Old, dilapidated building with arched windows, surrounded by trees and mountains.

Costa Blanca · Spain

Villajoyosa

Villajoyosa, or 'La Vila' as it is affectionately known by locals, is a picturesque coastal town and the administrative capital of the Marina Baixa region on the Costa Blanca. Situated strategically between the bustling resorts of Benidorm and the city of Alicante, it offers a vibrant yet authentic Spanish lifestyle with a population of approximately 34,000 residents. The town is renowned for its iconic colorful waterfront houses, its long-standing chocolate-making tradition, and over 3 kilometers of sandy beaches.

37.449
Population
3854
Sunshine hours/year
36m
Elevation
26
AQI (Fair)
6
Blue Flag Beaches

Living & Lifestyle

Daily life in Villajoyosa centers around its charming historic center and the lively promenade. As the historic capital of the Marina Baixa region, the town offers a comprehensive range of urban amenities while maintaining a relaxed, small-town atmosphere. Residents have access to 28 restaurants and 12 cafes within the town limits, providing a diverse culinary scene that emphasizes fresh seafood and local rice dishes. The town is also famously known as the 'Chocolate City,' home to the Valor chocolate factory, which adds a unique sweet character to the local economy and culture.

The infrastructure supports a comfortable lifestyle, with 10 banks and 9 pharmacies ensuring convenience for daily errands. Healthcare needs are well served by the local hospital and various medical centers. The municipality covers an area of 20.4 square kilometers, allowing for a mix of urban living and nearby rural tranquility. With 94 public transport stops and 12 bus lines connecting the area, getting around town and to neighboring attractions is straightforward for residents without cars.

Oceanfront beachfront room with stunning sea view, private balcony, and lounge chairs.

Climate & Weather

Villajoyosa enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate characterized by warm summers and mild, gentle winters, making it a year-round destination. The town experiences approximately 3,854 hours of sunshine annually, with average daily temperatures ranging from 11.2°C in January to a peak of 27.2°C in August. Rainfall is infrequent, occurring on about 60 days throughout the year, mostly concentrated in the autumn months of October and November, which see 66mm and 50mm of precipitation respectively.

The summer months from June to September are ideal for beach activities, with July seeing almost no rain (6mm average) and temperatures averaging 26.6°C. Even in the cooler months, the climate remains pleasant for outdoor activities, as temperatures rarely drop below double digits during the day. This reliable weather pattern supports an outdoor lifestyle and is a significant draw for international relocators looking to escape harsher northern climates.

Month °C gem. °C max°C min Rainfall mm Sun hours
January 12.2° 16.2°9.0° 48 mm 262h
February 13.1° 17.1°9.8° 17 mm 255h
March 14.5° 18.3°11.2° 73 mm 295h
April 16.4° 20.0°12.9° 48 mm 320h
May 20.0° 23.6°16.3° 36 mm 389h
June 24.5° 28.2°20.7° 14 mm 402h
July 27.3° 31.1°23.6° 7 mm 421h
August 27.4° 31.1°23.8° 19 mm 384h
September 23.9° 27.5°20.9° 40 mm 327h
October 20.4° 24.1°17.3° 42 mm 295h
November 15.9° 19.8°12.9° 30 mm 256h
December 13.4° 17.2°10.4° 34 mm 248h
Oceanfront room with stunning blue sea and cliffside view, featuring a private balcony.

Getting Around

Villajoyosa is exceptionally well-connected by road, located just 32 kilometers from the major city of Alicante. The nearest international airport is Alicante-Elche (ALC), located only 38.4 kilometers away, making travel to and from the town convenient for international residents and visitors. For those willing to travel further, Valencia Airport (VLC) is approximately 110 kilometers away. The town is strategically positioned near the AP-7 motorway, providing easy access to the entire Costa Blanca region.

Public transport options are robust, with the CTAN network operating 12 bus lines that include 94 stops throughout the municipality. The FGV tram system connects Villajoyosa to Benidorm and Alicante; the nearest train stations are Terra Mítica (7.2 km away) and Benidorm (9.1 km away). The town itself is very accessible for cyclists, featuring flat terrain with a gradient of only 1.9%, which encourages the use of bicycles for local commuting. Additionally, infrastructure for electric vehicles is present, with charging stations such as IONITY and Iberdrola available nearby.

Beachfront room with ocean view, featuring a private balcony and lounge chairs.

Alicante-Elche (ALC)

38.4 km

Valencia (VLC)

110.8 km

Malaga-Costa del Sol (AGP)

428.0 km

Lines

12

Stops

94

Cycling: flat (gradient 1.9%)

EV Charging Points

  • IONITY La Marina Este (3.3 km)
  • Ionity La Marina Oeste (3.4 km)
  • Iberdrola (5.6 km)

Nature & Beaches

Villajoyosa is famous for its diverse and high-quality beaches, stretching over 3 kilometers along the Mediterranean coast. The municipality has been recognized for its excellent environmental management and water quality, holding 6 Blue Flag beaches for 2026: Bon Nou, Ciutat (Centro), De Torres, La Caleta, Paradís, and Varadero. These beaches offer a mix of fine golden sand and pebbles, with amenities ranging from family-friendly services to quieter, more natural stretches of coast.

Beyond the beaches, the natural landscape offers the stunning backdrop of the Puig Campana mountain, a popular spot for hikers and climbers. The immediate surroundings include the Embalse de Amadorio, a reservoir that not only provides water to the region but also serves as a recreational area for walking and picnicking. The town's elevation of just 36 meters ensures a flat, easy terrain that seamlessly blends the urban center with the natural beauty of the Marina Baixa region.

Blue Flag Beaches (2026)

Viewpoints

Marinas

Sports & Recreation

Sports and outdoor activities are integral to life in Villajoyosa, thanks to its extensive coastline and modern facilities. The town boasts impressive water sports amenities, including the Club Náutico de Villajoyosa and the El Mollet marina. Specific sports centers like Poliesportiu el Pantà, CB Alisub, and CB Profundo Azul offer activities ranging from swimming to competitive sports. For golf enthusiasts, there are several high-quality courses in the immediate vicinity, including Puig Campana Golf and the Meliá Villaitana golf complex.

The town's urban beaches, such as Platja Varador and Platja dels Estudiants, are easily accessible for daily swimming or walking. For those seeking relaxation, there are several swimming pools and 'piscina comunitaria' options within residential areas. The surrounding nature also offers recreational opportunities, with the Embalse de Amadorio reservoir providing a scenic spot for hiking and nature walks just outside the town center.

Golf Courses

Amenities

Restaurant

28

Pharmacy

9

Bank

10

Park

1

Cafe

12

Hospital

1

Dentist

1

Air Quality

PM2.5

4.1

µg/m³

PM10

6.7

µg/m³

NO²

4.2

µg/m³

Ozone

65.0

µg/m³

UV Index

0.0

Education

The educational infrastructure in Villajoyosa caters well to families, offering a range of public schooling options that follow the Spanish curriculum. While the town is primarily Spanish-speaking, its location within the Valencian Community means students also receive education in Valenciano. For international families requiring specific curriculums, such as the British or International Baccalaureate systems, the nearby town of Benidorm (less than 10km away) hosts several reputable international schools, including the Elian's British School and Costa Blanca International College. This proximity allows residents of Villajoyosa to enjoy a quieter coastal life while ensuring high-quality international education is just a short drive away.

Economy & Income

The economy of Villajoyosa is historically anchored in the manufacturing sector, specifically chocolate production, with the Valor brand being a major employer and a famous name in Spain. Fishing remains a visible and active part of the local economy, with the town's port hosting a fleet of traditional fishing boats that supply the local restaurants and markets. Tourism has grown steadily, contributing to a diverse service sector that includes the 32 days designated as local holidays and festivals in 2026, which drive seasonal commerce.

In terms of financials, the net income per person in the area is approximately €12,313, with a median income of €15,750 and an average household net income of €31,507. The real estate market is a significant component of the local economy, with a high demand for properties ranging from holiday apartments to luxury villas. The availability of 48 properties currently for sale suggests a active market that balances investment opportunities with housing for local residents.

Net income/person

€12.313

2023

Net/household

€31.507

Median income

€15.750

Gross/person

€14.770

Local Holidays (32)

2026-01-01

Año Nuevo

2026-01-06

Día de Reyes / Epifanía del Señor

2026-02-28

Día de Andalucía

2026-03-01

Dia de les Illes Balears

2026-04-02

Jueves Santo

2026-04-03

Viernes Santo

At a Glance

  • Population of approx. 34,000, balancing a lively community with a relaxed pace
  • Located 32km from Alicante, with Alicante-Elche Airport just 38.4km away
  • 6 Blue Flag beaches including Platja Centro and Platja Paradís
  • Approx. 3,854 hours of sunshine annually and mild winter temperatures
  • Historic chocolate production town with a strong local fishing industry
  • 38km of cycle-friendly terrain with a flat gradient of 1.9%
  • Average household net income of €31,507 with a median income of €15,750

Neighbourhoods

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Available Properties

The real estate market in Villajoyosa offers a wide variety of options, currently featuring 48 available properties with prices ranging from €125,000 to €7,250,000, averaging around €664,018. The market is predominantly driven by apartments, which make up the majority of listings (32 middle floor apartments, 5 penthouses, and 2 ground floor apartments), catering to both holiday makers and permanent residents seeking sea views. For those looking for more space, there are detached options including 2 bungalows, duplexes, and even plots of land for custom builds.

The presence of 'New Development' properties indicates that construction is active, offering modern amenities and energy efficiency standards. The high price ceiling reflects the existence of luxury real estate, likely frontline villas with expansive views of the Mediterranean. Whether looking for a lock-up-and-leave holiday home or a permanent residence, the market in Villajoyosa provides distinct choices that leverage the town's coastal charm and proximity to Benidorm.

New Build (27) Apartments (41) Penthouses (8) New Build (3) Land & Plots (1) Commercial (1) Properties (2)
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Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Villajoyosa from the nearest airport?
The nearest airport is Alicante-Elche (ALC), located approximately 38.4 kilometers from the town center.
What are the average temperatures like in the summer?
Summer temperatures are warm, averaging 26.6°C in July and 27.2°C in August, with very little rainfall.
How many beaches are there in Villajoyosa?
The town boasts several beaches, 6 of which have been awarded the Blue Flag status for 2026, including Bon Nou, Centro, and Varadero.
Is Villajoyosa a good place for families?
Yes, it is a family-friendly town with local schools, a hospital, 9 pharmacies, and plenty of parks. Additionally, international schools are just a short drive away in Benidorm.
What is the average price of property in Villajoyosa?
The average property price is currently around €664,018, with the market offering everything from apartments starting at €125,000 to luxury villas over €7 million.
What is the town famous for?
Villajoyosa is famous for its colorful, gaily painted houses facing the port and its long tradition of chocolate production.
How is the public transport connectivity?
The town has good connectivity via 12 CTAN bus lines with 94 stops, and the FGV tram line connects to Benidorm and Alicante.