What to do in Calpe? 13 Tips & Activities

Tips for a day of relaxation and fun things to do in Calpe

What to do in Calpe? Calpe is one of the most famous places on the Costa Blanca. It is known for the Penon de Ifach and the beaches Playa de la Fossa and Playa del Cantal Roig on either side of this large rock.

In this blog you will read more about the main activities and attractions in Calpe:

  1. What to do in Calpe? (Activities)
  2. What to do in the area around Calpe?
  3. What to see in Calpe? (Sightseeing)

What to do in Calpe? Activities, things to do

1. To the beach in Calpe

Calpe offers a diverse coastline with three extensive sandy beaches and five smaller, intimate coves. The imposing Peñón de Ifach bisects the coast and adds to this diversity. Although Calpe’s beaches do not have Blue Flag status, there is something for everyone.

The wide sandy beaches, such as Playa de la Fossa, Playa del Cantal Roig and Playa del Arenal-Bol, are ideal for families with the promenade present nearby with several restaurants.

For those seeking tranquility, coves such as Cala les Bassetes, Cala del Mallorquí and Cala La Calalga offer crystal clear waters for snorkeling. Cala La Manzanera is known for its unique architecture and photogenic views.

Tip: read more about the beaches of Calpe

2. Delicious dining out in Calpe

See a list of restaurants in Calpe.

3. Hike and/or climb the Peñón de Ifach

This is a well-known rock formation(Peñón) located off the coast of Calpe. The area around this rock is a national park and a popular natural monument.

4. Take a walk around the Salinas de Calpe

This is a salt marsh on the outskirts of the city and an important nature reserve. It is home to many bird species and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.

5. Visit the museum in Calpe

The Historical Museum of Calpe, housed in the 18th-century Senyoreta House, displays mainly finds from the Roman Baths of the Queen and the medieval town of Ifach, including everyday Roman objects and medieval artifacts. Also on display are older pieces from Bronze and Iberian times.

6. Going to the market in Calpe

  • To the weekly market on Saturday: the Mercadillo Frutas y Verduras de Calpe consists of stalls selling fresh fruits and vegetables. This market is located near the traffic circle as you enter Calpe from the Altea side on Avenida del Norte and Avenida Puerto deSanta María. The market is open from 08:00 to 14:00;
  • To the Wednesday flea market: this market is located on Avenida País Valencià, near the Municipal de Deportes, the municipal sports center. The market is open from 08:00 to 14:00.

Tip: view an overview of all weekly markets on the Costa Blanca

Calle Puchalt, the red-and-yellow painted steps in Calpe
Image: Peñon de Ifach in Calpe, the start of the climbing tour.

What to do near Calpe?

7. Take a hike in the mountains

Visit Parque Natural de la Serra de Bernia a beautiful natural park on the outskirts of Calpe. It offers several hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surroundings.

8. Walk along the waterfalls of Algar

The Algar waterfalls are a popular destination for day trips. Located about a 30-minute drive from Calpe, the waterfalls offer refreshing baths and a beautiful walk through nature.

Tip: read more about the Algar waterfalls

9. Taking the Ferry to Ibiza

Visit Ibiza by the Balearia ferry from the port of Dénia (which is about a 30-minute drive from Calpe). The trip takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes.

10. A day out in the surroundings of Calpe

  • Altea: (a 15-minute drive away) this picturesque town is a half-hour drive from Calpe. The old center of Altea is beautiful with white houses and narrow streets. From the hill you have a beautiful view of the surroundings;
  • Jávea: (a 30-minute drive away) this is another nice coastal town near Calpe. Jávea has a beautiful harbor and some nice beaches. You can also have good walks in nature here;
  • El Castell de Guadalest: (a 30-minute drive away) this is a small village known for its castle. The castle is located on a rock and offers stunning views of the Guadalest area.
Calle Puchalt, the red-and-yellow painted steps in Calpe
Image: Calle Puchalt, the red-and-yellow painted steps in Calpe.

What to see in Calpe? Sightseeing, things to see

11. See the Torreón de la Peca

This is a medieval watchtower dating back to the 14th century. It is an interesting historical site and offers great views of the surrounding area.

12. Pictured with the red-and-yellow steps in Calle Puchalt

The place in the center of Calpe where you can see the red and yellow painted steps in Calpe. It is one of the most photographed spots in Calpe.

13. Mirador Morro de Toix viewpoint.

This viewpoint, on the opposite side of the bay from the Peñón de Ifach, also offers spectacular views of Calpe, the rock, and in the distance even Altea and Benidorm. You can drive there by car and walk the last bit.

14. La Muralla Roja

This unique, colorful apartment complex, designed by architect Ricardo Bofill, is a world-renowned icon on the coast. With its striking shades of red, pink and purple on the outside, and blue, indigo and violet on the inside, it stands out beautifully against the sea and sky.

Tip: read more about La Muralla Roja in Calpe

Publication date:
6 October 2024

Publication date: 6 October 2024

Updated on:
5 January 2026

Updated on: 5 January 2026

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