Jávea / Xàbia
Things to Do in Jávea
Beaches, restaurants, hiking, day trips, seasonal events
Updated 13 Oct 2026 · Local facts checked against official sources · How we check
Photo by Ludovic Gauthier on Unsplash
In short
Jávea/Xàbia offers year-round activities: hiking in Montgó Natural Park, exploring local markets like the Mercat Municipal and the Thursday street market, and enjoying cultural festivals such as Fallas in March and Moors and Christians in July. In summer, Arenal Beach and Cala Granadella are ideal for water sports, while autumn and winter are perfect for hiking and cultural events. Buses connect the town with nearby areas for day trips, and permits are needed for some beaches and natural parks from June to September.
Quick facts
- Arenal Beach is a family-friendly beach with shallow waters and lifeguards, while Cala Granadella offers clear waters for snorkelling and kayaking.
- Montgó Natural Park is nearby, offering hiking trails with breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.
- Fallas is celebrated in March with fireworks and traditional costumes.
- The Mercat Municipal in the Old Town offers fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and cured meats.
- Buses connect the town with nearby areas, making day trips possible; check the tourist office for specific destinations.
For British people moving to Jávea/Xàbia, this guide covers the food, beaches, festivals and practicalities that shape daily life. The one thing to know: the town offers a strong year-round calendar, but summer brings crowds and some beach access needs permits, so plan ahead. Whether you're settling in or visiting, here's what to expect.
Beaches and Coast
Arenal Beach is a family-friendly beach with shallow waters, lifeguards, and full amenities. Cala Granadella is known for its stunning views and clear waters, ideal for snorkelling and kayaking. Permits are required for accessing certain natural parks and beaches from June to September; apply in advance through the Generalitat Valenciana's booking system.
Nature and the Outdoors
Montgó Natural Park offers breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna, with numerous hiking trails. Permits are also required for accessing certain natural parks from June to September; apply through the Generalitat Valenciana's booking system.
Food and Markets
Local cuisine is rooted in Valencian traditions. Key dishes include arròs a banda (a rice dish cooked in fish stock, served with all i oli), fideuà (similar to paella but made with short noodles instead of rice), and esgarraet (a salad of roasted red peppers and salt cod). The Mercat Municipal in the Old Town offers fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and cured meats. The Thursday street market near the port is particularly popular. Dining options include Arenal Beach with restaurants and bars, the Old Town with tapas bars and family-run establishments, and fine dining at Michelin-recognised BonAmb.
Culture and Fiestas
Fallas is celebrated in March with fireworks and traditional costumes. Moors and Christians is a historical reenactment held in July. Gastronomy festivals celebrate local cuisine with food fairs and tastings.
Sport and Clubs
The page mentions water sports such as snorkelling and kayaking at Cala Granadella. For organised clubs and facilities, ask at the town hall or local sports centre.
Day Trips
Buses connect the town with nearby areas, making day trips possible. For specific destinations, check with the tourist office.
Year-Round vs Summer
Summer is ideal for beach activities, water sports, and outdoor dining, but the town is bustling with tourists. Autumn and winter are perfect for hiking, local markets, and cultural events.
Costa Bridge View
Jávea/Xàbia offers a genuine year-round lifestyle, but it's not a quiet retirement village in summer. The beaches and fiestas are the draw, yet you'll need to plan for permits and parking. The town's charm is its blend of sea and mountain, but that also means crowds and limited parking in peak season. For British movers, it's a great base if you embrace the calendar and book permits early. If you prefer solitude, visit in autumn or winter.
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Last updated: 13 Oct 2026 · Shane
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