Guide to the best beaches in Malaga and near Malaga you need to visit.
People travel to the Costa del Sol for several reasons: the welcoming temperatures all year round, its cultural and culinary offerings, and, of course, some of the best beaches in Spain.
One of the best things to do in Malaga and even further afield toward the Costa de la Luz is to enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches.
Whether you’re planning on staying put in Malaga or sinking your toes into the sand along various beaches within an 80km distance, we’ve got you covered.
Keep calm and read on – pack up your beach gear for the day and use our handy guide to plan your ultimate holiday by the Andalusian Sea.
Ready to explore all the top beaches in Malaga and around?
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Pssst…??!! You can’t get enough Malaga posts? Have a look at my other posts:
- Best Hiking Trails near Malaga
- Best Resorts in Malaga and Costa del Sol
- Free Things to Do in Malaga, Spain
Useful Travel Information about Malaga
Overview: Best Beaches in Malaga and Costa del Sol
- Pedregalejo Beach
- Playa de la Caleta
- Cabopino, Marbella
- Burriana, Nerja
- La Rada, Estepona
1. La Malagueta Beach, Malaga
With a sand and gravel mix, this may not be the best beach in Malaga, but it is definitely the most convenient if you’re looking for a quick dip or a morning spent playing volleyball.
It stretches on for about one kilometer, and its leisure area is roughly 40 meters wide, allowing for plenty of space to spread out your towel even on a busy day. This Malaga beach offers:
- Showers and toilets
- Volleyball court
- Cafés and beach bars (some of which serve Espetos– the Spanish grilled sardines)
- Playground
One of the greatest things about La Malagueta Beach is its location.
It is only a 20-minute walk from the very city center, you will pass through the Parque de Malaga and pass Muelle Uno and the funky Centre Pompidou building along the way.
It’s one of the best beaches in Malaga since it is very close to the city center and is part of our 1 day in Malaga itinerary.
Are you thinking about moving to Malaga? Here’s a guide that will help you buy the best properties in Malaga and La Malaguena district is one of the most beautiful areas to live in.
2. Pedregalejo Beach, Malaga
Looking for the perfect place to combine your beach bum and foodie tendencies?
If so, Playa Pedregalejo—also known as Las Acacias Beach—is the spot for you. It’s truly one of the best Malaga beaches.
It is a traditional fishing area with some of the best fish and seafood restaurants along the promenade.
So, once you’ve worked up a hunger, roasting in the sun and swimming in the sea, throw on your beach dress, and head over to one of the restaurants for boquerones or Spanish chicken croquettes.
Pedregalejo is a nice beach with:
- A great selection of beachside restaurants
- Showers and toilets
- Hammocks and umbrellas for rent
- Small gardens beneath palm trees
- Playgrounds
- Parking
- Kiosks
It’s a long walk to Pedregalejo Beach from the center of Malaga, but it’s a perfect opportunity to rent a bike and work up your anticipation as you feel the sea breeze in your hair.
You’ll reach the beach in about 15 minutes, and the roads there are relatively smooth.
Alternatively, you can make your way there in a rental car, which will take around ten minutes.
3. Playa de La Caleta, Malaga
Situated between la Malagueta and the Baños del Carmen, you’ll find another one of Malaga, Spain’s beaches, namely Playa de la Caleta.
Measuring around 25m wide and stretching for around 1000m, this is one of many Costa del Sol beaches frequented all year round by tourists and locals alike.
While it is close enough to the center of Malaga by car (around six minutes) and only a brisk, thirty-minute walk, it is far enough from the hustle and bustle to make you feel you have escaped city life completely.
Here you’ll find:
- Chiringuitos
- Lifeguards
- Showers and toilet facilities
- Sun lounge hire
- Children’s play area
- Parking
- Paseo Maritimo
To get to Playa la Caleta, follow the Paseo del Parque towards Calle Molina. From the roundabout, keep in the direction of Avenida de Cánovas del Castillo (N-340).
4. Playa de el Palo, Malaga
Ask three Malagueños about the origin of the name “El Palo“, and they’ll all have a different theory.
But, according to historian Victor Heredia, it was most likely taken from a once-popular roadside venta on the way to Vélez-Málaga.
Playa el Palo stretches from the Arroyo Gálica to Pedregalejo and is as popular among fishermen as it is among beachgoers.
As it is the nicest beach in Malaga it is equipped with:
- Bars and restaurants
- Sun lounge hire
- Sport area
- Lifeguards
- Ample parking
- Shower and toilet facilities
- Children’s play areas
- Summer cinema screenings (June-August)
By car from Malaga, follow the Paseo del Parque to Avenida de Cánovas del Castillo; at the first crossroad, turn left onto Calle Bolivia and follow it all the way down to Calle Quitapenas.
The journey will take you around 12 minutes.
5. Playa Peñón del Cuervo
Just seven minutes by car from La Cala de Moral, an idyllic little beachside town outside of Malaga, on the south coast of Spain, you’ll find Playa Peñon del Cuervo.
A leisurely lounge day on this beach should form part of your Costa del Sol holiday. It’s just 450m long but is a hub for cultural events such as concerts or moragas.
It also happens to be home to the endangered plant species, Siempreviva.
You can’t miss this beach: the big rock formation it is named after is a real eye-catcher.
Noteworthy amenities for one of the beaches in Malaga Spain include:
- Barbecue areas
- Green zones
- Children’s play areas
- Sport area
- Sun lounge hire
- Accessible by public bus
To get to Playa Peñón del Cuervo by bus, get on Line 3 or 6 at the estacion de autobuses next to the María Zambrano train station. The trip will take around 63 minutes.
6. Playa De La Misericordia, Malaga
The Playa de La Misericordia, close to the museo automovilístico and the parque del oeste is one of the city’s most popular beaches.
It stretches on for 2000m, its waters are clear and the sand feels clean and refreshing between your toes.
But ojo! You might be surprised by El Melillero – a tide that comes in quickly and without much warning, soaking towels and even carrying people’s belongings out to sea.
Here is what you can expect at Playa de la Misericordia:
- Snorkeling zone
- Accessible by bus
- Floating platforms
- Summer cinema screenings (June – August)
- Chiringuitos, bars, and restaurants
- Sports equipment
- Playgrounds
- Shower and toilet facilities
If you don’t fancy renting a car or schlepping all your beach gear around, jump on the L40 bus at Avenida Maria Agustin Heredia, which will get you there in just over twenty minutes.
Alternatively, enjoy a nice bike ride along the Paseo Maritimo.
Buy tickets for the L40 Bus here.
7. El Chanquete Beach, Malaga
Visit El Chanquete Beach, also known as El Dedo by locals, nestled in the vibrant Málaga neighborhood of El Palo and one of the best beaches Malaga region.
It stretches gracefully from El Palo Beach to the El Candado Marina, boasting 550 meters of shoreline.
As I stroll along this urban gem, I can’t help but notice the bustling energy, especially during peak seasons when the beach brims with life.
It’s the vibrant beachfront promenade is adorned with beach bars. Go to El Tintero, a legendary spot, for its unique fish-serving spectacle.
Accessible by foot, car, or a short bus ride away, convenience meets paradise effortlessly.
8. Huelin Beach, Malaga
Huelin Beach is the nearest beach to Malaga city center on the west coast of the city of Málaga, nestled in the coastal zones of San Andrés and La Misericordia.
It is 700 meters long with dark sandy shores adorned with scattered stones.
Named after Eduardo Huelin Reissig, the neighborhood’s designer who had big investments during the Industrial Revolution, this was once the heart of the working class.
The Antonio Machado Beachfront Promenade and Huelin Park’s emergence has transformed into a coveted leisure destination, making it one of the best beaches around Malaga.
Best Beaches near Malaga
9. Playa de Torre del Mar, Velez-Malaga
Within the charming town of Vélez-Málaga, Torre del Mar Beach, one of the nice beaches near Malaga, beckons with its expansive beachfront promenade.
It is filled with many inviting beach bars and restaurants, beckoning visitors to savor the authentic flavors of Málaga cuisine.
Stretching gracefully for two kilometers, this beach proudly boasts the prestigious “Q” quality distinction. With the following amenities:
- Cafeteria
- Restaurant
- Parking Area
- Accessible
It is a testament to its commitment to providing optimal service to each and every visitor.
From Malaga City center, you can ride an ALSA bus to spots near Playa de Torre del Mar.
10. Cabopino Beach, Marbella
Ready to head to one of the most beautiful beaches near Malaga? Then hit the road in the direction of Marbella to visit Cabopino beach.
This is the place to be for spectacular summer beaches, pictures that truly capture the best beach getaway vibes, a stunning natural environment, and dunes offering plenty of privacy.
Wooden walkways lead you down to a narrow but excellent stretch of beach, part of which is nudist.
There is not much here in terms of attractions and amenities.
Still, you will find some bars and restaurants on either side of the beach—in La Cala de Mijas (Chiringuito Las Dunas) and Marbella (Restaurante Chiringuito Triana Marbella).
The best way to get to this, one of the best beaches in Spain, is by car following the highway A-7 from Malaga in the direction of Marbella and taking the Cabopino exit.
There is a big parking space at the entrance to the beach and walkways.
11. Nikki Beach, Marbella
There are plenty of things to do in Marbella, but if you’ve come to the Spanish Riviera to find the ultimate hot spots for relaxation, Nikki Beach is a must.
It’s not so much a beach as it is an experience.
This a luxurious beach club and restaurant experience “famous for champagne tastings, opulent lunches, daytime dancing, signature White opening parties, and Red closing parties.”
- Swimming pool
- Sunbeds
- Raised Deck
- Sandy white beach
- Open-air restaurant
- Terrace
- Lifestyle Boutique
Follow the AP-7 and A-7 directions Marbella, then take the exit at Elviria or Cambio Sentido.
Stay on the Calle Ciudad de los Periodistas, then follow Avenida Zurita to Avenida del Naviero.
12. Puerto Banús, Marbella
Possibly one of the most famous places in Spain’s Costa del Sol, is Puerto Banus, the port that is home to luxury yachts, designer boutiques, and many celebrities.
Here you have your choice of three beaches: Playa Puerto Banus (also known as Playa de Levante), Playa Nueva Andalucia, and Playa del Rio Verde.
They are all the best beaches around Malaga that have been awarded blue flags for their top-notch facilities including:
- Sun Loungers
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Children’s play areas
- Shower and toilet facilities
- Lifeguards
- Chiringuitos and restaurants
By car, take the AP-7 to Marbella; take exit 181A to Puerto Banus. Alternatively, take the Avanza L-304 bus from the estación de autobuses de Málaga.
13. Playa de Maro, Nerja
For one of the most beautiful clear water Malaga beaches, you’ll need to head to Nerja – to the Playa de Maro, to be exact.
This is where you will get your fix of picturesque beach scenery, as well as a great selection of the best watersports in Malaga to partake in for the day.
Whether you’re just looking for the perfect backdrop for your holiday photos or invitingly clear waters that make snorkeling and kayaking extra fun, Playa de Maro is for you.
Nestled behind the cliffs of the Tejeda mountain, this beach is quiet, unspoiled, simply breathtaking, and, most importantly, accessible for the differently-abled and pushchairs.
To ensure your day is as relaxed as possible, you will find:
- A beach restaurant
- Kiosk
- Showers and toilets
- A small car park
- Sunbeds
Playa de Maro truly is one of the best beaches near Malaga. It is also located near the town of Nerja, a tourist favorite thanks to its all-year holiday vibe.
Make your way to this beach by car so you can aprovechar (take advantage) of a little stroll through Nerja first.
Get on the E-15/A-7 from the Carretera de Almeria in Malaga, until you reach exit 245.
Once you’re done watching the sea from atop the Balcón de Europa, hop back into your rental car and drive along the Carretera de Almeria N-340 following the signs to Bajada a Playa de Maro.
Rent a car for your trip here.
14. Calahonda Beach, Nerja
According to Nerja’s tourism office, Playa Calahonda is the town’s most photographed spot.
It may be due to the beautiful turquoise water and the sandy beach, which is decorated with cliffs and striking rock formations.
It wouldn’t surprise us if you would add it to your list of the world’s most beautiful beaches and, certainly, one of the best beaches near Malaga after your visit. It is foreseen with:
- Parking
- Lifeguards
- Shower and toilet facilities
- Sunbeds
Getting to the beach is an adventure that will lead you through the Boquete de Calahonda, an arched, picturesque open doorway on the Balcón de Europa.
Very Alice in Wonderland-esque! To get to Nerja from Malaga, hop on the ALSA Ma-Mot-Alm at the estación de autobuses in Malaga, which will get you there in around 50 minutes.
15. Burriana Beach, Nerja
While you’re here, there are more beachy things to do in Nerja – especially at Playa Burriana.
There are three volleyball courts, a kayak rental service that will allow you to explore the cliffs of Maro from a whole new perspective, and a choice of restaurants along the promenade.
So there’s more to do at the Costa del Sol’s best Mediterranean beach than just lounge around all day.
Here you’ll find:
- Kiosks
- Parking
- Chiringuitos and restaurants
- Promenade
- Sunbeds
- Shower and toilet facilities
To get here, stroll down from the city center, take a taxi or – for an unforgettable arrival – take the lift from the Parador de Turismo.
16. Playa el Canuelo, Nerja
You may have recognized a theme here regarding the best beaches near Malaga – many of them happen to be in or around Nerja!
Playa el Canuelo is another famous beach with clear waters that invite snorkeling in the mornings and afternoons.
It also happens to be the perfect beach for tired feet: made up of tiny rocks, it offers the perfect texture for a lovely foot massage.
- Shower and toilet facilities
- Lifeguards
- Parking
- Restaurant
From the center of Nerja, Playa del Cañuelo is easy to find following the road signs 13km east. Once you arrive, you can opt to climb down or hitch a ride with the public bus.
17. Bajondillo Beach, Torremolinos
Torremolinos, a busy beach town just twenty minutes outside of Malaga, is as beloved for its vibrant nightlife as it is for its beaches—especially Playa Bajondillo—especially among tourists.
There is an excellent choice of chiringuitos, all offering their own sunbeds and fancy lounge beds at reasonable prices.
You will also find that there are so many things to do in Torremolinos and here’s a selection of some of the best ones.
- Parking
- Sunbeds
- Chiringuitos and restaurants
- Lifeguards
- Showers and toilet facilities
Get to Torremolinos by train on the C-1 from Malaga train station. By car, Playa Bajondillo is just a short, fifteen to twenty-minute drive on the MA-20.
18. La Rada, Estepona
What used to be a small fisherman’s village has now become one of the most popular beach towns on the Costa del Sol.
You will find many unique things to do in Estepona but if a beach is what you want, we have just the perfect option for you.
If you’re looking for one of the best beaches near Malaga during your stay, head to Estepona for a street art tour and a concert at Café Arte Huber, following a day of soaking up some rays at La Rada beach.
Once hunger strikes, just cross the street and treat yourself to a refreshing smoothie and homemade goods at Tolone or a creative, full menu at Chiringuito Palm Beach.
- Shower and toilet facilities
- Chiringuitos, bars, and restaurants
- Children’s play areas
To get to Estepona by bus, hop on the Avanza line for a direct trip. By car, get on the AP-7 direction Algeciras, then take exit 155 to Estepona.
19. El Cristo Beach, Estepona
In the southwest of Estepona, adjacent to the marina, lies a hidden gem – a 700-meter-long cala, known as El Cristo Beach.
With its velvety dark sands and tranquil waters, this seaside sanctuary offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.
Families can delight in numerous play areas and find rest under the natural shade provided by a grove of trees.
Despite its proximity to the town center, El Cristo remains secluded from larger housing developments, providing an oasis of tranquility, it is truly one of the nicest beaches near Malaga.
To reach this destination, ride a bus to El Puerto and then walk to the beach.
20. El Castillo Beach, Fuengirola
Fabulous beach vibes and a medieval flair? You can have it all at El Castillo beach in Fuengirola among many other things to do in Fuengirola.
The Sohail Castle, which turns into a fantastic venue for concerts, cabaret, and comedy shows during the summer and fall seasons, overlooks the beautiful beach just outside of the busy town center.
Cross the beautifully lit beach from the castle side to Fuengirola, and you’ll be in town in just five walking minutes.
El Castillo Beach offers everything you might want:
- Parking
- Chiringuitos, bars, and restaurants
- Children’s play areas
- Showers and toilet facilities
- Designated dog beach
To get to Playa El Castillo, take the car following the road signs to Fuengirola; take the exit to Miramar shopping center or Castillo Sohail.
Or take the C-1 train from Malaga and make your way there by foot from Fuengirola station, which is just a twenty-five-minute walk that will take you through the town and along the promenade.
21. Bil-Bil Beach, Benalmadena
Close to one of the most wonderfully designed parks on the Costa del Sol, Parque de la Paloma, you’ll find Benalmadena’s best beach: Playa Bil-Bil.
Spend the day working up a tan, splashing around in the sea, and try yourself at new water sports, then head back via a stroll through the park to wind down.
Here, you can also find one of the best places for surfing in Andalucia, so there are plenty of things to do in Benalmadena for everyone.
At the beach you can find at your disposal the following:
- Parking
- Sunbed hire
- Shower and toilet facilities
- Lifeguards
- Gardens
If you’d like to avoid getting stuck in traffic, we suggest opting for a train ride from Malaga to Benalmadena-Arroyo de la Miel. From there, it’s just a twenty-minute walk to the beach.
22. La Viborilla Beach, Benalmádena
If you want to find another best beach near Malaga, try La Viborilla Beach.
Located in Benalmádena, this 500-meter-long beach has a series of small coves surrounded by plants and nature.
People who love scuba diving come here because there are lots of different sea animals and plants to see underwater. You will certainly love this quiet haven near Malaga.
To get here from Malaga, take a train to Torremuelle and then take a taxi. Or from Malaga, take a bus to Flatotel.
Best Hotels in Malaga, Southern Spain
The beach may be the only thing on your mind as you prepare for a much-deserved holiday on the Costa del Sol, but you’ll need a place to crash, too.
We have three Malaga-based suggestions for every budget – take your pick!
Vincci Selección Aleysa, Hotel Boutique & Spa ***** – Luxury
Looking for the closest beach, Costa del Sol, Spain? How about right outside your window?
At the exclusive Vincci boutique hotel, you can practically pick your beach spot for the day from the comforts of your bed because it is literally right outside your door.
Add to that a spa and exquisitely decorated bedrooms and common areas, and you’re all set for ultimate relaxation.
Parador de Málaga Golf **** – Mid-Range
Parador de Málaga GolfPlanning on taking your four-legged bestie with you on holiday? Then the Parador de Málaga Golf is an excellent choice for you.
This pet-friendly hotel has a beach and a golf course on the premises, so it might just tick all your boxes.
Enjoy breakfast and dinner in the early morning breeze or under the stars, and take full advantage of the location: close to the train station and the Plaza Mayor outdoor shopping center.
Check the hotel’s rates & reviews here.
Soho Boutique Las Vegas *** – Budget
The Soho Boutique Las Vegas is a budget hotel that could easily be voted boho-luxury.
Located at the beach and just twenty minutes from the city center, this hotel offers modern rooms and beach-vibe decorations throughout the common areas, setting the tone for your stay.
With its own pool and indoor and outdoor dining areas, it invites you to linger and simply enjoy.
Take a look at the rates and reviews here.
What to expect from the best beaches in Malaga and near it
So, what makes Malaga perfect for beach holidays? Well, let’s start with the fact that local beaches in the area offer a little something for everyone.
One of the best beaches in Malaga City center is Playa La Malagueta since it can be reached by foot.
Head to Playa de la Caleta in Malaga or El Castillo Beach in Fuengirola for a beach day close to the city action.
Would you prefer a scenic beach? Then the lovely Cabopino beach and dunes are for you.
Wherever you choose to go, you can always expect a chiringuito nearby, and plenty of space to set yourself and the family up for a memorable day at the beach.
If you don’t want to lug a beach umbrella or tent around with you, reserve your sun lounger in the shade at one of the chiringuitos; This way, you also won’t have to worry about lunch when you are hungry.
Getting Around Malaga
Your feet are meant for walking, so make sure that’s what they’ll do – all around Malaga and the promenade too!
Most of the best beaches in Malaga can be reached by foot, bus, or taxi.
Once they tire, rent a bike or a segway for smooth rolling around all the narrow shopping streets and through the city parks, or simply opt for the Hop-on Hop-off bus.
The urbano bus will also take you wherever you need to go within city limits and even its outskirts, and there is no need to buy tickets in advance unless you’re looking to go further outside of Malaga.
You can book tickets in advance here.
Map Best Beaches near Malaga
Short FAQ about the Best Beaches near Malaga
What is Malaga famous for?
Malaga is famous for its fantastic selection of tapas, bars, and restaurants. It also has a great selection of museums, including the Thyssen, Picasso, CAC, and the Centre Pompidou.
Does Malaga have sandy beaches?
Yes! You’ll find all kinds of beaches in and around Malaga – some are sandy and white, others are made up of small stone pebbles or downright rocky. But wherever you are based, you’ll never be far from the best beaches near Malaga.
Does Malaga have nice beaches?
Absolutely, the choices are incredible, and each beach has its charm. While one might be an urban dream, surrounded by exciting bars and restaurants, the other might be secluded and surrounded by natural landscapes.
Does Malaga have a beach?
Yes, Malaga does have a beach along its coastline.
What are the best beaches close to Malaga?
Some of the best beaches near Malaga Spain include Playa de la Malagueta, Playa de Pedregalejo, Playa de la Caleta, and Playa de Burriana in Nerja.
What are the best sandy beaches near Malaga?
Some of the best sandy beaches near Malaga worth considering are Playa de la Misericordia, Playa de Torre del Mar, and Playa del Cristo in Estepona.
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!