Best Beaches of Nerja: Nerja is a pretty little Spanish beach town, with its best parts clustered around the sandy beaches and picturesque coves that dot the coastline. Overlooking the calm blue waters of the Mediterranean, ringed by the Sierras de Tejeda mountains, this seaside resort is as beautiful as they come.
Tucked away at the far end of the Costa del Sol, Nerja is a jewel in Spain’s coastal crown. The Best Beaches of Nerja Spain have Mediterranean views, postcard-perfect beaches, and palm-lined boulevards that have been attracting visitors for decades. So, if you, too, are seeking Spanish sunshine, this Nerja beaches guide will help you plan the perfect trip. Here are the best beaches in Nerja:
Burriana Beach
This Blue Flag Beach is the most famous of Nerja’s beaches and is composed of fine sand and pebbles. This is a fairly long beach making room for everyone even in high season. There are a wide-range of restaurants, cafes and shops on the beach front, many of which serve delicious fresh fish and seafood. Palm umbrellas, sunbeds and pedalos can be rented here . There are also watersports and activities available such as scuba-diving and day cruises along the coast.
Torrecilla Beach
The Blue Flag Beach of Torrecilla Beach is Nerja’s second most popular beach, at the other side of town from Burriana Beach. It has been widened to create a perfect beach for young children with shallow and generally calm water, and soft sand. Sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented here and there are plenty of restaurants and cafés in the vicinity.
Salón Beach
Salon Beach is a rare find. Very close to the center of Nerja but not heavily visited by the majority of visitors. It is small and secluded, with good sand and a beach bar. To get there, follow the cobbled walkway which leads off to the right of the Balcón de Europa, down the side of the Toboso apart-hotel.
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Carabeo Beach
Carabeo Beach is along side the coastal promenade Paseo de los Carabineros, which runs from the Balcón to Playa Burriana. It can only reached via a steep flight of 115 stairs from the end of Carabeo street. The difficult access and also the fact that it is not very visible, makes this quite a secluded beach.
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Calahonda Beach
Calahonda Beach is to the left of the Balcón and is reached by a fairly steep path on the left of the Balcón promenade. This is a small and picturesque fisherman’s beach, with a mixture of sand and small pebbles. The rocks on either side make it a sheltered beach and during the summer months there are sun-beds and umbrellas for rent.
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Carabeillo Beach
This small bay lies between Carabeo beach and Burriana beach, and can be reached via steps at the end of Carabeo street. If the tide is out far enough, you can walk straight from Burriana Beach and around the rocks that jut out into the sea to Carabeillo Beach.
Nerja sounds like such a gem on the Costa del Sol! I love how each beach has its own charm — from the lively Burriana with restaurants and watersports to the hidden coves like Carabeo and Salón. It seems like the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, especially with those mountain views in the background. I can almost picture strolling from the Balcón de Europa down to the beach at sunset. If you had to pick just one beach to spend the day at, which would you say best captures the “true Nerja vibe”?
That’s such a great question! I’d say Burriana Beach really captures the essence of Nerja. It has everything — the lively atmosphere, great seafood restaurants, and plenty of space to relax while still feeling connected to the town’s coastal charm. You can enjoy a morning swim, grab paella for lunch, then watch the sun dip behind the Sierras de Tejeda in the evening. If you prefer something quieter, Carabeo Beach is a lovely little hideaway with that secluded, local feel. Both perfectly reflect Nerja’s relaxed Mediterranean magic!
I’ve never been to Nerja, but from the pictures it looks like a beautiful place to swim and relax. I like how you’ve included both popular and quieter spots — that really helps travelers with different preferences. Your guide makes planning a trip much easier. Which beach would you recommend for a first-time visitor?
Thank you so much for your thoughtful words! I’m really happy to hear that the balance between well-loved spots and quieter hideaways resonated with you—it was exactly what I intended.
For a first-time visitor to Nerja, Burriana Beach stands out as a perfect starting point. It has everything you’d need for an effortless introduction: soft golden sand, clear gentle waters ideal for swimming, and a lively promenade lined with cafés and restaurants where you can wind down after a day in the sea. It sets a warm, inviting tone without ever feeling crowded or overwhelming.
Once you’ve enjoyed the amenities of Burriana, you might discover your own favorite quieter spots—like Maro Beach, hidden amidst cliffs and green hills, or Calahonda, known for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent snorkeling. But beginning with Burriana offers that wonderful balance of convenience, local flavor, and natural beauty—making your first dip into Nerja’s coastline both relaxing and memorable.
Hope that helps as you plan your visit!
This is a fantastic guide to Nerja’s beautiful beaches! I love how you included both the popular spots like Burriana and the more secluded gems like Carabeo and Salon Beach. It really shows the variety Nerja has to offer for different kinds of travelers. Do you have a favorite beach in Nerja for watching the sunset or a quiet afternoon?
Thank you so much for the kind words! I’m glad you enjoyed how the guide balanced Nerja’s lively, well-known beaches with its peaceful hidden corners. Each spot really does have its own personality, which makes exploring them so rewarding.
For sunsets, I’d say Calahonda Beach is hard to beat—it’s tucked right below the Balcón de Europa, so you get those golden views framed by cliffs and the sea. For a quiet afternoon, Carabeillo Chico is a personal favorite; it’s small, serene, and feels like a little escape from the bustle without being far from town. Both capture Nerja’s charm in their own way.
Great factual article. I do have to ask,
How accessible are these beaches for people with mobility challenges?
We will be travelling to Spain in the warmer weather and we have a child in a wheel chair that would love to explore beautiful beaches with us.
The article mentions Burriana’s facilities, but what about the others, especially those with steep stairs or paths?
Thank you so much for your thoughtful question—and you’re right to plan ahead. The good news is that Nerja has a few wheelchair-friendly options. Burriana is the most accessible, with a flat seafront promenade, ramped entries, accessible parking and toilets in season; lifeguards can often assist, and in summer there may be amphibious beach chairs. Torrecilla is another strong pick thanks to its level promenade, ramp access, and generally calmer water behind breakwaters. Playazo is long and relatively flat—the town end is easiest—and in high season you’ll usually find wooden walkways that help over the sand. El Chucho (between Playazo and Torrecilla) also has ramped access.
Beaches that are difficult or not suitable include Calahonda (steep zig-zag path and stairs from the Balcón), El Salón (long sloped path with uneven sections), Carabeo and Carabeillo (stair access only), and Maro (a steep track down to the cove).
Practical tips: arrive early for parking and lighter crowds; look for beach mats/boardwalks set out in summer; speak with the lifeguard post about the calmest entry point and available assistance; and enjoy sea views from the Balcón de Europa and the Burriana/Torrecilla promenades when you want a break from the sand. I hope this helps you enjoy Spain’s warmer months with your family—have a wonderful trip!
The hidden coves near Maro are breathtaking—your tip about arriving before 10 AM to secure a spot is golden. The contrast between Burriana’s lively vibe and Playa Calahonda’s tranquility captures Nerja’s perfect balance.
The warning about uneven steps down to some beaches is so real (those flip-flop regrets!). Have you found the water clarity best in early summer or does it stay pristine through September?
This guide nails the local secrets. That chiringuito with the paella cooked over driftwood? Worth the pilgrimage.
Thank you so much for your lovely comment! I’m glad the tips about the hidden coves and beach vibes resonated with you—Nerja really does offer such a wonderful mix of lively spots and peaceful escapes.
About the water clarity: it’s usually at its best in early summer when the sea is calm and the weather is just warming up, but it generally stays pretty clear right through September. Of course, occasional windy days or summer visitors can stir things up a bit, but overall, the Mediterranean in Nerja stays beautifully pristine throughout the season.
And yes, that chiringuito with paella cooked over driftwood is definitely a local treasure—well worth the pilgrimage for anyone visiting!
Thanks again for sharing your thoughts, and if you discover any other hidden gems in Nerja, I’d love to hear about them!
Hi! Your article really brings Nerja’s stunning coastline to life—from the bustling sands of Burriana and Calahonda to the secluded coves at Maro and Cala del Cañuelo. I especially appreciate how you highlight both popular and hidden gems, plus tips on snorkelling, kayaking, and local chiringuitos. It’s such a well-rounded guide—did any one beach stand out as your personal favorite while writing?
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment! I’m really glad the guide captured Nerja’s coastal charm for you—it’s such a special place with so much variety. To answer your question, yes—while I love them all, Cala del Cañuelo definitely stood out as my personal favorite while writing. There’s just something magical about the peaceful vibe, the crystal-clear water, and the way it feels like your own little escape from the world. It’s perfect for snorkeling or just soaking in nature without the crowds.
Have you had the chance to explore any of Nerja’s beaches in person yet? Or is it on your travel list?
Spain is still on my “bucket list” and I am vowed to make it sometime soon. Your descrption of the Nerja Beaches really got the juices flowing and rather than just Spain, I shall add this area to my list. I look forwatd to visiting this area of Spain. Thank you for sharing this fabulous place. Best wishes, Jenni.
You are very welcome Jenni, thank you for stopping by and enjoying Beach Travel destinations!
I just checked out your Nerja beach guide and found it really helpful. I visited once a few years ago but only saw one or two beaches, so reading this made me realize how much I missed. I liked how you grouped the beaches based on what kind of experience they offer. Your descriptions reminded me of the quiet morning I spent at Playa El Salon, just sitting and watching the waves. Some of your picks seem great for swimming while others look more relaxed and scenic.
Which one would you personally go back to again if you wanted a peaceful day without too many people around?
I am glad you enjoyed your visit to the best beaches of Nerja Spain. For a more secluded beach experience in Nerja, consider Playa de Carabeo, Playa Carabeillo, or the beaches within the Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Park. These locations offer a quieter atmosphere compared to the more popular beaches like Burriana or Torrecilla.
Nerja sounds like such a stunning beach destination with a variety of spots to suit different tastes! I love how each beach has its own unique vibe—from the lively Burriana with all its activities and seafood options to the more secluded Carabeo Beach that requires a little adventure to reach. The mix of calm waters, sandy shores, and beautiful mountain views must make it perfect for families and solo travelers alike. Have you noticed if any of these beaches are particularly good for snorkeling or other water sports?
Yes Hanna, Nerja’s beaches are well- regarded for snorkeling and other water sports. The clear Mediterranean waters and diverse marine life make it a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Additionally, activities like kayaking, paddle surfing, and boat tours are available, particularly around the Maro-Cerro Gordo cliffs.
Wow, this is some beautiful information about these gorgeous beaches in Nerja! I love being able to see what each beach has to offer for fun, dining and shopping experiences. Do you have a favorite you could recommend that would be family friendly for both teenagers and 5-7 year old activities? Also, I was wondering if any of these destination beaches have air b n b’s available that are beachfront?
We are looking for the perfect spot for our families vacation this fall and I fell on your site and fell in LOVE!!!
Glad you are enjoying visiting beach travel destinations!
For teenagers and small children in Nerja, Burriana Beach is a great choice due to its calm waters, lifeguards, and abundance of beachfront restaurants. Alternatively, Playa Carabeillo offers a smaller, quieter option with shallow waters ideal for younger children.
Hello!
I’ve never been to Nerja, but after reading this, it’s definitely going on my travel wish list! I had no idea there were so many stunning beaches in one place, each with its own vibe. The idea of peaceful coves mixed with more lively spots sounds like the perfect balance. I especially liked how clearly you described what to expect at each beach—it made it really easy to imagine being there. Now I just need to figure out when I can go!
Angela M 🙂
Yes, you should go! You will find it very beautiful and very relaxing! I appreciate you taking the time to leave me comments. Thanks for visiting Beach Travel Destinations!
This article really captures the essence of what a vacation is all about. Nerja, Spain looks like a beautiful place to visit as there are so many beach options to choose from. I especially appreciate the fact that Torrecilla Beach has a landscape so as to make it easier for parents with small children to safely accompany them. Even better is the idea that you can start in the town and grab something to eat and drink then go down to some of the secluded beaches from where the town is through small staircases leading off to them, as well as the fact that you can rent umbrellas and beds. Sounds Nice! Thank You!
You are welcome Shannon. Glad i got you thinking and visualizing being on the beach in Nerja Spain! Beautiful beaches for sure. Thank you for stopping by and leaving comments.
Nerja truly sounds like a hidden gem along the Costa del Sol! I love how each beach has its unique charm, especially the cozy vibe of Calahonda Beach. The mix of sand and pebbles must make it feel so authentic! Have you explored any local eateries nearby? I’d love to hear about any recommendations for enjoying the local cuisine while soaking up that stunning Mediterranean view! ????????
To enjoy the local cuisine in Nerja, Spain, explore traditional dishes like espetos de sardinas (grilled sardines on skewers), Ajo Blanco (almond and garlic soup), and embutidos (cured meats). Consider visiting Ayo’s on Burriana Beach for paella, or Bar El Pulguilla for a lively atmosphere and seafood tapas. For a more upscale experience, try Restaurante 34 known for its Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy tapas at various bars, especially along the cobbled streets near the Balcón de Europa. I hope this answers your question:) Thanks for visiting Beach Travel Destinations.
Your words and description almost transport me there. Maybe I should consider a vacation to Costa del Sol and experience the scenic Mediterranean coastlines and local seafood. I really like that there are a mix of lively and secluded beach settings. You’ve given options as to what makes each beach location special—like Burriana Beach’s watersports and dining, Torrecilla’s family-friendly setup, and the more hidden charm of beaches like Salon and Carabeo.
This is a great help for us tourists, beach lovers, and travel planners wanting insider info while looking for picturesque, relaxing, or activity-rich destinations. Spain has always been on mind and I can visualize how each location could fit for me.
Great Drew! I am glad you enjoyed visiting Beach Travel Destinations and for taking the time to leave comments as well. Thank you!
Nerja has been on my travel list for a while, and reading about its beaches has definitely moved it higher up. The descriptions of both popular and hidden spots made me wonder how crowded these beaches get during peak season. Do any of them still feel relatively secluded in the summer months? I’m especially drawn to places that balance beauty with a more relaxed, local vibe. Also, how accessible are these beaches if you’re not renting a car and are there reliable public transport options or walking paths between them?
There are some good hidden beaches in Nerja: Cala del Pino, El Canuelo, Las Alberquillas, and Molina de Papel.
Several beaches near Nerja are accessible by public bus, including Maro Beach and El Canuelo. Some beaches have specific shuttle services, like El Canuelo, where minibuses transport visitors to the beach and back. While boat access to some beaches is possible, it’s primarily for specific activities like diving or exploring caves. Great questions! Thank you for visiting beach travel destinations.
The beaches of Nerja seem like a beautiful blend of nature’s tranquility and Mediterranean charm, each offering something unique for different tastes. From lively shores with activities to hidden gems tucked away from the crowds, it’s a place that offers both adventure and serenity. I love how Salon Beach offers a peaceful retreat right in the heart of the town. How does Nerja’s local culture and history influence the atmosphere at these beaches?
Nerja’s rich history, including its Moorish influence and role as a fishing village, subtly shapes the atmosphere at its beaches. The Moorish heritage is evident in the whitewashed houses and narrow streets, and the town’s historical significance provides a captivating backdrop to its modern charm. The beaches themselves offer a blend of local culture and modern attractions, creating a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors.