Benidorm’s popularity boomed as a result of its wonderful beaches and exciting nightlife, but nowadays there is a lot more to this vibrant resort town. Levante (Sunrise) Beach and Poniente (Sunset) Beach remain at the heart of Benidorm’s appeal, giving visitors that desired seaside holiday.

Peacock Island harbours an array of colourful birds and is just 10 minutes’ ferry ride offshore. Take to the island’s hills for a memorable nature trek and views of Benidorm’s skyline or voyage underwater in the Aquascope to observe the splendour of the sea life there. Nearby Tabarca is the smallest inhabited island belonging to Spain and is renowned for its marine reserve that was established in 1986.

Entertainment and environment combine in the form of Mundomar where visitors are educated in the world of exotic animals and marine life of over 60,000 square metres of landscape. Next door is Aqualandia, where adults and children alike can enjoy one of Europe’s most thrilling water parks.

Thrill-seekers will also delight in Terra Mitica, an amusement park that is arranged into themed zones influenced by Ancient Egypt, Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome, as well as by Iberian and Mediterranean cultures. Terra Natura is a more sedate themed experience that brings the visitor close to animals from America, Asia and Europe.

Nearby Calpe is an inviting release from the hustle and bustle of Benidorm, with its imposing rocky outcrop known as Pennon de lfach, from where incredible views of the Costa Blanca coastline can be captured. Other outlying villages that are appealing and aesthetic jaunts from Benidorm include Albir and Finestrast.

Benidorm owes its origins to the Moors, from whom its name derived, but the town only received its charter in the early 14^th century. From that time, it became an important Mediterranean fishing port.

As Benidorm’s importance grew, it fell victim to attacks by North African and Turkish pirates. To help defend against these assaults, Benidorm Castle was built in the 14^th century, but was eventually destroyed in the early 19^th century.

The Balcon del Mediterraneo or Castillo-Mirador de Benidorm was constructed on the original site of the castle. Today’s visitors to the fortress site enjoy a more peaceful spectacle when standing at the stone balustrade to enjoy the views.

The Placa del Castell is an idyllic viewpoint that separates the two main Benidorm beaches of Levante and Poniente. The atmosphere and look of the old fishing village are maintained, with the nearby 18^th century Church of San Jaime and Santa Ana adding to the rich history of the area.

Parque de l’Aiguera is an enchanting park with esplanades, water features and natural auditoriums where concerts and cultural events are frequently held.

Benidorm is famed for its rich assortment of entertainment, ranging from pulsating nightlife with bars, pubs and nightclubs, to cabaret and comedy acts. During the summer months, the population heaves with anticipation of familiar venues and exciting new amusements.

A visit to Benidorm is never fully complete without a visit to the celebrated Benidorm Palace. Here, guests are exposed to flamboyant costumes that colour a cabaret show full of glitzy dancers, complemented with fine food served by way of a three-course dinner.

With Ibiza in close proximity, the expectation for similar style nightclubs is duly provided, but at more reasonable prices. Seasonal arrivals ensure the opening of large clubs visited by illustrious DJs from around the world. Take advantage of club promoters who parade the streets enticing customers with vouchers and discounts. The Avenida Communitat Valencia is the centre of Benidorm’s super club locale.

Bars and pubs in Benidorm count in their hundreds, with many British themed venues found in the vicinity of Rincon and Levante. Apart from their stock of ales and lagers, most of these establishments offer live music, pub grub, karaoke and even line dancing for a country knees up.

From early evening to early morning, Benidorm’s entertainment schedule has a little bit of everything on show. Tribute bands, comedians, hypnotists and ventriloquists draw crowds to lively watering holes such as Morgan’s Tavern, Rockefellas and Sinatras.

Summer visitors may have a chance to get involved with Benidorm’s Low Cost Festival, which attracts international and national indie groups alike, or the Benidorm International Song Festival which gave wings to Julio Iglesias’ career.

Benidorm’s long standing relationship with the UK and northern Europe can be readily identified by its diversity of cuisine, which embraces dishes that comfort while also offering Spanish tradition and taste.

The choice of eateries varies between café and tapas bar, and Italian, Algerian and even Chinese. Any holiday should include the experience of tasting local dishes, and tapas is the perfect way to investigate what the locals enjoy consuming. Tapas are snacks or appetisers served cold or warm, and can include small portions of vegetables, cheese, fish and meat.

Being a coastal town formerly known for its fishing industry, Benidorm has an abundance of seafood restaurants which should feature highly on visitors’ culinary schedules. Aitena is traditionally Spanish, with an immense open fire grill for roasts and of course, fresh fish dishes.

Another favourite Spanish bistro is Casa Toni, popular with locals and visitors alike. Customary Spanish food is presented in a distinctive style here and enhanced by Catalonian influences.

One dish that is traditional to Benidorm and the surrounding region is paella. Normally prepared with rice, vegetables and chicken or rabbit, paella in Benidorm is invariably served with seafood and called arroz a banda.

Any Mediterranean resort could not be classified as such without the inclusion of an Italian restaurant, and Benidorm does not disappoint when it comes to the Italian stakes. La Traviata and Aventi are just two of the town’s selection, offering typically nourishing yet innovative dishes. If it is a Sunday roast that tickles the palate, then head for the Queen Vic at the eastern end of St James’ parish.