The south of Spain has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Andalucia is even famous for its 800km of stunning coastal scenery. Not only are the views amazing, but there is also a beach for everyone. There are family-friendly spots, nudist beaches, areas with high-adrenaline watersports, a chiringuito with the best food and drink and much more on offer. Here are some of the best beaches in Andalucia.
- Playa del Cañuelo in Costa del Sol, Malaga Province
The first beach on our list is near Nerja. It is popular among trendy hippy types and is well off the beaten track. A small bus will take you there, costing only €2 for adults and free for children. The bus will wind down the tree-covered slopes of Maro hill, which will set the scene before you reach the clear waters below. Many people enjoy snorkelling on the headland before enjoying a drink at one of the two beach bars. El Cañuelo is located in the Acantilados de Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Park.
2. Playa de los Genoveses in Costa de Almería, Almeria Province
This beach is perfectly picturesque, located within Cabo de Gata National Park. This park has some wonderful sports, each underdeveloped yet pristine. Los Genoveses features a large horseshoe-shaped bay with shallow water. Breathtaking cliffs surround the beach and the car park is a short walk away. However, be aware that there are no facilities in the area. San Jose is the main town and not too far away, though.
3. Playa del Cristo in Costa del Sol, Malaga Province
Just outside Estepona, this Blue Flag beach is one of the best around. It is a small bay with crystal-clear azure water and white sand. It’s perfect for families as the car park is just behind you. It can get busy during the summer, but has two chringuitos to keep you fed.
4. Bolonia in Costa de la Luz, Cadiz Province
Up the coast from Tarifa, Bolonia is at the end of a no-through road meaning that is very much off the beaten track. The beach is a wide sweep of golden sand, with grass and flowers covering the bank and ending in a steep pine-forested dune. The town also has everything – Roman ruins, wooden beach restaurants and even some juice bars. Nudists also have the option of going to this beach, with a separate area for them. There is a strong wind on this beach which attracts wind and kite-surfing crowds.
5. Torremolinos in Costa del Sol, Malaga Province
This area became Costa del Sol’s first-ever resort, and still maintains that 1970s retro charm today. It has rows of sunbeds on the long, straight stretch of coast and high-rise hotels and apartments behind it. It is the go-to place for many British people abroad, with bars showing football matches and a busy nightlife.