Platja de l'Ahuir takes its name from the Valencian word 'ahuir,' referring to a type of wild plant or possibly derived from Arabic linguistic influences that remain embedded in Valencian place names from the centuries of Moorish rule. The beach is located at the northernmost extent of Gandia's coastline in the province of Valencia, Comunitat Valenciana, bordering the neighboring municipality of Xeraco. This 2-kilometer stretch represents one of the Mediterranean's few remaining virgin beaches, protected by the highest level of environmental designation to preserve its pristine dune ecosystems and native vegetation. The well-conserved dune cordon features endemic Mediterranean plant species including sea daffodils, marram grass, and shrubs adapted to salt spray and sandy soils, with wooden boardwalk pathways constructed to provide beach access while preventing visitors from trampling the fragile dune vegetation that stabilizes the sand and prevents erosion. L'Ahuir's development was deliberately restricted to maintain its natural character, contrasting sharply with the intensive urbanization of Gandia's southern beaches where hotels, apartments, and commercial facilities line the waterfront. The beach's designation as an official naturist beach, signposted and authorized by the Valencian Community, reflects Spain's progressive approach to naturism that has made the country home to numerous legal nude beaches along its extensive coastline. Additionally, Platja de l'Ahuir holds designation as a Playa sin Humos (smoke-free beach), part of a regional initiative promoting tobacco-free coastal environments for health and environmental reasons.
The beach extends 2 kilometers along the coast, featuring fine golden sand backed by protected dunes covered in native vegetation creating a wild, natural landscape distinct from manicured resort beaches. The beach's exposed northern position and lack of breakwaters or harbor protection means more wind and wave action compared to sheltered southern Gandia beaches, creating ideal conditions for wind and kite surfing with consistent onshore breezes particularly strong during afternoon hours. Windsurfers and kitesurfers favor L'Ahuir for its reliable wind, spacious beach allowing safe launching and landing, and waves providing exciting conditions for experienced riders while remaining manageable for intermediates. The naturist designation means nude bathing is legally permitted and socially accepted, with the beach attracting naturists from across Spain and Europe seeking legal venues for clothing-optional recreation. The naturist section is not segregated, with clothed and unclothed beachgoers coexisting peacefully following general naturist etiquette of respect and body positivity. Basic facilities include showers, water taps for rinsing sand and salt, and beach volleyball nets providing recreational options, though the beach deliberately maintains minimal development to preserve its natural character—no chiringuitos (beach bars), no sunbed rentals, no commercial facilities. This lack of amenities requires visitors to bring all necessary equipment, food, and shade structures, attracting those who prefer unspoiled nature over commercial convenience. The isolated, peaceful atmosphere draws visitors seeking tranquility, with significantly fewer crowds than Gandia's main beaches even during peak summer months. The protected dune ecosystem provides habitat for nesting shorebirds, with signs requesting visitors avoid certain areas during breeding seasons to protect vulnerable species. The smoke-free designation prohibits tobacco use, creating cleaner air and reducing cigarette butt pollution that affects marine environments. Walking along the 2-kilometer beach provides exercise and nature appreciation, with the dunes and native vegetation creating scenic backdrops.
Since L'Ahuir beach maintains its natural character without on-site restaurants, dining requires traveling to nearby Gandia. Restaurante Casa José on Carrer de Formentera in Platja de Gandia serves paella de marisco with fresh Mediterranean seafood, fideuà de Gandia with alioli, and arroz a banda cooked in fish stock. Restaurante Arrocería Casa Julia at Plaça del Pou offers arroz negro with squid ink, arroz del senyoret with peeled seafood, and paella valenciana with chicken, rabbit, and green beans. Restaurante Coronada on Carrer del Senil features sepia a la plancha (grilled cuttlefish), chopitos fritos (fried baby squid), and gambas al ajillo (prawns with garlic and chili). Casa Concha serves croquetas de bacalao (salt cod croquettes), pulpo a la gallega with paprika, and paella mixta with seafood and meat. Tasca Manduca offers chipirones a la plancha, ensalada valenciana with tuna and vegetables, and fideuà negra with squid ink.
