Alicante and the surrounding Valencian region has become famous for its beautiful Costa Blanca beaches, and with its warm Mediterranean climate, this city makes an excellent place for sports and outdoors recreation. San Juan is one of the largest beaches and has been awarded the Blue Flag of the European Union for several years running. There are restaurants, cafes, tourist centers and restrooms on the beach itself with parking nearby. Saladares-Urbanova Beach is also quite long and has lifeguard services during the summer. El Cabo de las Huertas has nudist bathing areas and excellent rocky coves. The Real Club Náutico and Alicante-Costa Blanca Nautical Club also offer equipment and mooring for boat rides.

Parks and gardens can also be found in abundance in Alicante. The Panteón de Quijano, Portal de Elche and La Ereta Park are small green enclosures that offer a refreshing break from the urban scenery, some with courts and fields for soccer, basketball and tennis. A larger full-sized park, Canelejas, is located near the Explanada de España. Venture outside the city limits and you will find the Palmeral, an area near the sea with hundreds of tropical plants. Also close by, on Tossal Mountain, is a theme park with mini-golf courses and areas for skating and jogging.