Guest post by Dakota Murphey
Stretching along Spain’s Andalusian coast, Malaga sits on the sun-drenched Costa del Sol, making it a top destination for beach lovers. This historic port city is ideally located near glamorous Marbella, Puerto Banus, and charming whitewashed villages like Mijas and Frigiliana.
A magnet for families, couples, and solo travellers, Malaga offers sandy beaches, cultural attractions, and seafront dining. Many visitors fall in love with the area enough to invest in a villa.
Beyond the beaches, the region boasts top-tier golf courses, horse riding, scenic coastal walks, and cycling trails in the nearby mountains. If you’re staying seaside in Spain, here are 10 must-visit beaches near Malaga.
1. Playa La Malagueta, Malaga
Just a short walk from Malaga’s city centre, La Malagueta offers the perfect combination of convenience and seaside relaxation. This Blue Flag beach stretches for 1,200m and boasts golden sand, calm waters ideal for swimming, and excellent facilities. After a refreshing dip, stroll along the palm-lined promenade to enjoy traditional chiringuitos (beach restaurants) serving fresh seafood and the local speciality, espetos (grilled sardines on skewers).
2. Playa El Bajondillo, Torremolinos
A classic Costa del Sol destination, El Bajondillo combines traditional Spanish charm with modern beach amenities. This broad, dark-sand beach is backed by Torremolinos’ famous cliffside, with an elevator connecting the shore to the town above. Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty of options from jet skiing to parasailing, while the promenade offers numerous restaurants and bars. For families, the shallow entry into the Mediterranean makes this a safe swimming spot for children.
3. Playa Burriana, Nerja
Nestled beneath the charming white village of Nerja, Playa Burriana is one of the eastern Costa del Sol’s most beloved beaches near Malaga. This 800m stretch of coarse golden sand is framed by striking cliffs and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkelling. The beachfront is lined with quality restaurants, most famously Ayo’s where huge paella is cooked over open fires. After enjoying the beach, take a short trip to the prehistoric Nerja Caves or walk to the scenic Balcón de Europa viewpoint.
4. Playa de Maro, Nerja
For those seeking a more secluded experience, Playa de Maro offers a pristine natural setting just a few kilometres east of Nerja. This small cove is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation, with exceptionally clear waters that have earned it recognition as one of Spain’s best beaches for snorkelling and diving. If you’re in Malaga for your whole stay, you might want to plan some great coastal walks in and around these beaches.
5. Playa del Cristo, Estepona
Tucked away in a sheltered cove west of Estepona’s marina, Playa del Cristo is a family favourite with its gently shelving shoreline and calm, shallow waters protected by two curved breakwaters. The beach’s west-facing position guarantees spectacular sunsets and long hours of sunshine. With soft golden sand and excellent facilities including beach bars and kid’s playgrounds, this area has a more relaxed atmosphere than others.
6. Playa Nagüeles, Marbella
In the heart of Marbella’s prestigious Golden Mile, Playa Nagüeles combines luxury with natural beauty. This impeccably maintained Blue Flag beach attracts a sophisticated crowd with its golden sands, top-tier beach clubs, and views of Gibraltar and Africa on clear days. The area is dotted with exclusive venues like the famous Marbella Club and Puente Romano, where visitors can enjoy gourmet dining, spa treatments, and a premium sunbed service.
7. Playa de Cabopino, East Marbella
Between Marbella and Calahonda lies the charming Cabopino beach, adjacent to one of the coast’s most picturesque small marinas. What makes this beach special is its stunning natural setting, with protected sand dunes and pine forests providing unique views. The eastern end of the beach is known for its relaxed, clothing-optional policy, while families tend to gather near the marina end and enjoy the beach restaurants.
8. Playa de La Rada, Estepona
Estepona’s main beach stretches for over 2.5km along the town’s renovated promenade, offering ample space even during busy summer months. This Blue Flag beach, one of 50 near Malaga, combines urban accessibility with excellent facilities, including numerous water sports rentals and children’s play areas. The western section tends to be quieter, while the central area near Plaza La Rada buzzes with activity. Estepona’s charming old town is just steps away, making it easy to combine beach time with a spot of culture.
9. Playa El Bombo, La Cala de Mijas
In the heart of La Cala de Mijas, El Bombo Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities. This spacious beach features fine golden sand and moderate waves that appeal to bodyboarders and swimmers alike. The recently completed coastal boardwalk connects El Bombo to neighbouring beaches, creating a scenic route for walkers and joggers. After a day on the beach, explore La Cala’s charming village centre with its traditional restaurants and a weekly market.
10. Playa El Ejido-Castillo, Fuengirola
Fuengirola’s central beach stretches alongside the town’s medieval Moorish castle. This vibrant urban beach combines a historical atmosphere with modern comforts, including accessible facilities, sports areas, and a lively promenade. Water quality is consistently excellent, earning it Blue Flag status year after year. As one of the coast’s most popular family destinations, El Ejido-Castillo offers proximity to Fuengirola’s Bioparc Zoo, water parks, and the Miramar shopping centre, making it ideal for visitors who want beach relaxation with plenty of other activities.
Whether you’re seeking sociable beach clubs, family-friendly sandy beaches, or secluded coves, the Costa del Sol definitely delivers when it comes to coastal destinations. With this impressive collection of luxury villas on the Costa del Sol, a trip to sunny southern Spain to relax on beaches near Malaga has never been easier. Contact our friendly concierge team to learn about some fabulous extras to add on to your trip.
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