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Montgó Mountain stands watch over the sunlit seaside town of Jávea, where rugged nature meets the sparkling Mediterranean.

15 Quirky Things to Do in Jávea (Xàbia), Costa Blanca, Spain

  • Post category:Spain / Javea
  • Post last modified:20 April 2025

Looking for things to do in Jávea that break the mold? You’re in the right place. Jávea (or Xàbia) is one of the Costa Blanca’s most charming coastal towns, blending Mediterranean beaches, gothic alleyways, and strange local legends into one unforgettable destination.


📍 Where Is Jávea in Spain?

Tucked between rocky headlands on Spain’s southeastern coast, Jávea (or Xàbia) is a tranquil Mediterranean town with a front-row seat to both sunrise and sea breezes. Nestled in the province of Alicante, it’s halfway between Valencia and Alicante city, offering a peaceful retreat from Spain’s busier beach hubs.


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In this guide, we’re skipping the usual tourist traps and diving into the offbeat, the odd, and the outrageously beautiful. Whether you’re hiking a mountain shaped like an elephant or sipping herbal liqueur that tastes like absinthe on holiday, these are the most unique things to do in Jávea.


1. Climb Montgó Mountain: One of the Wildest Things to Do in Jávea

Montgó Mountain looms over Jávea like a sleeping elephant—and hiking it is a must. This 753-meter limestone giant offers trails through wild herbs and prehistoric caves, ending in views of Ibiza on clear days.


2. Wander Through Jávea Old Town

One of the most atmospheric things to do in Jávea is lose yourself in the Old Town’s golden Tosca-stone alleys. Explore the San Bartolomé Church, stumble into secret tapas bars, and shop at the Thursday market.

Look for blue talismans above doorways—some locals believe they ward off bad energy. Others say they just look cool.

Things To Do In Javea- Gothic stone entrance of the Church of San Bartolomé in Jávea Old Town, Alicante, Spain
The imposing Gothic entrance of the Iglesia-Fortaleza de San Bartolomé in Jávea (Xàbia), Alicante — a 14th-century church built from local tosca stone, blending religious and defensive architecture.
Image credit: Marcosjavea / Wikimedia Commons – CC BY-SA 3.0

3. Discover the Forgotten Windmills of La Plana

A row of ancient windmills sits quietly on the La Plana plateau. Some date back to the 14th century, now roofless and weathered by time. The vibe? Abandoned sci-fi set meets panoramic sea views.


4. Hike to Cala Sardinera

Want things to do in Jávea that feel like a secret? Hike through pine forest to reach Cala Sardinera, a no-road-access beach with white stones, clear water, and almost no crowds.

Bring water, sturdy shoes, and a sense of adventure.


5. Try the Local Booze: Herbero, Mistela, Tinto de Verano

Drinking your way through the region is one of the quirkiest things to do in Jávea:

  • Herbero: Herbal liqueur from the Alicante mountains
  • Mistela: Sweet fortified wine
  • Tinto de Verano: Red wine + lemon soda

6. Visit the Museo Soler Blasco

Housed in a 17th-century nobleman’s home, this museum is full of pirate bones, Roman artifacts, and moody portraits. It’s one of the least visited, most fascinating things to do in Jávea.

Bonus: Admission is free or nearly free.

✨ Ready to plan your trip?


7. Eat Like a Local: Bullit de Peix & Fideuà

For culinary things to do in Jávea, don’t miss these:

  • Bullit de Peix: A rich fish stew, followed by rice cooked in the broth
  • Fideuà: Like paella, but with noodles and more garlic

Both are hearty, humble, and delicious.


8. Walk the Mirador Route

Jávea’s cliffside Mirador Route includes 15 scenic viewpoints. Think Big Sur meets Mediterranean magic.

Top stops:

  • Cap de Sant Antoni
  • Cabo de la Nao
  • Mirador del Ambolo
Clifftop lighthouse at Cabo de la Nao, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in Jávea, Spain
Cabo de la Nao (Cape Nao) juts dramatically into the Mediterranean Sea just south of Jávea, crowned by a historic lighthouse and offering sweeping views of the rugged Costa Blanca coastline.
Image credit: Werner Wilmes / Flickr – CC BY 2.0

9. Rooftop Yoga and Sea-View Cocktails

Need relaxing things to do in Jávea? Join a yoga class at sunrise, then unwind at La Siesta or The Beach House with a G&T and sunset views.


10. Explore Cala Granadella and Cala Portitxol

These coves rank high among the best beaches and things to do in Jávea:

  • Cala Granadella: Blue water, dramatic cliffs
  • Cala Portitxol: A lively beach with local flair

Bring a snorkel. You’ll want it.


11. Watch Fishermen Work in the Port

A simple but satisfying thing to do in Jávea: head to the Port early and watch the fishermen mend nets and unload sardines. It’s slow travel at its best.


12. Snap the Blue Door on Calle Loreto

Instagrammer? You need a shot of the mysterious blue door on Calle Loreto. No one knows why it’s famous. That’s what makes it fun.


13. Paddleboard at Sunset

Catch calm water and orange skies by paddleboarding at dusk. It’s one of the most peaceful things to do in Jávea.


Two people paddleboarding on calm sea waters at sunset, silhouetted against an orange sky
Golden hour on the Mediterranean: two paddleboarders glide across the calm sea, silhouetted by the warm glow of a Jávea sunset.

14. Shop the Summer Night Market

Handmade jewelry, ceramics, herbs, and oddities. Jávea’s summer night market is the place to find a souvenir you won’t regret.


15. Get Lost on Purpose

Some of the best things to do in Jávea aren’t on any list. Wander. Explore. Let the town surprise you.


FAQs: Planning Your Trip to Jávea

When should I visit Jávea?
Spring and early autumn are ideal—warm weather, fewer crowds.

How do I get there?
Fly into Alicante or Valencia, then drive or take a bus (1.5 hrs each).

Is Jávea walkable?
Yes, but for beaches and cliffs, rent a car or e-bike.

Do I need a visa?
Not if you’re from the US, UK, CA, AUS, or NZ (under 90 days).

Is English spoken?
Yes, but locals appreciate a few words of Spanish or Valencian.

Budget range?
Mid-range travelers can expect €100–€150/day.


Planning to explore Jávea ?


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