La Villajoyosa (or Vila Joiosa), on the beautiful Costa Blanca, is a charming coastal town known for its historic center houses painted in rainbow colors, a tradition dating back to fishermen who painted their homes brightly to identify them from the sea. Less crowded than nearby resorts like Benidorm, it offers an authentic atmosphere, a magnificent promenade, and a strong cultural identity linked to the sea and the ancient chocolate industry, of which it is considered the Spanish capital.

What Our Local Guides Recommend: Color, Sea, and History

• Casas de Colores (Colorful Houses) – Stroll along the Amadorio river and the promenade to admire the iconic multi-colored houses, whose appearance is particularly photogenic at sunset.
• Playa Centro – The main beach, with golden sand, a blue flag, and a wide boardwalk, ideal for a relaxing morning combined with a fresh seafood lunch.
• Vila Museu – To immerse yourself in local history, from Iberian and Roman archaeology to the seafaring tradition.
• Chocolate Factories – Real Experience: We recommend a guided visit to the Valor Chocolate Museum to discover the history of cocoa and taste their famous varieties (reservation often required).

Gastronomy and Typical Products

• Arroz con chipirones – Rice with baby squid, one of the typical local seafaring dishes, less famous but equally delicious as paella.
• Peix de la Vila – Very fresh fish just caught, auctioned at the port, to be enjoyed in the trattorias along the coast.
• Chocolate – The specialty par excellence; taste the different types of bars and cocoa drinks offered by the historic factories.
• Tapas and montaditos – Ideal for an aperitif in Plaza de la Generalitat.

Beaches and Recommended Activities

• Bol Nou/Bon Nou Beach – A small and picturesque cove surrounded by cliffs, perfect for those seeking a more secluded atmosphere and crystal-clear waters, suitable for snorkeling.
• El Racó del Conill – A wilder and more isolated cove, also frequented by nudists.
• Excursion to the El Xarco lighthouse – To enjoy a panoramic view of the coast, perhaps with a picnic at sunrise.
• Fish Market in the port – An authentic experience, watching the fishing boats arrive in the afternoon.

Institutional Links

• Official Tourism Website of La Villajoyosa
• Information on Chocolate Factories (Valor, Clavileño)

Top 3 Recommended Accommodations by Our Travel Designers

• Hotel Servigroup Montíboli – Luxury and privacy in a spectacular location on a cliff.
• Blue Line Apartment La Vila – Modern accommodations with sea views.
• Vila Joyosa Beach Hotel – Perfect for those who want a central position on the beach.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants

• El Pòsit – High-quality seafood cuisine with freshly caught fish and excellent Arroz a Banda.
• Hogar del Pescador – Tradition and local flavors in a welcoming environment.
• Taberna Tres14 – Great option for gourmet tapas and revisited Mediterranean cuisine dishes.