Quick answer: Yes. Benidorm's mains water is treated and monitored by Veolia (formerly Hidraqua), and the council actively promotes tap water as a "safe and healthy" option. Many visitors still buy bottled water because of the taste, which can be hard and slightly chlorinated. Benidorm is installing free chilled drinking fountains on the seafront, and Spanish law requires bars and restaurants to offer tap water free of charge.
Who supplies Benidorm's water
Water in Benidorm is managed by Veolia, the company responsible for the town's integrated water cycle; it traded as Hidraqua until recently (El Español). The Marina Baixa is one of the most water-stressed areas of the Valencian region, so supply mixes reservoirs, aquifers and treated water, and the system is closely monitored. Benidorm was the first tourist destination to measure its water footprint (Alicante Plaza).
Why it can taste different
Tap water in this part of Spain is often hard, with a high mineral content, and is chlorinated to keep it safe in the pipes. Neither is harmful, but the taste puts some people off. Tips:
Chill a jug in the fridge; chlorine taste fades after an hour or so.
Use a filter jug if you are staying long-term.
In older apartment blocks, run the tap for a few seconds first.
Free chilled drinking fountains
Benidorm council and Veolia are running a pilot of refrigerated drinking-water fountains around town, including a newer one on Levante. The council says the aim is to encourage tap water as a safe and healthy choice and cut single-use plastic bottles (Benidorm council). Bring a refillable bottle.
Tap water in bars and restaurants
Under Spain's 2022 waste law, hospitality businesses must offer customers non-bottled water free of charge. Ask for "agua del grifo, por favor". Some places will still offer bottled water first, so ask clearly if you want tap.
Babies, health and hot weather
Mains water is suitable for most people. For babies' formula, many parents use low-mineral bottled water labelled as suitable for infants; check with a pharmacist. In summer, drink more than you think you need: heat exhaustion is a common holiday problem. See our hospitals and pharmacies guide if you feel unwell.
Bottled water costs
Supermarket own-brand water is cheap, especially in 5- or 8-litre bottles. Small bottles on the seafront cost several times more. See our supermarkets guide.
Benidorm tap water: FAQs
Can you drink the tap water in Benidorm? Yes. It is treated and monitored and is safe to drink.
Why does Benidorm tap water taste funny? It is hard and lightly chlorinated. Chilling or filtering it helps.
Do restaurants in Benidorm give free tap water? They must offer it free under Spanish law. Ask for "agua del grifo".
Are there water fountains in Benidorm? Yes, including new chilled fountains on the seafront.
Can I brush my teeth with tap water in Benidorm? Yes.