Cala del Tío Ximo

Introduction

Welcome to a corner of Benidorm that breaks all stereotypes. When we think of this vibrant city in Alicante, its bustling urban beaches, imposing skyscrapers, and incessant activity often come to mind. However, Benidorm jealously guards small treasures that invite us to discover another, more intimate and natural facet. One of its best-kept secrets is clearly Cala del Tío Ximo, a true oasis of tranquility and beauty that stole our hearts from the very first visit.

Strategically located between the cliffs of Sierra Helada, this cove presents itself as a serene and picturesque alternative to the large Levante and Poniente beaches. It's the perfect place for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle, immerse themselves in transparent waters, and enjoy nature in its purest state, without giving up the proximity to all the services the city offers. Since we discovered it, we have recommended Cala del Tío Ximo to all our friends and travelers looking for a different experience on the Costa Blanca, an experience that combines the calm of a virgin cove with the comfort of being a step away from everything.

How to Get to Cala del Tío Ximo

Getting to Cala del Tío Ximo is part of the adventure, and although it's not as complicated as it might seem, it requires some knowledge of the area. This charming cove is located in the easternmost part of Benidorm, right at the foot of the Sierra Helada Natural Park, which already gives us a clue about its privileged surroundings. For those coming by car, the most common route is to head towards the Rincón de Loix area, following the signs for the 'Cruz de Benidorm' or the 'Faro del Albir'. Before reaching the highest part, we will find well-signposted turnoffs towards the coves in the area, including ours. Road access is relatively straightforward, with paved streets leading to the vicinity of the cove.

Regarding parking, it's important to be aware that, as it is a small cove in a natural setting, parking options are limited. During the high season, especially in July and August, finding a spot can be a real challenge. We always recommend arriving early in the morning to secure a good spot, or considering options like public transport or even a pleasant walk. There are some parking spaces on adjacent streets, but they tend to fill up quickly. If we don't find parking right next to it, we can look in the upper streets of Rincón de Loix and walk down, enjoying the panoramic views the path offers.

For those who prefer to leave the car aside, Benidorm has an excellent network of urban buses. Several lines bring us close to the Rincón de Loix area, from where we can take a pleasant walk to the cove. It's a 15-20 minute walk from the nearest bus stops, a journey that, in our opinion, is worth it for the views it offers. Furthermore, for hiking enthusiasts, Cala del Tío Ximo is an ideal starting or passing point to explore the routes of the Sierra Helada Natural Park, offering a different perspective on how to reach and enjoy this natural enclave. Whatever option is chosen, arriving at this cove promises a natural setting that will make us forget any minor difficulty of the journey.

The Sand and the Water

One of the features that most attracts us to Cala del Tío Ximo is, without a doubt, the quality of its sand and the impressive clarity of its waters. Unlike the larger beaches of Benidorm, which often have more compact sand, here we find fine, golden sand that invites us to walk barefoot and relax under the sun. It's a soft sand to the touch, perfect for children to play on and for adults to lie down comfortably, feeling the warmth under their feet. Although it's a cove of modest dimensions, the feeling of being in an almost virgin place is palpable thanks to this sand that blends with the blue of the sea.

But if the sand is a plus, the waters of Cala del Tío Ximo are simply spectacular. Their transparency is astonishing, allowing us to see the seabed with exceptional clarity. The color of the sea ranges between turquoise and deep blue tones, creating a beautiful contrast with the ochre of the surrounding cliffs. These calm, crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming, especially for the little ones, as the shore has a gentle slope and there is hardly any wave action, thanks to the natural protection provided by the cliffs. It's a genuine pleasure to immerse yourself in them and feel the freshness and cleanliness that characterize them.

In addition to its beauty, the water's transparency makes Cala del Tío Ximo a paradise for lovers of snorkeling and diving. Right on the sides of the cove, where the sand meets the rocks, a vibrant and full-of-life marine ecosystem forms. With a mask and snorkel, we can explore a fascinating underwater world, observing schools of small fish, starfish, and varied marine flora. We have spent hours here, marveling at the diversity hidden beneath the surface. For us, the combination of fine sand and crystal-clear, life-filled waters makes Cala del Tío Ximo one of the best options to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea at its finest.

Services and Facilities

Despite being a cove with a more natural and less urbanized charm than the large beaches of Benidorm, Cala del Tío Ximo is not devoid of basic services that guarantee a comfortable and pleasant visit. Although we shouldn't expect the same infrastructure as on the main beaches, we do find...