Christmas and New Year on the Costa Blanca: a Winter Break by the Sea

 
Imagine starting Christmas morning with an unhurried breakfast and a walk to the sea. Christmas and New Year on the Costa Blanca offer a change of scenery and the chance to finish the year at your own pace. Orihuela Costa, on Spain's southeastern coast, can be your base for a holiday that combines relaxed days with exploring the surrounding area.
 
 
 

What is the weather like at Christmas?

Expect a milder winter rather than summer heat. AEMET's 1981–2010 climate averages for Alicante give daily highs of 17.7°C in December and 17.0°C in January. These are a regional reference, not a forecast for Orihuela Costa.
 
A sunny afternoon invites a walk, while evenings call for a jacket. Pack layers, comfortable shoes and protection against wind and rain. Plan your stay around outings and time outdoors; swimming in the sea or an unheated pool depends on conditions and how comfortable you are with cold water.
 
 
 

A seaside Christmas at your own pace

Keep the traditions you enjoy and make room for something local. Prepare a favourite dinner, add Spanish festive treats and spend part of the day beside the sea. Turrón, marzipan and polvorones are among the sweets to try.
 
Leave one day completely open. Go out for coffee, take a walk around Playa Flamenca and return whenever you feel like it. A holiday home gives you the freedom to build the day around your family rather than a full sightseeing schedule.
 
 
 

Winter day trips from Orihuela Costa

Choose one main destination each day and leave time for lunch:
 

• Alicante: combine a city walk with Santa Bárbara Castle and coastal views.

• Elche: explore the Palmeral palm groves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Cartagena: head into the neighbouring Murcia region for its Roman theatre and harbour.

Check holiday opening hours and transport before setting out. If hiring a car, compare the full cost, including insurance, terms and parking. Keep a museum visit, a leisurely lunch or a quiet day at your accommodation as an option for wet or chilly weather.
 
 
 

New Year's Eve: twelve grapes and your choice of celebration

Spain's New Year's Eve is called Nochevieja. One tradition is to eat twelve grapes with the twelve midnight chimes, expressing a wish for luck in the coming year.
 
Choose the evening that suits you: a restaurant dinner, a gathering with loved ones or a relaxed countdown at your holiday home. Confirm restaurant menus, prices and bookings in advance. For public celebrations and transport changes, consult the official municipal website rather than relying on last year's programme.
 
 
 

What should you check before booking?

Coordinate your dates, travel and accommodation availability first. Ask about heating, kitchen facilities and winter pool arrangements. Plan your shopping around holiday opening hours.
 
To experience the Three Kings celebrations too, consider staying until 6 January. Parades traditionally take place on 5 January, but check local arrangements with the organisers. Our article about Christmas traditions in Spain explains more about the festivities.
 
 
Make the end of the year a seaside escape. Explore our holiday home in Orihuela Costa and check availability for Christmas and New Year on the Costa Blanca.
 

Check availability and book your stay

Frequently asked questions

 
Is the Costa Blanca warm enough for swimming at Christmas?

Plan primarily for sightseeing and time outdoors. Swimming depends on the weather, water temperature and whether the pool is heated.

 
 
What should I pack for a December stay?

Layers, a jacket for evenings, rain protection and comfortable walking shoes.

 
 
Is Orihuela Costa a good base for a winter holiday?

It can suit a coastal stay with day trips. Check transport options and the property's winter facilities before booking.