Nerja Beaches

 

 

Nerja Beaches – discover the gorgeous coastline and beaches in the area

The first time I saw the wonderful coastlines around Nerja, I knew that the beaches here would be spectacular and worth spending some beach time to enjoy the vibe, water activities and just hanging out at the beaches in town and just around the coastline areas.

Located iin the province of Malaga on the Costa del Sol, Nerja is not as busy and crowded than the areas west of Malaga and really offer a more laid back and casual vibe with mostly Spanish visitors that come to the area and enjoy the lifestyle and beach times here. Whether you are looking for a relaxing time on the each to enjoying a drive along the coastline or more active recreation, you’ll really enjoy the coastal areas around Nerja.

Nerja is a beautiful city with a stunning scenic viewpoint called the Balcon de Europa with amazing views of the Mediterranean and the lovely coastline areas that draw in the visitors to check out this scene and walk around downtown. Those that have more free time should allocated some beach time and water activities to explore the area and we share all of these fantastic tips and ideas to discover the area and the best beaches below.

Where is Nerja located

Nerja is a coastal town located in the province of Málaga, on the eastern edge of the Costa del Sol in southern Spain. It sits along the Mediterranean Sea, about 50 kilometers (31 miles) east of the city of Málaga. Positioned between the rugged Sierra Almijara mountains and the sea, Nerja offers a mix of dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and small coves. Its location makes it a scenic getaway with a more relaxed pace compared to some of the larger resort towns along the coast. The town is also known for its mild climate and easy access to both mountain trails and seaside attractions.

How to get to Nerja

Getting to Nerja is fairly straightforward, especially if you’re coming from Málaga or other parts of southern Spain. Here’s how:

• From Málaga by car: The most direct route is via the A-7 highway (Autovía del Mediterráneo), which runs along the coast. The drive takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
• By bus: ALSA operates frequent buses from Málaga’s main bus station to Nerja. The journey usually takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the buses are comfortable and reliable. There are also connections from Granada and other Andalusian cities.
• From Málaga Airport: You can take a direct bus (limited availability), or first take a train or bus to Málaga city center, then transfer to a bus heading to Nerja. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport for more flexibility.
• By taxi or private transfer: This is a convenient option if you have luggage or prefer door-to-door service. The ride from Málaga Airport to Nerja usually takes under an hour.
• No train access: Nerja doesn’t have a train station, so bus or car are your main public transport options.

Enjoy these top beaches in Nerja area

The beaches in Nerja are different to the Costa del Sol from from coves, crescent shaped beaches to beaches that are surrounded by small cliff areas that protect the beach areas. Here are some of the top beaches in the Nerja area, each with its own appeal:

• Burriana Beach (Playa Burriana)

Burriana Beach (Playa Burriana) is the most well-known and developed beach in Nerja, located on the eastern end of town. It’s a wide stretch of golden sand with calm, clear waters and excellent amenities that make it popular with both locals and visitors.

The beachfront promenade is lined with restaurants, beach bars (chiringuitos), and shops, offering everything from seafood paella to casual tapas. You’ll also find rental services for sunbeds, paddle boats, and kayaks, as well as easy access for walking or driving. While it can get busy in the summer, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with a full-service feel that appeals to families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

• • Nerja’s most popular and developed beach
  • Wide stretch of sand with sunbeds, water sports, and beachside restaurants
  • Good for families and those wanting full amenities

How to get there

• Transportation Method	Details	Estimated Time	Cost
  Walking	From the Balcón de Europa area, walk east along Calle Carabeo or Calle Filipinas, then take the steep descent via Calle Bajamar or down through Prolongación Hernando de Carabeo.	15–20 minutes (downhill going)	Free
  By Car / Taxi	Local taxi from central Nerja directly to the beach entrance. Best for travelers with gear or limited mobility.	5–10 minutes	Around €7–€10
  By Bus	Not ideal – there’s no direct bus line to Burriana. Most buses run along the main roads, which are a bit far from the beach itself.	Not recommended	N/A
  By Bicycle / E-bike	Ride along Calle Carabeo or take the paved roads like Avenida de Pescia and then descend to the beach. Ideal if you have access to a rental.	10–15 minutes	Rental fees vary

  Note: The return walk from Burriana to the town center is uphill and can feel strenuous in hot weather. Taxis are easy to catch from the beach taxi stand if needed.

  

• Playa de Maro

Playa de Maro is a small, scenic beach just outside Nerja, known for its clear waters, surrounding cliffs, and peaceful setting. Located in a natural park, it’s popular for snorkeling, kayaking, and enjoying the coastal views without the heavy crowds. The beach has basic amenities like a small beach bar, showers, and summer lifeguards. While parking is limited, the walk down is short and worth it for the quiet, nature-focused atmosphere and great water activities.

• • Located just outside Nerja near the village of Maro
  • A more natural beach with clear waters and great snorkeling
  • Surrounded by cliffs and farmland—less crowded feel

Mode	Duration	Cost	Tips
Walk	40–45 minutes	Free	Scenic coastal path, return uphill
Bus	~10–15 min ride + wait	€1–2	Check ALSA schedules
Shuttle	Quick hop	Varies	Seasonal, check town hall notice boards
Taxi	~4 min	€9–12	Convenient, faster alternative
Car	~5 min + parking	Free–paid	Parking can fill up in summer

• Calahonda Beach (Playa Calahonda)

Calahonda Beach (Playa Calahonda) is a charming, compact cove right beneath Nerja’s iconic Balcón de Europa. At about 120 m long and roughly 20 m wide, its dark, coarse sand and gentle waves make it perfect for a relaxed swim or wander. The beach still hosts tiny fishing boats tied up alongside whitewashed cliffside sheds—a scene straight out of a postcard and the set of the classic TV series Verano Azul . Access comes via a short zig-zag descent through the “Boquete de Calahonda” stairwell, with no car access, adding to its intimate feel and easy access to the beach area. In summer, you’ll find lifeguards, showers, toilets, sunbed rentals, and a small beach-side bar—plus a few nearby restaurants with terraces overlooking the bay. Whether you’re there for the scenery, a quick dip between sightseeing, or just soaking up the mellow seaside vibe, Calahonda packs real local charm into a small space.

• • Small beach just below the Balcón de Europa
  • Scenic setting with cliffs and fishermen’s huts
  • Easy to access from the town center

• El Salon Beach (Playa El Salón)

Playa El Salón is a quaint, dark‑sand beach tucked under cliffs just steps from Nerja’s Balcón de Europa. Roughly 200 m long and 20 m wide, it keeps its old‑world charm with little fishing huts and boats dotting the shore. Access is pedestrian only via a winding ramp off Calle Salón near the Church of El Salvador, which adds to its secluded nature and appleal. Despite its compact size, it’s well served with showers, toilets, showers, lifeguards in season, kiosks, and sunbed rentals to enjoy at the beach area. Its sheltered position offers calm swimming, scenic views of the cliffs and Balcón de Europa, and a mellow local-vibe—often bustling in summer but far from overwhelmed by crowds

• • Also near the Balcón de Europa but quieter than Calahonda
  • Sheltered bay with calm waters and a relaxed vibe
  • Popular with locals

• Carabeillo Beach (Playa Carabeillo)

Playa Carabeillo is a tucked‑away cove at the eastern end of Nerja, about 70 m long and 10 m wide, bordered by cliffs and lush greenery that give it an intimate, tropical feel and fun beach vibe.  Accessible only by a steep staircase near the Mirador del Bendito or by walking from nearby Burriana Beach, it remains quieter than its more popular neighbors thanks to its slightly tricky access and total privacy. The beach has dark, coarse sand and pebble patches, and while it’s small, there are natural rocky shelves locals love for diving or seeking shade and more privacy and quiet. Basic facilities like showers, toilets, and lifeguards are available in summer, but for food, drink, and full services, you’ll need to head up to Burriana or Calle Carabeo.  Overall, Carabeillo offers a peaceful escape and photogenic setting, an easy and short walk from Nerja’s center.

• • Small cove between Burriana and Carabeo beaches
  • A bit hidden and less crowded
  • Ideal for a quieter sunbathing spot

Mode of Transport	Duration	Cost	Details

• Carabeo Beach (Playa Carabeo)

Playa Carabeo is a small, tucked‑away cove just below the lively Calle Carabeo and a short walk from Nerja’s iconic Balcón de Europa. The beach stretches only about 120 m long and 15 m wide, with dark, coarse sand nestled between rocky cliffs that shelter it from the bustle above in this cove setting. It’s reached by a steep flight of stairs—around 88–115 steps—so access is strictly pedestrian and best for those comfortable with a bit of a climb . Despite being central, it feels surprisingly secluded and tends to stay fairly quiet, making it a favorite for swimming and snorkeling around the rocky outcrops, offering fantastic vistas. You’ll find showers, toilets, sunbeds, lifeguards in season, and a small kiosk for snacks—though for food and drink it’s a quick walk up to town . With its intimate vibe and coastal views framed by cliffs, Playa Carabeo offers a charming day by the sea that’s easy to reach yet feels wonderfully hidden.

• • Tucked below the cliffs in central Nerja
  • Accessible by stairs and surrounded by dramatic rock formations
  • Peaceful with great photo opportunities

• El Playazo

El Playazo sits at the western end of Nerja’s coastline and holds the title of the town’s longest beach, stretching about 1.7 km and roughly 30 m wide.  Its sand is coarse and dark, and the beach feels natural and low‑key—backed by farmland, sugar‑cane patches, and modest chiringuitos, offering great food and drink choices. rather than high‑rise buildings, It’s favored by local families and offers plenty of space, so even during summer you’ll find a peaceful area to enjoy. Basic amenities—showers, toilets, lifeguards, sunbeds—are all there, along with free or low‑cost parking and several rustic beach bars serving seafood and casual fare to enjoy. It’s perfect for a relaxed day: swim, stroll, enjoy a simple meal by the water, and soak in views of the Sierra Almijara on one side and the wide expanse of the Mediterranean Sea.

• • Nerja’s longest beach, west of the town center
  • More rustic and less developed than Burriana
  • Wide open space, good for long walks and sunsets

Mode of Transport	Duration	Cost	Details
Walk	~30 minutes (2 km)	Free	Walk west along the N‑340 or coastal paths. Pleasant and flat.
Bus	5–10 minutes + wait	~€1–2	Local bus from Nerja station heading west. Not frequent—check schedules.
Taxi	~5 minutes	~€6–10	Quick and direct—great if you’re farther from the center.
Car	~5 min drive + parking	Free (municipal)	Easy access from N‑340; two free municipal lots at each end.

Each beach offers a different experience, whether you’re looking for full services, natural scenery, or quiet spots to relax.

Weather and best time to visit Nerja’s beaches

Nerja enjoys a Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine a year, making it a solid beach destination nearly year-round. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 28–35°C (82–95°F) in July and August. The sea is warm, and the beaches are lively during this peak season. Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are often considered the best times to visit—warm enough for swimming, but with fewer crowds and slightly cooler temperatures. Even in winter, daytime highs can reach 17–20°C (63–68°F), making it pleasant for walking the beaches, though the water is cooler and not ideal for swimming. If you’re after a mix of good weather, relaxed atmosphere, and easier access to beach spots, late spring and early fall are great options.

Guided tours and water activities at Nerja

In Nerja, guided tours and water activities are a big part of the experience, especially during the warmer months. Kayaking and paddleboarding tours from Burriana Beach are among the most popular, taking you along the cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Area with stops at sea caves and hidden coves. Snorkeling is often included, thanks to the clear water and marine life along the coast. Boat trips and catamaran cruises offer a relaxed way to explore the coastline, often with swimming stops and a chance to spot dolphins. Inland, guided hikes through the nearby Sierras de Almijara are available, and for something cultural, many tours include visits to the Nerja Caves and the white village of Frigiliana. These activities are ideal for combining coastal scenery with light adventure or local history.

If you are looking to amp up your experience and fun around the beaches, cliffs and water, check out these fun activities that will make your visit to Nerja even more spectacular.

Private Boat Nerja-Maro Maro Waterfall

Private boat trip to visit the coast of Nerja, Balcón de Europa from the sea, Maro and the Maro waterfall. Includes one drink per person and music. Duration: 2 hours.

Nerja: Self-Guided Kayak Tour. Maro Waterfall. Support boat for the route.

Educare Aventura Nerja invites you to take a free route in a double or single kayak to visit the Maro Waterfall. During the self-guided tour, there is always a boat on hand for safety.

From Nerja: Guided Paddle Surf Cliffs and Maro Waterfall

Explore the Standup paddleboarding and snorkel route along the Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo. Keep digital photos of your adventure taken by your guide.

Further Reading – visiting Nerja

Check out these other topics to visiting Nerja for visiting this area of the Costa del Sol.

Take a day trip to Nerja

Malaga to Nerja

Day trip from Malaga to Mijas

Visit the white village of Frigiliana

Conclusion to visiting Nerja’s Beach scenes

Spending time along Nerja’s coastline is all about slowing down and soaking in the simple pleasures—clear waters, scenic cliffs, and a mix of laid-back and lively beach scenes. Whether you’re relaxing at El Playazo, discovering quiet corners like Carabeillo, or strolling the Balcón de Europa to take in the view, Nerja’s beaches offer a relaxing break with plenty of character. It’s a place where mornings can start with a swim and end with tapas by the sea. If you’re looking for a beach destination that balances charm, natural beauty, and a local feel, Nerja should be on your radar. Come see why so many keep coming back—bring your towel, your curiosity, and let the coast do the rest.

About author – Noel Morata

After relocating from the United States to Andalusia in 2024, I’ve made it my mission to discover every corner of Spain. Based just east of Granada, I’ve spent over 12 months exploring Andalusia province and the rest of Spain, including multiple extended visits to Granada throughout different seasons. My background in Spanish cultural studies and years of residence and exploring all of Spain have given me unique insight into the region’s historical significance, local customs, and culinary traditions.

I regularly update my guides with the latest information gathered through personal visits and relationships with local tourism officials, always seeking what’s new and exciting in each destination. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I’m passionate about discovering authentic local markets and regional specialties.

Disclosure – some of the links above to various tours, transportation and hotels are affiliate links that benefits our site if you book here and we appreciate your support. The links are competitive, and you are not paying above what other affiliates provide