10 Best Beaches In Malaga

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

There's something magical about the beaches in Malaga that keeps drawing visitors back year after year. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape to unwind or an action-packed adventure by the sea, Malaga has it all.

As someone who has had the pleasure of exploring these sandy shores firsthand, I can confidently say that these 10 beaches are some of the best beaches in Malaga - each with their own unique charm and beauty waiting to be discovered. So grab your sunscreen and towel as we embark on a journey through the top beach destinations in this captivating Andalusian coastal city.

1. Playa de La Malagueta

As a beach lover, I have to say that Playa de La Malagueta is one of my favorites in Malaga. This sandy beach is located in the heart of Malaga city centre, making it easily accessible by bus or on foot. The beach is a mix of both locals and tourists, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.

One of the things I love about La Malagueta beach is the crystal-clear water. It's perfect for swimming and cooling off on hot summer days. This Blue Flag beach is also well-maintained and has been awarded the Blue Flag, which is a testament to its cleanliness and safety.

Along the beach promenade, there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and beach bars where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. I highly recommend trying some of the seafood dishes that are typical of the region.

If you're looking for something to do in the center of Malaga, there are often concerts and events held on the beach, especially during the summer months. Additionally, there are sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent if you want to relax and soak up the sun in your sun lounger.

2. Playa de El Palo

I recently visited Playa De El Palo, and it was a great experience. This beach is located in the fishing village of El Palo, which is about 8 kilometers from Malaga city center. It is a popular spot among locals and touristse, and for good reason.

One of the things I loved about the El Palo beach is that it is not as crowded as some of the other beaches in Malaga. This makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy the sun. The water is also very clean and clear, making it perfect for swimming.

If you're looking for some delicious seafood, Playa De El Palo is the place to be. There are plenty of seafood restaurants along the beach, serving up fresh catches of the day. I highly recommend trying the grilled sardines, which are a local specialty.

Getting to Playa De El Palo is easy. You can take bus number 11 from Malaga city center, which will drop you off right at the beach. The journey takes around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive or take a taxi.

One thing to note is that Playa De El Palo does not have any beach bars or sun loungers for rent. However, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants along the promenade where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat. The beach is also equipped with showers and public restrooms.

3. Playa de La Caleta

Playa De La Caleta towards Cadiz is an urban beach situated between the castles of San Sebastian and Santa Catalina, making for a stunning backdrop. With its fine golden sand and crystal-clear water, it's no wonder why this nice beach in Southern Spain is so popular among both locals and tourists.

One of the things I loved about La Caleta beach is its proximity to the city center. It's easy to get to by public transport, with bus number 11 stopping just a few minutes away. The beach is also surrounded by restaurants and beach bars, offering some of the best seafood in the area. I highly recommend trying the espetos, a traditional dish of sardines cooked over an open fire.

The beach itself is not too big, but it's a perfect beach for a swim or a relaxing day in the sun. There are lifeguards on duty, making it a safe option for families with children. If you're feeling more adventurous, you can also try some water sports activities like paddleboarding or kayaking.

Another unique aspect of Playa De La Caleta is its history as a fishing village. You can still see remnants of the fishing industry, such as the Peñón del Cuervo, a small rock formation used by fishermen to moor their boats. The beach also hosts concerts and events throughout the year, making it a lively spot for visitors.

4. Playa de La Misericordia

A while back I visited Playa de la Misericordia during my trip to Malaga, and I must say it's one of the best Malaga beaches I've been to. The beach is located in the eastern part of Malaga and is easily accessible by public transport.

One of the things I liked about this beach is that it's not as crowded as some of the other beaches in Malaga. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the beach is clean. The sand is golden, and the water is crystal clear.

La Misericordia beach is also a great spot for water sports enthusiasts. You can rent equipment for activities like windsurfing and paddleboarding. The beach also has a promenade where you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the views.

The beach has several facilities, including showers, toilets, and changing rooms. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby where you can grab some lunch or a refreshing drink.

5. Playa Pedregalejo

Playa Pedregalejo, also known as Las Acacias Beach, is one of the best beaches near Malaga. It is located just 5 km from the city center and is easily accessible by public transport. The beach is approximately 1,200 m long and about 20 m wide.

This beach is famous for its seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy the delicious local cuisine while admiring the beautiful views of the sea. The most popular dish is the 'espetos,' which is a typical Malaga dish consisting of fish roasted on the ember or directly on the grill.

The beach has a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, making it an excellent place for families with children. The water is clean and shallow, making it safe for swimming and other water activities.

Pedregalejo Beach is also an excellent spot for water sports enthusiasts, with various activities such as windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking available. The beach has several rental shops where you can rent equipment and take lessons.

If you want to escape the crowds, you can take a walk along the promenade, which offers amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea. The promenade is lined with palm trees and is a great place to relax and enjoy the sea breeze.

6. Playa Peñón del Cuervo

Playa Peñón del Cuervo is located on the eastern edge of Malaga, just before the boundary with La Cala del Moral, this small picturesque beach stands out thanks to a large rock formation which divides it in two.

While Peñón del Cuervo beach may not have the amenities of some of the more popular beaches in Malaga, it is still a great spot to spend a beach day close to the city. The lack of tapas bars and restaurants means that it is less crowded, and you can enjoy a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere.

The beach is made up of coarse sand and pebbles, and the water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming. There are also plenty of rocks to climb and explore, making it a great spot for kids to play.

One thing to note is that there are no public restrooms or showers at Playa Peñón del Cuervo, so be sure to bring everything you need for the day. That being said, there are plenty of trees and rocks to provide shade, and the views of the Mediterranean Sea are absolutely stunning.

7. Playa de Maro

Playa de Maro in Nerja is located in a natural cove behind the mountains of the Sierra de Tejeda, between Málaga and Granada. It is one of the few places in the world that you cannot fully understand until you see it with your own eyes.

The beach is about 800 meters long and is surrounded by cliffs and crystal clear waters. The sand is coarse and golden, which makes it perfect for sunbathing. There are also plenty of rocks and boulders that provide a perfect spot for snorkeling and exploring the underwater world.

One of the highlights of de Maro beach is the small restaurant located on the beach. It serves delicious fresh seafood and local dishes, making it a perfect spot for lunch or dinner. There is also a kayak rental place where you can rent a kayak and explore the cove on your own.

The beach is not very crowded, which makes it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the beauty of nature. However, it is important to note that there are no facilities such as showers or restrooms on the beach. So, it is recommended to bring your own supplies.

8. La Cala de Mijas

La Cala de Mijas Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Malaga, located in the heart of the Costa del Sol. With its crystal-clear waters and golden sand, it is a perfect destination for sun-seekers and beach lovers.

The beach stretches for 2.5 kilometers and is well-equipped with all the necessary facilities, including showers, changing rooms, sun loungers, and parasols. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants along the promenade, offering a wide range of local and international food.

One of the main attractions of La Cala de Mijas Beach is its excellent water sports facilities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there are also plenty of opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.

The beach is particularly popular with families, thanks to its calm waters and child-friendly facilities. There is also a playground and a mini-golf course nearby, providing plenty of entertainment for younger visitors.

9. Playa de Huelin

I ones went to visit Playa de Huelin in Malaga, and I have to say, it's one of the best beaches on the South Coast of Spain to have on your itinerary. Situated in the west of Malaga's old town historic center, this urban beach offers a unique experience with its own distinct character and amenities.

One of the things that sets Huelin beach apart from other beaches in Malaga is its accessibility. It's easily reachable by public transportation, and there are plenty of parking spaces nearby. The beach is also wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for people with disabilities.

The beach itself is quite spacious, with plenty of room for sunbathing, playing beach volleyball, or just relaxing. There are also several children's areas and a playground, making it a great place to bring the whole family. The water is warm and clear, and there are lifeguards on duty during the summer months.

10. Playa El Salón

Playa El Salón is one of the most popular beaches in Nerja, located in the eastern part of the town. The beach is small but beautiful, with crystal clear waters and fine sand. It is surrounded by cliffs and pine trees, which provide a picturesque backdrop for sunbathing and swimming.

One of the best things about El Salón beach is its easy accessibility. The beach is just a short walk from the centre of town, making it a convenient option for tourists and Malaga residents. There are also several parking areas nearby, so visitors can easily reach the beach by car.

The beach is equipped with all the necessary facilities, such as showers, toilets, and beach gear such as sun loungers. There are also several beach bars and restaurants right on the beach, where tourists can enjoy a refreshing cocktail or a delicious meal while taking in the fantastic views of the Mediterranean Ocean.

Playa El Salón is a great place for families with children, as the waters are shallow and calm. The beach is also popular among snorkelers and divers, as there are several interesting rock formations and marine life to explore.

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