Last minute near Alicante

[TinyDancer78]

It’s a very long story but my family was due to go away with 2 other families at the start of August in a big villa. It’s looking like this is now going to be cancelled.
This leaves us with flights to Alicante. Myself, DH and DS(17) for the first week with my DD(20) joining us the 2nd week.
can anyone recommend an area within 2 hour drive of Alicante? I’ve been to Benidorm on hen dos and it’s not really where I fancy for a family holiday (although DS would probably be in his element!)
We are happy to hire a car and ideally want people watching, nice restaurants, pretty promenade but nothing too Brit abroad and high rises. We love Nerja for example.
Can anyone help?

I have stayed in Altea/Albir a few times and both are lovely. Around 45 minute drive from Alicante.

I'm a Spaniard and I wouldn't go to Benidorm if you pay me.

Look San Juan. It's been years since I holidayed there but the beach and the vibe was always different from Benidorm.

Torrevieja is lovely!

We had a week in Denia a few years back and loved it. It had a real mix of Spanish, French and German visitors as well as a few Brits, a lovely sandy beach and a marina, also a castle to wander around. Nice chilled vibe and a decent market. We’d definitely go back.

Thank you so much!! This has given me lots to look at

Javea is lovely.

Mojacar playa is lovely. About 2.5 hours drive from Alicante.