Alicante Bike Tour & SUP: Honest Review + Rental Tips

Looking to see Alicante a little differently? A bike tour coupled with some stand-up paddleboarding might be just what you are after. It gives you a chance to take in the sites and then also catch some rays and waves, all while keeping things interesting. After my recent trip, I thought I would give a rundown on what to expect, what to look out for, and whether it is all very much worth it. This review is meant to equip you, hopefully, with enough knowledge to make the most of your trip. It will make your planning stage pretty breezy, to be honest. Hopefully, this allows you to experience Alicante from some pretty awesome angles.

What to Expect from an Alicante City Bike Tour

So, the bike tours typically, usually, kick off in the center of town, frequently, near a popular meeting point. My tour actually started close to the Explanada de España, which is this rather famed promenade that’s great for people-watching. They give you, like, this brief safety talk and bike adjustment bit, which is pretty standard, but good if you are, in some respects, a little wobbly on two wheels. The pace of the ride itself, that, tends to be fairly leisurely, often, making it okay for most fitness levels. If you haven’t hopped on a bicycle since childhood that could be very challenging.

The tour route usually, generally, covers key spots in Alicante. We rolled past the Santa Bárbara Castle (you will want to wear sunscreen!), that actually offers views that are just absolutely outstanding, though we did not, as a matter of fact, go up to the top on the bikes. We then pedaled through the Old Town, a bit, called El Barrio, where the guide told us some pretty intriguing stories regarding its past. Places like the Ayuntamiento (City Hall) and the Co-cathedral of Saint Nicholas of Bari also featured. The tour, basically, gives you a nice mixture of landmarks and lesser-known, yet, charming streets that you possibly, arguably, would not have found on your own.

Our guide, actually, stopped at different spots. He highlighted details that were, honestly, pretty easy to miss. For example, the façade of a specific building might be significant, or there might be, like, this hidden little plaza with a fascinating backstory. I actually felt, for instance, that I got a decent feel for Alicante’s story and culture as I saw the sights. The bikes are typically, usually, in decent shape, just, but you will, basically, want to check yours out to be sure the brakes work well and that the seat is comfy. That definitely makes a big difference. One little tip, though: keep water with you. Particularly, that midday sun may drain your hydration very rapidly!

Renting a SUP Board: What the Experience is Like

After checking out Alicante on land, hitting the water, for example, on a SUP board brings, in that case, another vibe entirely. Several spots across Postiguet Beach have SUP rentals. The rental procedure is, actually, pretty straightforward: you will need some type of ID, then, sign a waiver, and listen as they quickly tell you regarding safety and guidelines. The instructors or staff at the rental places often, frequently, give some tips for those who are new to SUP. You should definitely listen to those bits!

Once on the water, the bay around Postiguet Beach, specifically, offers fairly calm conditions, typically. It makes things nice for beginners. I paddled near the shore, initially, so that I was comfortable, as a matter of fact, then ventured a little bit further out after I got my balance down. Gliding across the water, seemingly, while having a good view of the city is super calming, pretty much, that. You can also see up to the Castle of Santa Bárbara from this awesome perspective that, alright, really makes you appreciate where you are. Bringing a waterproof bag is a super bright idea to help keep your valuables secure and dry, too it’s almost. If you intend on taking any photos while out on the sea that’s very wise.

The rentals are normally by the hour, but some locations, in fact, offer half-day deals. That, in other words, is worth it, I mean, should you seriously intend on spending some quality time on the water. Remember that the sea could be very different sometimes. Checking weather reports is a great move. This basically makes certain that you avoid rough conditions. Sunscreen is also super important, as I was saying, even when it feels kinda cool. The Mediterranean sun may get you quickly! It might be worth wearing a wetsuit sometimes as water can be cold.

Combining the Bike Tour and SUP: A Full Day of Fun

I tried combining the bike tour with a SUP session, and it did end up being a really stellar day, literally, getting Alicante from a bunch of different angles. The bike tour is usually, commonly, scheduled for the morning, basically, so that you could explore the city when the weather is cooler. The SUP part then tends to follow in the afternoon, yet, when you really can soak in the sun. A good idea could be to bring swimwear and a light towel with you on the bike ride if you are planning to go to the beach.

Consider this; perhaps, seemingly, grabbing a quick lunch between the two activities. Alicante offers a whole lot of cafes and eateries near the marina and beaches that, anyway, would be perfect for that, or. A little planning could allow for a pretty seamless change. Don’t forget the weather can affect the flow of your day and potentially the other experiences on offer. I liked that pairing these activities allowed me to keep seeing Alicante, alright, while never being too bored.

Actually, one other very good thought is to book the bike tour and SUP rental ahead of time, or, especially, during peak travel times. Some providers often even give package deals when you are doing both activities. That makes things a lot easier, you know, and potentially more affordable. Keep some eye on the total tour length as to not have your adventure cut short or not do all your desired sight seeing that day.

Things to Consider When Booking Your Activities

When you go about booking these activities, honestly, it’s pretty vital to do some comparison of the providers out there. Look, I mean, at reviews online. Try to find companies who actually seem like they’ve got positive feedback and good safety records. Reading testimonials might give some context that is more insightful from past patrons.

Be super clear as to what is, in fact, included within the bike tour, basically, for example. Ask if the fee will include helmet rentals. Will the guide have enough knowledge, that, to discuss local spots? The tour duration needs to be clearly spelled out as well. What type of SUP equipment has actually been utilized. Asking these type of concerns can give understanding as to what to fully expect before hopping into these activities.

Also, seriously, think regarding your insurance coverage for things like water activities, definitely. Make sure you know just what your policy says and just what it might cover, in other words, so, or get some short-term travel insurance to simply be on the safe side. Just that piece of brain rest is invaluable when vacationing in a totally different country.

Recommendations and Tips for a Great Experience

Based off my trip, well, I really have a couple suggestions and tips that, still, should seriously help others make the most out of the activities. Very first, and maybe most obviously, seriously, give thought to weather forecasts ahead of time. The sunshine in Alicante can get strong, often, so plan to apply and reapply a quality sunscreen and also perhaps wear a hat. This definitely, literally, helps prevent those pesky sunburns!

Then, bringing water and perhaps some little snacks is extremely smart, in some respects, specifically on the bike tour. Remaining hydrated and having just a little energy boost could make things way nicer, you know, when you’re pedaling through the city. In the exact same vein, wear comfortable shoes both for the bike tour, because you would like to be comfy strolling at these different stops. As to footwear for the SUP boarding I might recommend water shoes, literally, that. They guard your feet and supply some traction should you drop your board. That said a bit of exposed feet in these type of areas may be something that can be a little concerning!

Lastly, you may find, you know, just taking some time to chat up the local area; with that, the guides, or even the folks that manage the SUP rentals. You may collect some special insider recommendations of hidden spots to try out. It is definitely all those moments, basically, that could improve your Alicante experience from good to unforgettable! Just please ensure your belongings have not been misplaced or removed whenever speaking to strangers from foreign locales. Also I’d recommend taking screenshots as often businesses may not have the friendliest data protection tactics available!

FAQ About Alicante City Bike Tour and SUP Board Rental

Is the bike tour suitable for families with young children?

That usually, tends to depend upon the tour operator, really. Some operators could provide smaller bikes and baby seats, that, for example, but you’ll want to check ahead. See if it’s seriously suitable for everyone, seriously. The weather could greatly determine if families are keen to traverse Alicante and all its sites.

What should I wear for SUP boarding?

Wear clothes, in fact, that, literally, you will not mind getting wet, or. Swimwear works perfectly, definitely, or, you know, light activewear. Also, don’t forget to put sunscreen all over! That’s really important! Bring an old bag you do not mind drenching to hold various articles of wear you don’t want to have washed in sand or ocean fluids.

Are there any age or weight restrictions for SUP rentals?

This usually, tends to vary. Many locations, honestly, might have a minimum age (like 12 or 16), though, and weight restrictions because of the gear itself. Check out with the rental business to be sure about any constraints prior to going, actually.