Playa de la Solsida

Introduction

Welcome, lovers of tranquility and natural beauty! Today we dive into one of those corners that steal our hearts and invite us to completely disconnect. We're talking about Playa de la Solsida, a hidden gem in the charming municipality of Altea, in the sunny province of Alicante. If you're looking to escape the bustle of the busier beaches and find an oasis of peace where time seems to stand still, you've come to the right place.

Playa de la Solsida is not your typical fine golden sand beach; its charm lies precisely in its uniqueness. With a pebble seabed and waters of astonishing transparency, this cove offers us a different, more intimate experience, in direct contact with nature. It's the perfect setting for those who value serenity, the purity of the sea, and the chance to explore a vibrant seabed. Get ready to discover a place where the Mediterranean shows its most authentic and captivating side.

How to Get to Playa de la Solsida

Getting to Playa de la Solsida is part of the adventure and rewards us with the feeling of having discovered a treasure. Located north of the Campomanes port (Marina Greenwich), the main access is usually via a local road branching off the N-332. As we approach Altea, we'll look for signs towards the marina or the surrounding residential areas. Once there, we'll follow the road winding between villas and vegetation until we find a small turnoff or path that leads directly to the beach or its vicinity.

It's important to consider that parking near Playa de la Solsida can be limited, especially during the summer months. We often find small areas to leave the car, but it's advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot. From where we park, we'll probably have to descend a short stretch, sometimes with stairs or a somewhat uneven path, which adds a touch of exclusivity to the cove. But we assure you the effort is worth it when we see its crystal-clear waters waiting for us!

The Sand and Water

This is where Playa de la Solsida stands out from many other beaches on the Costa Blanca. Forget fine sand; what you'll find under your feet are pebbles and small rounded stones. This, far from being a drawback, is one of its most appreciated characteristics. We highly recommend bringing water shoes or suitable footwear for the water, as it greatly facilitates walking and entering the sea, and protects our feet from the small stones.

But if the ground is peculiar, the water is simply spectacular. The transparency of the waters at Playa de la Solsida is impressive, allowing us to see the seabed with amazing clarity. This is largely due to the absence of sand that could cloud the water. The color of the sea ranges between turquoise and deep blue tones, inviting us to dive in and discover the rich underwater life it harbors. It's a paradise for snorkeling and diving, where we can observe fish, algae, and rock formations with total clarity. The water temperature is typically Mediterranean, pleasant and refreshing during the warm months.

Services and Facilities

As a cove of a more natural and tranquil character, Playa de la Solsida does not have the extensive list of services found in larger urban beaches. However, it does have the essentials to make our day comfortable and pleasant. During the high season, we usually find one or two chiringuitos, which offer us refreshments, ice cream, and some light food options, ideal for replenishing energy without having to leave the beach. It's a pleasure to enjoy a cold drink with those views.

Furthermore, in the summer months, there is usually a lifeguard service, which gives us additional peace of mind, especially if we're with children or are not very experienced swimmers. Showers are also usually available, allowing us to rinse off the salt and sand before heading home. As mentioned, parking is limited, so planning ahead is key. Don't expect umbrella or sunbed rentals in all areas, although the chiringuito might offer some options. It's a beach that invites you to bring your own towel and enjoy the space naturally.

Best Time to Visit

We always say that Playa de la Solsida has charm at almost any time of year, but if we're looking for the perfect experience, there are key moments. Spring (April, May, early June) and autumn (September, October) are, without a doubt, our favorite times. During these months, the weather is mild, temperatures are ideal for sunbathing and swimming, and the number of people is considerably lower. We can enjoy the cove in its fullness, with a peace and tranquility that allows us to truly connect with the surroundings.

Summer (July and August) is, of course, the busiest time. The waters are at their warmest and the atmosphere is livelier. If we opt for summer, we advise visiting the beach early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak hours and heat. During winter, although swimming is only for the brave, Playa de la Solsida remains a wonderful place for a walk, breathing fresh air, and enjoying the beauty of the winter Mediterranean landscape, often with radiant sunshine.

Activities and Sports

Playa de la Solsida is a natural setting that invites a variety of activities, especially those related to the sea and nature observation. As we've already highlighted, snorkeling is the star activity here. The clarity of its waters and the richness of its seabed make it an unforgettable experience. We just need a mask, a snorkel, and fins to dive into a fascinating underwater world, observing colorful fish and rock formations.

For the more adventurous, diving is another excellent option. There are diving centers in Altea and the nearby Campomanes port that organize excursions to points of interest near the cove, where marine life is even more diverse. Kayaking and paddle surfing are also very popular, allowing us to explore the coast from a different perspective, paddling calmly over the crystal-clear waters and discovering small caves or neighboring coves. And, of course, the quintessential activity is simply swimming in its refreshing waters or relaxing under the sun, enjoying the sound of waves gently breaking against the pebbles. It's the perfect place to read a book, meditate, or simply do nothing.

For Families with Children

When considering Playa de la Solsida as a family destination, we must consider some particularities. While its calm and clear waters are ideal for bathing, the pebble seabed can be a factor to consider if we're with very young children. For them, fine sand is usually more comfortable for playing and building sandcastles. However, with proper preparation, Solsida can be a fantastic experience for the whole family.

Our recommendation is that children, especially the little ones, use water shoes or sandals to protect their feet from the stones. For slightly older children, the cove is a paradise. The opportunity to go snorkeling and discover marine life is something that will fascinate them and keep them entertained for hours. They can explore the rocks, look for different shells, and marvel at the water's transparency. If the children already know how to swim, the calm waters and lifeguard supervision in summer make it a safe place to enjoy the sea. Furthermore, the calmer atmosphere of the cove allows for greater control and a sense of security not always found in more crowded beaches.

What to Do in the Surrounding Area

The location of Playa de la Solsida in Altea gives us the opportunity to explore a region rich in culture, nature, and leisure. Here are some of our suggestions:

Altea Pueblo

• Old Town: We cannot miss visiting the iconic old town of Altea, with its whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and the famous blue dome of the Church of Our Lady of Consolation. It's perfect for strolling, dining in its charming restaurants, and enjoying the views from its viewpoints.
• Promenade: A pleasant walk by the sea, with shops, restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Nature and Adventure

• Sierra Helada Natural Park: A short distance away, this park offers hiking trails with spectacular views of the coast and cliffs. Ideal for nature and trekking lovers.
• Fuentes del Algar: About 30-40 minutes by car, these waterfalls and natural pools are a freshwater oasis, perfect for a day trip and a refreshing swim in the heart of nature.
• Peñón de Ifach (Calpe): About 20 minutes away, we can climb this impressive rock to enjoy panoramic views of the coast and observe seabirds.

Leisure and Family

• Benidorm: Just 15-20 minutes away, we find a wide range of leisure options, including theme parks like Terra Mítica, water parks like Aqualandia and Mundomar, and lively nightlife.
• Markets: Exploring the local markets of Altea or other nearby towns is an excellent way to get to know the region's crafts and typical products.

What to Do When It Rains

Although the sun is usually the protagonist in Alicante, there can always be a grey day. But don't worry, the area offers many alternatives to enjoy even in the rain:

• Museo del Mar y el Puerto de Altea: A small museum that brings us closer to the maritime history of the town.
• Art Galleries of Altea: The old town of Altea is known for its numerous art galleries and artisan workshops, perfect for an afternoon of cultural exploration.
• Shopping in shopping centers: The 'Portal de la Marina' shopping center in Ondara (about 30 minutes away) or the shopping centers in Benidorm offer a wide variety of shops, cinemas, and dining areas to spend the day.
• Winery visits: The province of Alicante is known for its wines. We can organize a visit to a nearby winery to learn about the production process and do a tasting.
• Relaxation in a spa: Many hotels in Altea and its surroundings have spa facilities where we can relax and pamper ourselves a bit.

Recommended Hotels

Altea and its surroundings offer a varied range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. If we want to be close to Playa de la Solsida and enjoy a more exclusive atmosphere, the area around the Campomanes marina and the surrounding residential areas offer luxury villas and apartments with sea views. For a more authentic and charming experience, we recommend staying in the old town of Altea, where you'll find:

• Boutique hotels: Small establishments with personality, many located in historic buildings with very attentive service. They are ideal for couples or those seeking a romantic stay.
• Tourist apartments: An excellent option for families or groups of friends, giving us the freedom of having our own kitchen and more space. There are options with sea views or in the heart of the town.
• Beach hotels: Along the pas