Beyond the Neon: An Insider’s Guide on What to Do in Benidorm (That Locals Actually Love)

There is a specific smell in Benidorm around 11:00 AM. When searching for what to do in Benidorm, if you stick to the main strip, you’ll find a mix of factor 50 sun cream and reheating fryer oil. But if you know where to go—if you know this town like we do—the air smells of sea salt, pine trees, and eventually, the smoky, irresistible aroma of charcoal grilling meat.

I have spent years welcoming guests at La Parrilla de Hector. I’ve seen the relief on their faces when they step off the chaotic streets and into our dining room. They often ask, «What is there to actually do here besides the beach and the bars?»

The answer is: plenty. But you have to know where to look. Benidorm is a city of two faces. There is the one you see on TV, and then there is the real Mediterranean soul hiding in plain sight.

If you are wondering what to do in Benidorm to make your holiday memorable (for the right reasons), put down the generic brochures. Here is your itinerary for a perfect day, curated by the people who live here.

09:00 AM | The Anti-Hangover: Escape to Tío Ximo

Most tourists head straight for Levante Beach. By noon, it is a sea of umbrellas and noise. If you want crystal clear water and silence, you need to head north.

Pack your shoes and take a short taxi ride (or a vigorous walk) up the hill to Cala Tío Ximo. This is a tiny, rugged cove at the base of the Sierra Gelada. It is wild, rocky, and beautiful.

Why go: It is nature in its rawest form. Perfect for snorkelling.

12:00 PM | Electric Breezes & The Old Town

Once you have washed off the salt, head towards the Old Town (El Casco Antiguo). But don’t just walk up the big hills; the heat can be brutal.

Rent an electric bike to conquer the steep road up to Mirador de La Cruz (The Cross). The view from up here puts the whole city into perspective—the skyscrapers look like Lego blocks against the massive blue sea.

Once parked, explore the Balcón del Mediterráneo on foot. Yes, it is popular, but standing on that white-tiled pentagon with the wind in your hair is a rite of passage.

15:00 PM | The Family Reset or The Siesta

If you are travelling with family, the afternoon is tricky. The kids have energy; you want to relax.

For Families: Aqualandia is iconic for a reason, but if you want something lower stakes, head to Poniente Beach. It is the «Spanish» side of Benidorm. Broader, cleaner, and with a promenade that was designed for leisurely strolling, not partying. The architecture of the promenade itself mimics the waves—it’s stunning.

For Couples: This is prime siesta time. Do as the locals do. Rest. You will need your energy for the evening.

19:30 PM | The Ritual of Fire: Dinner at La Parrilla de Hector

As the sun begins to dip, the atmosphere in Benidorm changes. The neon lights flicker on. You are likely staying near the English Zone or the Rincón de Loix. You might be tempted to jump into the nearest pub for a «full English» dinner.

Don’t. You didn’t fly to Spain to eat what you eat in Birmingham.

Head to the start of Calle Gerona. Here, you will find us. La Parrilla de Hector isn’t just a restaurant; it is a sanctuary of authenticity. We are an authentic Argentine Grill, which means we treat the Asado (barbecue) as a religion.

We are located right where the action starts, making us the perfect anchor for your night.

The «Insider» Order

Don’t know what to order? Trust me on this:

• Start with a Provolone: Melted cheese with oregano and olive oil, bubbling in a clay dish. It prepares the palate.
• The Main Event: While our «Entraña» (Skirt Steak) is a hidden gem, you cannot go wrong with the classics: the Sirloin, Rib Eye, or Fillet Steak. We cook them to absolute perfection over the coals.
• The World-Class Choice: If you are a true meat lover, ask for our Award-Winning Cuts. We proudly serve beef that was awarded 2nd Place in the World Steak Challenge (specifically the Bife Ancho and Bife Angosto). This is officially some of the best meat on the planet.
• The Wine: Skip the house red. We offer a wide variety of Argentine wines that bring the true flavor of the Andes to your table. Ask for a bottle of Malbec; its bold structure stands up to the smokiness of the meat.

This is a moment to slow down. In a city that rushes, we take our time.

22:00 PM | Nightlife with Class

You are fed, happy, and smelling faintly of good Malbec. Now, when deciding what to do in Benidorm after dark, you have excellent options right on your doorstep.

• For the Glamour: Casino Mediterráneo offers a sophisticated vibe without the commitment of a show dinner. Located nearby, it’s perfect for a digestif, viewing art in the lobby, or simply enjoying the refined atmosphere away from the madness of the strip.
• For the Music: If you want live music without the sticky floors, look for the venues hosting the «Tribute Acts» early in the evening. They are surprisingly high quality.
• For the Conversation: Head up to a rooftop bar near the Old Town. A gin and tonic overlooking the illuminated skyline is the perfect way to close the book on your day.

Logistical «Cheat Sheet»: Essential Tips on What to do in Benidorm

Category	Advice
Transport	Taxis are reliable and metered. Buses are cheap (look for the Llorente Bus cards).
Safety	Benidorm is safe, but pickpockets love the beach crowds. Keep phones zipped away.
Water	Tap water is safe to drink, but the taste is heavily chlorinated. Buy bottled water for taste.
Tipping	Not mandatory like in the US. If the service was good, leave 5-10% or round up the bill.

Final Thoughts from the Grill

Benidorm is what you make of it. You can have the chaotic, loud holiday, and that’s fine. But if you want to find the heart of this place, you have to slow down. You have to seek out the quiet coves, the sweeping views, and the food that is cooked with passion, not just a timer.

We look forward to welcoming you at La Parrilla de Hector. Come for the steak, stay for the feeling of being exactly where you are meant to be.

Ready to experience the best meat in Benidorm? Walk-ins are welcome, but for the best tables on the terrace, we recommend booking in advance.