Families can expect memorable adventures when discovering Alicante with kids. Sunlight bounces off sandy beaches, and you’ll hear laughter as children play by the Mediterranean Sea.
Alicante with kids is about easy fun, friendly locals, and year-round activities—from impressive castles to sweet shops and hands-on museums.
There’s a unique rhythm to family life here, where playgrounds fill every plaza and tram rides become mini-adventures.
In this article, you’ll find practical tips for visiting Alicante with kids, from safe, bustling beaches like Playa de San Juan to interactive experiences at MARQ Museo Arqueológico or a stroll along the bustling Esplanada d’Espanya.
You’ll also get dining suggestions, such as the cheerful Casa Julio by the sea or the colorful Chocolatería Valor, plus advice on using the easy Alicante tram system to explore the coast.
Pack light and leave space for fun—Alicante is ready to surprise you.
Top Family Attractions in Alicante
Traveling around Alicante with kids gives you plenty of options, ranging from history-rich sites to seaside escapes and vibrant urban strolls.
These places mix adventure, learning, and relaxation—perfect for families looking to make special memories together.
Castillo de Santa Bárbara
Castillo de Santa Bárbara rises above the city, sitting on Mount Benacantil. You can walk or take the elevator from Postiguet Beach right up to the castle gates, making it easy for families with strollers.
Kids often love exploring the thick stone walls and winding towers, which make them feel like knights on an adventure. Inside, you’ll find paths to old dungeons, watchtowers, and even a small on-site museum.
The open courtyards offer panoramic views of Alicante and the Costa Blanca. Interactive displays explain the castle’s history and help bring the past to life for younger visitors.
Try a picnic at the top for extra fun. Vendors nearby sell sandwiches, ice cream, and snacks, catering to picky eaters.
Check the schedule for special family activities or local events, especially during school holidays. For more about planning your visit, see things to do in Alicante with kids.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Fantastic city and sea views | Some steep climbs are unavoidable |
| Lots of space to explore | Limited shade during peak hours |
| Family-friendly events and displays | Crowded in summer afternoons |
Tabarca Island Excursions
Take a boat trip to Tabarca Island for a wonderful outing when in Alicante with kids. Boats leave daily from Alicante’s marina and offer a short, scenic ride across the bay.
On the island, you’ll find safe swimming coves, soft, sandy beaches, and fascinating rock pools perfect for small children to explore sea life.
Tabarca is also home to a small, fortified town, where families can walk the ancient walls and spot colorful fishing boats.
The island’s pedestrian streets and lack of cars create a relaxed, stress-free atmosphere ideal for letting kids roam safely. For a break, island cafes serve up freshly grilled seafood, paella, and cooling drinks.
The island also has a small playground and public restrooms near the main square. Please keep in mind sturdy water shoes for rocky areas, and consider bringing snorkeling gear—the water is very clear and shallow by the beach.
What to Pack for Tabarca
- Sun hats and high-SPF sunscreen
- Water shoes and swimsuits
- Snacks and refillable water bottles
- Small first aid kit
Explanada de España
The Explanada de España is Alicante’s iconic palm-lined promenade, running beside the marina. Paved with over 6 million colorful tiles, this walkway is a must-visit for any family.
Walking here in the evening is especially nice, when the area fills with families out for a stroll and street performers. There are plenty of gelato stands and cafés nearby—stop at Heladería Borgonesse for a treat or find churros at Chocolatería Valor.
Kids often enjoy the engaging mosaics and the vendor stalls selling toys and handmade crafts. Benches and shaded spots under the palms make it easy to take a break.
The main playground at the Plaza Gabriel Miró is just a short walk away if your kids need to burn off some energy. It’s a practical, lively area, and a great introduction to the heart of Alicante with kids.
Find more family-friendly suggestions at Alicante with children on the official tourism site.
Quick Tips for Families
- Bring a stroller for tired little legs
- Visit early evening for the best atmosphere
- Watch for scheduled puppet shows and markets on weekends
Best Beaches for Kids
Families visiting Alicante with kids will find plenty of clean, sandy beaches near the city.
You get quick access to shallow waters, handy playgrounds, and dining options within walking distance.
Playa del Postiguet
Playa del Postiguet is right at the heart of Alicante. You can walk here from the marina or hop on the tram for a quick ride.
The sand is soft and light, making it ideal for sandcastle building or barefoot walks. The shore slopes gently, so younger children can paddle safely while you keep a close eye.
Palm trees offer shade, and showers line the promenade to rinse off after swimming. Next to the beach is a small but well-kept playground for kids. Plenty of benches and spots for a snack picnic are spread around. Lifeguards work most of the year, especially in summer, which is reassuring.
When you need food, you can pick from casual beachfront bars or walk to nearby spots like La Estancia, which serves kid-friendly meals and local dishes. Restrooms and changing rooms are easy to find.
On busy days, the beach fills up quickly, but the cheerful atmosphere makes for a lively outing.
Pros & Cons Box:
| Pros | Cons |
| Central location in Alicante | Can get crowded in summer |
| Easy tram and bus access | Limited parking nearby |
| All ages playground & wide promenade | Waves can be high on windy days |
San Juan Beach
San Juan Beach feels like the classic Mediterranean family getaway. It’s further from Alicante’s Old Town but easily reached by tram or car in about 20 minutes.
The stretch of sand here runs for more than 6 kilometers, with space for everyone even during the summer rush. Sports courts line the back of the beach, where you can play volleyball, paddle tennis, or just kick a ball around.
This beach is great for families who want more activity. The water stays shallow near the shore for a long distance.
Lifeguards are on duty in high season. There are pedal boats and kayaks for rent, and calm spots for swimming with little ones.
Restaurants like Casa Julio and El Laurel dot the promenade, offering convenient options for a sit-down lunch. Local shops nearby sell ice cream and beach toys, so you don’t need to pack everything.
Restrooms, showers, and shaded picnic areas are available along the walkway.
At-a-Glance Table:
| Feature | Details |
| Distance | About 8 km from Alicante center |
| Family amenities | Playgrounds, sports courts |
| Dining | Kids menus, ice cream shops |
| Accessibility | Tram (Line 3), car, bus |
Outdoor Adventures and Parks
Alicante with kids is more than just sandy beaches and ice cream shops.
There are large parks filled with palm trees, wildlife encounters just a short drive from the city, and walking trails with sea views that families can enjoy year-round.
Parque El Palmeral
Parque El Palmeral is a spot I always recommend to families visiting Alicante with kids. The park sits at the edge of the city and is packed with palm trees, colorful gardens, and small lakes. You’ll find wide, shaded paths that are stroller-friendly and safe for young children. There are several playgrounds, each with different swings, climbing nets, and slides.
Boat rentals are available for paddling across the lake, which is a favorite with local families. If you get hungry, there’s a café by the main pond serving snacks and drinks.
Restrooms are clean, and the park rarely feels crowded, even on weekends. Bring a picnic—the shady spots beneath the palms are perfect on sunny days.
Biking and roller skating are also popular on the smooth trails. Free parking can be found at the entrance on Calle Alcalde Alfonso de Rojas.
| Feature | Details |
| Playground | Swings, slides, climbing nets |
| Activities | Boating, biking, picnics |
| Facilities | Restrooms, café, shaded benches |
Rio Safari Elche
Alicante with kids becomes a true adventure when you visit Rio Safari Elche. This wildlife park is about 20 minutes from Alicante town and offers the chance to see animals like lions, giraffes, and lemurs up close.
Animal feedings and live shows entertain younger children. You can ride a little train that circles the park—a nice way to rest tired feet and spot animals from a new angle.
The splash park area opens during the hottest months, so don’t forget swimsuits if you’re visiting in the summer. Bring your own food and eat in the shaded picnic area, or grab a bite at the park’s cafeteria.
For up-to-date schedules or to book online, check out their official site or review family tips on detailed family activity listings.
Pros & Cons Box:
| Pros | Cons |
| Wide range of animals | Entry fee applies |
| Playground & splash park | Some areas not stroller-friendly |
| Frequent animal shows | Food can be pricey |
Mountains and Hiking Trails
If your family enjoys fresh air and wide-open views, Alicante has hiking trails for all ages and fitness levels. The Serra Grossa mountain sits right by the city and offers short, manageable hikes with city and sea views.
Several trailheads start near the tram stop. You can access them easily even without a car.
Trails are rocky in spots, so everyone should wear closed-toe shoes. Bring hats and sunscreen, as some paths get sunny. Older children will enjoy the zigzag climbs and lookout points at the top. From there, you can spot Santa Barbara Castle and much of Alicante below.
For more adventure, Tirolinas Go! Alicante offers zipline courses and treetop challenges just outside town. Active kids looking for an extra challenge will love it.
Quick Tips:
- Most trails are not stroller-friendly
- Start hikes early to avoid the heat
- Carry water, snacks, and basic first aid
Museums and Educational Activities
Exploring museums in Alicante with kids gives you a window into the area’s traditions and unique history. These museums are hands-on, full of surprises, and easily hold the attention of both children and adults.
Museo de Hogueras
The Museo de Hogueras reveals the spirit of Alicante’s most famous festival, the Bonfires of San Juan.
You and your kids can see preserved “ninots”—large, colorful figures that are usually burned at the end of the celebration.
The museum is interactive, with display cases at eye-level for children and easy-to-follow descriptions in English and Spanish. Families can get close to the costumes, photos, and parade floats used in the festivities.
Multimedia displays let you hear the festival’s music and sounds, making it lively for children. Dramatic displays immerse you in the creativity and traditions of Alicante.
Tip for families: Admission is free, and it never feels crowded. Plan for a visit of 30-45 minutes—a perfect break from the afternoon sun.
Find the museum in the old town and combine it with a stroll through nearby plazas.
MARQ Archaeological Museum
The MARQ Archaeological Museum stands as one of the most modern museums in Spain. It covers thousands of years of history in ways that make learning fun for both kids and adults.
The galleries use interactive screens, hands-on exhibits, and themed rooms that take you from the Stone Age right through Roman times. Children can pick up activity booklets at the entrance, turning the museum into a treasure hunt.
Highlights include reconstructed prehistoric dwellings, Roman mosaics, and artifact dig pits for budding archaeologists.
Here’s a quick pros & cons box for families considering a visit:
| Pros | Cons |
| Interactive exhibits for all ages | Some rooms can be dimly lit |
| Audio guides in English | No outside food allowed |
| Near public transit and cafes | Entry fee for adults |
Plan around 1-2 hours for your visit, especially if your children like to linger over hands-on displays. For lunch, several casual restaurants are right outside, making it easy to continue exploring the day away.
Family-Friendly Dining and Treats
Traveling through Alicante with kids means mealtimes and treats are special moments.
You’ll find casual cafes, creative hands-on pizza workshops, and sweet shops full of local cookies—all perfect for families seeking both flavor and fun.
Child-Friendly Restaurants
Dining out in Alicante with kids can be easier than you might think. Several local restaurants offer play corners, kids’ menus, and even unique food activities to keep children happy at the table.
One spot that stands out is Restaurante Ghetto Vecchio, where your children can join a pizza-making workshop on weekends. Kids put on mini chef hats and knead their own dough.
Other reliable choices include Cabaña Grill Alicante (laid-back, grilled classics with space for strollers) and Falafelmanía Restaurante Vegetariano y Vegano Oriental, where staff show patience with young diners.
If your family craves Italian, Bellaterra Ristorante Pizzeria offers a relaxed atmosphere and quick service.
Below is a quick comparison of a few favorites:
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Kid-Friendly Feature |
| Ghetto Vecchio | Italian | Pizza workshop |
| Cabaña Grill Alicante | Grill/Spanish | Spacious & casual |
| Falafelmanía | Vegetarian/Vegan | Staff good with kids |
| Bellaterra Pizzeria | Italian | Fast service |
For booking or more reviews, check out family restaurant options on Tripadvisor’s family list.
Local Sweets and Cookies
When you’re exploring Alicante with kids, the hunt for something sweet often leads to neighborhood bakeries. Alicante’s bakeries serve a variety of cookies and local treats that reflect the city’s culture.
Turrón is the classic—this almond nougat is a must-try, especially at a shop like Turrones El Artesano near Mercado Central. Keep an eye out for rollitos de anís (anise cookies), a simple crunchy treat enjoyed by locals.
Many traditional bakeries sell delicate almendra cookies and pasteles de gloria, filled with marzipan. Kids love the bright colors of Spanish candies like caramelos de violetas as well.
Here are family favorites to look for:
- Turrón: Soft or crunchy almond nougat
- Rollitos de anís: Sweet, mildly flavored cookies
- Almendra cookies: Almond-based, sweet, and crumbly
- Marzipan delights: Often decorated with fruit shapes
Visit a café or pastelería and ask what’s fresh. If you’re lucky, you might even see locals dunking cookies in their afternoon hot chocolate.
Events and Festivals for Children
Families who enjoy local celebrations will find Alicante has many lively events designed just for children. Small workshops and large festivals let you step into the culture of the area, offering hands-on fun and traditions worth experiencing in person.
Fiestas de San Juan
If you visit in late June, make sure not to miss the Fiestas de San Juan. The whole town of Alicante bursts with color, music, and parades.
Kids are mesmerized by giant paper figures called hogueras that are burned in large bonfires at the end of the festival. The nights before the main fire fill with fireworks and glow-sticks, lighting up the skies along Postiguet Beach.
Children love taking part in street parties and seeing the lively mascletàs—daytime fireworks that thump and rattle. Bring earplugs for little ones who startle easily.
Streets close to traffic and fill with food stands and small fairs. Try a local treat like churros con chocolate while you wander.
Expect a cheerful, family-friendly scene and plenty of room to join in traditional dances or play games throughout the city. Find dates and more on the Alicante with children city guide.
Cultural Workshops
Throughout the year, Alicante’s museums and community centers hold regular workshops for kids. These programs give children a chance to try local crafts, science experiments, or even archaeology digs.
At the MARQ Museum, kids can learn about the town’s history by handling ancient tools or making pottery. Creative workshops often take place on weekends and school holidays.
Some spots, like the Museo de Bellas Artes Gravina, offer painting and drawing lessons aimed at young artists. Others, such as the MUBAG museum, focus on seasonal crafts, music, or science projects.
Schedules can be found online. Check local event listings like these family-friendly events in Alicante for dates and booking details.
Exploring Surrounding Towns with Kids
Staying in Alicante with kids is just the beginning. The nearby towns each offer their own family-friendly highlights, perfect for short day trips or new adventures away from the city.
Elche
Elche, known as the “City of Palms,” is a top pick for families who love nature and history. The town’s famous Palmeral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has endless rows of palm trees and wide, shaded paths.
Children can run and play, and adults can relax on handy benches. Don’t miss the Huerto del Cura Garden, where you’ll spot unusual cacti, pretty fountains, and even some friendly peacocks roaming around.
The garden is stroller-friendly and not too big, so you can see the highlights in an hour or two. For hands-on learning, the Museo Paleontológico de Elche has dinosaur fossils and interactive displays that are a hit with curious kids.
When you need an ice cream stop, try La Ibense Bornay, a classic local favorite near the city center. Elche’s bus connections from central Alicante make it an easy trip—just 30 minutes and you’re there.
Villajoyosa
Villajoyosa is a cheerful coastal town famous for its brightly painted houses along the waterfront. Stroll the promenade—kids always seem to spot a new favorite color with every block.
The sandy main beach is clean, wide, and shallow, ideal for families wanting safe places to swim. If you’re in town on a summer morning, visit the local fish market to see fishermen hauling in their catch.
Even picky eaters might get curious about seafood after watching the boats come in! One can’t-miss spot is the Valor Chocolate Museum, which tells the story of Spain’s chocolate-making tradition.
Kids get to watch real chocolate being made and free samples never hurt morale. For lunch, head to Restaurante Zerca, known for local tapas and fuss-free kid’s meals.
Parking near the beach is usually straightforward, but there’s a handy train—the tram connects you from Alicante’s city center in under an hour.
Guadalest
Guadalest is a tiny hilltop village in the countryside less than an hour from Alicante. The drive itself is part of the experience, with winding roads and amazing views.
Once you arrive, the castle high above the valley becomes the main attraction. Kids love climbing the old stone steps and peeking out over the cliffs.
The Guadalest Castle and surrounding walls offer plenty of space to explore. A small but fascinating museum inside captures visitors’ interest. For a bit of quirky fun, visit the Museo de Miniaturas. Tiny art pieces and dioramas fascinate children and adults alike.
If you need a snack break, grab a table at El Riu Guadalest Café for sandwiches and homemade lemonade.
Restrooms here are clean and child-friendly, making it a good stop for families. Don’t forget your camera—the views of the reservoir below are stunning. Kids will want to snap their own photos.
Guadalest gets busy on weekends. Weekdays are calmer if you prefer fewer crowds.
For more on the best nearby towns to visit with children, see this guide to towns near Alicante.
Travel Tips for Families Visiting Alicante
Alicante with kids is an easy, welcoming adventure. Family-friendly transport, a sunny climate, and plenty to do await visitors.
Getting Around Alicante
Navigating Alicante with kids is surprisingly simple. The airport sits barely 20 minutes by car or taxi from the city center. Pre-book your ride for less hassle.
Many airport transfer companies let you request car seats, which regular taxis often lack.
Once downtown, most key attractions are walkable. The tram system, known locally as TRAM d’Alacant, is excellent for reaching nearby beach towns like Playa de San Juan and the chocolate factories of Villajoyosa.
Just tap your bank card—no paper tickets needed. If you plan a day trip, hop on the tram to see the Guadalest Valley or the famous Valor Chocolate Museum.
Older kids will love the seaside views on the journey. There’s plenty of space for strollers.
Local buses also offer reliable service, though they get crowded during school runs and late afternoons.
Tips for Getting Around:
- Strollers fit easily on trams and buses
- Airport taxis rarely have car seats—book ahead
- Many streets are cobblestone; pack sturdy shoes
- Consider a lightweight stroller for steep hills near Castillo de Santa Bárbara
Best Time to Visit
Timing your visit is key for making the most of Alicante with kids. Summer brings hot, busy beaches and packed city squares. If you enjoy swimming and lots of events, late June to August is your sweet spot. Bring hats and sunscreen—shade can be hard to find in midday.
For milder weather, early spring (March to May) and fall (September to October) are perfect. The city feels quieter during these months. Beaches like Postiguet and San Juan have fewer visitors. You can explore parks and museums without long lines.
Rain rarely falls, but a light rain jacket still comes in handy.
Season Comparison Table
| Season | Pros | Cons |
| Spring/Fall | Mild temps, fewer crowds, cheaper hotels | Pools sometimes chilly |
| Summer | Warm sea, many festivals, late sunsets | Crowds, higher prices |
| Winter | Short lines, indoor attractions shine | Some outdoor pools closed, cooler evenings |
If your kids struggle in heat, visit outdoor sights like Castillo de Santa Bárbara in the morning. Save shaded parks or indoor attractions, such as museums or the Valor Chocolate Factory, for later in the day.
Alicante with kids is easy, sunny, and low-stress. Mix a castle morning at Santa Bárbara with beach time at Postiguet or San Juan, add a museum hour (MARQ or Hogueras), then let parks like El Palmeral reset everyone.
The tram keeps day trips simple—think Tabarca, Elche, or chocolate in Villajoyosa—while family-friendly cafés handle the rest.
Pack light, plan around the heat, and leave wiggle room for gelato stops and playground detours. Do that, and Alicante turns into one of those trips your kids talk about for years.