Malaga and Andalusia in general are known for their scenic beaches, think of Costa del Sol or Sol Tropical. Its one-of-its-kind gastronomy; expert hospitality; crystal-clear waters and fine sand, all make Analusia's beaches really worth visiting...
Yet there is much more than meets the eye in the environs of Malaga, dubbed the pearl of the Mediterranean. For you to know all the best day-time getaways from the ever more traffic-clogged city of Malaga, read on and pick your own perfect beach that you can visit from Malaga.... Note that one of the best things to do while in Spain is to Malaga from Barcelona to see both of Spain's stunning maritime capitals.
Hidden Beaches near MalaMaro Beaches
Playa de las Alberquillas, meet sunset in a natural environment
Known for its turquoise, clear waters, golden fine sand, hidden beaches and gob-smacking views of the coastline, Playa de las Alberquilas is a veritable hidden gem.
It is surrounded by rock formations and a nature reserve, which makes it a perfect spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of civilization and commune with nature: the lack of commercial development and tourist facilities adds to the natural and unspoiled charm of this small beach side.
Note that sandy beaches like this one is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and diving. Even though the sea bed at bed is made up of rocks, its waters are pullulating with underwater flora and fauna, including colorful fish, octopuses, and sea urchins.
Bear in mind that the paradisiaque stretch of sand is situated near Maro, about 1 hour from Malaga by car, the beach is best visited by bus to Maro or Nerja for you to then go on foot or by taxi to the beach.
Cala Tore del Pino, your perfect quiet beach
Sitting next to Alberquillas, the idyllic stretch of sand is named after Tore del Pino, a historical defensive structure: but it is for sure the serene vibe and an expanse of white, fine-grained sand that makes Cala del Pino, one of the best beaches to visit East of Malaga city...
Head here via Maro, or Nerja, two great hubs to visit beaches sitting at the border between Malaga and Costa Tropical.
Quiet beaches near Malaga – The coves of Maro
Known for its pellucid waters, Maro is the gateway to the scenic beaches of the area. Head to the Coves of Mao to see some of the most pristine beaches of Andalusia.
The cluster of coves is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while its rocks protect you from being seen, and allow you to swim naked, if shy to do so in public nudist beaches....of which there are quite a few in their region...
Playa de la Caleta (small, wild, beach near Playa de Maro)
Playa de la Caleta beach is a beautiful cove located near the charming village of Maro in the province of Malaga, Spain. This picturesque beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing day in the sun.
Cala Barranco de Maro, special charm and spectacular landscape
Cala Barranco de Maro is a hidden gem located in the beautiful village of Maro, in the province of Malaga, Spain. This stunning cove is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and fine golden sand. The beach is relatively small and secluded, which adds to its charm and makes it a popular spot for those seeking a quiet and peaceful retreat.
The surrounding cliffs provide shade and shelter, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. The sandy beach here is also ideal for swimming and snorkeling, as the water is calm and clear, allowing visitors to explore the rich marine life that inhabits the area. Cala Barranco de Maro is a veritable hidden gem that is well worth the visit for those who relish natural beauty and placid leisure.
Cala del Cañuelo, a decent rival to La Caleta de Maro
A true gem of a secluded cove, Cala del Canuelo, is a one-of-its-kind destination not just for watersports such as scuba diving but also for a romantic rendezvous for the two of you thanks to its spectacular landscape. Take your significant other and head here to watch the sunrise, and spend the day on one of the region's most pristine beaches....
Playa de Maro, unique marine fauna and a beautiful cove
Known for its pebbles, Playa de Maro is one of the beaches boasting the clearest waters in the area. Head here to explore the nearby coves and the village of Maro, a picturesque fisherman locale, so nice to start your tour of Maro coves at... Or to venture to a veritable secret of the local, the stunning Burrirana Beach...
Other beaches of interest in Malaga
Playa de Pedregalejo, your night companion
Situated on the outskirts of Malaga, Pedregalejo is one of the favorite haunts of sun-loving Malaga dwellers... It is not only beach football and volleyball, and waterspouts but also a stretch of superb sand, a lot of bars and restaurants on the beach-abutting promenade, to add to a cool seaside fishermen village, El Palo, with its own cool El Palo Beach.
Malaga Playa de Malagueta, where the soul of the city dwells
Known as Malaga's main beach, it has its own quiet spots, but usually, it is quite busy. Head here for the Night of San Juan, one of the best occasions for a public celebration on a beach in Malaga.
Playa de la Caleta, a really wide beach
Arguably the least popular beach in Malaga, it is quite empty to it being quite boring and the quality being quite mediocre... There are few restos and bars in the vicinity, and it is not best for swimming.
Yet there are certain redeeming qualities to the stretch of sand, for example, its length and breadth making it a great beach for sports exercises, such as jogging.
Playa Peñón del Cuervo, cool sand and meety vibe
Renowned as one of Malaga citizens' most favorite to cook BBQs, it also stands out thanks to its knock-out beachscape, cool watersports options and Raven Rock, splitting the beach into what is de-facto two separate sections. Head here with friends to grab some grub or just play ball on the sand.....
The best beaches on the eastern Costa del Sol
Have you heard of Costa del Sol, now it is a reality. The most elite stretch of coast is here within a driving distance from Malaga. But before venturing there think twice there are many decent alternatives to the somewhat posh beaches of Marbella and Puerto Bonus.
Playa de Las Viborillas, Benalmádena, Costa del Sol, give in to the sea
Even though this part of the Costa del Sol is considered somewhat chillier than neighboring beaches due to its proximity to Gibraltar and the Atlantic Ocean, it is still one of the region's best beaches...
Note that apart from golden sands, and crystal clear waters, it features an ancient Roman villa, making it one of the most history-laden beaches in Malaga.
Costa Tropical Beaches & Almeria Coast (East of Malaga)
Since hidden beaches near Malaga and Costa del Sol beaches are quiet crowded and those of Costa del Sol may have lower water temperatures and, strangely, higher prices, the beaches along Costa Tropical offer best value. Check out the best beaches to visit in Costa Tropical region, which starts further east from the Coves of Maro, towards Almeria...
Playa de Cantarriján, a rival to Las Alberquillas
Playa de Cantarrijan is a nudist beach with a rescue squad, calm waves, beach bars, shaded areas and toilets. Just like other beaches under this rubric, this beach is located on the Costa Tropical, east of Malaga. It is warmer, nicer and significantly cheaper then its counterparts on Costa del Sol.
The cheapest way to get there is to take the local bus to Almuñécar and then a taxi or rent a car to get to the beach.
Playa de los Muertos, perfect for summer months
This secluded beach is located near Carboneras, about 2.5 hours from Malaga by car. The cheapest way to get there is to rent a car or take a local bus to Carboneras and then walk or take a taxi to the beach.
Playa de la Rijana, a competitor to Penon del Cuervo for a picnic crown
This beach lies near Castell de Ferro, a historical landmark, about 1.5 hours from Malaga by car via Calahonda or Castell de Ferro.
The cheapest way to get there is to rent a car or take a local bus to Castell de Ferro and then walk or take a taxi to the beach.
Note that Playa de la Joya is another of the quiet beaches in the vicinity.
Playa de la Herradura, easy access to nightlife and entertainment
This beach sits near Herradura and can be accessed by car or bus. The cheapest way to get there is to take the local bus to Herradura and then walk or take a taxi to the beach.
Keep in mind that Playa de la Herradura is full of sterling dining joints like Chiringuito El Bambu, Chiringuito La Sardinia, and Lisboa Slow, as well as hotels, for example, La Caleta Bay, and is one of the best places in Spain for a picnic or a romantic rendezvous on the beach.
Playa de los Genoveses, beautiful low-slung cliffs
This secluded beach is also located near San José, about 3 hours from Malaga by car. If here, you can visit not just Genevoses Beach, but also the neighboring beautiful beaches, of Barronal and Monsul....
Keep in mind that the cheapest way to get there is to rent a car or take a local bus to San José and then walk or take a taxi to the beach. From here you can visit not just playa de los Genovses, but also other quiet beaches...
Playa de las Negras, better then your next cove
One of the most quiet beaches of its area, Playa de las Negreas is one of its kind destination for a weekend getaway from the city with family. Here you can swim, play ball, and have as much fun as you wish....
This picturesque beach lies near the town of Las Negras, about 3 hours from Malaga by car. The cheapest way to get there is to rent a car or take a local bus to Las Negras and then walk or take a taxi to the beach. Book your transfer from/to Malaga with Andy to enjoy best your time there.