From the air, it resembles a giant stone wave frozen beside the Mediterranean, its form tracing the curve of the coastline and creating a striking image within the urban landscape.
This is not a sculpture, but the seafront promenade along Poniente Beach in Benidorm. Its architecture has transformed the city's waterfront and turned it into one of Spain’s most celebrated urban landmarks.
The challenge that the Poniente promenade solved
Poniente beach is the longest beach in Benidorm, stretching for more than three kilometres along much of the city’s western coastline.
For decades, a steep slope separated the city from the sand, making access to the beach difficult. The challenge was to overcome this difference in height without creating a wall that would block views of the Mediterranean.
The solution came from architects Carlos Ferrater and Xavier Martí. Between 2005 and 2009, they replaced the old promenade with a system of ramps, terraces and stepped platforms that bridge the change in elevation in a natural way.
The project transformed Benidorm’s relationship with the sea. The city no longer turned its back on the beach, instead gaining an open public space that connects the urban centre with the coastline. It also reflects the urban development strategy that led the European Commission to recognise Benidorm as a European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism.
The design that turned the promenade into a Benidorm icon
The route unfolds through gentle curves, with perspectives that change every few metres, as though following the rhythm of the waves.
The paving also contributes to this effect: white surfaces are combined with different shades of blue and sandy tones, creating visual continuity with the Mediterranean.
Its originality has not gone unnoticed. The project received the FAD City and Landscape Award and the Saloni Prize in 2010. A year later, it was awarded the Spanish National Architecture Prize.
What is the best time to visit the promenade?
Every moment of the day offers a different experience:
Early in the morning, the sound of the waves and a sense of tranquillity dominate. It is the preferred time for walkers and those enjoying outdoor exercise.
At sunset, the light accentuates the curves of the promenade and bathes the Mediterranean in warm tones. It is also when visitors gather at the viewpoints to admire the bay.
At night, the lighting transforms the route, creating an inviting atmosphere for a stroll along the seafront or a visit to one of the beachside terraces.
What not to miss during your visit
The Poniente seafront promenade invites you to stop and enjoy the surroundings. If you visit, these details are worth noting:
- Panoramic views of the entire bay from the various viewpoints.
- The undulating design of the promenade, especially visible from the higher areas of Benidorm.
- The contrast between the colours of the pavement, the sand and the blue of the Mediterranean.
- The terraces located next to the beach are ideal for taking a break with sea views.
- Sunset, one of the most photographed moments of the day.
- The nighttime atmosphere, when the lights highlight the structure's distinctive shapes.
How to get around the Poniente promenade?
The promenade runs parallel to the entire length of Poniente Beach and can be accessed from several points across Benidorm.
Walking its full length takes around 40 to 50 minutes at a leisurely pace. Many visitors choose to stop along the way to enjoy the views, take photographs or relax at one of the terraces.
Along the route, you will find:
Benches.
Rest areas.
Numerous direct access points to the beach.
In addition, it can be easily navigated with pushchairs, bicycles or wheelchairs.
