Toni Marí's studio: the blacksmith behind the whale
If you've driven into Jávea, you already know his work without realising it: the town's giant metal whale comes from the studio of metal artist Toni Marí. For years he has been bending raw sheets of iron into sea creatures, waves and figures that pop up all over Xàbia.
His studio is open to visitors, and it's an hour's outing that stays with you: you'll see work at every stage, from rusty sheet metal to finished sculpture. Do check the opening hours beforehand — and be warned: the smaller pieces fit suspiciously easily into a suitcase.
BonAmb: two Michelin stars, fifteen minutes away
On the road towards Benitachell, just outside the centre, sits BonAmb — with two Michelin stars, the culinary highlight of this stretch of coast. The kitchen is built on what the region itself provides: fish, salt, rice and the market gardens of the Marina Alta.
For a group stay it's the perfect evening out: the children by the pool with the grandparents or a babysitter, the rest of you at the table. Book well in advance — in high season, tables are gone weeks ahead.
Cap Prim: the coastal path to walk before breakfast
The headland of Cap Prim, between the bay of Portitxol and Cala Sardinera, is the shortest route to the finest view in Jávea. From the Mirador Creu del Portitxol, you can walk out to the point and back in about an hour, with the sea on both sides and the island of Portitxol ahead of you.
Go early: at sunrise you'll have the path almost to yourself, and the light sits just right over the sea. Wear sturdy shoes — the path is short but rocky — and by the time the rest of the house is awake, you'll be back for breakfast.
Fancy more addresses like these? Browse the Jávea guide or see when's best to visit.