Nerja Beaches

“Explore Nerja’s 13 kilometers of coastline: a paradise of 16 crystal-clear beaches with something for every occasion. Choose the family-friendly atmosphere of Burriana and El Playazo, the proximity of coves like Calahonda, El Salón, or Carabeillo, or venture out to the quieter, more secluded coves farther from the center, such as El Cañuelo or Las Alberquillas.”

Burriana is, par excellence, the most popular beach on the Nerja coast. Awarded the Blue Flag and the Q for Tourism Quality, it is a beach that can be enjoyed all year round.

The setting is beautiful, with views of mountains and cliffs.

You can enjoy water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, snorkeling, and scuba diving, and there are also other sports facilities, such as volleyball courts.

The culinary offerings are extensive, with a variety of establishments that perfectly blend traditional Mediterranean cuisine with more modern and innovative fare.

Calahonda Beach is undoubtedly Nerja’s most iconic sight, thanks to its location next to the Balcón de Europa. To get there, simply walk down the picturesque cobblestone staircase that starts at the “Boquete de Calahonda.” Once at the bottom, you can stroll along the promenade that runs along the base of the Balcón de Europa to El Salón Beach or explore the section of the Paseo de los Carabineros, reopened in 2021 as part of the Senda Litoral. It’s the perfect spot to admire the beauty of the cliffs right from the heart of town.

El Playazo is Nerja’s longest beach and the one that best preserves its natural, undeveloped character. Located at the western end of the town, it’s a favorite retreat for families seeking space and tranquility. To get there, simply follow Antonio Ferrándiz “Chanquete” Street and, after passing IES El Chaparil, turn onto the path that crosses the Chíllar River. What truly makes it unique is its setting: the Nerja valley, framed by the mouths of the Chíllar and Seco rivers, with the majestic mountain peaks watching over the horizon.

El Chucho Beach is a small, quiet cove with dark sand in Nerja, located between El Playazo and La Torrecilla.

About 200 meters long, it offers an intimate, family-friendly atmosphere, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.

It has basic amenities, is accessible, and is very close to beach bars serving local cuisine.

It’s an excellent spot for snorkeling, swimming, or strolling toward the Balcón de Europa while enjoying views of the Maro cliffs.

La Torrecilla Beach is one of Nerja’s gems, situated between the iconic ruins of the tower from which it takes its name and Plaza de los Cangrejos. Awarded the Blue Flag and the Q for Quality mark year after year, it guarantees the best facilities for its visitors. It also boasts a promenade dotted with restaurants and cafés, perfect for enjoying a delicious meal overlooking the sea.

Hidden at the foot of the Balcón de Europa, this little ‘jewel’ of pure sand offers a peaceful retreat right in the heart of the Costa del Sol. La Caletilla stands out for its intimate atmosphere and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming in complete tranquillity. It is the perfect choice for enjoying the sea without sacrificing the proximity of Nerja’s vibrant urban life.

To get there, you can access it via Calahonda beach by crossing the promenade that runs beneath the Balcón de Europa, or by heading down the path to El Salón beach and following the stretch of the Senda Litoral towards the Balcón.

Located to the right of the Balcón de Europa, El Salón beach is a charming little urban cove with a special charm all of its own. It is accessed via a small cobbled street, situated on the Balcón de Europa promenade itself, leading down to a sheltered spot where the old fishermen’s cottages still stand. From the shore, you can set off on a pleasant stroll along the base of the Balcón de Europa until you reach Calahonda beach, making a must-stop at the Chanquete viewpoint to have your photo taken with the famous sculpture of the protagonist of ‘Verano Azul’.

Carabeo Beach is a secluded cove accessible from Carabeo Street. You reach it via a flight of steps situated next to a vantage point offering simply spectacular sea views.

Carabeillo Beach is a charming, secluded cove. You can reach it by going down the steps from the Mirador del Bendito viewpoint, right at the end of Carabeo Street. If you prefer to walk along the shore, it is also accessible from Burriana Beach, provided the tide is out. Please note, however, that access is on foot only.

Maro Beach is a spot of great beauty and considerable size, consisting of sand and gravel. Access by car is restricted, so in summer you must get there on foot or by shuttle bus. It also stands out for its proximity to the famous Maro Waterfall, which can only be visited by sea.