Cala Moraig (Benitachell): the Complete Guide to Visiting

Looking for one of the most spectacular coves on the Costa Blanca? We'll tell you everything you need to know about Cala Moraig: exactly where it is, how to get there, how the regulated summer parking works, and what you shouldn't miss nearby, like the Cova dels Arcs. Cala Moraig is in the municipality of Benitachell (El Poble Nou de Benitatxell), between Moraira and Jávea, 44.8 km and about 47 minutes by car from Camping Armanello — a perfect day trip if you're staying with us.

Where is Cala Moraig?

Cala Moraig belongs to the municipality of El Poble Nou de Benitatxell (Benitachell), in the province of Alicante, in the Valencian Community. It sits wedged between cliffs, right at the foot of the Cumbre del Sol urbanisation, between the towns of Moraira and Jávea. It's a pebble and gravel cove, not sand, with very clear water — one of the reasons it's so popular for snorkelling and diving.

How to get there from the campsite, Alicante or Valencia

From Camping Armanello, in Benidorm, it's 44.8 km and about 47 minutes by car — a perfect day trip. If you're coming from Alicante city, the most direct route is via the AP-7 towards Benissa/Benitachell, then following the signs towards Cumbre del Sol and Cala Moraig. From Valencia, also via the AP-7, taking the Benitatxell exit.

Parking and regulated access in high season

This is the first thing you need to know before planning your visit: car access to Cala Moraig is regulated by Benitachell town council from 1 April to 15 October, from 9:00 to 19:00. Outside those hours (19:00 to 9:00 the next day), no payment or permit is needed.

Any vehicle gets 20 free minutes to drop off or pick up passengers without needing a permit. If you're staying longer, the fee is €12 per vehicle, for the whole day (not per hour). Residents registered in Benitachell who have paid their vehicle tax (IVTM) in the municipality are exempt from payment, but still need to apply for the permit (at €0 cost) — there are 15 reserved spaces for them. There are also 5 free spaces for people with reduced mobility, with prior documentation.

Booking is done at calamoraig.es, with the "Cala Moraig Reservations" app, or directly at the access parking meter — and once confirmed, it can't be cancelled or changed, so check your details carefully before paying. Motorbikes and bicycles don't pay and don't need a permit. One important detail: you can't drive down to the cove itself without express authorisation — you park up top and walk down a sloped path (and then have to walk back up). Bring comfortable shoes and water. In July and August there's a free shuttle bus from the village (timetables on the Turisme Benitatxell website). And one last warning: pets aren't allowed on the cove.

The Cova dels Arcs and the Falla del Moraig

On one side of the cove opens the Cova dels Arcs, a sea cave with stone arches carved by the sea over thousands of years — one of the most photographed spots on the entire Costa Blanca. If you want to dive deeper into it with all the detail (access, what to bring, the best times for light), we have a guide dedicated just to the cave.

Very close by is also the Falla del Moraig, a geological formation like a great vertical wall that reaches into the water — a short, easy walk from the cove itself, with a viewpoint at the end that's worth the stop.

Snorkelling, diving and kayaking at Cala Moraig

The crystal-clear water of Cala Moraig makes it one of the area's favourite coves for snorkelling, diving or exploring by kayak — especially around the Cova dels Arcs, where the light passes through the stone arches in a spectacular way.

The viewpoint and the nearby coves: Cala Llebeig and Cala dels Testos

If you have time, don't just stop at Cala Moraig. A few minutes' walk away you'll find the Mirador de Cala Moraig, with a panoramic view of the Mediterranean that's especially beautiful at sunset. And if you like walking a bit further, Cala Llebeig is another nearby cove, quieter and less known, also reachable on foot or by kayak. Cala dels Testos is the area's third option — a hidden cove reached via a somewhat more demanding path (which also has its own vehicle access control, just like Cala Moraig).

Best time to visit Cala Moraig and practical tips

• Go early in the morning or at sunset to avoid the busiest hours and the strongest heat.
• Wear suitable footwear for walking on stones and uneven ground — both in the cove and on the way down/up.
• There's hardly any shade in the cove itself, so don't forget water and sunscreen.
• If you go in high season (1 April-15 October), book your parking space in advance at calamoraig.es.
• Don't bring your pet — it isn't allowed on this cove.

Frequently asked questions about Cala Moraig

How long does it take to get to Cala Moraig from Camping Armanello?

About 47 minutes by car (44.8 km), via the AP-7 towards Benitachell.

Which town does Cala Moraig belong to?

El Poble Nou de Benitatxell (Benitachell), in the province of Alicante.

Do you have to pay to park at Cala Moraig?

Yes, from 1 April to 15 October, 9:00 to 19:00: €12 per vehicle per day, with 20 free minutes to drop off or pick up passengers. Outside those hours and dates, it's free.

Can you go to Cala Moraig with children?

Yes, although you should bear in mind the walk down/up and the stony terrain — it isn't a cove with flat access.

Can you go with a dog?

No, Cala Moraig doesn't allow pets.