El Cabanyal: Valencia City's Main Beach

One of the best beaches in Europe. Just a few minutes away from anywhere in Valencia there is an amazing beach (miles and miles of soft yellow sand) by the Mediterranean Sea. Lush and golden beaches – that’s how they call it in the guide books.

There are a grand total of 8 beaches in Valencia City and the surrounding areas. However, if you are on a city break in Valencia City, you are most likely to want to visit the city beach. Valencia’s city beach is called El Cabanyal (or Las Arenas). I am lucky because my brother lives just a few minutes away, so every time we go there, we can take lots of things with us, such as a portable fridge with wine and fruits.

The water is generally calm. You will find a promenade sitting at the back of the beach, offering a pleasant place to take a stroll along the beach. You will also see seafood restaurants lining the back of the beach – a great place to try Valencia’s legendary rice dishes (paella was invented in Valencia).

During the high summer season you can be offered Chinese massage by the numerous ladies walking around. First we thought it was very annoying but then we decided to try it and we really liked it! Just be careful when negotiating the price! If you thought it was 10 euros, it can become 20 euros in the end because you get an extra head massage or something like that. We were quite good at negotiations and got a “group discount” for the next day. Very relaxing after all this heat!

There are also people selling dangerously looking sliced coconuts – I wouldn’t recommend buying them, and people offering permanent tattoos. But I would rather suggest buying a kite flyer or a water mattress. El Cabanyal Beach (Las Arenas) is a well serviced beach, with access for the disabled, medical centres, lifeguards, sun loungers for rent, toilets, and outdoor showers. The beach can be easily accessed by tube, bus or tram.

written by neja on 2011-12-07 #places #people #sea #fun #sun #spain #fruits #tan #location #valencia #beach #massage #urban-adventures #all-year-long