of fun to be had at Say Yes to Play in Los Dolses. The venue offers a two-storey soft play zone, traditional toys, and an expansive air-conditioned indoor play area for younger children.

Family-friendly food is served in the cafeteria, including speciality pancakes. The venue caters for birthday parties and offers special events during the summer holidays.

Open every day of the week from 11:00 until 20:00 except Mondays, you'll find Say Yes to Play in the Rioja Shopping Centre.

FACEBOOK > GOOGLE MAP > WEBSITE

Dream Park, Playa Flamenca

Located in the Flamenca Beach commercial centre, you'll find Dream Park. The venue caters to younger residents and holidaymakers with soft play areas, ball pits, an indoor playground, and a small climbing area with thickly padded crash-mats suited to aspiring future mountaineers.

Regularly organised activities include face painting, craft workshops, magic shows, and musical entertainment.

Dream Park caters for private events, and opening hours vary by day and time of year, so please check availability on their Facebook page before travelling.

FACEBOOK > GOOGLE MAP > WEBSITE

Side Street Café, La Zenia

This family-friendly addition to the Orihuela Costa area guarantees fun for younger children whatever the weather. A dedicated play space provides plenty of fun for little people come rain or shine, and the café menu caters specifically to younger tastes.

Bigger people aren't forgotten though, and the venue offers a mouth-watering selection of handmade beef burgers, tasty breakfasts, cakes and sweet treats. A fully-stocked freezer is packed to the brim with lollies and ice creams to satisfy the sweet-tooth of diners of all ages.

Located in the Costa commercial centre, Side Street Café is open every day from 09:00 until 16:00 throughout the year.

FACEBOOK > GOOGLE MAP > WEBSITE

Restaurante de Bassus, La Zenia

This established local restaurant has made a name for itself in Orihuela Costa, serving an extensive Bavarian menu and speciality beer brewed on-site in a micro-brewery.

But foot-long Bratwurst isn't the only thing this family-favourite restaurant has going on, and de Bassus sports a dedicated children's zone replete with an indoor soft play area.

The German-inspired venue is open every day throughout the year, from midday until midnight. Particularly popular during busy periods, booking is highly recommended at peak times or during the summer.

FACEBOOK > GOOGLE MAP > WEBSITE

Need more things to do with children in the Orihuela Costa?

Looking for holiday ideas and inspiration for summer? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: photos provided by featured venues

Water parks are a family-friendly favourite for many tourists and visitors to our little part of Spain, but the attractions offer such different experiences that it's worth doing your homework before you commit to buying a ticket.

So here's what's available this summer 2026, with seasonal opening times, the latest ticket prices for all the Costa Blanca water parks, and handy Google Maps to get you there.

Aquopolis Torrevieja | Torrevieja

The largest of the water parks in the south Costa Blanca area, Aquopolis Torrevieja packs 18 wet n' wild rides into one thrilling day out. Charmed Lake, mini zig-zag, and the mini-park provide plenty of entertainment for younger children, while Speed, Boomerang, and Kamikaze provide high-octane thrills for older kids.

Favourites such as Hydro-Racer, the Rapids, the Black Hole, and a wave pool cement Aquopolis's position as a firm summer favourite when the heat is on, and a VIP Zone offers a privileged area for parents and families to unwind in the sun or shade.

Aquopolis offers a wide variety of dining choices on-site, including a dedicated Burger and Pizzeria outlet, an ice-cream parlour, a sandwich bar, and a family-style cafeteria geared towards the tastes of children and hungry sun-drenched families. Visitors are welcome to take their own food and drink into the park, but no glass is permitted.

The best way to visit Aquopolis is by car with 600 free car parking spaces provided. There is no direct bus route from Orihuela Costa, and visitors relying on public transport will need to get a bus to Torrevieja's Habaneras Commercial Centre and make the short 10-minute walk to the water park on foot.

Alternatively, consider booking a taxi to get you there, with an estimated cost of around 20€ each way.

• Sunbed hire: 5,00€ per bed
• Secure lockers: 8,00€ plus 5,00€ refundable deposit (self-service lockers are cheaper)

Standard ticket prices cost 35,95€ for an adult, and 29,95€ for a child from 90 – 140 cm. The Speedy Pass costs 40€ per person and reduces queuing time. Access to the Premium and Platinum VIP areas costs 290€ or 340€ for a family of four (excludes entry ticket cost).

Aquopolis Torrevieja opens daily from 11:30 until 18:00 (from 11:00 until 19:00 from 1st July to 24th August). Visitors can also save money by buying discounted tickets online at Aquopolis Torrevieja in advance.

Opening: Monday 8th June 2026 – Sunday 6th September 2026
WEBSITE & TICKETS | FACEBOOK | GOOGLE MAPS

Aquapark Rojales | Ciudad Quesada

Located 20 minutes north of Orihuela Costa by car, Aquapark Rojales in Ciudad Quesada is a highly-regarded choice for family fun in the sun. It might lack the extreme rides offered by adjacent water parks but actually, that is part of the attraction.

Originally opened in July 1986 and the second water park to be established in the Spanish territory, the park offers 21.000 metres of rides, a lawned chill-out zone, a picnic area, a beach bar, and a cafeteria offering a menu of casual finger-food designed to appeal to a younger palate.

Aquapark Rojales is perfectly suited to younger families, or families with children (or adults) with a fear of heights. The entire park is built into the side of a naturally occurring hill, so the high climb-towers needed at some other parks won't be found in Aquapark Rojales.

Staple water park rides such as the Rio Yukatán lazy river, the Amazonia adventure zone, a children's activity lake, and a large pool will entertain little ones and grown-ups alike, and free parking is provided on-site. Read this fabulous personal review by La Zenia Community Group member, Jamie Gledhill.

Summer 2026 ticket prices cost 19€, with children's tickets available for 16€ (4 to 10 years). Concessionary prices are available for persons aged 65 years or older, but please note that Aquapark Rojales never offers promotional discounts or ticket giveaways. The park opens daily throughout the summer from 11:00 until 18:00.

Opening: Monday 1st June 2026 – Sunday 6th September 2026
WEBSITE & TICKETS | FACEBOOK | GOOGLE MAPS

Flamingo Aqua Park | Torrevieja

Small, but packed full of fun, Flamingo Aqua Park in Torrevieja offers an excellent alternative venue for families hoping to avoid the madding crowds of the more popular Costa Blanca water parks at the height of summer.

This local water park is often overlooked, but just like Aquapark Rojales, Flamingo Aqua Park is just perfect for younger and less demanding children who can do without high-octane thrill rides and sky-high climb-towers.

Indeed, visitors expecting the full water park experience are sure to be disappointed, but Flamingo Aqua Park follows a successful recipe of a handful of flumes, a children's activity zone, and a freeform pool for messing around in the water.

Coupled with a snack bar serving a menu of family favourites that won't give Gordon Ramsay sleepless nights, this little water park proves that all you need is sunshine and H2O to have a lot of holiday fun. You'll find the prices reassuringly tiny too, and patrons are welcome to take food (no glass or metal cutlery).

Entrance prices start from 16,20€ for children aged 4-12 with an adult ticket price of 19,20€ per day – sunbed included. Children under 4 years enter free of charge, and special concession tickets cost 16,20€ for visitors over 60 years. The park opens daily from 11:30 until 18:00.

Opening: Friday 5th June 2026 – Saturday 5th September 2026
WEBSITE & TICKETS | FACEBOOK | GOOGLE MAPS

Rio Safari Splash Park | Elche, Costa Blanca

It's hardly surprising to find Rio Safari Park on most visitors' hotlists this summer. The venue houses a variety of exotic fauna, including Jaguars, lions, Bengal Tigers and animals from the African savannah that are undeniably majestic and a wonder to see firsthand.

The adjacent Rio Safari Splash Park, incorporated into the main park, provides 4 swimming pools (2 dedicated to small children), 16 toboggan-style slides, and a host of water attractions for children and adults. The park is perfectly suited to younger children and families.

A self-service restaurant offers a menu of sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, pizzas and combo plates. For those who prefer to cater for themselves, a shaded picnic area is on hand for visitors to consume food and beverages brought from home.

Rio Safari Splash Park is only accessible by car, located 40 minutes north of La Zenia in the direction of Elche. In addition to the animal experience and the water attractions, the park offers kart racing, a trampoline zone, and family-focused education and conservation activities for children.

Park admission tickets cost 22,50€ per adult and 17€ for children aged 3-12 years, with discounts for online booking. Access to the Rio Safari Splash Park costs an extra 12€ per person in addition to the main ticket price. The park opens every day from 10:00 until 18:00.

Opening: Monday 1st June 2026 – Sunday 30th August 2026
WEBSITE & TICKETS | FACEBOOK | GOOGLE MAPS

Aqua Natura Water Park | Benidorm

Part of the larger Terra Natura complex, this fully-fledged theme park experience boasts 14 epic rides, with 5 specific attractions suited to young children under 5 years old.

Around 90 minutes north of La Zenia by car, Aqua Natura offers a complete day of entertainment for guests of all ages, and thrill-seekers won't be disappointed with four high-octane water rides and slides designed to elevate the heart rate: Niágara, Speed Hole, Kamikaze, and the zero-gravity La Cresta – a 20-metre high rollercoaster slide.

Naturally, Aqua Natura's splash zones offer an animal theme, and visitors can enjoy educational demonstrations from the “Guardians of the sea”, an immersive and responsive show featuring sea lions. There is a range of leisurely cafeterias and restaurants on-site and a picnic area for visitors to consume their food.

An exclusive VIP zone provides easy front-line beach access to the swimming pool to enjoy with friends and family. The private area has both sun and shade, designed especially for those seeking a restful oasis between dips in the pool. Access costs 150€ and doesn't include the price of admission, keeping this VIP area reassuringly exclusive.

Standard adult ticket prices start at 41€, with children's tickets available from 35€ per person online. Ticket sales for admission on the day cost 5€ more per person, and combination tickets offer money-saving admission to both Terra Natura and Aqua Natura.

Parking is chargeable at 5€ per car per day, and Aqua Natura opens daily from 11:00 until 18:00. Visitors can benefit from discounted prices by booking online beforehand.

Rosa Tours offers coach trips to Aqua Natura six days a week during the summer months, with great value tickets that include return transport and admission to the water park and Terra Natura theme park. Departures from La Zenia and Orihuela Costa.

Opening: Friday 27th March 2026 – Sunday 1st November 2026
WEBSITE & TICKETS | FACEBOOK | GOOGLE MAPS

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: Artwork remains the copyright property of the original rights holder

Renting a boat without a licence is one of the best alternatives to spending a day at the beach, especially when the weather is warm. The inexpensive, family-friendly fun is ideal for small groups to enjoy an afternoon on the Mediterranean Sea.

And it provides a different and enlightening vantage point to enjoy the coast and beaches, allowing those onboard to find their sea legs and discover new experiences, hidden coves, and enjoy the crystal clear waters.

Take a picnic complete with liquid refreshments and dine onboard for an unforgettable holiday experience. Soak up the sunshine on your private sundeck, or take selfies aboard your own personal “superyacht” with the ultra-Instagrammable coastline behind you.

Small boats with less powerful engines can be hired legally without a boat licence in Spain, but less power doesn't mean less fun, and these compact cruisers are sure to brighten up any holiday for you, your friends, and your family too – they seat up to six people.

Boat Rental Cabo Roig, Cabo Roig

A family-owned boat hire company run by David and Kelly, Boat Rental Cabo Roig operate locally from Cabo Roig Marina, offering a fleet of small and medium-sized leisure craft, including two vessels available for hire without a licence.

You can become the captain of your boat for an hour, an afternoon, or a whole day, without any sea-faring experience or a navigation licence. Full instructions and a safety demonstration are provided on arrival.

Prices start at €60 per hour or €100 for two hours and include fuel, mandatory safety equipment, and insurance. Snorkelling equipment is available free of charge upon request, and it's one of the best value ways to explore the Orihuela Costa coastline.

Boat Rental Cabo Roig offers the Mareti 450, a compact 4.5m leisure craft with the capacity to whisk up to 5 people across the water in comfort, powered by a spirited 15hp Suzuki outboard engine. The boat is renowned for its extraordinary stability and safety at sea.

The vessel is fully equipped for a successful sea adventure, featuring a GPS and depth gauge, Bluetooth speakers, a sundeck, awning, swim ladder, and an anchor, allowing guests to swim and snorkel.

The company offers leisure craft up to 7.7 metres, and excursions to Tabarca, Cabo de Palos and the Mar Menor. Take a look at their Facebook page for the most up-to-date information or visit their website for details of the boats available.

OcioMar Boat Rental, Torrevieja

OcioMar in Torrevieja offers two boat rental options with prices from €60 per hour, including fuel. Their smaller Calima 5m boat seats up to 4 people, and a larger craft carries a maximum of 6 seated occupants.

Both boats are available for rent without a licence and come equipped with Bluetooth, a radio, and 15 hp engine. A longer rental time offers significant savings with a 4-hour rental costing €46.25 per hour. Visit their website here.

Torrevela Boat Rental, Torrevieja

Torrevela offers a choice of V2 or Marinello 5 metre boats with prices starting at €100 for two hours. Both boats offer sprightly performance from a 15 hp engine and seats for up to 6 people.

No licence is required for hire, and vessels come equipped with a Bluetooth stereo system and a drinks cooler stocked with ice. The company also hire jet skis and a range of larger boats. Visit the Torrevela website to check availability and current prices.

Barcos Torrevieja, Torrevieja

One of the cheapest ways to enjoy a day on the open water, Barcos Torrevieja offers the Italian-made Cantiere Nautico Marinello 500 sports boat with prices from €140 for a two-hour rental.

The 5-metre leisure craft carries a maximum of 6 people, features a 15 hp engine for spritely performance, and can be hired without a boat licence. Prices include full insurance but exclude the cost of fuel. Take a look at their website for more information.

At Sea Boat Rental, Torrevieja

The widest choice of summer season boats for hire without a licence, with 4 boats available. Sub-five metre boats with 15 hp engines, fuel is not included in the hire price.

Boats have a capacity of 5 or 6 people, and each Quicksilver craft comes complete with a Bluetooth stereo system, bimini, a table, cooler, sundeck, swim platform, swim ladder, and comprehensive safety equipment. Take a look at their Facebook page for more information.

Rumbo Torrevieja, Torrevieja

Kalima and Compass-class leisure boats for hire without a licence, and prices from €65 per hour. Boats seat a maximum of five passengers, including the pilot, and discounts are available for longer hire periods (fuel not included).

The boat hire company operates a complete fleet of leisure vessels, including skippered motor cruisers and the Prestige 34 sports cruiser that accommodates up to 12 people, with prices starting at €250 for two hours. Visit the Rumbo Torrevieja boat hire website.

Please ensure you use your leisure craft responsibly and safely, and return it to the boat hire company in the same condition as you received it. In particular:-

• Listen to the safety instructions provided by your boat hire company
• Familiarise yourself with the emergency equipment onboard
• Always wear the life-jackets provided while the boat is in motion (or as instructed)
• Do not take the craft near any other vessel or people in the water
• Stay away from marine mammals such as porpoises, whales or dolphins
• Take your rubbish home with you, never deposit rubbish in the sea
• Do not leave the permitted navigation area

Leisure boats are expensive pieces of equipment, so expect to pay a returnable deposit when taking charge of the craft. Always ask for information about deposits, fuel charges, and rental conditions prior to booking your rental boat.

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: Boat Rental Cabo Roig / LaZenia.com

The historic island of Tabarca is just an hour away from Torrevieja by boat, and after the cosmopolitan and vibrant modern ambience of the city, you will feel like you have stepped back in time.

Enjoy your journey over to the island from Torrevieja's port on a glass-bottomed boat, allowing you to view the amazing creatures and fauna of the Mediterranean Sea, including a chance to view dolphins in their natural environment.

The much-loved marine animals accompany the boats at least twice a week, and the Island of Tabarca and the surrounding inshore waters were declared a protected marine and bird reserve in 1986, the first of its kind in Spain.

Just 4 km away from Santa Pola's bleached white sandy beaches, the island of Tabarca has an interesting history, which is today reflected in the historic and weathered architecture.

The popular island boat service from Torrevieja to Tabarca

During the 18th century, the island became a refuge for Barbary pirates until King Charles III of Spain ordered the fortification of Tabarca to protect against them.

The remains of the wall and the fortress are still visible, and they are one of the first sights you will see as you arrive on the island.

In the heat of a Spanish summer, the milder climate of Tabarca will be a welcome relief for the day. The island is renowned for its fabulous, clear waters, sandy beaches, and the coves and cliffs that surround its periphery.

But the island shines in the autumn and spring seasons too, and visitors will find an oasis of Mediterranean tranquillity and a much slower, more authentic pace of life than you're likely to experience during the summer months.

Remember to pack your swimwear and beach gear, as Tabarca is perfect for water sports, snorkelling, and swimming in the beautiful, clear Mediterranean seawater.

Spanish culture, history, nature, and beautiful, warm waters

The village, which occupies the westernmost tip of the island, is laid out in a square pattern, with narrow streets lined with old fishing houses.

Take a visit to the lighthouse, observe the many rare species of birds that inhabit the island of Tabarca, and look at the amazing natural panoramic views on offer.

Find the historic buildings: the Baroque church of St Peter and Paul, the Casa del Gobernador (the old Governor's house), and explore the old fort and gatehouses. The museum is well worth a visit.

Whilst wandering around the village, stop at one of the many Barbary pirate-themed cafes, bars and restaurants to sample the traditional Spanish seafood on offer.

Local specialities include paellas and caldero (a type of Spanish fish stew). The cost of an average Menu del Dia is around 22€ per person, slightly more expensive than you'll find on the mainland.

The Island of Tabarca: great restaurants or take a picnic

Another option is to take a picnic and enjoy al-fresco dining alongside nature. The island is nearly 2 km long, and you'll always find a quiet location to lie down a blanket and open the cool box.

For those looking for a unique overnight stay, the Tabarca Boutique Hotel offers a memorable stay on the island. The 3-star hotel offers rooms with idyllic sea views, free WiFi, and private facilities. A complimentary buffet breakfast is included in the room price.

The rooms are bright and clean, and the hotel's restaurant features stone floors and details of the original structure of the 18th-century building. There's a bar, a courtyard terrace, landscaped gardens and a reading room.

In January 2022, Tabarca received the designation of a “Starlight Site”. The Starlight Foundation's astrotourism award recognises the islands' beautifully clear night skies, lack of light pollution, and the spectacular year-round views of neighbouring constellations and the galactic centre.

The first accolade to be bestowed upon any location in the Alicante Province, the award highlighted “Punta Falcón” at the easternmost end of the island, noting that from this location, it is possible to enjoy unobstructed starry skies during all seasons of the year.

Where does the boat from Torrevieja to Tabarca depart from?

Boats depart from Torrevieja's port adjacent to the old casino. Car parking is available in the port car park, and the vessel is adapted to meet the needs of persons with limited mobility and families with young children.

Tickets can be purchased from the port 30 minutes before the boat's departure or booked online. The cost is 29€ per adult, 19€ for children aged 3-10 years, and children 2 years old and under are free. Pets are welcome on board and travel free of charge, and food and drink are permitted.

Sailings take place every day during the spring, summer and autumn months. Boats depart Torrevieja port at 10:45 each morning and return to the port at 18:00. Visit the official website for more information or to buy your tickets.

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: Marítimas Torrevieja / LaZenia.com

They are just two of the eleven majestic coves and beaches of the Orihuela Costa area, and together they stretch, meander and curve around 16 km of magnificent Mediterranean coastline.

Playa Flamenca's Cala Estaca beach is the larger of those two beaches, measuring a hefty 175m along the water's edge, with 7.350 m2 of sand to lure in eager beachgoers. Just like other beaches in the area, the beach adopts a shallow cove shape, flanked on either side by a volcanic rocky outcrop.

The popular cove is formed of fine golden sand, with safe, relatively shallow bathing waters that provide a safe environment for adults and children alike. The beach is accredited with the iconic Blue Flag award for its superior quality.

Cala Estaca enjoys a south-facing orientation with sunshine guaranteed all day for the vast majority of the year. The headland adjacent to the southern edge of the beach features a footpath that leads to neighbouring Cala Cerrada beach in La Zenia, just literally around the corner and a 7-10 minute walk away.

Discover Playa Flamenca's Cala Estaca beach

But unlike Cala Cerrada, Cala Estaca beach offers easy access for all, with the fine sands accessed from a gentle slope to the north or a small elevated bridge to the south of the beach. It's ideally suited to persons of limited mobility or families with push-chairs and younger children.

The bridge crosses the “Rambla de las Estacas”, a ravine that runs directly to the sea from inland locations such as Villamartin Golf course. During heavy rain, the ravine collects the water run-off from adjacent land and acts as a natural conduit, taking the rainwater to the Mediterranean Sea.

Fortunately, the weather in Playa Flamenca is comparatively dry, and the ravine remains arid for most of the year, filling with water only on occasion during the spring and late autumn months.

During the summer, Orihuela Town Hall provides a lifeguard service that operates throughout the high season. Sunseekers will also find lifeguards stationed on Cala Estaca beach at other selected popular times, such as the Easter holidays.

Playa Flamenca also benefits from an impressive promenade that separates the two beaches. Offering a small children's play park, public seating, and a functional ornate sundial, Playa Flamenca's plaza is punctuated with mature Mexican fan palm trees that produce a spectacular seaward vista.

The Playa Flamenca promenade, a Mediterranean plaza

A small parade of commercial units facing the promenade offers additional local facilities, hosting a café, a bistro, local shops, and restaurants, including the locally renowned Lobster Restaurant that serves freshly cooked seafood and speciality dishes daily.

Also noteworthy is the exceptionally popular Surfer's Bar. The restaurant has made a name for itself by providing high-quality, beautifully presented homemade food, with an extensive menu crafted to appeal to all palates – and prices that are acceptable to all pockets.

Both venues offer beautiful palm tree-lined views over the promenade and toward the Mediterranean Sea – spectacular locations to enjoy a lunch or dinner with family or friends after a relaxing day on the beach.

You can find plentiful on-street parking along Calle de las Orquideas and adjacent streets. A small car park and on-street parking in Calle Violetas provide additional parking spaces.

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa, or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: LaZenia.com

With effect from yesterday, Wednesday 22nd April 2026, British-resident pet owners can no longer travel with their animals under the EU Pet Passport scheme and must instead obtain a new Animal Health Certificate (AHC) each time they enter Spain or any other EU country.

Many regular visitors and holiday home owners in Orihuela Costa obtain a Pet Passport for their cat or dog locally in Spain to ensure economical, hassle-free travel for their animals and to avoid the expense of an AHC.

The UK left the EU Pet Passport scheme on January 1st 2021, following the end of the Brexit transition period, but the UK continues to accept EU-issued Pet Passports for inbound travel to Great Britain.

However, UK residents can no longer use any EU Pet Passport (including those issued by veterinary practices in Spain) to enter any EU country from Great Britain.

Mandatory Animal Health Certificates replace EU Pet Passports

Guidance on the GOV.UK website states “If you live in England, Scotland or Wales, you should not use a Pet Passport (even if it was issued in the EU). If you use a Pet Passport, your pet may be refused entry into the EU.”

The new rules do not apply to residents in Northern Ireland, with residents maintaining their rights under the EU Pet Passport scheme. But the rules do apply to British residents planning to travel to Northern Ireland.

A statement on Your Europe, the official website of the European Union, reads “EU Pet Passports issued to a pet owner resident in Great Britain are no longer valid for travel with pets from Great Britain to an EU country or Northern Ireland.”

Instead, UK resident pet owners must travel with an Animal Health Certificate. An AHC costs around £100 to £150, is valid for 10 days once issued, and can only be used to enter an EU country once.

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa, or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: Real Federación Española de Voleibol

The mammoth National Beach Volleyball Circuit is the official event of the Royal Spanish Volleyball Federation (RFEVB).

Playa Cala Bosque will once again be transformed into one of the South Costa Blanca's most dynamic sporting stages, as the beach hosts a major international sports festival combining elite competition and grassroots participation.

Almost 100 competitors will fight for the championship and a 10,000 € grand cash prize, with participants from the men's and women's categories competing at this stage of the national competition.

Playa Cala Bosque to host two sporting events

The 2026 edition is structured around two headline competitions, each delivering high-performance sport. The main event takes place from Thursday 4th June until Sunday 7th June.

This 3rd stage of the 3-star national beach volleyball tournament represents a key stepping stone within the Spanish volleyball system, with athletes competing in the two previous stages hosted in Madrid and Marbella beforehand.

The following weekend, from Friday 12th June until Sunday 14th June, Orihuela Costa steps up to a global level with the arrival of the ITF Beach Tennis World Tour, hosting an international tournament under the supervision of the International Tennis Federation (ITF) and the Royal Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET).

Revolution1920 beach volleyball on La Zenia beach

Both events will feature a central stadium with spectator seating, food trucks, leisure zones, and a hospitality area.

Thousands of residents and tourists alike are expected to attend the tournaments to enjoy the sporting spectacle and to support the native Spanish teams.

The Revolution 1920 tournament will take place on La Zenia's Cala Bosque beach from Thursday 4th June until Sunday 7th June 2026. Tickets are not required for either event, and stands are free for all spectators. For more information, visit the official Facebook page.

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa, or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

Photo credit: Real Federación Española de Voleibol

This scenic route runs parallel to the coastline and offers a rare blend of Mediterranean beauty, local wildlife, and accessible outdoor leisure at the edge of the turquoise waters.

The promenade is part of the GR92 coastal hiking route that stretches 1,360 km from the French border in Port-Bou in the north of Spain, to the border with Gibraltar in the south of the country.

Officially part of Stage 22 in the Valencian Community, a 23.1 km section of the GR92 that starts in Torrevieja and terminates in Pilar de la Horadada. The Sendero Azul is a little easier to handle, with a much shorter walkable length of just 2.46 km (1.53 miles).

The Sendero Azul coastal promenade in Cabo Roig

Along the route, visitors can enjoy the majestic and rugged marine landscape, with crescent-shaped coves framed by natural rock formations, and unobstructed sea views that reach La Manga del Mar Menor and Isla Grosa to the south.

The cliffs and coves display a variety of geologically significant features, and the Sendero Azul includes a total of five viewing points with steps down to the water's edge.

Nature lovers could be rewarded with views of dolphin pods making their way along the coastline, or close encounters with Mediterranean fauna, such as spiny-footed lizards, woodchat shrikes, and a variety of terns, plovers, and sandpipers.

The entire Cabo Roig coastal walk is fenced from end to end and illuminated at night for a unique late-evening, early-morning, or nighttime Mediterranean walking experience.

How to get there and where to park in Orihuela Costa

Bicycles are not permitted, and most visitors (of average fitness) should be able to complete the walk in around an hour. There are no facilities of any kind en route, so take a bottle of water with you in warm or dry weather.

The path is not entirely flat or even, with a maximum elevation of 25 metres (80 feet). Sensible walking shoes are recommended, and the surface is not ideally suitable for wheelchair users or families with children in pushchairs.

Visitors can start at the northern end of the Sendero Azul coastal walk on Playa Cala Capitán beach in Cabo Roig. Free parking is available immediately adjacent to the beach (Google Map here), or in Calle Mar Rizada (Google Map here).

Alternatively, visitors can start at the southern end of the route on Playa Cala de la Caleta. Free parking is available in Calle de la Ensanada (Google Map here), or in Calle Levante (Google Map here).

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa, or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what´s going on in the local area.

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Punta Prima was one of the first beaches to be established in the area, and before the arrival of mass tourism in the 1970s, Punta Prima beach was the go-to hotspot for local Spaniards and domestic visitors that flocked to the area in their droves each summer.

Playa de Punta Prima is a thin sheltered strip measuring 234 metres at the waterline, offering 6,552 m² of fine sand. The sand is less filtered than other neighbouring beaches, and it's not unusual to find small pebbles and shells adorning the beach at certain times of the year.

Cut into the rocky coastline, the beach's southeast-facing aspect guarantees sunshine for most of the day, unlike most of the surrounding east-facing beaches which offer plenty of sun first thing in the morning, waning as the day goes by.

The cliff that rendered the beach relatively inaccessible has been bypassed by the installation of a lift toward the west end of the beach. Very few beaches in the southeast of Spain can boast such a luxury, and the lift makes it easy for families and persons of limited mobility to reach the golden sands below.

Playa de Punta Prima beach in Orihuela Costa

The Paseo Maritimo promenade wraps behind the beach, providing a pedestrian and cycle route to neighbouring Cala Piteras beach to the north, and Playa Flamenca's beautiful beaches to the south of Punta Prima.

A work of art in itself, the Paseo Maritimo is a wide stretch of colourful ornate paving that offers commanding views over the Mediterranean Sea and access to the beach via two sets of steps at either end of the sand.

The promenade passes the enigmatic Punta Prima Restaurante, which sits atop the beach. The restaurant is renowned locally for its first-class food, and the views from the outside dining terrace are rarely surpassed by other venues in South Costa Blanca.

It's a local favourite with all nationalities, and Punta Prima Restaurante offers an extensive Mediterranean à la carte menu every day that focuses on fresh seafood and Spanish rice dishes, with options to suit vegan and vegetarian palates.

The venue offers an à la carte al fresco dining experience on the spacious terrace or a formal dining room with floor-to-ceiling glass windows. The restaurant is naturally popular at lunchtime.

One of the most established beaches in South Costa Blanca

The beach is located to the south of a natural rocky headland that keeps the seawater calm, safe and suited to bathing at most times of the year. Relatively shallow water several metres from the water's edge makes the beach an ideal choice for families or less confident swimmers.

A lifeguard service operates during the main tourist season, and a shaded cabana overlooks the Mediterranean Sea – the perfect place to watch the world go by, exercise, or enjoy a picnic with family and friends.

A beach bar operates during the height of the summer season, and plentiful parking makes Punta Prima Beach a pleasure to visit at any time of year. A small road at the west end of the promenade offers on-road parking spaces.

Alternatively, virtually limitless on-street parking along Avenida Mar de Punta Prima close to the restaurant permits access to the beach via paths on either side, which lead to a set of steps at the east end of the beach.

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what's going on in the local area.

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The local fair takes place each year, with traditional Spanish folk music, spectacular Sevillanas dancing performances, and a diverse assortment of gastronomic treats served under marquees (casetas) specially erected for the festival.

A program has been prepared with performances by local dance academies every night at 20:00 on a stage that will be mounted in the centre of the venue.

The musical atmosphere will be provided by a DJ who will entertain with the same music in all the booths.

The fair is organised by the Town Hall in association with local businesses, and, as with previous iterations of the Torrevieja Sevillanas Fair, the Council has been keen to promote the Fiesta to both residents and visitors to the Costa Blanca destination.

Torrevieja Sevillanas Fair, Thursday 7th May to Sunday 10th May 2026

The Torrevieja May Fair won't be able to take place in the usual venue due to the continuing (albeit almost complete) building works of the Paseo del Mar leisure and retail complex in the port.

Instead, the fiesta takes place in the Parque de Antonio Sòria adjacent to the market and Aquopolis water park. The fair promises to fill the Mediterranean city with the sounds of traditional Sevillanas music, and it's a cultural spectacle not to be missed.

Fifteen small booths decorated in an Andalusian style will be present, with the local groups that usually participate in the fair.

The Torrevieja Sevillanas Fair takes place from 21:00 on Thursday 7th May to Sunday 10th May 2026. Follow this link for more information from the official website.

Looking for holiday ideas and travel inspiration? Find out more about our favourite recommended things to do on the Orihuela Costa or join the La Zenia community Facebook group and find out what´s going on in the local area.

Photo credit: LaZenia.com