There is no mistaking that summer is here, attracting countless visitors from all corners of the globe and the last few weeks have been especially hot and steamy here. Having had a disappointing start, with unusually wet weather, it is anything but now...

With its picturesque Mediterranean coastline stretching for many kilometers, Benidorm boasts an array of world-class golden sandy beaches - plus some hidden coves, that offer a sun-soaked haven for both locals and tourists alike. 

The Levante beach is especially popular with the Brits whilst the quieter Poniente is favoured by the Spaniards – and both are now brimming with people. August is traditionally when the resorts see an influx of those from Madrid and this weekend the stampede began! Parking spaces will be at a premium as many stay put for the entire month.

Both of the beaches have floating pontoons – a free one plus a paying one, which has an abundance of slides and obstacle courses. There are also a variety of brightly coloured pedaloes for hire – each with a slide for more thrills and at the far end you will see the kiosks for the cable ski, jet skis and paragliding.

You can hire a blue sunbed and/or parasol – which is now €6 per item or like most, just lay your towels down on the sand… the Spaniards tend to bring their own chairs. I guess if they are here for an entire month it would turn out rather costly!

However, for those that prefer to take it easy, there is an abundance of bars and cafes lining the front, where you can enjoy a drink with a view – some more “vibrant” than others! For a true taste of Spanish cuisine, head to “tapas alley” in the old town where you can sample a vast selection. Everything is labelled in both Spanish and English to make the selection even easier.

Remember to slap on the sun cream – even if it is overcast, wear a hat and keep hydrated, drinking plenty of water. Also, please DO NOT buy any drinks from the sellers along the beach – as tempting as they may look. They are not from the bars but illegal sellers, making the drinks up in unhygienic conditions on the floor and storing ingredients in drains.