Playa del Xarco

Introduction

Today we explore a special corner of the Costa Blanca, a hidden gem that, for many, has become their preferred refuge: Playa del Xarco in Villajoyosa, Alicante. This cove, semi-urban in character but with an undeniably natural spirit, offers us a different beach experience, far from the hustle and bustle of large crowds. It's a place where time seems to stand still, where the sound of the waves mixes with the sea breeze, and where coexistence, even with our four-legged friends, is the norm.

Playa del Xarco is, without a doubt, one of the most appreciated beaches by lovers of tranquility and, above all, by those who travel with their pets. Its status as a pet-friendly beach makes it an oasis for dogs and their owners, who find here a space to share the joy of the Mediterranean. But it's not just that; its natural beauty, crystal-clear water, and relaxed atmosphere make it attractive for any visitor seeking to disconnect and enjoy the essence of the Alicante coast. It's a place that, once you discover it, calls you back again and again, always promising moments of peace and connection with nature.

In this article, we will break down every detail of Playa del Xarco, from how to get there to what to do in its surroundings, including its gastronomy and services. We want you to feel, by the end of this reading, that you already know this very special cove and that you are encouraged to visit it to experience it firsthand. Get ready to discover why Playa del Xarco is much more than just a beach; it's an experience, a lifestyle, and a piece of paradise on the coast of Villajoyosa.

How to Get to Playa del Xarco

Getting to Playa del Xarco is relatively easy, although its location, slightly away from the center of Villajoyosa, helps maintain its tranquil and less crowded atmosphere. Generally, the best option to access this cove is by car, which gives us the flexibility to move at our own pace and bring everything needed for a day at the beach.

By Car

If we are coming from Villajoyosa center, we must head south, following the coast. The beach is about 5-6 kilometers from the urban center. From the N-332, we will find signs towards the southern coves area, and once we take the exit, the signage to Playa del Xarco is usually quite clear. It's important to pay attention to the signs, as the final access is via a small road that descends to the cove. If we are coming from Benidorm or Alicante, we will also take the N-332 towards Villajoyosa and look for the exits towards the southern coves before reaching the center of the municipality.

Once we arrive in the area, we have a parking lot that, while not excessively large, usually has spaces available, especially outside the high season. It's an open-air parking lot, free of charge, which is a considerable advantage. However, in July and August, and during summer weekends, it can fill up quickly, so we recommend arriving early to secure a good spot. The proximity of the parking lot to the sand is a plus, making it easier to transport our belongings and, of course, our dogs.

Public Transport

Access by public transport is more limited. There is no bus line that goes directly to the sand of Playa del Xarco. Some urban lines from Villajoyosa or intercity lines connecting with nearby towns like Benidorm or Alicante could drop us off on the N-332, but from there we would have to walk a considerable distance, which could be several kilometers, along a road without a shoulder in some sections. For this reason, and for the convenience of bringing our pets and our beach gear, the car is the most practical and recommended option for visiting this cove.

Other Means

For the more adventurous, or if we are staying nearby, a bicycle could be an alternative. The road leading to the beach is a bit steep in the final stretch, but the coastal route can be very pleasant. However, it is not the most comfortable option if we are carrying a lot of luggage or our dogs. In summary, to fully enjoy Playa del Xarco, a private vehicle is our best ally.

The Sand and the Water

When we talk about Playa del Xarco, one of the first aspects that catches our attention is its unique composition. We are not facing a typical fine golden sand beach, but rather we find a mixed-type surface, where sand intertwines with small pebbles and gravel. This characteristic gives it a special charm, a different feel underfoot, and a water clarity that many pure sand beaches envy.

The Beach Floor

The type of floor at Playa del Xarco is, as mentioned, mixed. Small pebbles and stones predominate in the area closest to the shore and on the seabed, while in the upper part of the beach we can find more sandy areas. This mix has its advantages: on one hand, it helps keep the water incredibly clean and clear, as the sand is not suspended as easily. Furthermore, the presence of pebbles can be a bit uncomfortable for walking barefoot, so we recommend bringing water shoes or suitable footwear, especially if we plan to go into the water or explore the rocks.

The Water Quality

The water quality at Playa del Xarco is consistently excellent. The waters are a vibrant turquoise blue with a transparency that invites swimming and underwater exploration. Without large amounts of fine sand that could cloud the wat