Top 5 beaches in the Málaga province

• Table of contents
• National Geographic Names 5 of Málaga’s Most Beautiful Beaches
• The beaches of the Costa del Sol that have captured National Geographic’s heart
• Calahonda Beach, Nerja
• Playa de Maro, Nerja
• La Caleta Beach, Málaga
• Artola Dunes, Marbella
• Peñón del Cuervo Beach, Málaga

Andalucía’s vast coastline stretches more than 1,100 kilometres, from the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean, and is dotted with stunning seaside escapes from Almería to Huelva. There’s no shortage of epic beach locations to choose from – including some of the most beautiful beaches in the Málaga province – but to whittle it down to the top 20, National Geographic has them listed in their recent article.

In this article, the esteemed publication highlights these 5 beaches within Málaga province that have earned a notable mention. Be sure to add them to your Costa del Sol bucket list:

Calahonda Beach is Nerja’s picture-postcard beach, tucked just beneath the iconic Balcón de Europa viewpoint. With its fishing-heritage charm, colourful boats and steep stairway access, it feels more like a secret cove than a central town beach. The small size keeps things cosy, and it's perfect for those who want a quick dip after exploring the bustling town centre. You’ll find dramatic rock formations on either side and clear views across the Mediterranean. From Marbella, it’s about 1hr 30 minutes drive east.

Located just outside of Nerja, the Costa de Maro forms part of the Maro-Cerro Gordo Cliffs Natural Area, a protected stretch of coastline known for its raw beauty and ecological importance. The Playa de Maro beach there is a haven for marine life, perfect if you want to go snorkeling. Though if you just want to laze on the sands and admire the Mediterranean sea and surrounding cliffs, it’s the perfect beach for a nature-getaway with an unspoiled backdrop. Less developed and more secluded, it’s around 1hr 25 minutes from Marbella, so it suits those up for a bit of an adventure.

A favourite among Malagueños, La Caleta sits neatly between the city centre and the elegant Limonar neighbourhood. It’s ideal if you're staying in Málaga and want the convenience of a beach that feels both local and accessible. The promenade is lined with cafés, bike paths and palm trees, while the beach itself offers calm waters, making it especially family-friendly. It’s about a 50-minute drive from Marbella, making it a good choice for a day trip with urban perks.

Only 15 minutes from central Marbella, Artola-Cabopino offers a completely different vibe to the town’s glitzy beaches. This protected natural area features rolling sand dunes, rare flora and a laid-back atmosphere. The boardwalk winds through the dunes, perfect for a scenic walk before cooling off in the sea. The historic Torre Ladrones, a 16th-century watchtower, adds a bit of cultural flair to your beach visit. It’s also one of the few places on the coast with a nudist area, so expect a mixed crowd and a naturally relaxed environment.

Translating to “Raven’s Rock,” this beach is named after the large rocky outcrop that divides the shoreline. Situated on the eastern edge of Málaga city, Peñón del Cuervo has a more rustic, picnic-style feel, and it’s a favourite among locals for weekend barbecues and quiet swims. There are fewer tourist amenities here, but that’s part of the charm. You’ll need to walk a short trail from the car park, and there are shaded areas and BBQ pits available. From Marbella, it’s just over an hour by car.

Just remember: it’s not a proper beach day until you've lost track of time…

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