7-Day Guide to Torrevieja & Orihuela Costa: San Juan Celebrations & Coastal Wonders | June 2026

Welcome to Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa! This week, from June 24 to June 30, 2026, promises an unforgettable Spanish coastal experience, particularly as we kick off with one of the most magical nights of the year: the Hogueras de San Juan festival.

Today, June 24, 2026, marks the peak of the Hogueras de San Juan, a traditional festival celebrating the summer solstice with bonfires, fireworks, and beach gatherings. Although the weather forecast for today is cloudy with a maximum of 32.3°C and a minimum of 22.2°C, with 0% chance of rain, it’s still perfect conditions for enjoying the evening festivities without the intense heat. Head to the beaches of Torrevieja as dusk falls to witness locals and visitors celebrating around bonfires, jumping over flames for good luck, and welcoming the summer. This truly is a night of purification and celebration.

Top Attractions & Practical Tips

To truly explore the wonders of this region, a rental car is indispensable. Voyage Rent Car offers a range of vehicles, from compact B2 models ideal for city parking to C1 and E group cars perfect for families or longer drives. Book your rental car today and unlock your adventure!

1. Pink Salt Lake (Laguna Rosa): Located within the Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park, this stunning natural phenomenon gets its vibrant pink hue from specific algae and bacteria. It's a fantastic spot for photography and birdwatching, particularly flamingos. Visitors can observe the lake from designated viewpoints. There are no official swimming areas, but the views are spectacular. Parking is available at the park's visitor center.
2. Guardamar Sand Dunes: Just north of Torrevieja, the impressive Guardamar Sand Dunes are a unique landscape of pine forests and mobile dunes protecting the town's beach. Explore the marked trails for a refreshing walk amidst nature. Free parking is available near the beaches and along access roads to the forest park.
3. La Zenia Boulevard: For those seeking retail therapy, La Zenia Boulevard in Orihuela Costa is one of the largest shopping centers in the Alicante province. It features a wide array of international and Spanish brands, restaurants, and entertainment options. It typically opens from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (later during summer evenings). Free ample parking is available on-site.
4. Isla de Tabarca: Spain's only inhabited island in the Valencian Community, Isla de Tabarca is a protected marine reserve boasting crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and swimming. To get there, drive your rental car to Santa Pola or Alicante Airport (ALC)'s nearby ports (about 30-45 minutes drive from Torrevieja) and catch a ferry. Ferries run regularly, especially in summer. Prices vary, but expect around 15-20 EUR for a return ticket. Parking is available at the ports.

Best Local Food & Drink

The culinary scene in Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa is dominated by fresh seafood and traditional Mediterranean flavors. Don't miss trying the local arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish broth), caldero (a rich fish and rice stew from Tabarca), and various tapas featuring ingredients like local prawns and cured hams. The region is also known for its delicious fruits and vegetables. Pair your meal with a crisp local white wine or a refreshing tinto de verano.

7-Day Driving Plan for an Epic Coastal Adventure

With your Voyage Rent Car, exploring at your own pace is effortless. Consider a B2 compact car for easy parking in towns or upgrade to a C1 or E group vehicle for more space and comfort on longer routes.

1. Wednesday, June 24 (Hogueras de San Juan): Start your day relaxing on a Torrevieja beach. In the evening, immerse yourself in the Hogueras de San Juan celebrations along the city's coastline. Park your car in designated areas and enjoy the walk to the beach festivities.
2. Thursday, June 25 (Orihuela Costa Beaches): Drive south to Orihuela Costa. Explore the pristine beaches of La Zenia, Cabo Roig, and Playa Flamenca. Enjoy swimming and sunbathing. Lunch at a beachfront chiringuito.
3. Friday, June 26 (Nature & Dunes): Head north to Guardamar del Segura to explore the magnificent Guardamar Sand Dunes and the nearby Alfonso XIII Park. Afterward, enjoy a stroll along Guardamar's long sandy beach.
4. Saturday, June 27 (Pink Lake & Salinas): Dedicate today to the unique natural beauty of Torrevieja. Visit the Pink Salt Lake (Laguna Rosa) within the Lagunas de La Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park. Consider a drive through the salt flats to see the salt mountains.
5. Sunday, June 28 (Isla de Tabarca Excursion): Drive your rental car to Santa Pola (approx. 30 mins) and take a ferry to Isla de Tabarca. Spend the day exploring the island's charming village, swimming in its marine reserve, and enjoying fresh seafood. Return late afternoon.
6. Monday, June 29 (Shopping & Coastal Exploration): Enjoy a morning of retail therapy at La Zenia Boulevard. In the afternoon, explore more hidden coves and viewpoints along the Orihuela Costa, perhaps discovering a new favorite beach.
7. Tuesday, June 30 (Departure Day): Enjoy a final Spanish breakfast. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for a last dip in the sea or a visit to a local market for souvenirs. Drive your Voyage Rent Car seamlessly back to Alicante Airport (ALC) for your departure.

FAQ Section

Is Torrevieja & Orihuela Costa worth visiting in June?

Absolutely! June is a fantastic time to visit, especially with the Hogueras de San Juan festival on June 24th, offering a unique cultural experience. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities, though today will be cloudy, making for comfortable outdoor enjoyment.

What are the best beaches near Torrevieja?

Near Torrevieja, you'll find excellent options like Playa del Cura (urban), La Mata Beach (long and wide), and the beautiful coves of Orihuela Costa such as La Zenia, Cabo Roig, and Campoamor, all easily accessible with your rental car.

How do I get to Isla de Tabarca?

To reach Isla de Tabarca, you'll need to drive your Voyage Rent Car to Santa Pola or Alicante's port and take a ferry. The drive from Torrevieja to Santa Pola is about 30 minutes, and ferries run frequently during the summer months.

Do I need a rental car in Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa?

While some areas are walkable, a rental car from Voyage Rent Car is highly recommended to fully explore the region's diverse attractions, from the Pink Salt Lake to distant beaches and towns like Guardamar del Segura, ensuring convenience and flexibility. Consider a B2 for city driving or C1/E for family adventures.