There are places on the Costa del Sol that have been prepared with families in mind: where you can come into contact with nature, enjoy water parks and theme parks, and of course fabulous beaches for young and old. Check our recommended beaches for a great family day out.
Beaches for all the family
There is no shortage of beaches on the Costa del Sol where you can have a day out with your children. When you want them to have a great time, the secret is to offer them alternatives to choose from.
One option is to end your day at the beach with a visit to the Sea Life Aquarium in Benalmádena, a fantastic interactive aquatic park. The best beach nearby is Malapesquera, which also has permanent entertainment thanks to the activities of the sports centre, the Polideportivo. If everyone has behaved themselves, you can reward them with a delicious ice-cream in Puerto Marina at the end of the day.
La Bajadilla beach, in Marbella, is another good choice. It is wide and not too deep, so that children can play safely in the shallow water while parents relax and enjoy a calm quiet day. Everyone wins! If you are going to the beach, don't forget to take goggles for everyone, because the beautifully clear water will let you see marine life when the water is only one or two metres deep.
The beach of Burriana, in Nerja, has areas prepared for children to play in, with slides and swings. If you want to have fun with the family on the water, the best way is to hire a pedal boat with its own slide. This is the kind of thing that kids love!
Finally, there is Casablanca beach, in Marbella, which has wonderful grassy areas for children to play in. The small size of the beach makes it easier to keep an eye on the kids, so you can have a nap on the beach without worrying about them going off too far. There is also a team of life guards just to make sure that nothing goes wrong.
Don't forget...
A perfect day at the beach begins by not forgetting the things you are going to need. It is a good idea for all the family to prepare in advance so that nothing spoils the day.
Check the weather forecast
It is handy to know what the temperature is likely to be, and to know what the condition of the sea will be. It never hurts to be careful.
Sun cream
High-factor sun cream is absolutely necessary, especially for children, but for adults too in the first days of exposure to the sun.
Water and some fruit
Don't overlook the need to stay hydrated, especially in the case of the children. They will be on the beach for a long time, and they will be delighted to discover chilled water, juices and fruit in your cooler bag. If you forget this point, remember that the bars and chiringuitos of the Costa del Sol are well-stocked with good quality products.
Dry swimming costumes
It’s a good idea to take spare swimming costumes for the kids. Don't let them run around for long in wet bathers after a swim.
Something to read
Reading a good book on the beach is one of life's pleasures, and the kids will enjoy a rest and something fun for them to read too.