Moraira: Hidden Gems of Costa Blanca
Moraira is one of the coziest and most tranquil resorts in the northern part of Costa Blanca. This small seaside town, surrounded by vineyards, pine forests, and turquoise bays, is considered one of the most harmonious places for a relaxed vacation. Moraira is known for combining high-quality service, natural beauty, and seclusion, while maintaining the atmosphere of a Mediterranean village, where everything is infused with calmness, cleanliness, and the scent of the sea. There are no noisy high-rise hotels or large tourist complexes, but rather elegant villas, cozy beaches, convenient infrastructure, and picturesque coves hidden among cliffs and pine forests.
Despite its compact size, Moraira offers a full range of experiences for travelers. The town is perfect for family vacations, romantic getaways, or trips where you want to combine the beach, walking, nature, gastronomy, and a light, cozy atmosphere. In this article, we will explore the best places in Moraira that are worth visiting to experience this small yet incredibly charming corner of Costa Blanca.
Playa de l’Ampolla
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Playa de l’Ampolla is located at the foot of Moraira’s iconic castle. It is the town’s main and most popular beach, loved by both locals and visitors. The beach features a wide sandy shore, soft golden sand, and a gentle entry into the sea, making it an ideal choice for families with children. Thanks to breakwaters, the water remains calm even in windy conditions, attracting swimmers from early morning to late evening.
The beach infrastructure is well thought out: lifeguards are on duty throughout the season, showers are available, relaxation areas are set up, and umbrellas and sunbeds can be rented. Cafés and restaurants line the perimeter, offering local dishes, cocktails, or a simple coffee with a sea view. In the morning, l’Ampolla is especially beautiful, as sunlight reflects off the castle walls and water, creating a bright yet gentle glow. In the evening, it is pleasant to stroll along the promenade, listening to the waves and observing the life of the town.
For families with children, the beach is a true find-calm waters, spacious sandy shores, and all necessary amenities create perfect conditions for relaxation. Many tourists note that l’Ampolla has become their “number one beach” in all of Moraira due to its combination of beauty, convenience, and atmosphere.
Playa del Portet
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Playa del Portet is one of the most picturesque coves along the coast. This small natural crescent-shaped lagoon, with a white sandy beach and crystal-clear turquoise water, resembles a miniature Caribbean beach. Portet is surrounded by cliffs and vegetation, creating a sense of privacy and seclusion. Thanks to calm waters, the beach is ideal for SUP surfing, kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming.
Along the cove, there are small cafés and restaurants with cozy terraces, offering stunning views of the sea and nearby cliffs. Many travelers prefer to spend the morning hours here-the sea is smooth, the air is fresh, and the sense of tranquility makes Portet one of the most harmonious spots in Moraira.
From Portet, there is a wonderful view of Cap d’Or-a majestic rocky promontory that serves as a natural symbol of the area. In the evenings, the water takes on soft pink and golden hues, making this cove a popular place for romantic walks and photoshoots. Even during peak season, Portet maintains its intimate and calm atmosphere.
Cap d’Or and the Watchtower
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Cap d’Or is one of Moraira’s most impressive natural spots. It rises above Portet Bay, creating a striking panorama that has become a hallmark of the region. A well-maintained trail leads to the top, starting near Playa del Portet. Along the way, panoramic views open up of Peñón de Ifach, surrounding coves, and the endless Mediterranean Sea. The trail is suitable for experienced hikers as well as families with children-the route is not difficult but extremely scenic.
At the summit stands the Torre Vigía de Cap d’Or, a 16th-century watchtower built to protect the coast from pirate attacks. The tower is well-preserved and offers one of the most atmospheric viewpoints in the region. Panoramas stretch in multiple directions: over Moraira, Calpe, and the sea beyond the horizon. It is one of the best spots to watch sunrises and sunsets-the interplay of light on the water and rocks creates stunning scenes.
The slopes of Cap d’Or are covered with Mediterranean vegetation-shrubs, pines, and aromatic herbs. Spring is particularly beautiful when wild plants bloom, filling the air with the scent of rosemary and thyme. It is a place to return to again and again for those who love hiking amid pristine nature.
Moraira Old Town
Moraira’s historic center is small but creates a special atmosphere in the town. This area preserves the spirit of a Mediterranean fishing village. Narrow cobbled streets, white house facades, wooden shutters, balconies with wrought-iron railings, and flower decorations create a sense of coziness and tranquility. The architecture emphasizes the traditional style of Valencian coastal towns.
In the morning, you can see fishermen returning with their catch to the port, while locals stroll along the promenade greeting the new day. On Fridays, a traditional market takes place-one of Moraira’s most colorful events. Farmers and artisans offer fresh products: cheeses, olive oil, fruits, vegetables, honey, pastries, and local souvenirs. This market is part of the town’s cultural life, a place where the community’s authentic atmosphere is felt.
Castillo de Moraira
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Moraira Castle is a key historical site in the town. Built in the 18th century, it served defensive purposes and protected the coast from pirate attacks. Its strategic location on Punta de Moraira allowed control over the surrounding area. Although the castle is not open for interior visits, its architectural form and surrounding area attract tourists.
Around the castle, there is a small viewpoint offering views of the sea, beach, and coastline. In the evening, the castle is illuminated, becoming one of Moraira’s most atmospheric spots. It is one of those places where it is pleasant to spend time enjoying the scenery and photographing the sea.
Paseo Ecológico Benissa – Moraira
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The ecological trail between Benissa and Moraira is one of the best coastal routes in Costa Blanca. It is suitable for walkers of all levels, as the path is equipped with railings, signs, wooden decks, and viewpoints. The route passes along cliffs, offering stunning views of the sea, Peñón de Ifach from Calpe, and small secluded coves hidden among pines and rocks.
Each section of the trail reveals new landscapes: shaded pine groves, cliff-top viewpoints, and tiny beaches with clear water. Especially popular coves include Baladrar, Advocat, and Llobella, known for their beauty, clean water, and snorkeling opportunities.
The route is popular among photographers, travelers, and those who enjoy meditative walks in nature. It is easy to feel the mood of Moraira and the coastal atmosphere, where nature plays a central role.
Moraira Coves
Moraira, a small resort town between Jávea and Calpe, is famous not only for excellent restaurants and a yacht marina but also for dozens of secluded coves. Here, there are almost no wide sandy beaches, but there are stunning rocky calas with crystal-clear water, perfect for peaceful relaxation and snorkeling.
Cala Andrago (Cala L’Andragó)
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A small yet picturesque pebble cove located near a popular area with bars and restaurants. In the evenings, live music often fills the air, creating a romantic atmosphere. The cove is ideal for snorkeling, as the seabed is diverse and the water remains clean and transparent.
Known for its clear water and natural calm, it is located slightly away from the center and rarely crowded. The rocky shore makes the cove attractive for underwater photography-underwater life includes colorful algae, rocks, and fish. Entry into the water is quite steep, so water shoes are recommended.
The easiest access is on foot from Moraira Port (15-20 minutes) or by car-there is a small parking area right above the cove.
Cala Punta Estrella
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One of Moraira’s least-known and most hidden coves, rarely mentioned in guidebooks. Narrow and completely rocky, it forms a natural amphitheater of massive stone platforms shaped by wind and sea. These flat surfaces are perfect for peaceful relaxation: lying down, sunbathing, and watching the sea without worrying about waves.
Due to its remoteness and lack of tourist infrastructure, the cove is almost never crowded-even during high season, it remains quiet and authentic. The silence is unique: only the sound of water and wind can be heard, and the water is so clear that sea urchins, sandy patches, and various shades of blue are visible, changing depending on the time of day. This spot is loved by snorkeling enthusiasts and those seeking solitude away from beach noise.
Cala Punta Estrella becomes particularly enchanting in the evening when the rocks glow with golden and pink hues, and the calm water reflects the sunset like a mirror. The atmosphere becomes intimate and even slightly mystical-perfect for meditation, photography, or simply peaceful contemplation.
The descent to the cove follows a narrow path through shrubs and stone steps and takes about 10 minutes. The route is easy but requires caution, especially after rain or with smooth-soled shoes. Despite its wild character, the cove is safe and ideal for those wishing to discover another “secret” side of Moraira.
Snorkeling Tips in Moraira Coves
Best time: morning 8:00-11:00 or after 17:00. Must-have: water shoes (sea urchins are everywhere), mask + snorkel, sun-protective lycra.
Best spots to swim:
- Cala Andrago – left side, grottos
- Cala L’Andragó – along the right cliff, octopuses
- Cala Punta Estrella – around the stone platforms
Rules: • Do not touch anything • Use only reef-safe sunscreen • Do not feed the fish • Take your trash with you
Following these simple rules, you will enjoy an incredible underwater adventure: barracudas, cuttlefish, starfish, and sometimes even rays-all await you in Moraira’s coves!
Moraira Gastronomy
Moraira’s gastronomic culture combines the traditions of Valencian cuisine with abundant seafood. Local restaurants offer dishes made from the day’s fresh catch: gilthead bream, grouper, sea bass, shrimp, and the famous red langoustines. Fishermen return daily with fresh seafood, and many restaurants operate on a “catch of the day” basis.
Signature dishes include caldero-a rich rice dish cooked in fish broth-traditional arroz a banda, where rice is prepared with octopus and seafood, and fideuà-a pasta-based version of paella, usually served with aioli sauce. These dishes reflect the historical roots of local cuisine and the residents’ love for the sea.
Recommended Restaurants for the Perfect Meal
- The Olive Tree Restaurant – a cozy family restaurant with European-Mediterranean cuisine, focusing on steaks and fish – Camino El Paellero 4, Moraira – View on the map
- Kosta Restaurant – a popular restaurant with modern Mediterranean cuisine, ideal for dinner and a glass of wine – center of Moraira – View on the map
- Carvón Wine & Fire – stylish restaurant focusing on grill, meat, seafood, and a good wine selection – center of Moraira – View on the map
- Tasca 42 – tapas bar on the Moraira-Calpe road, casual atmosphere, snacks, and wine – Carretera Moraira-Calpe 128, Moraira – View on the map
- Brasserie Vivaldi – brasserie with European and Mediterranean cuisine, suitable for leisurely lunches and dinners – center of Moraira – View on the map
Vineyards around Moraira produce the traditional sweet Moscatel wine, known for its aromatic notes and rich flavor. It is often served with desserts, and tourists frequently buy it as a souvenir.
Conclusion
Moraira is a true oasis of calm and natural harmony. Here, visitors can enjoy clear coves, well-maintained beaches, trails through pine forests, and a gentle pace of life. Despite its intimacy, the town offers high-quality service, excellent gastronomy, and numerous places for walking.
It is a place you want to return to-for its clean sea, beautiful landscapes, tranquility, and Mediterranean atmosphere.
