Cala de la Granadella

The Cala de la Granadella folds into the southern edge of Xàbia, where the Marina Alta drops to the sea: a small inlet of white pebbles and turquoise water between cliffs and pinewoods. National Geographic picked it as the best beach in the Valencian Community, and it is a popular cove in summer. Outside peak hours it still turns tranquil.

Cala de la Granadella, pebbles and turquoise

Expect no fine sand here. Light rounded stones floor the cove and lend the water its shift from turquoise to deep blue, with rock walls and pines running almost to the shore. The palette is the whole postcard, so take time to look at the water and rocky setting.

Diving and snorkelling by the reserve

Beside the Cap de Sant Antoni marine reserve, the cove's clear rocky floors suit diving and snorkelling within metres of the shore. A mask alone opens the bottom life, and the clear rocky seabed makes underwater observation part of the visit. Choose your swimming area according to conditions and your experience. Respect any signs and instructions at the cove, avoid disturbing marine life, and judge swimming conditions before entering the water.

Tickets, parking and kit

Access is free, while parking costs 9 euros per day from 15 June to 15 September, 9:00 to 19:00. Pack reef shoes, since the stones punish bare feet, plus water, shade and a mask. Arrive early in summer or use the seasonal transport, then pair the swim with the Xàbia old town. The pine woods and cliffs are part of the cove's setting; bring your own shade for time on the pebbles.

For other visit ideas, browse the places index or consult another nature guide before deciding on a separate outing. Bring water, shade and footwear suitable for the pebbles.