Things to Do in Villajoyosa

Villajoyosa has several beaches, each with its own character. Playa Centro is the main town beach, featuring golden sand and a lively promenade that runs alongside it. Playa del Bol Nou, situated a little further out from the centre, offers a more natural setting and is particularly popular with locals. The marina area also provides a scenic backdrop for a coastal stroll along the waterfront.

For hiking, the Torres al Aguilo trail provides coastal views and passes by old watchtowers. This route is a great way to experience the natural coastal landscape beyond the town.

Villajoyosa's culinary identity is built on chocolate and seafood. The town is home to four chocolate factories, including the well-known Chocolates Valor, which has been producing here for over a century. Local stone-ground turrón (nougat) is another traditional sweet you will find in local shops and markets. On the savoury side, the town's fishing fleet supplies restaurants and markets with fresh fish and shellfish daily. Expect to see traditional regional dishes like arroz a banda, paella, and grilled fish on many menus across town.

The central market, Mercat Central, is the heart of daily food shopping. Here you will find fresh produce, meat, fish and local specialities. The Mercat Central is open most mornings, but check local notices for exact opening hours. For fresh seafood, the fish auction (La Llotja) operates near the port, where the day's commercial catch is sold. In addition, a public fish market is held every Thursday afternoon, where you can buy seafood directly from the boats—a great way to get the freshest fish and experience a local tradition. Arrive early for the best selection. For chocolate, visit the factory shops or local confectioners to stock up on Valor and other regional brands.

Dining options are plentiful and varied, with the town counting over 180 restaurants ranging from traditional Spanish to international cuisine. Around the marina, you will find a cluster of excellent restaurants specialising in rice dishes and seafood. Ca Marta is a favourite for locally-sourced fish and a wide range of paellas, with a simpler menu served in the bar and on the terrace. El Pòsit, located on Avinguda del Port, offers modern tapas with a twist and a great beach view; it is closed Monday evenings and Tuesdays, and advance booking is recommended. Near the old town and beachfront, you will find traditional dining spots like Hogar del Pescador, renowned for its seafood, and Tres14, which prepares excellent fish and rice dishes. The old town itself has many casual tapas bars and cafés, perfect for a relaxed meal. For popular restaurants, especially around the marina, book ahead, particularly for lunch on weekends.

La Vila's old town is a maze of narrow streets lined with colourful painted houses (casas pintadas), which were originally painted in vivid colours to help fishermen identify their homes from the sea. The town's maritime heritage is visible daily at the port, where fishing boats still unload their catch. A chocolate museum, run by Valor, tells the story of the town's sweet industry and offers tastings to visitors. The church tower, Torre de la Vila, is a prominent historic landmark worth climbing for panoramic views across the area. The town also celebrates traditional festivals throughout the year, including the famous Moors and Christians festival; confirm current dates with the local tourist office. Gastronomic events, such as dedicated chocolate tastings and seafood fairs, are also held periodically.

Water sports, such as paddleboarding and kayaking, are available in summer. Check with local operators along the beachfront for current activity offerings and seasonal hire.

The town serves as a convenient base for exploring the wider Costa Blanca region. TRAM Line 1 directly connects Villajoyosa to both Alicante and Benidorm in under an hour, making car-free day trips straightforward.

Summer (June–September) is the busiest time of the year, while spring and autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Some restaurants and shops operate with reduced hours during the winter months. Parking can be challenging in summer, but the compact town centre is entirely walkable. While Spanish is widely spoken throughout daily life, learning a few Valencian phrases (such as 'bon dia' for good morning) is appreciated by residents.

Villajoyosa offers a genuine fishing port and rich chocolate heritage, but summer crowds and parking can be a challenge. It suits those who want an authentic Spanish coastal town with easy access to Benidorm and Alicante, and who enjoy lively food markets and local festivals. The trade-off is that some amenities close or reduce their hours in winter, and you will need to plan around seasonal schedules. For anyone who values local character over tourist gloss, this is a rewarding choice.

• Villajoyosa: A Culinary Guide – Chocolate, Top Restaurants, and Costa Blanca Traditions (Costa Blanca Space)
• THE 10 BEST Restaurants & Places to Eat in Villajoyosa 2026 (Tripadvisor)
• Where to eat and drink in Villajoyosa (View from La Vila (personal blog))
• What to see in Villajoyosa, a fishing village with a sweet taste (Barceló Experiences)
• Villajoyosa, Spain: A Travel Guide (The Spain Travel Guru)
• All About La VILA JOIOSA, Villajoyosa (BenidormSeriously)
• Villajoyosa now a very popular Benidorm area Tourist Attraction (Spain Info)
• What to eat in Villajoyosa, Spain - Gastronomy (Servigroup)