The Costa Blanca is famous for its sun-kissed beaches, charming villages, and lively resorts – but did you know it also has a strong Hollywood connection? Alicante and the surrounding coastline have hosted major international productions, from Oscar-nominated dramas to blockbuster action movies, plus countless Spanish films, TV shows, and high-end commercials. Whether you are a film buff or simply curious, here’s a cinematic guide to the Costa Blanca’s most iconic filming locations.
🎬 Ciudad de la Luz – Alicante’s World-Class Film Studios
Just outside Alicante lies Ciudad de la Luz, one of Europe’s most advanced film complexes. Opened in 2005, it has attracted filmmakers from Hollywood, Spain, and beyond.
Famous Productions:
- The Impossible (2012) – Starring Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor. The harrowing tsunami scenes were filmed in Ciudad de la Luz’s giant water tank. Watts received an Oscar nomination for her performance. (Wikipedia)
- Terminator: Dark Fate (2019) – Parts of the blockbuster were shot in Alicante, with studio sets built in Ciudad de la Luz. (Alicante Film Office)
- Venom: The Last Dance (2024) – Sony’s Marvel franchise used Alicante studios for scenes. (Alicante Film Office)
- The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon (2024) – The hit spin-off filmed key sequences in the complex. (Cadena SER)
- Asterix at the Olympic Games (2008) – Large studio sets recreated ancient arenas and locations. (Wikipedia)
Fun Fact ✨
The studios have also been used for commercials by Audi, Coca-Cola, Zara, and other international brands.
👉 Google Maps – Ciudad de la Luz
🏰 Alicante City & Castillo de Santa Bárbara
The hilltop fortress overlooking Alicante has provided a dramatic backdrop for many films. Its medieval walls and panoramic views make it ideal for historical dramas and action scenes.
Productions:
- Los peores años de nuestra vida (1994) – Filmed in Alicante’s historic center, featuring the castle in several scenes. (Alicante Film Office)
- Mentiras y gordas (2009) – A youth drama that used both studio facilities and outdoor Alicante locations. (Alicante Film Office)
👉 Google Maps – Castillo de Santa Bárbara
🌊 Tabarca Island
This tiny island off Alicante’s coast is a natural film set – crystal-clear waters, fishermen’s houses, and rugged cliffs.
- Used in several Spanish TV dramas and commercials needing an “untouched Mediterranean” vibe. (Alicante Film Office)
- Popular for pirate-themed productions and romantic scenes.
🎭 Benidorm & Skyline Scenes
Benidorm, with its forest of skyscrapers, has a unique cinematic look: half Miami, half Las Vegas. Its skyline often appears in British TV and international productions.
- Benidorm (ITV Sitcom, 2007–2018) – Hugely popular British comedy shot largely on location. (IMDb)
- Past Lies (2023) – Disney+ drama filmed in Benidorm, Altea, and Denia. (Euro Weekly News)
- Benidorm’s seafront is frequently used in commercials thanks to its iconic skyline.
👉 Google Maps – Benidorm Beachfront
🏘️ Altea & Jávea – Whitewashed Villages on Screen
- Past Lies (Disney+ 2023) – Key scenes were filmed in Altea’s old town and nearby Jávea. (Euro Weekly News)
- The villages are popular with international commercials for fashion and lifestyle brands.
🏞️ Guadalest – A Medieval Movie Set
The cliff-top village of Guadalest with its stone castle and narrow alleys is a ready-made set for period films.
- Used in multiple Spanish historical dramas. (Alicante Film Office)
- Its authentic medieval atmosphere makes it a favorite for low-budget productions seeking epic visuals.
🌸 Torrevieja’s Pink Salt Lakes
The surreal pink waters of Laguna Rosa have appeared in music videos and sci-fi style commercials.
- Fashion brands and car companies often choose the location for its “otherworldly” look. (Alicante Film Office)
👉 Google Maps – Torrevieja Pink Lake
🎥 Villajoyosa – A Local Gem
Villajoyosa’s colorful houses and fishing port have charmed filmmakers.
- Els Amants (Short film, 2023) – Shot in Villajoyosa’s old town streets. (World Today Journal)
- Frequently used in adverts and indie films for its authentic seaside feel.
🌟 Fun Facts & Celebrity Sightings
- Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor spent weeks in Alicante during the filming of The Impossible.
- Arnold Schwarzenegger was spotted while promoting Terminator: Dark Fate.
- Alicante Film Office frequently organizes tours of shooting locations. (Alicante Film Office)
🎬 Plan Your Own “Movie Tour”
Want to walk in the footsteps of film stars? Here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary:
- Day 1 – Explore Alicante: Ciudad de la Luz tour (if open), Castillo de Santa Bárbara, Old Town streets.
- Day 2 – Benidorm & Altea: Visit iconic skyline spots, wander Altea’s cinematic old town.
- Day 3 – Guadalest & Torrevieja: Contrast medieval drama with futuristic salt lakes.
📌 FAQ: Filming on the Costa Blanca
Q: Can tourists visit Ciudad de la Luz studios?
A: The studios are usually closed to the public but open occasionally for events and festivals. (Alicante Film Office)
Q: What was the biggest Hollywood production filmed here?
A: The Impossible (2012) is the most internationally acclaimed film made in Alicante. (Wikipedia)
Q: Are there guided tours for film locations?
A: Yes, the Alicante Film Office offers walking routes through the historic city center where several productions were shot. (Alicante Film Office)
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