Alicante airport to Torrevieja: the options that make sense.
You do not automatically need a rental car for Torrevieja. Aena confirms a direct bus without intermediate stops, which makes it easier to choose based on your actual trip.

Direct bus
Aena lists a direct connection between Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández airport and Torrevieja without intermediate stops. The airport gives an approximate journey time of 40 minutes.
Costa Azul/Avanza operates the route, shown in the intercity network as L40 Torrevieja – Aeropuerto. Check current departure times and fares with the operator for your travel date.
When a rental car makes sense
A car becomes useful when you plan several day trips outside Torrevieja, carry a lot of luggage or want maximum timing flexibility. For a stay centred on town, beach and promenade, it is not automatically necessary.
Private transfer or taxi
A taxi or pre-booked transfer is most attractive for late or early arrivals, heavy luggage or when you want to go directly to the accommodation without dealing with schedules. The trade-off is usually a higher price than the public bus.
Which would we choose?
For city plus beach with few excursions, start by checking the direct bus. For several regional day trips, a rental car can be worth the parking hassle. For maximum convenience after a late flight, a transfer is the simplest option.
Sources & transparency
For current information, we prefer official primary sources and clearly separate plans from changes that are already in place.