The short answer
Jávea is a year-round Costa Blanca town with more than 300 days of sunshine, a protected bay and around 6,000 British residents. Life centres on the Arenal beach, the Port, the Old Town and the Montgó foothills, with shops and restaurants open all year. It suits retirees, families and remote workers who want outdoor living without a seasonal shutdown.
Updated 1 November 2026
Jávea (Xàbia) sits between the Mediterranean and the Montgó mountain in the Marina Alta. As of 2023 the municipality has a population above 30,600, with around 6,000 British nationals among residents from more than 85 countries. More than half the registered population is of foreign origin, and the town holds its year-round life through winter rather than closing with the tourists.
- Arenal is the main beach area, best for restaurants, bars and social life.
- Port is the traditional working marina area, popular with full-time residents and retirees.
- Old Town has historic buildings, the municipal market and a quieter Spanish street life; property here is more affordable.
- Montgó and surrounding areas offer larger villas, privacy and views over the bay and mountain.
The local climate brings more than 300 days of sunshine a year and January averages of 12–16°C; the Montgó protects the bay from northerly winds. Alicante-Elche airport is 90 minutes away by AP-7, Valencia airport is 110 minutes away, and Dénia port is 10 minutes for ferries to Ibiza, Mallorca and Formentera. Food, dining out and leisure are more affordable than a UK budget, but property prices vary by area.
People also ask
›What is the best area to live in Jávea?
Arenal suits people who want the beach, restaurants and bars on the doorstep. Port is the more traditional year-round marina area, the Old Town is quieter and cheaper for property, and Montgó offers villas with privacy and views.
›How many British people live in Jávea?
Jávea had a population above 30,600 in 2023, with around 6,000 British nationals. The town has residents from more than 85 countries and over half the population is of foreign origin.
›Is Jávea a year-round town or a summer resort?
Jávea stays open all year. Shops, restaurants, sports centres and social life do not shut down in winter, and the climate gives more than 300 days of sunshine a year with January averages of 12–16°C.
›Is Jávea expensive to live in?
Property costs are higher in the Arenal, seafront and Montgó villa areas, and lower in the Old Town. Food, dining out and leisure are more affordable than a UK budget.