Benidorm - is there a way to avoid sun burnt beer belly's? ;o)

Hi all,

not sure if anyone can help me here, but thought it would be worth a shot. My partner (26) and I (23) are going to a family wedding in October, the relatives live out in Benidorm and are having the reception there. The whole family (36!) are booked into the Mediteranno hotel, which I understand has had mixed reviews but to be honest we are not really bothered about the accommodation.

Unfortunately this will be the only holiday we can afford this year and as such really want to do a bit more than sunbathe; ideally we want to combine time with the family but with more focus on doing our own thing during the days. I understand that Benidorm is the hot spot for package holidays but could anyone suggest any things to do during the day or nights; any must see sights - any fantastic restaurants etc? We are both pretty much open to anything and one thing we would both love to do is some surfing, but we can't really afford to spend a lot.

Basically we are after any info on "unspoilt" beaches, or beaches that will be less crowded and anything to do that wont break the bank.

Oh and we're going from the 14th of October

Any help much appreciated,

Navy xx

There is nothing at all anywhere near Benidorm which could be described as "unspoilt" - remember this is one of the most over-developed areas of Europe's most over-developed coastline! Mid October - hopefully you'll be lucky, but bear in mind that it may not be beach weather by then. Surfing is impossible - this is the Mediterranean, and there are no waves.

Alicante itself is the most authentic thing around in the area - a real Spanish city with all that implies. There's also the odd picturesque (but over-touristy) village, like the old town at Altea and Guadalest.

Yes, go inland about 100kms and you wont see any surnburned Chavs...