MALAGA
Chances are we wouldn’t visit Málaga solely for its beaches, but we’d definitely spend a few hours at Playa de la Malagueta if we’re there in the summer. Stroll along the Palmeral de las Sorpresas promenade to admire the yachts, or through the nearbyMálaga Park, a beautifully manicured botanical garden-like space that provides plenty of shade. You can also book yourself in for an inex- pensive, hour-long catamaran ride to admire the view from the sea, or hire a bicycle and pedal leisurely along the boardwalk to the city’s old fishing village, Pedregalejo, where the boardwalk is lined with restaurants.
NERJA
Located halfway between Granada and Málaga just off the N-340 coastal road, Nerja is a charming small town with more than a dozen beautiful beaches nearby that are well-worth the visit. Begin by taking in the spectacular views from Balcón de Europa, then explore the different playas, most of which are teeming with sea life. Unwind at intimate coves like Carabeo and La Caleta de Maro, or spend the day at one of the bigger, well-serviced beaches like Torecilla or Burriana. Easily walkable from town, Burriana is Nerja’s most popular beach for a reason: it has excellent restaurants and beach bars, full shower and restroom facilities, as well as beach volleyball courts and kayak and pedal boat rentals—ideal for anyone looking for seaside sports and action.
AlMUÑÉCAR
One of our favorite things about Almuñécar is its board- walk, which allows you to stroll along the Mediterranean from one end of town to the other. Each beach section has a different vibe: Playa el Muerto is a secluded nudist and LGBTQ+ friendly beach with no amenities other than a cave and crystal clear water. Playas San Cristobal and Puerta del Mar, near Almuñécar’s center, have all the usual services like beach bars, known as chiringuitos, and lounge and umbrella rentals. Playa del Tesorillo, in the Velilla-Taramay district, is a small, semi-protected cove near the ancient Moorish watchtower. Named after the treasures found along the shore there centuries ago, this beach is ideal for families with young children. Nearby, Playa Calabajio is a beautiful sandy bay surrounded by tropical vegetation and with plenty of shade.
SALOBREÑA
The main beach here, Playa de la Charca/Salomar is spacious and clean, and surrounded by a number of good restaurants. Make sure to climb to the top of El Peñón rock for breathtaking 360-degree views, castle included. Walk towards the west, along Playa de la Guardia near the old sugar factory, and follow the beachfront to the Mirador below La Caleta, where you’ll find a surprising small-village feel. From there, you can adventure along the rocks until you come upon your reward: a beautiful tiny, hidden cove.
PLAYA CANTARRIJÁN
Locals love this little off-the beaten-track beach where swimsuits are optional. There’s free parking off the N-340 at the top of the road, and a bus service takes visitors down and up from the beach for 2€ – although you can also make the trek on foot. Cantarriján has good facilities and a couple of quality restaurants that make spending the day there a treat. Explore beyond the rocks to the left for a resolutely naturalist crowd.
LA HERRADURA
This small, easygoing town is perfect for families wanting to spend a simple day out at the beach. Rent kayaks or stand-up paddle boards, play in the park and enjoy a good meal in one of the many seaside restaurants. La Herradura has ample parking as well as the option to make the day-trip by bus.
PLAYA DE LA JOYA
Adventurers love Playa de la Joya, a nudist beach in a wild secluded cove just off Torrenueva, on the way to Almería. This gem (joya in Spanish) is difficult to access, through cliffs and down a lot of stairs, yet the golden sand and crystal waters are well-worth the challenge to get there. There are no facilities on site, so make sure to come well-prepared.
PLAYA DE LA RIJANA
A few kilometers after Calahonda on the N-340, you’ll see a sign to park in the lot on the left side of the road. Walk down and don’t let the tunnel deter you – paradise awaits on the other side! This sheltered cove is perfect for exploring the surrounding rocks and underwater wildlife. There are no facilities, however, and the chiringuito is only sometimes open, so it’s best to bring your own snacks.
