10 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Javea, Spain: A Local Guide
As a local estate agent here in Javea, we often get asked about more than just properties—families looking to settle or spend their holidays here want to know about the local lifestyle.
Javea, or Xàbia, as we say in Valencian, is an exceptional place for families, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and rich cultural experiences.
If you are considering making Javea your home or just visiting with your family, here’s our guide to some of the best family-friendly activities in our beautiful town.
1. Relax at Playa del Arenal: The Ultimate Family Beach
Playa del Arenal is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Javea. Its golden sand and shallow waters are ideal for young children, and there are several play areas for them to enjoy. There are Volleyball nets and every watersport you can think of.
The Arenal promenade has a wide variety of restaurants, serving breakfast to dinner, perfect for families to enjoy meals at any time of day, with options ranging from seafood and tapas to pizza, burgers, sushi, and more.
This beach also offers a range of shops catering to locals and visitors. Along the beachfront promenade, you will find souvenir shops, boutiques, and beachwear stores selling swimwear, clothing, and accessories.
There are also convenience stores for snacks, drinks and essentials. Farmacias and shops selling sunscreen, towels, and beach gear. For those interested in local products, a few artisan shops feature handcrafted items, jewellery, and gifts. Kids love checking out the “Ale-Hop” shop and stopping by the Heladería la Jijonenca, an ice cream parlour with a wonderful selection of flavours.
2. Water Sports Heaven
Javea is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Families can try paddleboarding, kayaking, and even windsurfing together.
The Arenal Beach is a fantastic hub for hiring equipment or booking lessons; for more information on what to book and where, read our blog on Water sports in Javea, Spain.
3. Explore the Port
Javea’s bustling port offers a true taste of Mediterranean life. Take your kids to watch the fishing boats come in and visit the local fish market.
Visit the weekly Artisan Market at Javea Port to see the fantastic range of handmade products - the market is held every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 until 14:00.
There is a Tourist Information Centre in Javea Port where you can learn about Javea and its many amazing places to visit and things to do.
Cine Jayan, a recently renovated big-screen cinema, is a delight. It has a very comfortable modern interior with the latest films, and they have a good selection of popcorn, chocolates, drinks and ice cream.
4. Wandering Javea’s Old Town
You can never get tired of exploring Javea’s Old Town. Its whitewashed buildings, narrow streets, and lively squares make it a charming village to wander with the family.
There are plenty of cafés and little shops and boutiques to check out.
On Thursdays, there is an open-air market in the main square, with stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables, and local delicacies. A good time to sample “churros y chocolate”, a fresh crunchy doughnut dipped in a thick, hot chocolate. More market stalls offer artisan toys, jewellery, clothes and souvenirs.
5. Learn About Local History at Soler Blasco Archaeological Museum
Javea’s rich history is a big draw for families who enjoy learning about different cultures. The Soler Blasco Archaeological Museum offers an educational trip where kids can learn about the area’s fascinating past. Explore artefacts from prehistoric to medieval times, a collection dedicated to underwater archaeology, and a showcase of traditional culture and customs.
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, with varying hours in summer and winter.
6. Cala Granadella: A Snorkelling Paradise
Granadella Beach has been awarded the prestigious Bandera Azul (Blue Flag) every year since 1989! This picturesque cove is a must-visit for families who enjoy nature. With its clear turquoise waters, this beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
It offers some of the best snorkelling on the Costa Blanca. Take a picnic or book a table at La Bandideta Granadella Beach Bar.
7. Family Walks in Montgó Natural Park
Montgó Natural Park is a key attraction in Javea, offering family-friendly hiking trails that provide panoramic views of the town and the Mediterranean. It’s a great place to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh air.
You can find more information at Montgó Natural Park visitor centre. Pack a picnic, and remember to take sunscreen, a hat, water, and your camera!
8. Cycling Around Javea
Cycling is a favourite way to explore Javea, and there are plenty of family-friendly routes. Whether you stick to the coastline or head into the countryside, it is a fun and healthy way to see the town. Hire bikes from Xabia’s Bike shop in Javea Port, Blanca Bikes, close to the Arenal or Siesta Advisor.
9. Karting Javea: High-Speed Family Fun
If your family loves action and speed, Karting Javea is excellent fun for kids and adults alike! Karting Javea has go-karts with different speeds and sizes from age 4 upwards.
10. Take the tourist train
The Tourist Train is a fun way to get around Javea and is always a hit with the little ones; it has six stops scheduled along the 8-kilometre route: the Port, Javea Historic Centre, and Arenal Beach.
From this year, you can now take the tourist train to Cala de la Granadella from the car park in La Guardia Park urbanisation; the train will run daily until mid-September.
Why Javea is Perfect for Families
As a local estate agent, we’ve seen many families fall in love with Javea for its incredible blend of coastal living, outdoor activities, and vibrant culture.
If you’re interested in exploring the property market here, we are happy to help you find a home that fits your family’s lifestyle; Javea truly has something for every family!
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We can provide you with all the necessary information about Spanish residency requirements, the cost of living, buying a property, the healthcare system, local schools and education, and anything else you may need to know. Feel free to contact us—we are happy to help you plan your move to sunny Spain. Vamos!
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