Jávea (Xàbia): it has everything — beach, nature and a town centre
Jávea feels like coming home
Picture this: a morning walk on the Montgó, an afternoon wandering the little streets, drinks at the harbour and the sunset on the beach to finish. This place really does have everything. Welcome to Jávea — or Xàbia, as the locals call it (they speak Valencian). This charming coastal town on the Costa Blanca has everything you could wish for: beautiful beaches, a rich history and a relaxed way of life that many people only dream about.
But what actually makes Jávea special? It is not simply somewhere you come to enjoy a holiday; Jávea feels like coming home, even the first time you are there.
The Old Town
Authentic charm and history
Jávea's Old Town, also known as El Pueblo, is a place where time seems to have stood still. The historic centre, a few kilometres inland, is full of atmosphere. The old fortress wall still runs through it, a reminder of the town's history. Here you wander a tangle of narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses and facades of the local sandstone. The shade of the wrought-iron balconies is a welcome bit of cool on a summer's day.
Highlights of the Old Town
Iglesia de San Bartolomé
This imposing 14th-century Gothic church is both an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of the town. It once offered protection against pirates; today it is a quiet point right in the middle of town.
Mercado Municipal de Abastos
The covered market is the place for fresh fish, vegetables and regional specialities. Locals are happy to share their best recipes for an authentic Spanish dish.
Plaça de Baix
This friendly village square is the social heart of the Old Town. Take a seat on one of the terraces, order a café con leche and watch life go by.
Living in the Old Town
Living in the Old Town means choosing authenticity. Think handsome houses with courtyards (townhouses, as they are called here), traditional balconies and historic detail. Many have been carefully renovated and offer a rare mix of old charm and modern comfort. Perfect for anyone after quiet in a place with character.
There are genuinely good restaurants and lovely shops up here. Our favourites? Chola Gastro (a wonderful courtyard garden), Restaurante Portixol (good value) and La Trastienda Wine (excellent wine). Still on our wish list? Cajita Azul — but you really do have to book well ahead. We tend not to plan that far in advance, so we still haven't made it.
Arenal
The lively heart of Jávea
Say Jávea and you say Playa del Arenal. This lively beach is the town's social and tourist centre. During the day people come to sunbathe, swim or throw themselves into watersports. The wide golden sand is perfect for families, and thanks to the busy promenade you never have to walk far for an ice-cold drink or a good meal. It is a touristy stretch, admittedly — think Scheveningen. Fun, busy and commercial.
Living near Playa del Arenal means living where other people take their holidays. Whether you like a quiet morning walk along the beach or a lively evening on the promenade, everything you need for a relaxed and sociable life is here.
Why live near Arenal?
The neighbourhood around Playa del Arenal offers a rare mix of sociability and convenience.
Amenities
Everything you need is close by. Supermarkets, shops, restaurants and cafés are all within walking distance, as is the promenade.
Homes
You will find upmarket apartment complexes a stone's throw from the beach. Many have balconies or terraces looking out to sea. There are also modern villas in the streets just off the busy promenade.
Hotspots not to miss
Otra vez
André Hazes on the wall, bitterballen on the menu and a photo mural of Amsterdam.
The Jávea Group restaurants
Plenty of choice here: a cool Ibiza-style beach place like La Siesta, live music at Bambula, breakfast at Chabada or a smarter dinner at Bohemians. Nice places, though we don't think the quality is quite top. We still go, because the concepts are good fun.
Palmito Beach
A good beach bar, with boat hire just behind it. Bali/Ibiza-style parasols and food worth staying for.
The natural beauty of Jávea
Jávea is praised not only for its beaches and historic charm but for the spectacular landscape in and around the town. The Montgó, standing over the town like a guardian, is one of its most iconic landmarks — the elephant mountain, as it is known. Walks in the natural park around it offer breathtaking views over the town and the Mediterranean.
The coastline's hidden gems
Cala Granadella
This out-of-the-way cove with crystal-clear water is a paradise for snorkellers and kayakers. There is a reason it is so often named one of Spain's most beautiful beaches.
Cabo de la Nao
The rugged cliffs of Cabo de la Nao give spectacular long views and are a favourite with walkers.
Cova Tallada
A historic cave reachable only by an adventurous walk or by kayak. You can feel the history in walls that were once quarried to build local churches and castles.
Playa del Portichol
Sometimes called the beach with the little blue doors. A gorgeous pebble cove with a great restaurant, and properly Ibiza in feel. We like to have lunch at Cala Clemence, which often has a DJ at weekends in summer.
Which neighbourhood suits you?
Whether you are after the cheerful bustle of Arenal, the authentic charm of the Old Town or the quiet of a villa with sea views, Jávea has something for everyone. A few popular neighbourhoods:
El Tosalet
A green oasis of traditional villas, ideal for families.
Montgó
Spacious villas looking out to the mountain and the sea — perfect if you love the outdoors.
Portichol
Exclusive villas with direct access to the coast.
Balcón al Mar
For anyone after privacy and quiet, with breathtaking views.
Arenal
Apartments with sea views, for people who like everything within walking distance.
Puerto
Lots of apartments and small townhouses — suited to people who want a quiet home with everything still close at hand.
Why choose Jávea?
Jávea is a town where everything comes together: the rich history, the natural beauty and a lively community make it a place where life is just that bit better. Whether you dream of a modern apartment on the promenade, a characterful house in the historic centre or a luxury villa with an infinity pool, Jávea is the perfect place to make your Mediterranean dream real.
And Gusto Casa Spanje is glad to help you make that dream happen in Jávea. With our knowledge of the local market and our personal approach, we find the home that genuinely suits you.