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The scent of salt air fades quickly as you climb into the air-conditioned cabin of a waiting car, leaving the coastal sprawl of Alicante behind for the rugged interior of the province. Within an hour, the landscape shifts from sandy beaches to limestone cliffs and ancient stone fortifications that have watched over these valleys for centuries. Best Budget Day Trips # If you want to maximize your time without straining your wallet, the Algar Waterfalls from Alicante and Benidorm at $59 is your primary choice. This trip provides a necessary relief from the coastal heat, taking you to a series of natural pools and cascades tucked into the mountain terrain. It is ideal for those who prefer an active morning spent wading in cool water rather than sitting on a crowded beach. My advice is to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot near the main falls before the mid-day arrival of larger tourist groups, and remember to pack sturdy water shoes as the riverbed stones can be quite slippery.