Costa del Sol translates to “sun coast” in English and that’s exactly what you can expect when you visit this sunshine-hued place. The Costa del Sol is a coastal region in the south of Spain, stretching from the Strait of Gibraltar to the province of Granada, with an endless array of gorgeous beaches to explore.
It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, attracting millions of visitors every year, and plays host to a huge range of hotels and vacation rentals to suit all kinds of travelers. In total, the Costa del Sol has more than 150 km of coastline, with over 300 beaches to choose from. Some of those are designed for lazy tanning days while others are more suited to water sports and swimming.
Heading to the Costa del Sol and not sure which beaches to hit up first? Read on for all of the best beaches in the Costa del Sol!
Playa de La Malagueta
Playa de La Malagueta is a beach that has it all: convenience, comfort and charm. And, if you’re looking for a beach that’s close to the city center of Málaga, you should definitely check this endlessly popular spot out. Playa de La Malagueta is the most popular beach in Málaga with its dark sand, clear water and plenty of amenities nearby. Here, you’ll find restaurants, bars, shops, playgrounds snd showers all within easy reach. When you’ve finished enjoying the sun and the sea, try some delicious local cuisine, like espetos de sardina (grilled sardines on skewers) and pescaíto frito (fried fish) while admiring the views of the port and the Alcazaba fortress.
Playas de Las Acacias
Playas de Las Acacias is a beach that combines nature, culture and gastronomy all in one: a perfect spot to visit no matter what your ideal beach day looks like. Set in the neighborhood of Pedregalejo, one of the most traditional areas of Málaga, it’s one of the most emblematic beaches of the city, with its long sandy beach and its clear waters. Visit this gorgeous spot if you want to enjoy the sun and the sea all year round, while popping by the seafood restaurants that line its promenade. Better yet, you can also admire the views of the port and the historic center of Málaga, or take a walk along the promenade that connects Pedregalejo with other nearby beaches.
Playa El Palo
Playa El Palo is a great choice if you want to experience the authentic and traditional atmosphere of Málaga and it’s also one of the more accessible beaches in the region. Located in the eastern part of the city, in the former fishing village of El Palo, it’s home to four semi-circular bays and beautiful clear water. Better yet, it’s ideally close to the city center and easy to access by public transport or car, no matter how you’re getting around Spain. You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, or relax under the palm trees on the grassy areas behind the beach. It has good facilities and services, like showers, toilets, lifeguards and playgrounds as well as barrier-free access for wheelchair users.
Playa Guadalmar
You’ll find Playa Guadalmar in Malaga, close by to the airport. Which means this impressive spot could end up being your first port of call when you’re fresh off the plane. A popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with its wide and long stretch of sand, Playa Guadalmar is a haven of calm and clear waters and natural surroundings. It also takes the ‘natural thing’ pretty literally: it’s a clothing-optional beach, which means no tan lines in sight. The beach isn’t very crowded – especially compared to others nearby – even in the peak season, and it offers amazing views of the sunrise and sunset.
Playa de la Misericordia
Think of the quintessential beach experience and you’ll probably imagine something pretty close to Playa de la Misericordia. One of the most popular beaches in Málaga, it has a long and wide stretch of dark sand that’s ideal for sunbathing, playing or relaxing, day after day. A top spot for those who like to stay active, it also has a variety of sports facilities, like volleyball courts, soccer fields and fitness equipment. Or, cme during the summer season to enjoy water sports like kayaking, surfing or sailing. When you’re done tanning or swimming, take a stroll along the promenade and dig into delicious fresh seafood.
La Caleta
You’ll find Playa de la Caleta in Cadiz: one of the Costa Del Sol’s most fun-loving spots. This is a beach that goes all out with the impressive stats: it has a natural harbor that was used by Phoenicians, Carthaginians and Romans in ancient times and it also has two castles nearby: San Sebastián and Santa Catalina, which just adds to its charm and history. Feeling a little like you recognise this spot? It’s famous for being the setting of several movies and songs, like James Bond’s Die Another Day and Carlos Cano’s Habaneras de Cádiz. And it comes with all of the usual wins: soft, golden sand, clean, clear water and plenty of sunshine.
Cabopino Beach
It doesn’t matter whether your ideal beach day looks like lying back on the sand with a good book or partying until the early hours: Cabopino Beach has it all. Located near Marbella, Cabopino Beach offers a stunning contrast between its golden sand, the turquoise waters and the green pine forests just behind. On one side, you’ll love its natural and unspoiled environment, with a protected dune system and a rich biodiversity. Gaza up at the views of the mountains, the sea and the wildlife from the beach. On the other hand, if you wander around its elegant marina, you can find a variety of restaurants, bars and shops to keep you entertained for hours.
Playa Burriana
Burriana Beach is an award-winning beach, which tells you everything you need to know when it comes to visiting. Well worthy of a day out, you’ll find this spot in beautiful Nerja, a charming town that’s home to impressive sights like the Balcony of Europe, the Church of El Salvador, the Capistrano Playa and the Nerja Caves. The beach itself has plenty to offer too, with a long and wide stretch of fine, dark sand that’s clean and well-maintained. It’s previously been awarded the Blue Flag and the Q for Quality certificates, ensuring it’s properly maintained, especially during the high season. One must-do here? Try the local paella – the perfect way to end a day on the beach.
Cam. de Burriana, s/n, 29780 Nerja, Málaga, Spain— +34 952 52 15 31
La Rada Beach
La Rada Beach is a great destination for families, couples and solo travelers who want to experience the best of the Mediterranean coast. Located next to one of the main streets of Estepona, La Rada Beach has been awarded the blue flag for its excellent conditions and is a top spot for family vacations in southern Spain. It has all the facilities and services you need for a comfortable and enjoyable visit, like showers, toilets, lifeguards, sunbeds, parasols, playgrounds and parking. It’s also home to a beautiful white promenade that runs along the beach, where you can admire the views of the bay and the mountains while you’re enjoying the water.
Playa de Bil-Bil
It’s virtually impossible not to fall in love with Bil-Bil Beach as soon as you’ve arrived at this gorgeous spot. Bil-Bil Beach has a beautiful location in the heart of Benalmádena, a stylish spot that’s risen to fame after being spotted on many European and British TV shows. It has fine dark sand that’s clean and pristine, and gentle waves that are ideal for swimming, even if you’re not the most confident of swimmers. For history buffs, Bil-Bil Beach has something extra special to offer: a stunning Moorish-style castle at one end, called Bil-Bil Castle, that was built in 1927 and now plays host to weddings and cultural events.
Playa La Carihuela
The area where La Carihuela Beach sits used to be a fishing village, which is something you may pick up on when you set up camp here for the day. One of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Spain, you can admire the traditional architecture and visit the monuments before laying down your towel and soaking up the sunshine. But even if you’re not into your history, you’ll love this spot for its fun activities. Here, you can go sailing, windsurfing, jet skiing and kayaking on an almost year-round basis. Wander down its lively promenade to check out the shops, bars, restaurants and beach clubs that line this beach’s corners.
