Playa de Chilches (Xilxes)

Introduction

If there's a spot on the coast of Castellón that invites us to disconnect and enjoy the Mediterranean in its purest and most family-friendly state, that is undoubtedly Playa de Chilches (Xilxes). Known locally as Platja de Xilxes, this sandy stretch extends with serene beauty, offering us a genuine beach experience, away from the hustle and bustle of more crowded destinations. We have visited it on numerous occasions and it has always left us with the feeling of having found a small paradise where tranquility and comfort go hand in hand.

Located in the heart of the province of Castellón, between Nules and Moncófar, Playa de Chilches is a destination that shines with its own light, especially for families and couples seeking a coastal refuge. Its warm, crystal-clear waters, along with a service infrastructure designed for visitor well-being, make it a smart choice for our vacations. Here, time seems to slow down, inviting us to enjoy every ray of sun, every sea breeze, and the small pleasures that only such a well-maintained beach can offer. It's a place where happy memories are easily built, where children play safely and adults find the rest they long for.

We consider it one of the hidden gems of the beaches of Castellón, a place where maritime tradition merges with modern tourism, always maintaining an authentic charm. From its beachfront 'chiringuitos' to its impeccable promenades, everything at Playa Chilches is designed to make us feel at home. It's a beach that doesn't seek grandiosity, but authenticity and quality in every detail, and that's precisely what makes it so special and worthy of discovery by those who don't yet know it.

How to Get to Playa de Chilches (Xilxes)

Getting to Playa de Chilches (Xilxes) is relatively easy, which adds to its appeal, especially if we're traveling with family. We always value easy access, and in this case, Chilches does not disappoint.

By Car

For many, the car is the most comfortable and flexible option. The beach is perfectly connected by road. If we're coming from the north or south, the A-7 motorway (Autovía del Mediterráneo) is our best ally. We must take exit 289 towards Nules/Chilches, and from there, follow the signs to the beach. The N-340 road also brings us close to the town, although it's a slower route. Once in the urban center of Chilches, access to the beach area is direct and well signposted. We always find parking without too much difficulty, as it has several public parking areas, some of them free, especially as we move a little away from the beachfront. It's true that in the middle of August we might have to circle around a bit more, but patience always has its reward.

By Train

If we prefer to leave the car at home, the train is an excellent alternative. Chilches has a Cercanías station (Renfe line C-6) that connects with Castellón de la Plana and Valencia. Once at Chilches pueblo station, the beach is about 2-3 kilometers away. We recommend taking a local taxi or, if the weather is nice, enjoying a pleasant walk that will allow us to get to know a bit more of the municipality before reaching the sand. It's a walk that, while not short, is flat and pleasant, ideal for stretching our legs after the journey.

By Bus

Although less frequent than the train or car, there are interurban bus lines connecting Chilches with nearby towns and the provincial capital, Castellón. It's advisable to check specific schedules and routes in advance, as frequency can vary considerably depending on the season. We have found that, for short trips from neighboring municipalities, the bus can be a practical and economical option.

The Sand and the Water

When we talk about Playa de Chilches (Xilxes), the quality of its sand and the clarity of its waters are two of the pillars supporting its reputation. We, as lovers of Mediterranean beaches, always pay attention to these details, and Chilches does not disappoint us at all.

The Sand

The sand of Playa Chilches is what we would describe as 'mixed'. It's not a fine, golden Caribbean-style sand, but rather a mixture of sand with a proportion of fine gravel and pebbles polished by the sea. This characteristic, far from being a drawback, gives it a particular charm and certain advantages. On one hand, it helps keep the water cleaner, as the sand doesn't get stirred up as easily. On the other, it's more comfortable for walking and doesn't stick as much to the skin and towels. Children, for example, enjoy looking for small stones and shells, and we adults appreciate the firmness of the ground under our feet when walking along the shore. It's a type of surface that we find very practical and pleasant for a day at the beach.

The Water

But if something captivates us about Playa de Chilches, it's its waters. They are, in a word, spectacular. With a blue-green hue that invites a swim from the first moment, the waters of Chilches are famous for their cleanliness and calm. The shallow depth at the shore makes it an exceptionally safe place for the little ones, who can splash and play without worries. We always feel at ease seeing children enjoying themselves here. The absence of strong currents and the natural protection of the coast make the sea like a large swimming pool, ideal for swimming calmly, snorkeling, or simply floating and relaxing. The water temperature, especially in the summer months, is very pleasant, the