San Juan, alternatively known as San Juan de Alicante, is a beautiful coastal town just 8 km north of Alicante, and is situated along the unspoilt coastlines of the Mediterranean, in the Costa Blanca region in Valencian Community. Surrounded by Muchamiel and El Campello, San Juan is not only famed as well prosperous for its agricultural tradition but also for active tourism. San Juan is divided into two sections: San Juan Playa and San Juan Peublo.

The focal point of the town is undoubtedly its Blue Flag beach, which is also the best in the province. This fantastic, spectacular wide sandy beach is spread over 7 km, extending from the Cabo of Las Huertas to the Mutxavista Beach. The area is dotted with an array of hotels, restaurants, chiringuitos, and bars, offering exciting as well as thriving nightlife. The beachfront also arrives with such facilities as a Red Cross Post, infantile region, watchtowers, public gym, tourist information center, and toilets, apart from offering opportunities to enjoy a continuum of activities, with facilities like volleyball nets, dinghy and kayak rentals, pedal boat hiring, showers, and an expansive playground for children.

Besides, found on the southern end of the beach is an interesting lighthouse.

Along the attractions of the Playa de San Juan, also worth-mentioning is Alicante-San Juan Golf Club, a fabulous

18 hole golf course designed by the world famous golfer - Severiano Ballesteros. With spacious, flat fairways and experienced instructors, the course is attached with superb facilities including games room, driving range area, a pro shop, snack bars, sauna, and practice ground, thereby making it one of the top class golf courses in the region.

Above all, an interesting thing regarding this golf course is that within its one of the greens lies the remnants of a Roman villa that dates back to the 2nd century.

With an amazing monumental heritage, San Juan boasts of some important monuments including the Parish Church, built during the 17th century; the monastery of Santa Faz, containing relics such as the veil, which is thought to have been used by Veronica to wipe Jesus Christ's sweat; and hermitages including the 18th century del Calvario, the 16th century St Anne, and the hermitage of San Roque, built during the 19th century.

San Juan is also much famed for its festivities. One of the significant events is one that is held to honor Santo Cristo de la Paz, which is from 12-16th September. Another important event is Hogueras de San Juan, celebrated on every June. Also, of significance is the pilgrimage to Santa Faz Monastery that is held on every 2nd Thursday of Holy Week.

Lying on the outskirts of Alicante, San Juan is easily accessible via tram, car, and bus.

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Lee Smith writes about the beach resort of San Juan in Spain http://www.lovealicante.com/areas/san-juan/index.html