Things To Do
in Benicasim
Benicasim (Benicàssim) is a sun-drenched coastal town on Spain's Costa del Azahar known for wide sandy beaches, modernist villas and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. It blends beach resort life with access to nearby natural parks like the Desert de les Palmes, making it popular for both sea and hill days. The town comes alive in summer with music festivals, beach bars and outdoor dining, while shoulder seasons offer quieter streets and pleasant weather.
Well connected by road and rail, Benicasim is a convenient base for exploring Castellón province and nearby Valencia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the picturesque coastal town of Benicasim and check into your hotel. Take a moment to relax and soak up the serene atmosphere of this hidden gem. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, indulging in traditional Spanish pastries.
Stroll along the beautiful beaches and take in the stunning Mediterranean Sea views. Spend some time lounging on the sandy shores or trying out water sports like paddleboarding or windsurfing. Visit the nearby Torre de San Vicente, an ancient watchtower with breathtaking panoramic vistas.
Dine at a beachfront restaurant and savor fresh seafood paired with exquisite local wines. As the sun sets, take a peaceful walk along the promenade, enjoying the gentle sea breeze. End your evening at a cozy bar, enjoying a cocktail while listening to live music.
Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Desert de les Palmes Natural Park, where you can hike along scenic trails packed with stunning views and diverse flora. The fresh mountain air and peaceful environment will invigorate your spirit. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy in nature as you take in the tranquility.
Head back to the city for lunch at a traditional tapas bar, sampling local delicacies like patatas bravas and jamón ibérico. Afterward, explore the charming streets of Benicasim, stopping at artisanal shops and quaint boutiques. Visit the local museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture.
Spend your evening at the Benicasim city center, where the ambiance comes alive with street performers and lively crowds. Choose from a variety of dining options, ranging from Mediterranean cuisine to international fare. Conclude your day with a visit to a local gelato shop, enjoying a sweet treat under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍷Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $45-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $1.50-3 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (0.5L) | $2.50-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (around town) | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere
- Close access to natural parks and coastal hiking
- Lively summer festivals and good seafood cuisine
- Well connected by rail and road to Castellón and Valencia
- Very crowded and more expensive in peak summer months
- Limited nightlife and services outside the tourist season
- Seasonal businesses may close in winter
- Parking and accommodation can be hard to find during festivals
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Gràcies / Gracias" - Thank you (Valencian / Spanish)
- "Una cerveza, por favor" - A beer, please
- "¿Dónde está la playa?" - Where is the beach?
- "Perdón / Disculpe" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Benicasim
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide golden sands and a long promenade offering sunrise and sunset opportunities, people-watching and beach-scene compositions.
Elevated viewpoint with panoramic views over Benicasim and the Mediterranean — excellent for sunset shots and town panoramas.
Natural park vistas, pine-clad ridges and historic hermitages provide dramatic landscape and early-morning light for nature photography.
Photogenic architecture with ornate balconies and palm-lined seafront scenes perfect for street and architectural photography.
Food in Benicasim
Benicasim Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Valencian rice dishes are a must: traditional paella with rabbit/chicken or seafood versions and arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish broth). Try at family-run restaurants or beachside eateries for authentic flavors.
Must-Try!
A Catalan/Valencian fish and seafood stew cooked with potatoes and garlic; hearty and flavorful, commonly available in seaside restaurants.
A noodle-based cousin of paella, typically made with seafood and served with allioli; often found in coastal eateries and recommended if you prefer noodles to rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small local market offering fresh fish, meats, produce and cheeses — great for buying ingredients for self-catering or sampling local specialties at stalls.
Seasonal beach bars along the shoreline serve quick seafood, tapas, cold drinks and salads — perfect for an informal lunch with sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Hola' or 'Buenos días' and use two kisses on the cheek for acquaintances; a firm handshake is common in formal settings.
Valencian (a variety of Catalan) and Spanish are both used — a few words in Valencian or Spanish are appreciated, but most people in tourism understand Spanish.
Meals are later than in some countries (lunch around 2–3pm, dinner often after 9pm); small shops may close midday for siesta outside peak tourist season.
Respect beach rules, use public bins, and avoid loud music or disturbances in residential areas late at night.
Safety
Tipping in Benicasim
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in Spain. For table service leave small change or round up (5–10% in restaurants for good service); cafés and bars typically do not expect a tip. Taxi drivers, tour guides and hotel porters may receive small tips for good service.
Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, but small vendors and markets may prefer cash. Notify your bank before travel and carry some euros for small purchases; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
High season with hot, sunny weather, crowded beaches and daily cultural events and music festivals; book accommodation and restaurants in advance and expect lively nightlife.
Pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes and fewer tourists — great for hiking in Desert de les Palmes and outdoor dining.
Warm early in the season with occasional rain; off-peak advantages include lower prices, calmer beaches and good conditions for cycling and walking.
Mild, quieter months with cool evenings and the lowest tourist activity; some businesses may have reduced hours but it’s ideal for peaceful coastal walks and exploring nearby cities.
Benicasim at Night
Hiking in Benicasim
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Nearest major natural area with a network of trails, cliffs and viewpoints offering panoramic views of the sea and inland mountains; routes vary from easy walks to moderate hikes.
Scenic seaside paths and short trails linking beaches and viewpoints that are ideal for sunset walks and casual hikes.
A protected coastal mountain range (a short drive away) with trails along rugged coastlines, secluded coves and archaeological sites — excellent for day hikes and nature photography.
Airports
How to reach Benicasim by plane.
Closest regional airport serving limited scheduled and seasonal flights; useful if you find a direct connection but services can be sparse.
Major international airport with frequent flights and good transport connections to Benicasim by car or regional trains/buses (approximately 1–1.5 hours by road depending on traffic).
Larger international airport to the south, useful for low-cost carriers or connecting flights though it’s a longer drive (several hours) from Benicasim.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-term residents speak Valencian and Spanish, involved in fishing, hospitality and small businesses; family-owned establishments and traditions remain strong.
Many visitors from other parts of Spain spend summer holidays here, contributing to lively cultural events and weekend crowds.
Seasonal international tourists and a small community of expat retirees (Northern European) who enjoy the climate and relaxed lifestyle.
During music festivals the demographic skews younger with domestic and international concert-goers filling bars, campsites and clubs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Spain’s most popular sport; local clubs and youth academies are active and matches are a central part of community life.
Common on the wide sandy beaches, especially during summer and festivals, with informal pick-up games and occasional tournaments.
Surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking and snorkelling are popular along the coast, with rentals and lessons available seasonally.
Road and leisure cycling are popular thanks to scenic coastal roads and dedicated bike paths; cycling events are held locally and regionally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Benicasim.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available: vegetable paellas, salads, tortilla española and tapas like pimientos de padrón; ask for vegetable-based rice dishes or simple grilled vegetables.
Vegan choices are increasing but more limited in traditional places — look for veggie restaurants, order salads, grilled veg, potato dishes and specify no cheese or fish stock.
Many rice- and seafood-based dishes are naturally gluten-free, but check for cross-contamination in tapas; some restaurants clearly mark GF options, and larger places can usually accommodate.