Spend a day amid the idyllic Mediterranean ambience of Arenal-Bol Beach (Playa Arenal-Bol). Top up your tan while relaxing on the golden sand, dine at waterfront restaurants and see Roman ruins. Arenal-Bol Beach is the proud bearer of the Blue Flag. This is an award given to beaches that adhere to criteria such as cleanliness, safety and water quality.
The long sweep of fine sand runs along Calpe’s town center coastline. Look east, where the dramatic rocky peak of the Peñón de Ifach headland pierces the skyline. Lifeguards patrol the beach and during the summer months there’s a service that helps visitors with limited mobility to enter the water.
Paddle in the clam, shallow water of the Balearic Sea and have fun splashing in the small waves. Water sports fans can rent Jet Skis, paddleboards and windsurfers. Deckchairs, loungers and sun umbrellas are also available.
Just past a breakwater at the western end of the beach is the Baño de la Reina Archaeological Site. It features a series of pools carved into the rocks, which were used to farm fish, thermal baths and relics of Roman buildings from 2,000 years ago. Adjacent to the ruins is Torre del Moli, a cylindrical flour mill built in the mid-1800s.
Do as locals do and go for a sunset stroll on the palm-lined seafront promenade. Find a seat on the patio of a chiringuito (beach bar) or restaurant and watch the world go by with a cold beer in hand. If you are feeling energetic then follow the promenade via a section of rocky coastline to the marina. From here you can also access the Natural Park of Penyal d’Ifac.
Arenal-Bol Beach is the closest beach to Calpe’s old town and there are several guesthouses and hotels within comfortable walking distance. A tourist train departs from Plaça Colón and stops at major town attractions.
