Benidorm is not just skyscrapers and sand: its rocky headlands and its island hide some of the best snorkelling grounds on the Costa Blanca. Best of all, a kayak or paddle board takes you exactly where the water is cleanest and the crowds are thinnest. Here is our list, from easiest to most adventurous.

1. Tío Ximo cove (easy)

At the northern end of Levante Beach, this is the classic. Rocky bottom, transparent water and fish from the very first metre: damselfish, white seabream, salema and, with luck, an octopus hiding in a crack. If you arrive by paddle, anchor the kayak to one side of the cove and keep the swimmers' channel clear. The full route is in our Tío Ximo and Almadrava guide.

2. Almadrava cove (easy)

A stone's throw from Tío Ximo, slightly bigger and usually a little quieter. The rocks along its sides hold the life: cruise the edge slowly and peer into the crevices. It is a good spot for kids to try a snorkel for the first time, with the usual safety rules.

3. Racó del Conill and Bol Nou, Villajoyosa (medium)

The hidden coves of Villajoyosa have mixed rock-and-sand bottoms full of life. Arriving by paddle lets you pick the exact corner no one reaches on foot. Racó del Conill is also usually sheltered when the easterly blows.

4. Benidorm Island (adventurous)

The jackpot. The island is a protected area and its waters are among the clearest around: walls dropping onto rocky bottoms teeming with fish. You do have to earn it, though: it is about 3.5 km of open-water paddling. Read our island route guide first and only go in calm conditions.

Tips for snorkelling from a kayak

  • Anchor or secure the kayak properly before getting in the water, and stay close to it.
  • Enter the water on the leeward side (away from the wind) so the kayak doesn't drift onto you.
  • Use a visible buoy or your life jacket: boats also come into cove areas.
  • Respect the wildlife: look, don't touch. And of course, leave no litter.
  • No mask? Add snorkel masks as an extra when you book.

The best window for snorkelling is the morning, with a calm sea and the sun climbing: better visibility and less wind. To find out which months are best, see the best time of year to paddle on the Costa Blanca.