Guide to holidays, surfing, and sunbathing at the best beaches in southern Spain.
Spain is the third most visited country in the world. This land of siesta and fiesta has a vibrant culture, a fabulous culinary scene, and boundless landscapes.
While most visitors flock to Madrid, Barcelona, or Ibiza, Southern Spain has an allure all its own. Andalusia is particularly coveted for its warm climate and beaches.
And nowhere is this more apparent than on the beaches of Southern Spain. Pack your bikini as today, I bring you the best beaches in Southern Spain!
I have visited most of these beaches, but some are still on my list in one of my Southern Spain Guides! So, without much ado, let’s get started and go for beach time in Spain!
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Pssst…??!! You can’t get enough Southern Spain posts? Have a look at my other posts:
Best Beaches South Spain has for Surfers
1. Valdevaqueros Beach, Tarifa
Valdevaqueros Beach is one of the best things to do in Tarifa and one of the most famous beaches in the south of Spain for wind and kitesurfing.
Its famously windy climate has made it the kitesurfing capital of Europe, with adrenaline junkies flocking here to enjoy the monster waves.
There are clearly demarcated zones for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and bathing. You can go kitesurfing all year round but the best months are between May and November. – Book surf classes here.
Whether you are participating in some seaside sports or are more content sitting in the pristine, white sand and watching the world go by, there is always something to do here.
This is not only one of the best beaches in Southern Spain for adventurers but also for families with kids and various amenities:
- Beach bars and restaurants
- Public restrooms and changing rooms
- Police surveillance
- Parkings
- Kite schools (they rent out equipment as well)
- Campings
How to get there
Valdevaqueros Beach is 10 km northwest of Tarifa, and it can be reached by a short drive along the lovely coastal N340.
You can even take a bus running from Tarifa to the beach. Tarifa is one of the best beaches near Seville and makes one of the best day trips from Seville.
2. Playa El Palmar, Cadiz
Considered one of the most virgin areas of the province of Cadiz, Playa El Palmar is one of the best beaches to visit in Spain.
It is a beautiful and huge beach with extraordinary conditions for surfing, bodyboarding, and a myriad of adventure sports.
Playa El Palmar is definitely one of the best beaches in Southern Spain for surfers making this one of the best things to do in Cadiz.
In fact, it is considered a paradise for surfers. The best time to visit here is between October and May.
The waters at Playa El Palmar are very clean and shallow. They invite bathing and make it an ideal beach for children, too.
Although there is no urbanization on the beach, it has many services such as:
- Small shops
- Lifeguards
- Restaurants with toilets
- Craft stalls
- Bars
- Outdoor parking
How to get there
Playa El Palmar is well connected through the A-2233, which connects Conil de la Frontera with Barbate. It passes along El Palmar, Zahora and Los Canos de Meca.
When traveling on this road, it is common to see country houses, orchards, and livestock.
The access to Playa El Palmar is through wooden walkways in order to preserve and conserve the dune system that surrounds its entire coastline.
3. Cortadura Beach, Cadiz
Cortadura is a huge beach that lies between the township of San Fernando and the town of Cadiz.
It has a big group of sand dunes of high biological value. This beach has fine-grained golden sand and has been awarded seven blue flags.
This means that it meets stringent environmental and quality standards.
The coastline of Cortadura Beach is a great place to first encounter the surf since the waves are soft.
Cortadura Beach is one of the best beaches in the south Spain mainland to practice and advance in kitesurfing, as well as enjoy and view some wild vegetation.
The beach is well-equipped with:
- Restaurants and toilets
- Showers and changing rooms
- Lifeguards
- Sun loungers
- Kitesurf schools and shops
How to get there
Cortadura Beach is located at about 4 km from Cadiz and can be reached by train, bus or taxi.
The train departs from Cadiz station on an hourly basis. The bus service departs from Audiencia Provincial station. When you reach Cortadura, the access points to the beach are through wooden boardwalks.
Book here your train from Cadiz.
4. Hierbabuena Beach, Barbate
With the Natural Park of the cliffs of Barbate, Hierbabuena Beach is one of the nicest beaches in Spain Mediterranean area for surfers. Visit this beach if you are a big fan of the sport.
The local food served here, the almadraba red tuna, is the perfect meal to recover from the energy spent practicing surfing.
Barbate itself, a small fishing village, is well worth a visit too. Indeed, Barbate is famous for selling some of the best tuna fish in the world.
This amazing beach has very clean waters and fresh, golden, and fine sand. At one end of the beach, nudism is practiced.
From the beach, you can reach the pine forest, which has been declared the Natural Park of the Acantilado and Pinar de Barbate.
The facilities available at the beach include:
- Refreshment stalls
- Surf practice areas
- Scuba diving areas
- Toilets and showers
- Parking space close to the beach for up to 100 vehicles
How to get there
Hierbabuena Beach can be reached on foot, by car or you can even take a bus. The nearest road is the A314 which connects Barbate with Vejar de la Frontera.
5. Playa de Los Lances, Tarifa
Located on the southern coast of Spain, Playa de Los Lances in Tarifa is famous for its strong winds, making it a haven for windsurfers and kitesurfers alike.
Stretching impressively across 7km, this beach offers plenty of space for beach lovers to spread out and enjoy themselves, making it the best beach in southern Spain for those who love surfing and sunbathing.
As the day winds down, it transforms into the perfect spot to witness a breathtaking sunset, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Playa de Los Lances effortlessly blends the thrill of adventure with the laid-back charm of coastal living and also has the following amenities:
- Lifeguard
- Public Toilets and Showers
- Restaurants and Bars
- Parking area
How to get there:
This beach has regular buses from the town center. Please make sure to know which section you would like to stop (North to South).
6. Playa de los Caños de Meca, Cadiz
Playa de los Caños de Meca, on the beautiful Cadiz coast, is a stunning beach that attracts sun-seekers and surf enthusiasts.
Its clear waters and steady waves make it perfect for water activities or simply enjoying the sea.
As the sun sets, the best beach in south Spain becomes a magical sight with colorful skies during the sunset.
It’s a great place to relax, catch a wave, swim, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere with the following services offered:
- Restaurants
- Beach Bars
- Shops
Los Caños de Meca invites travelers to immerse themselves in a coastal paradise where every moment is filled with the magic of the Mediterranean.
How to get there:
There are no buses serving this area, so the best way to get here is by car.
Best Beaches in Southern Spain to Relax and Enjoy
7. Playa de Maro, Malaga
Playa de Maro is one of the best beaches near Malaga, located in the Nerja province and it is also known as Cala de Maro.
It’s also very close to the Costa Tropical, close to Granada. It is thus one of the best day trips from Malaga and a must on any Malaga itinerary.
Maro Beach is a hidden gem among the natural area of the Cliffs of Maro, agricultural land from which you can see the remains of an ancient Arab watchtower enclave. All this gives it a special, wild charm.
Book here your Malaga Boat rental.
The dark sand and limpid, turquoise waters make it an ideal spot for snorkeling or diving and discovering an impressive array of marine fauna.
However, if you don’t want to go diving, you can hire a sunbed and bask in the sun.
This makes Maro Beach a perfect place to unwind and escape from the busy city life. A snack bar provides all the necessary refreshments and sustenance, including full meals.
The temperatures are mild throughout the year, thus Costa del Sol is one of the best places for winter holidays in Spain.
The other facilities available include:
- Beach showers and toilets
- Warning signals
- Kayaks
- Sunbeds
How to get there
Playa de Maro is located near Nerja, approximately 62 km east of Malaga. Follow the signs on the coastal highway E15/A7, Autovia del Mediterraneo and take the Nerja-Maro exit (near 295).
Playa de Maro is well-signposted. If you visit the area in summer, get there early to find a parking space along the road, close to the beach.
If not, you may have to park 1000 meters from the beach and walk 15 to 20 minutes to reach the spot.
8. Playa Las Salinas, Almeria
The beach of Las Salinas is the biggest in the Natural Park of Cabo de Gata, close to Almeria.
The variety of sand satisfies everyone’s preferences, making it ideal for a relaxing sunny day with your family.
Enjoy the picturesque church of Las Salinas from the middle of the beach with various unique spots to watch the birds of the natural ornithological reserve of Las Salinas.
You can even spot flamingos. From here, it is only a stone’s throw to the salt mines, a must on the list of things to do in Almeria.
The natural beauty of Playa Las Salinas makes it easy to see why it is considered one of the most beautiful places in Spain and one of the best beaches in Southern Spain for outdoor lovers.
This beach is entirely outside the urban area, so there aren’t any bars or restaurants. You need to bring everything to have a relaxing and enjoyable day at the beach. Showers and toilet facilities are available.
How to get there
Playa Las Salinas can be reached by car. The road runs parallel to the beach and you can park your car right on the side of the beach.
The access to the beach from the road is through wooden walkways.
9. El Rompido, Huelva
East of the marshland of the River Piedras and Flecha de El Rompido, lies El Rompido beach, flanked by a beautiful fishing port. El Rompido is easily one of the best beaches in Andalucia, Spain for nature lovers.
The majestic views of the sandy formation known as Flecha del Rompido will fill your eyes. If you fancy getting closer, Flecha can be reached by ferry.
Huelva has some of the best beaches south of Spain has to offer.
If you want to reconnect with nature and the quietness of the blue sea, El Rompido is the right place to be.
In general, the beaches of Huelva are vast and pristine, and of course some of the top things to do in Huelva!
The beach has facilities such as:
- Showers and toilets
- Lifeguards
- Restaurants and leisure facilities
How to get there
The easiest way to reach El Rompido beach is through the road. If you are traveling by car, you have two options for getting to the beach.
If coming from Seville, you have to follow the A49 until exit 99 and then take the N431 towards Cartaya. Then follow the A5053, which will take you directly to El Rompido Beach.
Coming from Portugal, you will enter the A49 but leave at exit 105, taking the HU3402 towards Cartaya and then connecting with the A5053.
10. Playa de Paraiso, Cartagena
Playa de Paraiso (Paradise Beach) is known as one of the best beaches in Cartagena, Spain as it has a beautiful stretch of golden, fine sand with clean waters.
These are considered some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain and are a must when looking for things to do in Cartagena, Spain.
Playa de Paraiso is excellent for families to relax and enjoy their day with a whole host of water sports activities and varied services such as:
- Restaurants and bars
- Toilets and feet showers
- Parasols and Sunbed hiring
- Sports material hiring
- Surf practice areas
How to get there
Playa de Paraiso is located close to the Autovia de La Manga MU312 Salida 11 road and can be reached by car or bus.
11. Playa Punta de Umbria, Cadiz
Cadiz has some of the best sandy beaches in Southern Spain, and Playa Punta de Umbria is one of them.
It is a perfect beach if you prefer to laze in the sun with your family and friends.
It is the oldest tourist beach and has been regularly awarded the Blue Flag for its high standards of cleanliness and excellent facilities.
- Restaurants and bars
- Ample parking
- Clean restrooms
- Showers
Book here your Cadiz Boat rental.
How to get there
Playa Punta de Umbria is well connected to the A497 and you can either take a bus or car to reach there. If you are staying in Seville, it would take 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach there.
12. Torre del Mar Beaches, Costa del Sol
Torre del Mar has some of the most alluring beaches in southern Spain which were once among the best-kept secrets of Costa del Sol.
The beaches around here are great for enjoying a wonderful day in the sun and are ideal for visiting with the family.
This is one of the South Spain beaches that has been awarded the Q quality, a distinction awarded to beaches that provide good service to tourists. It also recently received the Blue Flag.
The services available here are:
- Lifeguards and rescue
- Access for disabled
- Restaurants and bars
- Rentals of sunbeds, chairs, and umbrellas
- Water sports activities
How to get there
If you leave from Velez-Malaga, just follow the signs towards “Torre del Mar” and you’ll reach the beach in 10 minutes.
From Malaga centre, you need to take the E15 which will take you to Torre del Mar beach in less than 30 minutes. It is thus a great day trip from Malaga as well.
13. La Manga, Murcia
The La Manga strip in the region of Murcia is around 21 km long. Its full name is La Manga Del Mar Menor, and it comprises several of the best beaches in Murcia, Spain.
All the beaches present here are great for spending quality time with your family and enjoying water sports. It’s truly one of the best things to do in Murcia, Spain.
The beach also has great facilities to offer:
- Restaurants and bars
- Rental sunbeds and parasols
- Clean restrooms with showers
- Sporting equipment rentals
How to get there
La Manga can be reached by bus, train, air, or car. The nearest airport is Murcia-San Javier which is 39 km away. Buses go every day from Cartagena and Murcia to La Manga.
The nearest train station is in Cartagena and if traveling by car, take the AP7.
Best Beach Areas in Southern Spain for Nature Lovers
14. Playa Bolonia, Cadiz
Bolonia beach is known for its unique natural environment with a magnificent landscape full of almost virgin nature. It has one of the largest dunes in Spain.
Fine white sand, crystal clear water, and a very nice sea breeze make it a great place for relaxation and enjoying the beauty of the site.
Book here your Cadiz Boat rental.
Bolonia is a must-visit beach for nature lovers. It is located within El Estrecho Natural Park, and the natural pools add to its beauty.
The services you can find here include:
- Restaurants and bars
- Toilets and showers
- Surfing and rock climbing equipment rentals
How to get there
Access to this beautiful beach is not easy as there is no public transportation. Travel by private vehicle following the N340-E5 in the direction of Vejer de la Fronter.
After about 15 km from Tarifa, turn left at the CA8202 and follow the road down until you reach the village of El Lentiscal, Bolonia beach is right in front.
15. Playa de los Genoveses, Almeria
Playa de los Genoveses is a pristine beach with no buildings, no power lines, no bars, and no roads preserving its natural beauty.
It is located in the heart of the Natural Park Cabo de Gata and is one of the best beaches near Almeria.
The beach is surrounded by sand dunes where you can collect seashells, a small eucalyptus forest, and the volcanic ridge Morron de Genoveses.
This is one of the best beaches in Almeria Spain to enjoy the natural beauty.
As Los Genoveses is a virgin beach, you won’t find any restaurants or bars here. You´ll need to carry everything you need.
Did you know that this beach was a film location for several of the best Western movies set in Spain?
How to get there
It is a natural area that is accessed by an unpaved lane past the town of San Jose. Leave your car on the main road and walk through the beautiful set of cactus fruit plantations.
16. Playa el Canuelo, Nerja
Playa el Canuelo is located in the natural landscape of the Acantilados de Maro-Cerro Gordo and Maro-Cerro Gordo with steep amazing cliffs.
About 1 hour and 30 minutes drive away from Malaga, it is one of the best day trips from Malaga and one of the things to do in Nerja you should not miss.
It is a secluded rustic beach surrounded by a natural environment of great beauty.
The water here is exceptionally clean, crystal clear, and teeming with fish, making it ideal for snorkeling and diving without any problems.
Playa el Canuelo is one of the quietest places on the Malaga coast, perfect for relaxing on a sunny day.
The services here are:
- Free Parking
- Accesses for disabled people
How to get there
Situated just on the border with Malaga and Granada, Playa el Canuelo is easy to drive through when following the N340. It is 9 km from Nerja and clearly signposted.
17. Playa Isla Canela, Huelva
Isla Canela is a very broad beach located at the mouth of the Guadiana River.
The beach is part of the Marismas de Isla Cristina nature area and is home to an abundance of wildlife. This area also has some of the best beach resorts near Seville.
The vast sand dunes give it a wild appearance, while its endless stretches of sand are an invitation to take long walks.
It has a full range of services and infrastructures including:
- Accesses adapted for people with reduced mobility
- Summer beach bars
- Parasols and hammocks for hire
- Showers and restrooms
How to get there
Isla Canela is easily accessible from any part of Europe as there are two airports, Seville airport (157 km by motorway A49 Huelva – Seville) and Faro airport in Portugal (74 km).
You only need to cross the international bridge that unites Spain and Portugal.
18. Cala de Roche, Cadiz
Cala de Roche beach has a series of small coves that lie between the port of Conil de la Frontera and Roche.
It is characterized as being rocky and under impressive cliffs of red color and of great beauty. They are little frequented beaches and nudist beaches in southern Spain.
Book here your Cadiz Boat rental.
The environment of the coves is ideal for walking or cycling.
Services offered:
- Parking at the top of the cliffs
- Restaurants
- Restrooms and showers
How to get there
Drive to Conil de la Frontera. Next to each car park, there is a path with wooden walkways leading to the main coves. The route of these to the edge of the cliffs is short (1-2 minutes).
Then, you have to follow a dirt road that becomes very pleasant to walk through smelling of sea and juniper.
19. Playa de los Muertos, Almeria
In the stunning Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, Playa de los Muertos is a hidden gem.
Despite its ominous name which means “Beach of the Dead,” this beach is bursting with life and beauty.
With its dramatic landscapes, clear waters, and shores adorned with white pebbles, it’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and photographers alike.
This beach has earned its place among the best south Spanish beaches, captivating all who venture to its shores with its raw beauty and untamed charm.
How to get there:
It’s better to drive to Playa de los Muertos.
Enter Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, follow the signs for Agua Amarga, and continue driving along the coast until you see a car park. Then, walk towards the beach.
Best Beaches Southern Spain has for Party Lovers
20. Nikki Beach, Marbella
There is no place to party like Marbella, and that’s why people who enjoy the good life come from all over the world to Nikki Beach in Costa del Sol.
Marbella is one of the best beach towns in southern Spain for partiers, if not the best. On top, there is a wide range of gorgeous places to visit near Marbella.
Renowned for its electric party scene, regular events include champagne contests, dinner and dance nights, and full-moon parties.
There are also opening white parties, closing red parties with live music, and entertainment nights with dancers, DJs, and musicians. It’s a true paradise for party lovers.
Book here your Marbella Boat rental.
During the day, make sure you check out all the other amazing things to do in Marbella, including lots of swimming and sunbathing!
Amenities available:
- Beach clubs
- Sun loungers rent
- DJs, go-go Dancers, fire throwers, acrobats, etc.
How to get there
If traveling from Marbella, take the N340-A7 eastward towards Malaga. If traveling to Marbella from Malaga, take the N340-A7 westwards. Nikki Beach is well signposted.
21. La Malagueta, Malaga
La Malagueta is a manmade beach and one of the most popular things to do in Malaga City because of its easy access and its proximity to the city center.
Although it is considered one of the best beaches in Malaga, it is probably the most touristic beach that Malaga has.
Great parties and events are organized here during the weekend and if you want to have fun, come to this beach. There are many beach bars (chiringuitos) serving amazing tasty food.
Book here your Malaga Boat Trip.
Facilities Include:
- Various restaurants
- Disabled accesses
- Sunbeds and parasols hire
- Showers and restrooms
- Children play areas
How to get there
Malaga is the closest beach to the center of the city and is just 15 minutes walk along a lovely promenade.
Read more about the best hotels and where to stay in Malaga, Spain. If you are looking to stay in a unique historic hotel, Malaga also has one of the best paradores in Andalucia.
22. Torremolinos Beach, Torremolinos
Torremolinos’ picturesque coastline runs for about 7 km and is divided into four main beaches.
The beaches are characterized by the variety of activities, parties and many services they offer. The Torremolinos coastline has some of the best beaches in Andalucia, Spain.
Accompanied by a pleasant and always lively promenade, this stretch of coastline is a heaven for those seeking a comfortable and effortless beach holiday.
Not surprisingly, the beach is one of the most popular things to do in Torremolinos. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from.
Services Offered:
- Beach bars
- Restaurants and restrooms
How to get there
There is a regular train service connecting Torremolinos to Malaga, Malaga Airport to the north, and Fuengirola to the south.
The journey to Malaga takes about 30 minutes. A local bus service is also available. This allows you to get to the town center from the outlying parts, which can be up to 2 km away.
23. Magaluf Beach, Mallorca
When it comes to the best southern Spain beaches where the party never stops, Magaluf Beach in Mallorca takes center stage.
This lively stretch of sand is a playground for young travelers seeking non-stop fun by the sea.
Beachfront clubs beckon with pulsating beats, live music, and themed events that keep the energy levels high well into the night.
Here, the atmosphere is electric, and the crowd is always ready to dance the night away, creating an unforgettable party scene that draws revelers from far and wide.
Facilities included:
- Sun Loungers and parasols
- Public showers and toilet
- Lifeguards (peak season)
- Watersports
- Beach clubs
- Restaurant and Bars
How to get there:
There is a direct bus route (line 104) from Plaça Progrés in Palma de Mallorca to Pere Vaquer Ramis 2 in Magaluf. Then, walk towards the beach.
24. Levante Beach, Benidorm
For party lovers seeking a beachside bash, Levante Beach in Benidorm is the ultimate destination.
Lined with an array of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, this vibrant stretch of sand is where the party never stops, making this truly the best beach in south of Spain.
From dawn till dusk, visitors can revel in the lively atmosphere, enjoying music, drinks, and a festive ambiance that lasts well into the early hours of the morning.
Amenities are:
- Sun Loungers and parasols for hire
- Public showers and toilet
- Lifeguards (peak season)
- Play areas
- Watersports
- Sports and Recreational Activities
- Restaurant and Bars
How to get there:
There is a bus on Bus Route 003 that runs from various points in Benidorm, and it stops next to Levante Beach. Another scenic and budget-friendly option is by walking.
What to expect from the best beaches in Southern Spain
There’s nothing better than sunbathing or hanging out and eating churros, one of the tastiest snacks from Spain on the most beautiful beaches in Spain!
Southern Spain has scenic beaches that offer an escape from the busy city life and action-packed ones that are packed with thrilling water sports, parties, and adventure.
There are plenty of options if you are looking for beach holidays in Spain.
Because one of the things that Spain is most known for is its laid back lifestyle, it’s no wonder that it has some of the best beaches in the world.
These south of Spain beaches can be their vacation, easily added to your Spain itinerary, or while relaxing at one of the best beach resorts near Seville.
Either way, the best beaches in southern Spain are not to be missed!
Here, I will walk you through the best beaches in Andalusia according to your preference, and layout why the beach is one of the essential things to do in Andalucia!
I’ll also let you know the best beach towns in Southern Spain in case you need a break from the wat
Best Beaches in Southern Spain: Map
Includes all the best beaches in Andalucia, Spain from Malaga to Marbella, and all the best beaches near Seville.
To make the most of your trip and avoid tourist traps and get the customizable “Andalucia Like a Local” itinerary. – Get it here.
Can’t get enough of Spain’s beaches? Have a look at our webstory about the best beaches in Andalusia.
Short FAQ about the best beaches in Southern Spain
Where are the best spots to vacation in Spain?
Although anyone looking for a beach vacation will love Spain, there are many of the best south Spain beaches. In South Spain, the best spots for the beach are Cartegena, Tarifa, and Malaga.
But Sevilla is also perfectly located for a day trip to the beach, as it is a big, historic city.
What are some underrated places to visit in Spain?
El Rompido in Huelva and Cortadura Beach in Cadiz are still relatively off-the-beaten-path beaches to visit in Spain.
What are the best beaches in the South for family vacations?
Some of the best beaches in Southern Spain for families are: Playa Las Salinas in Almeria, Playa Punta de Umbria in Cadiz, and La Manga in Murcia
Hola, I’m Paulina! Together with my team, we are passionate about Southern Spain. Here we share all you need to know for great times in Southern Spain with the best places to visit, stay and, of course, the best food to eat.
Let’s dive in and explore Southern Spain’s outdoors, food and culture con pasión!