The Most Beautiful Coves of Costa Blanca for Photoshoots and Relaxation
Costa Blanca is known for its soft sandy beaches, but the true gems of the region are hidden among rocky shores and natural landscapes. Cozy coves with crystal-clear water and unusual terrain formations have become popular due to their combination of natural beauty, seclusion, and excellent conditions for photography. Some are suitable for family relaxation, while others are ideal for snorkeling, coastal hiking, kayaking, and underwater shots. If you are looking for a place to combine seaside relaxation with stunning photos for social media or a family album, Costa Blanca’s coves are the perfect choice.
Unlike city beaches with long promenades and flat horizons, coves are often located in natural areas, surrounded by pine forests, cliffs, and hills. There are fewer people, more wildlife, and the water appears incredibly clear and vividly colored. Many coves lie in small inlets, sheltered from wind and waves, so the sea here is calmer and the water surface resembles a giant natural pool. All of this makes these locations ideal for “wild coast” style photoshoots and romantic cliffside photography.
Keep in mind that many Costa Blanca coves have pebble or rocky bottoms, so it’s best to wear water-friendly footwear. In return, you get transparent water with visibility of several meters and the chance to observe marine life just steps from the shore. This article presents the most picturesque Costa Blanca coves worth visiting if you want to swim, capture vivid photos amidst natural scenery, and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere without the usual beach crowds.
Cala Granadella
Town: Jávea (Xàbia)
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Cala Granadella is considered one of the most beautiful coves in Spain and regularly appears on lists of Europe’s best beaches. Located in a natural area and protected by high hills, it offers a sense of seclusion. The road to the cove winds through pine forests and villas, and the final descent reveals the legendary view of turquoise waters, white yachts, and rocky shores. Even from the parking lot, it’s clear why both tourists and locals love this place.
The water here is exceptionally clear and takes on a rich turquoise hue, especially on sunny mornings. The seabed is covered with small pebbles and stones, keeping the water cleaner than sandy beaches. Depth starts almost immediately, making it one of Jávea’s best snorkeling spots, where underwater terrain forms small canyons and walls, home to starfish, octopuses, and schools of colorful fish. Snorkelers and underwater photographers should bring a mask, fins, and an action camera—Granadella rewards preparation generously.
Several points are ideal for photos: the eastern hill viewpoint, rocky ledges at the cove’s edge, and the pier area. From above, you get a panorama of the whole cove, and from water level, low-angle shots showcase cliffs as dramatic backdrops. Morning light is especially photogenic, illuminating the water in bright blue while shadows are soft.
The cove’s infrastructure is modest: a few restaurants and cafes serve seafood, drinks, and simple dishes. In peak season, access may be regulated, with parking limits to preserve the natural balance. Arriving early in the morning or after lunch is recommended. Cala Granadella is ideal for those willing to trade classic sandy beaches for more vivid experiences and stunning views.
Cala Portitxol (La Barraca)
Town: Jávea (Xàbia)
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Cala Portitxol, also known as La Barraca, is one of the most authentic coves of Costa Blanca. It is famous for its white fishing houses, “barracas,” located right by the water, creating a traditional Mediterranean village atmosphere. White walls, blue doors and windows, natural stone, and the turquoise sea backdrop make this location perfect for “marine minimalism” photography.
The shore is pebbly, with some large stones, so it’s not a classic sandy beach, but this adds charm. The water is crystal clear, transitioning from light turquoise near the shore to deep blue further out. On clear days, visibility allows seeing the seabed at depth, making it perfect for snorkeling.
Portitxol lies in a small inlet between cliffs and remains relatively calm even in summer. Kayakers and SUP enthusiasts enjoy visiting the nearby Portitxol Island, reachable within minutes. Kayak trips offer new perspectives, capturing cliffs and La Barraca houses beautifully from the water.
Photographers often use the rocky areas on the eastern side or shoot from water level. For wider shots, climb to the Mirador de la Cruz del Portitxol viewpoint for views of the cove, island, and horizon. Sunrise offers soft pink-golden light; evenings provide dramatic shadows and contrasts.
The cove has limited infrastructure: a few restaurants and a small parking area. In peak season, access may be restricted, requiring some walking. Nevertheless, the effort is rewarded by the sight of white houses and ultramarine waters in a single frame.
Cala del Moraig
Town: Benitachell
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Cala del Moraig is one of the most impressive spots along the coast. Nestled among high limestone cliffs forming a natural amphitheater, it offers breathtaking views along the serpentine road leading to the cove. The main highlight is the stone arch and the Cova dels Arcs cave, where sunlight creates magical reflections on the water—a popular sunrise photography location.
The water is deep and exceptionally clear with vivid blue and turquoise hues. The rocky seabed requires water shoes, but the underwater world is stunning. Ideal photography points include stone platforms left of the main beach area and near Cova dels Arcs. Strong waves can make swimming unsafe, so check conditions.
Infrastructure is limited: a parking area and sometimes a seasonal bar. Bring your own water, snacks, and sturdy shoes. The cove’s wild character and minimal human interference make it perfect for authentic nature photography.
Cala del Tío Ximo
Town: Benidorm
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Cala del Tío Ximo is one of the few truly secluded spots near Benidorm. Hidden between two rocky points, it offers a quiet alternative to the busy Levante and Poniente beaches. The cove has pebbly and rocky shores with exceptionally clean water. Its sheltered location keeps the sea calm, ideal for underwater photography and snorkeling.
The best photography times are morning and early evening for soft light and color contrasts. Mirador Punta del Cavall provides panoramic views before descending to water level for intimate shots.
Cala La Fustera
Town: Benissa
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Cala La Fustera is a small but picturesque cove between Calpe and Moraig. Partially sandy and partially pebbly, it is ideal for families. The cove is framed by cliffs and pines with views of the iconic Peñón de Ifach. Wooden platforms and viewpoints offer natural photography zones. Infrastructure includes parking, a restaurant, showers, and a playground.
Cala Pinets
Town: Benissa
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Cala Pinets is a small natural cove for those seeking maximum seclusion. Rocky shores with large pebbles keep the water crystal clear, perfect for meditation, yoga, or contemplative relaxation. No infrastructure, so come prepared. Photogenic spots include the southern rocky headland.
Racó de Conill
Town: Villajoyosa
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Racó de Conill is one of the most secluded coves of Costa Blanca, favored for tranquility, untouched nature, and nudist-friendly areas. Surrounded by green hills and cliffs, it is ideal for snorkeling and underwater photography. Limited infrastructure preserves the cove’s natural charm. Best times are morning and evening for soft light.
Conclusion
Costa Blanca coves offer a completely different experience from the region’s city beaches. They are perfect for those who value natural landscapes, clear water, and stunning photography without crowds. Each cove has its own character: Granadella impresses with turquoise water and cliffs; Portitxol with white houses by the sea; Moraig with dramatic cliffs and arches; while smaller coves like Cala Pinets and Racó de Conill offer seclusion and closeness to nature.
Consider seasonality, trail access, and shore type: many coves are pebbly or rocky, so bring water shoes, sun protection, and drinking water. In summer, some coves limit parking or visitor numbers, so arrive early or on weekdays. Spring and autumn reveal a different side: fewer people and even more vibrant sea and sky colors. For photography or contemplative relaxation, visit coves in the morning or late afternoon for soft, photogenic light. Planning multiple locations in a day is feasible, as many coves are near each other, combining swimming, hiking, and photography. Each cove leaves lasting impressions, showing Costa Blanca as a coast of wild cliffs, transparent waters, and spectacular views, not just hotels and sandy beaches.
Most Beautiful Coves of Costa Blanca for Photography and Relaxation