Melia Alicante is the classic big-hotel choice for anyone who wants to stay at the heart of the seafront. It stands beside the marina at the start of the palm-lined Explanada de Espana, so you step out of the lobby onto the city's favourite promenade. From here the old town, the central market and the lift to Santa Barbara Castle are all within an easy walk, and Postiguet beach is minutes away. Rooms are modern and bright, with many facing the sea or the harbour, and the upper floors have views across the bay that are especially fine at sunrise. The hotel is the kind of place that works well for first-time visitors, because everything the city is known for sits on the doorstep, and for couples or families who want a full-service base with a pool, restaurant and bar. Facilities typically include an outdoor pool with terrace, a gym, buffet breakfast and a lounge with sea views. Business travellers use the meeting spaces, while leisure guests enjoy the location above all.
Staying on the Explanada has advantages and trade-offs. In the evening the promenade fills with strollers, street musicians and craft stalls, which is lovely, but rooms facing the front can pick up some noise on summer weekends and during festival weeks. If you prefer quiet, ask for a higher floor or a room facing the harbour. In late June the Hogueras festival brings fireworks and crowds to the seafront, so book early if you plan to be in town for it.
A typical day from this base
Breakfast with a view, a walk through the old town to the castle, lunch at the market, a siesta by the pool, and an evening tapas crawl followed by a stroll along the Explanada. The marina has boat tours and restaurants, and the tram and bus stops nearby make day trips to Elche, Benidorm or Altea simple. Airport transfers take about twenty minutes by taxi or bus, which suits short stays.
What to expect from service
Staff are used to international guests and speak English, with a concierge desk to help with tours and tickets. Check what is included in your rate, such as breakfast, and ask about parking if you arrive by car, because the old centre has restricted traffic and parking is limited and paid.
Families should ask about interconnecting rooms and cots. For the best value, travel in spring or autumn, when the weather is warm but rates are lower than July and August. For a first visit, this is among the easiest bases in Alicante.
Families and groups can ask about the larger room types and about breakfast hours, which tend to be generous. Business travellers will find reliable wifi and quiet corners, while leisure guests will appreciate the proximity to the seafront cafes. Remember that the old town can be reached on foot through the Explanada, so you can skip the taxi for most outings.
Why stay here
- ✓Seafront location by the marina
- ✓Sea-view rooms
- ✓Rooftop or outdoor pool with terrace
- ✓Restaurant and lounge bar
- ✓Buffet breakfast
- ✓Fitness centre
- ✓Concierge and tour desk
- ✓Walk to old town and castle
Good questions
Is Melia Alicante close to the beach?+
Yes, Postiguet beach is a few minutes on foot, and the Explanada is right outside.
Is it noisy?+
Seafront rooms can hear weekend crowds and festival nights; ask for a higher floor or a harbour-facing room.
How far is the airport?+
Around twenty minutes by taxi or bus.