If you’re planning a beach holiday in the Costa del Sol, you’re probably keen to spend your time enjoying the best of the coastline. The beaches are certainly one of the biggest draws of the destination - as is the weather, with over 325 days of sunshine a year - and there are an impressive 120 to choose from, lining a total of 161km of Mediterranean coastline. The influence of the sea is felt everywhere in the area, from the chilled lifestyle and delicious gastronomy to the cheerful locals.
Spending time soaking up the sun and enjoying the beach is one of the greatest joys of summer in the Costa del Sol. Not only does the beach offer you the opportunity to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life, it also has a range of health benefits for our mind and body. Keep reading to discover our selection of the best beaches in the Costa del Sol.
Burriana beach - Nerja
Situated 50km from Malaga city, Nerja is a seaside town known for its incredible beaches. Burriana is a case in point, an idyllic spot offering over 800m of fine golden sand. A favourite among many tourists, the beach also has a lovely seafront promenade lined with plenty of shops and restaurants. You can also enjoy water sports here, from pedalos and jet skis to kayaks and diving.
Maro beach - Nerja
Maro beach is also located in Nerja. Very few places can rival Maro beach (also known as Maro cove) in the Costa del Sol. With its crystalline waters and rugged landscape defined by sheer cliffs, Maro is considered one of the finest beaches in Spain and one of the best paradise beaches in the Costa del Sol.
Cala del Moral beach – Rincón de la Victoria
Cala del Moral is a large beach that extends for over 1km and is an average of 40m wide. The beach offers easy access and all sorts of entertainment and leisure activities nearby, making it the perfect choice for families. There are a number of play parks as well as a floating water park where you can have fun in the sea. A pretty coastal path lines the beach, leading you to Malaga city which is about 10km away.
El Castillo beach - Fuengirola
El Castillo beach is an extension of Fuengirola’s urban beach. Sitting under Castillo de Sohail, the beach hosts concerts and shows in the summer months, although it is mostly a peaceful beach whose clean waters have earned it the European Union’s Blue Flag award year after year. It is also easy to park nearby and there is a small dog-friendly area.
Bil-Bil beach - Benalmádena
Bil-bil is one of the locals’ favourite beaches in Benalmádena. Situated in the heart of the town, the fine dark sands extend for over 400m and are an average of 20m wide. The beach is lapped by gentle waves, making it the perfect place to take a dip. Lined by a pretty seafront promenade, the area is home to a striking red castle, which gives the beach its name.
El Cristo beach – Estepona
El Cristo is a 700m long cove that has been flying the Blue Flag since 2019. Located in the south-western part of Estepona, close to the marina, it is defined by dark sands and calm and crystal clear waters. It has a number of play parks and extensive woodland that provides natural shade, perfect for when the mercury starts to climb. For all these reasons, El Cristo is a perfect beach for a family day out. It is close to the town yet far from the built-up area.
Artola-Cabopino beach - Marbella
Located in the municipality of Marbella, Artola-Cabopino beach is a little slice of paradise that will make you feel at one with nature. The dunes, a protected natural area, will immerse you in another world. The white sands and clear waters make this beach the perfect choice for families.
Real de Zaragoza beach - Marbella
Located 13km from Marbella, Real de Zaragoza beach is named after the development it is part of. It is one of the longest beaches in the province of Malaga, offering 1,700m of golden sand. Although it is often listed as one of the best beaches in the Costa del Sol, it doesn’t tend to get crowded. There are plenty of bars and restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a refreshing aperitivo.
We hope that this selection has helped you find your new favourite beach in the Costa del Sol. Of course, there are many more beaches in the area and while the choice of where to go is personal, it also depends on the activity you fancy doing. There are beaches that lend themselves to surfing, diving or snorkelling and family holidays. Discover the best beaches in the Costa del Sol and enjoy an incredible holiday.
