Playa El Bol, lies in front of Altea’s Paseo Marítimo. This iconic pebble beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and serene atmosphere, and you’ll find residents and tourists alike soaking up the sunshine. The clean waters and the beach’s tranquil environment is perfect for families with small children.
The Newly Refurbished Paseo Marítimo
Recently, Altea’s seaside area has been enhanced with the newly refurbished Paseo Marítimo, a beautiful promenade that stretches alongside Playa El Bol. The Paseo now provides wider walking spaces, children’s play areas, sports and fitness areas, improved accessibility, and sitting areas. Right next to the promenade, and with views over the bay, you will find a variety of cafés, bars, and restaurants, that stretch for more than a kilometre along the seafront.
Views of Altea Old Town.
From some areas of the promenade, if you look up, you can see the whitewashed village and the sun reflecting off the beautiful blue-domed church. Altea’s stunning old town breathes heritage and culture in every street. Combine this with the spectacular beach front, and it’s no surprise that Altea is one of the most prized villages in all of Spain.
The beach front area is perfect for a morning coffee, or watching the late afternoon sunset, or enjoying the numerous fun nightlife offerings.
Easy Walk to Altea’s Old Town
From Playa El Bol, it’s an enjoyable, albeit uphill, walk to the old town. This is a picturesque village, with narrow, cobbled streets and traditional whitewashed houses with beautiful plants and flowers adorning their walls. You’ll pass by local artisan shops, art galleries, and some funny erotic metal art sculptures (yes, you read that correct). At the top, and as a reward, you can find the iconic blue-domed church of Nuestra Señora del Consuelo.
There are various viewing points at the top (miradors), each offering new perspectives of the beautiful coastline, and the surrounding villages and mountains. You can even see the skyscrapers of Benidorm in the distance.
Facilities
There are showers and public toilets near the promenade. Sunbeds and umbrellas are only available for rent during summer.
Number of Visitors and Atmosphere
Due to the fact that this is a pebble beach, Playa el Bol attracts only moderate numbers of locals and tourists, which are usually families with children and couples. It’s usually quite peaceful, even during busier months. The pebbles may put some people off, however the convenience of being so close to the seafront cafés and bars is a real advantage.
Safety and Practical Tips
The beach is generally safe for swimming, although you should be cautious when entering the water due to the slippery rocks. Lifeguards are only on duty during peak times in summer. You will definitely need a pair of water shoes, and an inflatable mattress for lying down.
Best Times to Visit
Any time of the year is fine for a visit, however, it will be easier to find parking in late spring and early autumn, and the waters are still warm and calm.
Photography or Instagram Spots
The best views are usually those looking back towards the Sierra de Bernia mountains. The marina and the colourful seafront eateries also offers plenty of opportunities for striking photos. Sunset provides soft light ideal for capturing the village with the mountain as a backdrop.
Is It a Dog-Friendly Beach?
Playa el Bol does not officially allow dogs. There is a dog friendly beach 2kms up the coast in the direction of Mascarat, between the Marina Mar i Muntanya and Cap negret. Right in front of the beach is the little island: Isla de l’Olla.
Parking
Parking is available at the train station. Spaces can fill up quickly during summer, so it’s best to arrive early. There is limited parking in Carrer de la Filarmónica. Otherwise, you will find off-street parking on the N332 parallel to the main port. It’s a further walk to the beach and amenities.
If you see this after your page is loaded completely, leafletJS files are missing.
