Benidorm Island: everything you’ve ever wanted to know

Benidorm Island is one of the main tourist destinations in the city. And for good reason. It is a small island you can see off the coast and it is the source of multiple legends, for which reason it is filled with visitors by day. By night, however, it remains uninhabited. If you’re thinking of visiting it, read on to find out about its history, how to get there and our best pieces of advice on how to enjoy a memorable day out. Shall we begin?

Benidorm Island: discover its history

The island is found within Serra Gelada Natural Park and is paradise for diving and fishing enthusiasts. Its underwater richness, flora and fauna ensure visitors have tons of fun. Furthermore, it is extremely important in ecological terms as it is a refuge for birds. Would you like to hear some of its legends? We’ve detailed them below!

The most famous tale says that King James I was mounted on his horse at the top of the Puig Campana peak when the animal gave the mountain a kick, resulting in a piece coming loose and being launched into the sea. Another, more romantic legend tells of the giant named Roldán who was in love with a woman named Alda. When she died due to a curse, Roldán removed a piece of the mountain so the sun’s rays could filter through and illuminate her.

These are not the only fables told but they are the most popular. There are many versions but they all follow the same vein: the piece Puig Campana is apparently missing corresponds to Benidorm Island. What do you reckon?

As well as there being many stories about it, the island has different names. ‘Roldán’s Slash’ and ‘Peacock Island’ due to the large number of birds found there are just two of these.

Expert geologists refute the belief that the island is a piece of Puig Campana as they have different origins and ages. They explain that it actually comes from the Serra Gelada Mountains, to which the island pertained before the stretch of land joining them ended up underwater.

Tours of Benidorm Island

The “golondrinas” (swallows), as the boats transporting visitors to Benidorm Island are known, start their tours at 10am leaving from Benidorm Port and Rincón de Loix. There are departures every hour, both in the morning and the afternoon. Do you know the best thing about them? You can sit out on deck and enjoy the 15-minute journey. You’ll see coves, beaches and Benidorm’s skyline from a new perspective.

There are also other options available. The Aquaescope boat offers another route. This is a unique vessel that enables you to immerse yourself in Benidorm’s watery depths with an underwater viewing feature. This different experience will allow you to understand another side of the city.

Once on the island, we recommend you explore the natural setting via its narrow trails. Make the most of the chance to go diving or snorkelling and search the island’s seabed.

Benidorm Island: recommendations for your visit

Now you know about its history and how to get there, it’s time to give you some advice on how to fully enjoy your visit. Find out more below!

Don’t forget sun protection

Benidorm is famous for its wonderful year-round temperature. However, it is very important you wear sunscreen suited to your skin type, especially in summer.

In addition to sunscreen, don’t forget a hat and sunglasses. The more you’re protected from the sun, the better!

Accessories you will need

Diving fins, goggles and comfortable footwear. These three items are essentials for your visit to Benidorm Island. The first two will allow you to discover and explore the seabed by the island. Footwear is key for walking from one end of the island to the other along its spectacular paths.

Additionally, remember to take booties as they will ensure you can easily walk among its rocks. Have you jotted everything down?

Will you be visiting the island with a baby?

If you have a baby and are looking to visit the island, you should know it is not suitable for prams and pushchairs. The best option would be to use a baby carrier, which is much more comfortable and lets you easily get around the island, with no risk of your baby suffering a dangerous fall from their pram.

That’s everything you need to know for when you visit Benidorm Island! Any questions?

Here at Villasol Campsite, we will help you with any questions you may have about this family outing. If you’ve already had the chance to visit the island, tell us about your experience and what you think are the essentials for the trip. We’d love to hear what you think!