People love visiting Nerja in Spain because of its fantastic beaches. In fact the beaches are one of the town’s biggest attractions and with their crystal clear waters, stunning coastline dotted with rocky outcrops and laid back atmosphere it is easy to see why. This part of the Spanish coast is a haven for mask and snorkel lovers and there are lots of diving opportunities too. Backed by dramatic cliffs, the beaches are overlooked by beautiful viewing spots and interspersed with tranquil coves, protected by the winds so common in the region. Most beaches offer a good range of facilities including restaurants, kiosks and the local chiringuitos, and are consequently ideal for families.
Nerja has many excellent beaches of both the sandy and pebbly variety and each type has its advantages and its disadvantages. But what exactly are they?
Sandy Beaches of Nerja
Playa Torrecilla, the second most popular blue flag beach in Nerja is one of the star sandy beaches, along with Playa el Salon and Playa Caletilla. There is no disputing the attraction of soft golden sand on a beach, which is comfortable underfoot, perfect for lying on and soaking up the sunshine, and great fun for playing in and building those all important sandcastles, but the idea of fine sand doesn’t appeal to everyone. While it looks beautiful, it can also be a bit of menace, especially on a windy day. Sand gets everywhere, from down the front of your swimming costume to right inside your sandwiches and it can get super hot too in the middle of the day.
So while sandy beaches have lots going in their favour, they are not always everyone’s idea of the perfect beach.
Pebbly Beaches of Nerja
So, then, what about pebbly beaches? Pebbles, while at first may appear hard underfoot and rather uncomfortable to spread your towel out on, looks can be deceiving. Often pebbles on a beach have been eroded so much that they are smooth and easy underfoot, even offering that little bit of a foot massage as you wander along the shoreline. Pebbles also don’t blow about like sand and can’t spoil your packed lunch or blow into your drinks. While the play appeal of pebbles might not live up to that of sand, children with imagination will have great fun making pebble sculptures or throwing stones into the sea and seeing how far they can get them.
Playa Calahonda, located to the left of the Balcon is a quaint fisherman’s beach that has a pebbly shoreline, as does Playa El Playazo, found at the western end of Nerja.
Pebbles or Sand?
While there are distinct pluses to both sandy and pebbly beaches, if you can’t decide which is best for you, head to Playa Burriana. The biggest and most popular beach in the resort has the perfect combination of sand and pebbles, so it keeps everyone happy.
How to Get Ther: Nerja
Malaga is the airport of choice for visitors to Nerja and only 60km from the resort, the transfer is easy and only an hour’s drive. Malaga airport is a busy hub with direct flights from all of the major European cities, including Paris, Rome, Madrid, Milan, London and Cardiff, amongst many others. If you are looking for a swift and stress free way of reaching resort, book your reliable transfer with Shuttle Direct who will be happy to take you from door to door in a timely and efficient manner, refreshed and ready to start your holiday.
Where to Stay
Los Arcos – The Los Arcos hotel is only 700m from Burriana Beach and is a great budget accommodation option. Rooms all have balconies that boast wonderful views of either the mountains or the sea. Satellite TV is available in every room and there is free DVD hire, bicycle rental and an outdoor swimming pool. Close to the famous Nerja Caves and the Balcony of Europe, this hotel also has a bar, restaurant and sun terrace.
Toboso Apar – Turis – Right on the beachfront in Nerja, the Toboso Apar – Tunis apartment complex has some of the best sea views in town. A mid range accommodation option, the complex is well equipped, has a convenient location and is perfect for the more independent holidaymaker. There is a sauna, gym and heated indoor swimming pool all available to guests for an extra cost. The outdoor pool is included and if you don’t want to cook in your fully equipped kitchen there are lots of eating and drinking options close by. Apartments have hairdryers, air-conditioning and en suite facilities.
Marinas de Nerja Hotel – The Marinas de Nerja Hotel on Punta Lara Beach offers a very exclusive place to stay in Nerja. With fantastic sea views and balconies with every room, the hotel also provides a spa with indoor pool, sauna and Turkish baths plus a restaurant set on the beach that serves Mediterranean dishes with wonderful seafood specialities. Both studios and apartments have satellite TV, fully equipped kitchenettes and plenty of room for relaxing. Bright, simple décor finishes off the rooms beautifully.
There is access to a gym on site and a poolside bar too. Located just over a mile from Nerja’s centre, the hotel is ideally situated.
