Calpe
Where the Peñón de Ifach meets the Mediterranean
Welcome to Calpe
Calpe is defined by the towering Peñón de Ifach, a 332-metre limestone monolith that rises straight out of the sea. The town pairs spectacular natural scenery with two of the Costa Blanca's best Blue Flag beaches, a working fishing port, Roman ruins and one of the region's most exciting restaurant scenes.
Who it's ideal for
- Families and active retirees
- Sailing and watersports enthusiasts
- Foodies who want value and quality
- Holiday-home and rental investors
At a glance
- Region
- North Costa Blanca
- Area
- 23.5 km²
- Population
- ≈ 30,000 (doubles in summer)
- Languages
- Spanish, Valencian, English, German, Dutch
History & heritage
Inhabited since the Bronze Age, Calpe holds Phoenician, Roman and Moorish remains — including the 4th-century Banys de la Reina (Queen's Baths) Roman fish-salting site right on the seafront. The old town still shows its medieval walls and Mudéjar church.
Lifestyle
More relaxed than Benidorm, livelier than Moraira. Long seafront promenades, daily fish auctions at the port, family-friendly beaches and a strong outdoor culture built around hiking, sailing and diving.
Best beaches
Playa de la Fossa (Levante)
1.5 km of fine golden sand directly beneath the Peñón, fully equipped — Blue Flag.
Playa del Arenal–Bol
Sandy town beach lined with restaurants, ideal for families.
Cala El Racó
Pebble cove next to the port with crystal-clear water — excellent snorkelling.
Top things to do in Calpe
- 1.Climb the Peñón de Ifach Natural Park (book ahead in summer)
- 2.Visit the Banys de la Reina Roman ruins at low tide
- 3.Watch the afternoon fish auction (lonja) at the port
- 4.Walk the salt flats (Las Salinas) to spot flamingos
- 5.Boat trip to the Isla de Benidorm or along the cliffs
Where to eat & drink
Calpe is a serious foodie destination — home to Michelin-starred Audrey's and Beat, alongside dozens of arrocerías and seafront chiringuitos serving the day's catch.
Where to stay
Wide spread from international 4-star resorts (Gran Hotel Solymar, AR Diamante Beach) to boutique town hotels and thousands of holiday apartments.
Living in Calpe
Healthcare
Schools & education
Transport
Safety
Shopping
Expat community
Property & investment
Market overview
Price range
Rental market
Business opportunities
Tourism, hospitality, construction and real estate remain dominant, with a fast-growing wellness and remote-work segment.
Events & festivals
Moros y Cristianos
Three days of historical parades and battles.
Virgen del Carmen
Fishermen's procession of the Virgin by sea.
Fiestas de la Cocina Calpina
Gastronomic weeks celebrating local cuisine.
Nearby towns
Continue exploring the North Costa Blanca.