07 May JÁVEA SPAIN | THE TRAVEL GUIDE
Xàbia or Jávea — however you write it, it is pronounced like “Gha-bia”. Nestled perfectly between Valencia and Alicante, Jávea is quickly becoming one of Spain’s most up-and-coming destinations. It’s also the closest point on the mainland to Ibiza, just about a two-hour boat ride away. No wonder Jávea is gaining popularity, especially among Dutch travelers in search of sunshine, style, and island vibes. Let’s find out why this coastal gem is suddenly on everyone’s radar.
Who is Jávea for?
Jávea is best described as laid-back luxury — think chic without the party reputation of Ibiza. Good food, gorgeous beaches, charming streets, and dreamy villas. People who live here embrace a relaxed lifestyle surrounded by nature along the Costa Blanca. And we totally get why.
The town has three distinct areas: the historic old town, the harbor, and Portitxol, where most of the beaches are. Each area has its own unique charm, with inviting restaurants, cozy cafés, and lovely places to stay.
Where is Jávea located?
Simply put: perfectly located between Valencia and Alicante. On a clear day, you can see Ibiza across in the distance, which can be visited by boat for a day or even fun weekend trip. To make the most out of your trip, rent a car. We drove from Amsterdam to Spain, but if such a long trip isn’t your thing, you can always search for the best available tickets to Valencia or Alicante via Skyscanner. From both directions it’s about 1,5 hours drive to Jávea.
Old Town Jávea
Most visitors only stop by the old town for a quick day trip, but to truly experience local life, we recommend spending a few nights here. We stayed at Casa Torrija, a beautifully renovated townhouse in the heart of the old center, with picturesque streets just steps away. It has three bedrooms, a rooftop terrace, outdoor kitchen, and a tranquil inner courtyard — bookable via Casa 4 You.
Casa Torrija
Places to visit in Old Town Jávea/Xàbia
Try La Cajita Azul for a local but amazing tapas (make sure to reserve your table!). Temblor and Restaurante Portitxol Jávea serve fantastic fusion tapas, and for a special evening, Volta i Volta is a must — a favorite noted in the Michelin Guide.
For cocktails, Aya Huma is the place to be, while wine lovers should head to La Strastienda. Finding a good barista coffee in the old town can be tough, but Tescafés has you covered.
On Thursday mornings, local markets fill the town squares — great for picking up woven bags, clothes, and fresh produce. Another must-visit is the indoor Mercado Municipal near the old church, where you can buy bread, meat, fish, fruits, and coffee. Open Monday to Saturday.
Temblor
AYA Huma
Where should I stay in Jávea?
Surprisingly, Jávea doesn’t have an abundance of hotels. What it does offer is a wealth of stunning villas and apartments. Here are a few standouts.
Casa Flores
A gorgeous villa in the hills with sea views. Sleeps 10, perfect for families or groups. It has a pool, tropical garden, outdoor kitchen, and panoramic balcony views. Just 7 minutes from the beautiful beach Cala Granadella. It was a gift waking up here for a few days. Our favorite part? To have breakfast and coffee on the balcony where you see the sea from a distance.
Casa Flores
Apartamento Arenal
Located within walking distance of Playa del Arenal. Great for a family of four, well-equipped with a spacious living area, bathroom. Moreover, it’s budget-friendly and close to a family friendly area. You can rent this via Casa 4 You.
Nomad Hotel
A boutique hotel on the harbor with a bohemian vibe. Run by a Spanish-Belgian couple passionate about design and food. This hotel is quite popular, so fills up quickly. Don’t miss out and Book your stay here.
Hotel Nomad
The Beach House
These small but stylish studio’s are located at the Xàbia Port. Choose between two normal studios or a duplex for four, all equipped with a small kitchen and living area. Same owners as Nomad Hotel. Discover here.
Costa Blanca Lifestyle
Hidden within one of Jávea’s most beautiful exotic gardens, or overlooking the beach Playa del Arenal and small harbor, you’ll find these newly renovated and personally styled ground-floor apartments. Each with access to a pool and private parking garage. Run by two Dutch ladies with both backgrounds in interior design, construction, and the film industry, each apartment has its own distinct and personal character. Expect cool little details in the rooms like Keith Haring art, concrete wall ornaments, and more. cbl12.com
Hotel Boutique Mi Almazara
If a hotel with a pool is a must (we totally get it), then this spot comes highly recommended. Tucked at the foot of the mountain, this beautiful hotel offers spacious suites and is perfect for couples looking for peace and comfort. Book here.
Los Limoneros
As a matter of fact, this boutique hotel isn’t located in Jávea, but in nearby Moraira. They opened in 2024, and features a large pool, a family-friendly atmosphere, and has top-notch restaurant. Discover and book here.
If you want to experience the luxury that Jávea is known for, book through Casa 4 You for the best villas and apartments, all personally vetted for quality and service.
Best places to eat Jávea
Jávea is full of great eateries and cafés to linger at. Whether you’re into rooftops, beach clubs, or elegant dining, here’s our list of favorites:
- LULU Beachclub – A newer hotspot with a manmade beach and lush garden. Not right on the sea, but one of the most idyllic places in Jávea for food and cocktails. lulubeachclub.com
- Cala Clemence – The only restaurant on Portitxol beach, with weekend DJs and Ibiza vibes. Dress up and reserve early, it’s even better to go there and reserve your table ahead, as online they might say there is no availability. TIP: Come early to find a decent parking spot, or you need to walk up and down the hill! calaclemence.com
LULU Beachhouse
- Café Nomad – Ideal for breakfast. Book ahead to enjoy great coffee and dreamy almond croissants. Part of the stylish Nomad Hotel. nomadhotelcollection.com
- Rooftop Terrace – A hidden gem with some of the best views of the harbor. Come for afternoon tapas and cocktails.
- La Casita di Paco – Recommended by a local for traditional paella. Don’t expect a trendy hotspot, but an authentic and affordable place that hasn’t been swamped by tourists, yet.
The Rooftop
Nomad Café
- A La Mar – Overlooking the harbor, open all day. One of the few spots for good barista coffee, poached eggs, açaí bowls, and French pastries. thebeachhousejavea.com
- La Siesta – Though we didn’t make it ourselves, reviews here praise its ambiance, menu variety, and friendly staff. Located by the pebble beach of Primer Muntanyar / Benissero. siestajavea.com
- Bohemians – Upscale dining with sea views at Playa del Arenal. Perfect for date nights or group dinners. It’s run by the same company as La Siesta and. They own half the restaurants in Jávea, but we must say, they do deliver good food and service. bohemiansjavea.com
- Poquet a Poquet – Tucked in the hills and best reached by car. One of the newest brunch and bakery spots. @poquetapoquet_javea
Dit bericht op Instagram bekijken
Bohemians
A la Mar
Food at Vall de Cavall
The Best Beaches in Jávea
- Cala Granadella – Frequently named one of Spain’s most beautiful beaches. However, its not big, so come early to secure a parking spot. Grab a bite at La Bandideta for homemade pizza and sea views.
- Cala del Moraig – A dramatic, rocky beach between Jávea and Moraira. Bring a parasol! Furthermore, there is a beautiful sea cave on the rightside of the beach named Cova dels Arcs.
- Playa del Arenal – Jávea’s main sandy beach and a family favorite. Shallow waters, vibrant boulevard, and endless fun.
- Cala de Portitxol – Stone beach with iconic white-and-blue fishermen’s houses. Also known as Cala Barraca — Insta-famous and stunning.
- Playa de la Grava – A pebble beach loved by locals. You can stroll the promenade and stop for tapas at Cala Bandida, brunch at A La Mar, or cocktails at Rooftop Terrace.
Discover all the best beaches in and around Jávea, including some hidden gems!
La Bandideta
Cala del Moraig
Playa de la Grava
Jávea with Kids
Jávea is a fantastic family destination. Playa del Arenal is a perfect beach for little ones, with calm water and plenty of space to play. Plus, the promenade is lined with ice cream shops and kid-friendly eateries.
Book a sea kayak tour! We booked ours via Siesta Advisor and paddled to hidden caves and beaches. Kids from the age of 4 can join with parental supervision. On this 2 hour kayak trip, you peddle past the coast, and visit some hidden beaches you usually won’t be able to reach. If you dare, you can also swim inside a cave! Wetsuits and water shoes are provided if needed. Don’t forget your sunglasses and sunscreen!
Cave Exploring
More activities in Jávea with kids
- Grand Café Flo – Mini-golf under palm trees and a kids’ menu make this a great lunch spot.
- Vall de Cavall – A scenic inland horse ranch with a playground and excellent food. Ideal for a relaxed afternoon with kids and wine.
- Karting Jávea – For speed-loving little ones.
- Fonts de l’Algar – A nature park with waterfalls and pools, 50 minutes from Jávea. Come early to beat the crowds.
All in all, Jávea is calling — for couples, families, and everyone craving beauty, comfort, and a touch of Mediterranean magic. Search for the cheapest flights on Skyscanner, see you there?
No Comments