Making friends abroad doesn’t have to feel like you’re wandering aimlessly in a tapas town with no plan. There are communities here, awesome ones, and I’ve gathered the best so you can plug in fast.
Whether you’re a newcomer, a digital nomad, a language lover, a runner, or just someone craving good vibes and good people, here are some Alicante groups worth joining (with links so you don’t have to hunt them down).
Aftr Social Club – Alicante (Instagram)
This is the big one. A vibrant community that organises events weekly, think dinners, drinks, beach hangouts, day trips, and social meetups that are perfect for making real connections.
Why it’s great: It’s super social and relaxed. If you’re new in town and just want to meet people in person, this is one of the best starting points.
Alicante Activities Community (Meetup)
Just like in Valencia, this is a multi-interest group with all kinds of meetups: hikes, cultural nights, food outings, language exchanges, and more.
Why it’s great: It’s versatile. You can show up to what truly excites you—not just something generic.
Rise to Run Club – Alicante (Instagram)
For anyone who loves moving their body and meeting people outside cafés, this running club is social, welcoming, and perfect for all levels.
Why it’s great: Running buddies turn into café buddies. Plus, you’ll see parts of Alicante you didn’t even know existed.
Alicante Social Pádel (Instagram)
Padel is massive in Spain. This group connects players of all levels for matches, tournaments, and casual games.
Why it’s great: Sports break the ice fast. You’ll be high-fiving strangers in no time.
Alicante Expat Community (Facebook)
A broad expat network that posts meetups, events, questions, and general social opportunities specifically for internationals and locals alike.
Why it’s great: If you want a mix of global friends with local insight, this group is gold.
Alicante Language Exchange (Meetup)
This is the one for language lovers. Spanish practice, English support, and usually a few other languages in the mix, too.
Why it’s great: It’s low-pressure and really fun. You walk in unsure, and you might walk out booking brunch plans with someone new.
If I am being honest, finding community here did not happen overnight for me. It took a few awkward introductions, a couple of “should I even go?” moments, and showing up when staying home would have been easier. But every time I chose to step out, Alicante opened up a little more. The city started to feel smaller and warmer. Community is not just about events on a calendar. It is about the faces you start recognizing, the inside jokes that form, the feeling of belonging somewhere that once felt foreign. And if you are new here or still searching, I promise you this: your people are here. You just have to give yourself permission to find them.
Love always,
American Girl Meets World
