dunes and a more natural setting
Artola-Cabopino
Protected dunes, timber walkways and a beach that feels removed from Marbella's more developed stretches.
Best for
dune walks, a quieter beach day and photography
Costa del Sol beach guide
Choose the beach for your day, not its fame
Eight very different beaches: sheltered coves, city promenades, protected dunes and places where the main attraction is getting onto the water.
Start hereCompare access, facilities and character
Quick choice
Four plans, four sensible answers
Eight separate guides
What each beach actually offers
Open a beach for practical access notes, facilities, family suitability, a map and the official local source.
facilities, water sports and restaurants
Playa de Burriana
Nerja's most complete beach, with plenty of restaurants, equipment hire and facilities for a full day.
Best for
families, kayaking and an easy all-day stay
a sheltered family cove
Playa del Cristo
A small sheltered cove west of Estepona marina. The water is often calmer and warmer than on exposed beaches.
Best for
young children, calmer swimming and easy access from Estepona
the city beach beside central Málaga
La Malagueta
The easiest beach to combine with sightseeing in Málaga. Walk from the port and Muelle Uno without moving the car.
Best for
a city break, a walk and a few hours by the sea
a small cove below the cliffs
Playa de Maro
A compact cove beneath the Maro cliffs and a good kayaking base in calm conditions. Less convenient than Burriana, but more scenic.
Best for
kayaking, snorkelling and a more natural landscape
water sports and a livelier atmosphere
Playa de Los Álamos
A broad beach at the eastern end of Torremolinos, close to the airport, with plenty of activities and beach bars.
Best for
water sports, teenagers and a final day before flying
a long town beach with a promenade
Playa de La Rada
Estepona's main beach runs beside the town centre and promenade. It is convenient, well serviced and practical without a car.
Best for
long walks, full facilities and stays in central Estepona
a family beach beside the promenade
Playa de Santa Ana
A central Benalmádena beach with easy access to restaurants, shops and seafront attractions. A good car-free option.
Best for
families, staying in Benalmádena and a low-logistics day