Javea, a stunning coastal town on Spain’s Costa Blanca, offers visitors an incredible mix of crystal-clear beaches, historic streets, and dramatic natural landscapes.

1. Explore the Old Town (Casco Antiguo)

Javea’s Old Town is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed buildings, flower-filled balconies, and historic stone architecture. The heart of the old town is the Iglesia de San Bartolome, a beautiful 14th-century Gothic church with an impressive bell tower that dominates the skyline. Wander through the Plaza de la Iglesia and the surrounding streets to find traditional Spanish tapas bars, artisan shops, and quiet courtyards. The old town has a relaxed, authentic Mediterranean atmosphere that transports you back in time. As of 2026, exploring the old town is free, and guided walking tours cost around 12 euros per person.

2. Relax at Playa del Arenal

Playa del Arenal is Javea’s main beach and the most popular spot for sunbathing and swimming. This sandy beach stretches for about 500 meters along the bay, with calm, clear waters perfect for families and swimmers. The beachfront promenade, the Paseo Maritimo, is lined with restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops where you can enjoy a meal with sea views. The beach has full facilities including sunbed rentals, showers, and lifeguard services. As of 2026, sunbed and umbrella rentals cost about 15 euros per day. The golden sand and turquoise water make this one of the top things to do in Javea.

3. Visit the Cap de Sant Antoni Lighthouse

The Cap de Sant Antoni Lighthouse sits on a dramatic rocky headland overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The lighthouse was built in 1855 and offers spectacular panoramic views of the coastline from Denia to the Montgo Mountain. The surrounding Cabo de San Antonio Natural Park is a protected marine reserve with walking trails that wind through fragrant pine forests and coastal cliffs. You can spot seabirds, wildflowers, and even dolphins in the water below. As of 2026, entry to the park and lighthouse grounds is free. It is a must-see for nature lovers exploring things to do in Javea.

4. Hike Montgo Mountain (El Montgo)

Montgo Mountain, standing at 753 meters, is the iconic landmark that separates Javea from the inland valleys. Hiking to the summit rewards you with breathtaking views of the entire coastline, the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding countryside. The main trail starts from the Cami del Montgo and takes about three to four hours round trip. Along the way, you pass through pine forests, limestone rock formations, and Mediterranean scrubland. The summit offers a 360-degree panorama that is absolutely spectacular at sunset. As of 2026, the hike is free and suitable for reasonably fit walkers. It is one of the best outdoor things to do in Javea.

5. Discover the Cova del Or (Cave of Gold)

The Cova del Or, also known as the Cave of Gold, is a fascinating archaeological site located on the southern slopes of Montgo Mountain. This prehistoric cave was inhabited during the Bronze Age and contains important archaeological remains. The cave features impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, as well as ancient pottery fragments and burial sites. Guided tours take you through the cave chambers while explaining the history of its early inhabitants. As of 2026, guided tours cost approximately 8 euros per person and last about 45 minutes. It is a unique historical attraction among the many things to do in Javea.

6. Stroll Through the Javea Port (Puerto de Javea)

The port area of Javea is a charming waterfront district with a working fishing harbor, a marina for pleasure boats, and a lively promenade. Watch the fishing boats come in with their daily catch in the early morning, then browse the seafood restaurants that line the harbor. The port has a relaxed, authentic feel with traditional Spanish bars serving fresh tapas and grilled fish. The views across the marina to the Mediterranean are stunning, especially at sunset. As of 2026, a seafood lunch at a port restaurant costs between 20 and 40 euros per person. The port area is an essential stop for things to do in Javea.

7. Visit the Soler Blasco Archaeological Museum

The Soler Blasco Archaeological Museum is housed in a beautiful 16th-century building in Javea’s Old Town. The museum displays artifacts from the region’s history, including items from the Iberian, Roman, and Moorish periods. Exhibits include ancient pottery, coins, tools, and jewelry discovered at local archaeological sites such as the Cova del Or. The museum also features a section on maritime history with model ships and fishing equipment. As of 2026, admission costs 3 euros. It is a fascinating cultural stop for history enthusiasts looking for things to do in Javea beyond the beaches.

8. Enjoy Water Sports at La Granadella Beach

La Granadella Beach is a stunning pebble cove surrounded by pine-covered cliffs, located about 10 minutes from Javea town center. The beach is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, which are ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The underwater marine life is rich, with colorful fish and seagrass meadows visible just a few meters from shore. The beach has a small restaurant serving fresh seafood and cold drinks. As of 2026, kayak rentals cost around 20 euros for two hours. The dramatic scenery and excellent water conditions make this one of the top things to do in Javea for adventure seekers.

9. Explore the Santa Lucia Hermitage

The Santa Lucia Hermitage is a small 14th-century chapel perched on a hilltop overlooking Javea’s agricultural plains. The hermitage is surrounded by almond and olive groves, and offers peaceful views of the Montgo Mountain and the countryside. The building itself is a simple but charming example of Gothic Mediterranean architecture with a small bell tower. The surrounding area is perfect for a quiet walk or a picnic among the almond trees. As of 2026, the site is free to visit. It is a hidden gem among the many cultural things to do in Javea, especially beautiful when the almond trees bloom in February.

10. Taste Local Cuisine at a Traditional Spanish Restaurant

No visit to Javea is complete without sampling the local cuisine. The town is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly the red prawns from the nearby Denia coast, as well as traditional rice dishes like arroz a banda and paella. Local specialties also include fresh fish grilled over open flames, octopus prepared in the Galician style, and the famous horchata drink made from tiger nuts. Many restaurants in the old town and port serve authentic Mediterranean cuisine. As of 2026, a three-course dinner with wine costs between 30 and 50 euros per person. Tasting the local food is one of the most satisfying things to do in Javea.

Which of these amazing experiences in Javea would you try first on your next Spanish holiday?

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