Things To Do
in Guardamar del Segura

Guardamar del Segura is a sun-soaked coastal town in Alicante province on Spain's Costa Blanca. Its long, sandy beaches and protective pine forests stretch along the Segura River estuary, creating a laid-back Mediterranean vibe. The town blends beach life with a small-town atmosphere, offering easy access to nature reserves and charming plazas.

With a welcoming pace and plenty of outdoor activities, Guardamar is ideal for family holidays and relaxed escapes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Guardamar's Beaches
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk along the beautiful sandy beaches of Guardamar del Segura. Enjoy the early morning sun as you stroll past the dunes, taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean. Consider renting a bicycle to explore the coastline at a leisurely pace.

afternoon
:

After a rejuvenating morning, indulge in a delightful lunch at a beachside chiringuito, sampling local seafood specialties. Post-lunch, you can either relax on the beach with a good book or swim in the warm sea. If you're feeling adventurous, try water sports like paddleboarding or windsurfing.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, head to the town center for a casual dinner at a traditional Spanish tapas bar. Savor the delicious local cuisine while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere filled with locals and visitors alike. After dinner, take a romantic evening stroll along the paseo, soaking in the charming ambiance of Guardamar.

day 2
Adventuring in Natural Parks
morning
:

Visit the nearby Natural Park of La Mata and Torrevieja for a morning of exploration amid serene landscapes and diverse wildlife. Enjoy the tranquility of the park as you walk along the trails, observing the stunning salt lagoons and the birdlife that inhabits the area. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy in the park, soaking in the beauty around you.

afternoon
:

Continue your adventure by exploring more of the park, where you can find unique flora and fauna. Take a guided tour or join a bird-watching group to learn more about the local ecology. Enjoy a late afternoon snack at one of the nearby cafes, reflecting on the day's discoveries.

evening
:

Return to Guardamar for dinner at one of the charming local restaurants that offer a taste of Mediterranean flavors. Opt for paella or another regional specialty to complete your culinary adventure. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the town, appreciating its blend of traditional and modern architecture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$2-4
🥗Lunch dish in mid-range restaurant$12-20
🎟️Concert or cinema ticket$6-15
🚊One-way local transport$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and dunes
  • Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
  • Great base for day trips to nearby towns
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • Seasonal crowds in summer
  • Some areas can feel quiet in winter
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Habla inglés" - Do you speak English?
  • "Recomiéndame un plato local" - Recommend a local dish

Places to Visit in Guardamar del Segura

Visit one of these nice places.

Dunas de Guardamar

A vast system of shifting dunes along the coast, offering golden light at sunrise and dramatic silhouettes at sunset.

Castillo de Guardamar

Ancient hilltop fortress ruins with panoramic views of the sea and town; great for moody sunset shots.

Parque Reina Sofía

A lush pine forest park with winding paths, shade, and a peaceful lake—perfect for nature portraits and macro photography.

Paseo Marítimo

Long seafront promenade with palm-lined views, golden sands, and surfers or sailing boats as backdrops.

Playa de Guardamar (sunset vantage)

End-of-day light on the wide beach with dunes in the distance creates expansive horizon photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Guardamar del Segura

The Alicante region offers a seafood-forward Mediterranean cuisine with rice dishes, grilled fish, and sun-warmed vegetables. Expect olive oil, garlic, fresh seafood, and seasonal produce in many meals.

Guardamar del Segura Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arroz a banda

Rice cooked in fish stock and often served with alioli; a staple at seaside restaurants along Guardamar’s coast.

Must-Try!

Caldero de pescado

Traditional fish and rice stew, simmered with local seafood and vegetables; best enjoyed at a beachside tavern.

Fideuà

Seafood noodles cooked like paella, a Valencian favorite often found on local menus.

Tortilla de patatas

Classic Spanish potato omelette, widely available in bars and cafés.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Guardamar

Daily market offering fresh produce, seafood, cheeses, and regional snacks; great for trying seasonal bites.

Weekly street markets

Seasonal markets around the town square where stalls sell olives, baked goods, and local treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Guardamar del Segura enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer highs often reach the mid-30s C, while winter daytime temperatures linger in the teens. The sea acts as a cooling factor, and sea breezes are common along the coast.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and manners

A simple hola/buenos días when entering a shop or restaurant; say gracias when paying.

Meal times and conversation

Meals are social; avoid loud conversation in quiet cafés; wait your turn in markets; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Safety is generally high for visitors in Guardamar. Take standard coastal precautions: watch your belongings on crowded beaches, use sun protection, and stay mindful of swimming safety flags and currents. In peak season, follow lifeguard guidance and avoid isolated areas at night.

Tipping in Guardamar del Segura

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping in Spain is appreciated but not mandatory; a small 5-10% for good service in restaurants or a few euros for bar service is common.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is still useful in markets and small tavernas; some places may add a small card fee.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Very hot and dry; expect peak beach crowds, long days (sunset around 9:30-10 PM). Swim early or late, stay hydrated, and use sun protection.

Autumn

Warm days with cooler evenings; sea remains inviting for extended beach time and coastal walks.

Winter

Mild, with occasional rainy days; perfect for strolls and cultural visits without crowds.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures, blooming gardens, and active birdlife in dunes and lagoons; ideal for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Guardamar del Segura at Night

Guardamar's nightlife centers on beachside bars and casual tapas venues; many spots offer sunset drinks, live music on weekends, and a relaxed atmosphere rather than a heavy club scene. A few late-night terraces along the promenade stay open into the early hours in summer.

Hiking in Guardamar del Segura

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parque Natural de las Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja

A protected wetlands area with boardwalks, birdwatching, and easy to moderate trails.

Sierra de Callosa de Segura

Hiking in rolling hills with scenic overlooks; varied routes for different fitness levels.

Airports

How to reach Guardamar del Segura by plane.

Alicante–Elche Airport (ALC)

Major international gateway about 25-40 minutes by car from Guardamar (depending on traffic), with frequent flights to Europe.

Region de Murcia International Airport (RMU)

Located in Corvera; about 1-1.5 hours by car, serving several European routes.

San Javier Airport (MJV)

Small regional airport near Murcia; some seasonal routes and car connections to the coast.

Getting Around

Walkability

Guardamar is walkable in the town center and along the beachfront promenade; many sights are within a short stroll, but you may need a car or bus to reach the dunes or natural parks for longer hikes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families settle here seasonally or year-round for the beaches and safe neighborhoods.

Retirees

A portion of residents are retirees drawn by the climate and relaxed pace.

Seasonal tourists

Summer influx of visitors from across Spain and Europe who come for beaches and nature reserves.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Local clubs and pickup games are common on beaches and in town centers.

Water sports

Wind-surfing, sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding are popular along Guardamar's coast.

Beach volleyball

Casual courts along the promenade during the summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typical of Mediterranean coastal towns: light to moderate in off-peak seasons, with heavier volumes in July and August. Public buses link Guardamar to nearby towns; a car is convenient for day trips; the coast road runs along the sea with occasional congestion near beaches during peak season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Guardamar del Segura.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common in most taverns and restaurants; ask for veggie paella, ensaladas, grilled vegetables, and plant-based tapas; many places can adapt dishes with olive oil and avoid meat-based broths.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible via local clinics (centro de salud) in Guardamar; for emergencies, there are regional hospitals in nearby Elche and Torrevieja. EU citizens can access care with a European Health Insurance Card; private hospitals offer English-speaking staff in larger centers.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide