Alicante, like many towns in this region, has a lively nightlife scene and very popular among people looking to party. There is also a good variety of nightlife options here. The old town, El Barrio, is especially popular for being a nighttime destination. There is a plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants with music like rock, salsa and jazz.
Between Explanada and Alfonso El Sabio, close to the port, there is another area known for its nightlife. The bars and restaurants here are a bit more sophisticated and have some of the town's most stylish nightclubs. Bar Potato is the most popular and they also serve some great tapas. This area is nicknamed 'The Wood Route' (La ruta de la Madera), due to the wooden style design of some bars.
Beachcomber and Hippodrome are the most famous nightclubs. They are always filled with people attracted by the relaxed atmosphere and the dance music. Before going to the clubs many people start a few drinks in a smaller bar. Cosmopolitan, in the area close to the port, is small but fun and has karaoke every night.
As a rule, people in Spain tend to eat very late, and as a result bars and clubs do not start to get busy until well after midnight. It's a good idea to take an afternoon siesta and get prepared for a good night out.