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The local chefs cook a giant paella in the street which is free to all who want to experience authentic Valencian cuisine. The town's people dress in national costume and dance late in to the night to live music from local bands. There is always a spectacular firework display which is followed by the burning of a giant papiermache statue errected in the square.

Javea is a corner of Spain known for it's hospitality, many fiestas and vibrant markets. For those less inclined, unspoilt beaches and rocky coves are easily reached.

Javea's unique location is sheltered by the magnificent Montgo (elephant) mountain and the town itself is divided into three distinct districts: The historic medieval town, with white washed houses, narrow cobbled streets and Gothic fortified church of San Bartolome; the fishing port and marina, restaurants and plazas; and El Arenal, the bustling heart of the sandy palm bordered bay, with a long promenade, lively bars and shops, offering a wide variety of family entertainment.

The Arenal beach is worthy of a special mention, as the shallow waters and natural bay make it one of the safest places to swim for families with young children. In the evenings films are shown on a big screen set-up on the sand, and it is a great place to relax with a good bottle of wine after a busy day in the sun. Like so much of the entertainment in Javea, it is all free, so don't miss out!

Other beach activities include organised beach volley ball, where you can either watch or take part. Javea has a beach volley ball league and it is taken very seriously. You may also want to try your hand at sea kayaking or surfing. A little further around the headland are quieter areas such as Granadella beach, where the clear waters and rocky coves make an ideal environment for water sport activities such as snorkelling and scuba diving. On the other hand you could just relax with a drink at a beach bar or 'chiringuito.'

Javea Port is known for the many varied restaurants, bars and pretty beach. The nearby marina has also retained much of the original charm of a traditional fishing village and has a market which opens to sell the fresh produce from the fishing fleet when they arrive back in port (usually twice a day). Javea also has a popular tennis club and sports and leisure centre where there are summer classes in everything from Pilates to Washinkai Karate.

There is a light railway which runs up the coast from Alicante to Denia and a trip on this line always makes a great day out. The train can be boarded at Denia or Gata and tickets purchased on the train. The line runs through spectacular mountain scenery, clinging to the cliffs as it winds it's way down to the coast before emerging at Calpe. From here the train follows the contours of the land, stopping at Altea and Benidorm before finally arriving at the historic town of Alicante.

This part of Spain was principally Muslim and so led to the area becoming one of the largest exporters of raisins in the world, as the growing of grapes to produce wine was frowned upon at the time.