Routes I actually use

Airport (ALC) to the centre

The airport line stops right outside arrivals. Buy the ticket on board; contactless works most of the time. Get off at Plaça de Baix for the old town and the Basilica.

Centre to the Palmeral

Honestly, walk. It is fifteen minutes through the palm groves and the bus loops around the ring road anyway. In August, take the bus.

Elx to the beach at Arenales

Summer timetable only, roughly hourly. The last bus back is earlier than you think — check the stop before you settle in.

Night buses

There is one during the Misteri d'Elx week in August, and it is always full. Plan a taxi.