Moraira, a small resort on Spain’s Costa Blanca, is drawing renewed attention as an autumn getaway for British travellers seeking milder weather and a quieter alternative to busier Mediterranean resorts.
Travel coverage and a video by YouTuber Anastasia Leonova — creator of the Benidorm by Ana channel — highlighted the town’s sandy beaches, calm waters and walkable town centre, noting that the area can see autumn highs of about 23C. The resort is reachable by about a two-hour flight from the U.K. and lies roughly 30 minutes by car from Benidorm and about 80 kilometres from Alicante.
Leonova described Moraira as a "must-visit" and a sophisticated, quieter alternative to Spain’s larger tourist hubs, praising its beachfront holiday lets, beach bars and restaurants. She said the beach features a "pristine stretch of sand" and "calm waters," and told viewers that accommodation prices can be "quite moderate."
The town, which began as a fishing village, retains narrow cobbled streets, local markets and a small harbour. Visitors can also see the tiny Moraira Castle, a seafront fortress with free entry that is listed with a four-star rating on TripAdvisor. Activities in the area include hiking and water sports, according to the coverage.
Reaction to the video and coverage was mixed. One viewer posted that Moraira was a "beautiful corner of the world" and recalled family holidays there, while another said it felt like "almost a true Spanish town" in contrast with more commercialised resorts. A different commenter asked the presenter not to publicise the town further, saying it was already busy enough.
Local and regional tourism officials have in recent years marketed a range of smaller coastal towns along the Costa Blanca to visitors seeking less crowded options. Nearby Altea, about 15 kilometres from Benidorm, was recently named among Spain’s best seaside towns in a Which? Travel survey of more than 1,000 holidaymakers, receiving four-star scores for attractiveness, safety and friendliness.
Travel experts say the Costa Blanca’s smaller resorts can offer a blend of beaches, historic sites and local cuisine outside peak summer months. Moraira’s proximity to larger transport hubs and a range of accommodation options have been cited by commentators as factors that make it accessible for short autumn breaks.
Details on exact temperatures, visitor numbers and accommodation rates vary by season and source. Prospective visitors are advised to consult current forecasts and local tourism resources when planning travel.