A guide to the best things to do in Nerja In August
The beautiful coastal town of Nerja is a jewel of Andalucia, offering a pleasant and welcoming environment to tourists, even during the sweltering summer months.
Thanks to the sea breeze, it is slightly cooler in this part of Malaga province, and you’re sure to find that there are plenty of things to do in Nerja in August to enable you to beat the heat.
From discovering the best beaches in Nerja to exploring Nerja attractions like its caves, where you can escape from the sun for a while, you’ll never be short of things to do in Malaga, whatever the weather.
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Useful Travel Information About Nerja
✈ Book cheap flights to Nerja with Skyscanner
✔ Book tours in Nerja with GetYourGuide
⚘ Avoid tourist traps and get the customizable “Andalucia Like a Local” itinerary. – Get it here
➳ Find the best hotels in Nerja with Trivago
❖ Rent a car at the best rates with Discover Cars
✎ Never leave without travel insurance! I get mine at HeyMondo. It is easy to set up, cheap and reliable.$ Withdraw money without hidden fees and avoid exchange charges with TransferWise (Free Mastercard debit card to spend money abroad)
Things To Do In Nerja In August
- Fiesta Blanca at Playa el Salón
- Cool off at the Rio Chillar
- Aquavelis Waterpark
- Hiking at Hike the Sierra de Almijara
- Head to the Eagle Aqueduct
- Day Trip to Frigiliana
Fun Activities To Do In Nerja In August
1. Fiesta Blanca at Playa el Salón
If you’re visiting Andalucia in August, one of the most fun things to do in Nerja in August is to attend the Fiesta Blanca.
Held between the second and third weeks of the month, the “white party” is the ultimate opportunity to dance the night away.
Apart from the rule that everyone must wear only white clothing, there are no other restrictions, and entry is completely free, making this one of the most cost-effective ways to enjoy yourself during your summer Nerja holidays.
2. Cool off at the Rio Chillar
When you’re seeking out unique things to do in Nerja in August, it’s time to join the locals with one of their favorite summer activities – walking up the Rio Chillar.
An ideal way to stay cool during August’s hot days, this adventure allows you to discover the spectacular scenery of Andalucia while also enjoying an exhilarating experience.
The best time to visit is on a weekday or in the early morning since locals tend to flock here at weekends, particularly during the summer season.
Don’t forget to bring your suncream along and wear old trainers since they’ll get soaked!
3. Aquavelis Waterpark
When you’re searching for perfect things to do in Nerja for families, it’s hard to beat a day out at the Aquavelis waterpark.
Ideal for those with children or even those who can’t get enough of thrill water rides, this waterpark is just a twenty-minute drive outside the town and boasts incredible attractions like high-speed slides, multi-racers, and a wave pool.
Aim to arrive early, especially if you’re visiting at the weekend since the locals will turn up later in the day and you’ll face long queues.
Opening times:
11am – 6pm daily
4. Lunch in Balcon de Cotobro
For an authentic Spanish lunch, you should head to Balcon de Cotobro, a wonderful restaurant with spectacular sea views right on the beach itself.
There’s something on the menu to suit every taste, with classic rice dishes like paella, seafood, and cooling salads that are perfect for lunch on a hot day.
Remember to leave room for dessert, though!
This restaurant is open for lunch at 12:30 pm, except on Tuesdays when it is closed.
5. Visit the Balcon de Europa at sunset
Locals will tell you that one of the top things to do in Nerja in August is to head to the Balcon de Europa just before the sun goes down to admire the amazing panoramic views.
This round clifftop balcony overlooks the sea, offering expansive views across the Costa del Sol and the other holiday resorts near Malaga.
Once part of an Arabic fortress’s watchtower, it’s now a stunning viewpoint within easy reach of shops, hotels, and restaurants.
Popular with tourists and locals alike, it’s a wonderfully romantic spot and is the ideal place to take some amazing photos as a memento of your stay.
6. Explore the Caves of Nerja
The weather in Nerja in August can be exceptionally hot, but heading to the caves will give you some welcome respite from the climate. – Check the guided tour here.
A top local attraction, they’re best reached by car and are considered to be some of Spain’s best caves.
You’ll find amazing rock formations here, including the world’s biggest stalactite and cave paintings dating back to the Upper Palaeolithic age.
It’s best to book a ticket in advance to avoid long queues and to choose your preferred time slot, although the best time to visit is first thing after opening since it will be less crowded.
Take a jumper, since it can feel quite cold after the sunshine outdoors!
Opening times:
9:30 am – 6 pm Saturday to Thursday
9:30 am – 5 pm Fridays
7. Enjoy some of the best water sports activities
If you like to stay active on your vacation, some of the best things to do in Nerja in August are on the water.
Paddleboarding, windsurfing, swimming, and diving are all popular here, and snorkeling tours are plentiful, offering the opportunity to cool off in the seawater while you get up close to the marine life.
8. Hiking at Hike the Sierra de Almijara
One of the best places to visit in Nerja to escape the searing heat is the Sierra de Almijara.
This mountain range is on the border between Granada and Malaga provinces, and gives you the opportunity to explore beautiful trails in a cooler and more comfortable environment.
There are various trails to choose from, with some as short as just a couple of kilometres, and others that are best suited to experienced hikers.
9. Enjoy tapas in La Puntilla
Arguably one of the best restaurants in Nerja if you’re keen to sample authentic tapas, La Puntilla offers some delectable cuisine that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
With both a sit-down restaurant and a separate bar where you can enjoy traditional tapas, this is a popular spot with locals and tourists alike thanks to the tasty food and affordable prices.
The kebab-style pork and gambas al pil-pil are especially good here and simply have to be tried.
10. Relax at the best beaches in Nerja
Maro Beach, just 15 minutes outside the center of town, is perhaps the top Nerja beach if you’re a fan of watersports or sunbathing alike.
Off the beaten track, it’s surrounded by nature and rocky cliffs, and the sea is transparent, turquoise, and clean.
Alternatively, try Nerja’s central Playa la Calahonda, but make sure to head out early as it gets very busy in the summer months, or the wider Playa Burriana, which boasts stunning golden sands.
11. Take a quad tour
If you’re seeking things to do in Nerja, Spain to give you an adrenaline rush, quad bike tours have to be high on your agenda.
There are several companies offering these trips through the stunning local countryside, and they’re a great way to enjoy the surroundings while beating the heat.
12. Dinner in Rincon del Sabor Restaurant
Serving delicious and authentic Spanish cuisine, Rincon del Sabor restaurant is the perfect spot for dinner after a long day of sightseeing.
A highlight of its menu is its famous paella, although you’ll need to call ahead the day before to arrange it since it’s so popular.
During the summer months, you can sit indoors or on the outdoor terrace, where you can relax in the cool evening air.
13. Head to the Eagle Aqueduct
Once the water supply for the local sugar factory, the Eagle Aqueduct is an attractive feature of the landscape just outside the town.
Today, its water is used to irrigate the fields, but because of its spectacular architecture, it’s a great place to get some fabulous photos.
14. Day Trip to Frigiliana
If you’d like to head a little further afield during your stay, there are some fantastic places to visit from Nerja, including Frigiliana, which will make for a lovely day trip.
This quaint town is just 6 km outside the city and is famous for its white, narrow streets and old quarter.
Considered to be Andalucia’s prettiest village it boasts its own archaeological museum as well as authentic restaurants and boutique shops where you can pick up unique souvenirs.
Best Hotels in Nerja, Southern Spain
When you’re looking for the best place to stay in Nerja, you’re sure to want some advice that suits your budget.
Here, we’ve recommended three of the best hotels in Nerja for those on a budget, those who are happy to spend a little more, and those who are eager to really splash out on an exclusive trip.
1. Hotel Balcón de Europa ***** – Luxury
The four-star Hotel Balcon de Europa is one of the best places to stay in Nerja if you’re seeking the ultimate luxury.
Its beautifully decorated rooms and magnificent coastal setting set this hotel apart from the crowd as you can access the beach directly from its back door.
Take a dip in the infinity pool and hot tub overlooking the sea, dine in the onsite restaurant, or work out in the gym to get your appetite up for dinner, or why not just relax with a good book in the fifth-floor lounge?
2. Parador de Nerja **** – Mid-Range
Overlooking the sea, this clifftop Parador de Nerja offers tourists plenty of amenities to suit every taste.
As well as a beautiful garden that’s perfect for sunbathing, it boasts a large swimming pool and tennis court.
The attractive rooms offer either coastal or city views, while the onsite restaurant serves up tasty cuisine to satisfy your palate.
3. Hotel Villa Flamenca *** – Budget
If you’re on a tight budget, and your idea of the best activities involves finding free things to do in Nerja in August , you’ll love the Hotel Villa Flamenca.
Located in a quiet yet attractive part of the town just within walking distance of the beach, this property offers a variety of attractive rooms just a stroll from shops, bars, and restaurants.
Here, you can take a dip in the large pool or try out the cycling hub before rounding off the evening with a meal at the onsite restaurant.
Getting Around Nerja
Whether you’re wondering how to get from Malaga to Nerja or whether you’re just eager to know the best way to get around the local area itself, you’ll be pleased to learn there are lots of options.
Hiring a car is always a good choice, as it gives you easy access to all the things to see in Nerja and its surrounding area.
However, there’s also a convenient local bus service, taxis, bike hire, and even the unusual mode of transport of horse and carriage!
If you visit the city during the summer, there’s one thing you’ll learn for sure – there’s no shortage of things to do in Nerja in August, and while the weather can be extremely hot, there are lots of ways to cool down.
From taking a swim in the sea to heading to the mountains or the caves, you’ll have a fantastic holiday in this part of the Costa del Sol.
FAQ about Things To Do In Nerja In August
Is Nerja busy in August?
Nerja can get very busy in August, especially at weekends when the locals join the tourists at the major attractions and beaches.
It’s, therefore, best to head out early in the morning, whatever you plan to do, to avoid the worst crowds and also to beat the heat.
Is Nerja worth visiting for tourists?
Nerja is certainly worth visiting, with a wealth of amazing activities to enjoy.
There’s something for everyone here, whether you love sports, relaxing, visiting attractions, or dining on authentic cuisine.
What’s on in Nerja in August?
There’s no shortage of things to do in Nerja in August; however, one of the top attractions is the Fiesta Blanca, or White Party, which takes place this month.
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!