9 Beautiful Beaches in Nerja

Nerja is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa del Sol.

Golden-sand stretches, tiny hidden coves, and dramatic cliff-backed shores that look straight out of a Mediterranean postcard.

Every year when I return to Nerja (usually starting at Burriana Beach, of course), I’m reminded of how special this coastline is. The water is incredibly clear, the scenery is stunning, and each beach has its own personality.

If you love swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, or simply soaking up the sun, you’re in the right place.

Let’s dive into the best beaches in Nerja and what makes each one worth visiting.

Which is the Nicest Beach in Nerja

For most visitors (and honestly, for me too), Playa Burriana takes the top spot as the nicest beach in Nerja.

The water here is incredibly clear, the shoreline is wide and clean, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants and beach bars just steps from the sand.

It’s also one of the best spots for snorkelling under the cliffs, and if you’re adventurous, you can even do some safe cliff-jumping from the rocks on the left side.

Nerja Beach Waterfall

Just east of Nerja, along the cliffs between Playa Burriana and Maro, you’ll find one of the most breathtaking natural spots on the coast, the Maro Waterfall.

It’s only accessible from the sea, which is part of what makes it feel so magical. You can reach it by kayak or paddleboard, passing hidden coves, crystal-clear water, and two smaller waterfalls along the way.

The main cascade drops 15 metres straight into the Mediterranean, creating a stunning contrast between the cliffs, the freshwater, and the turquoise sea below. If you’re already spending time on the beaches in Nerja, this is one coastal experience you won’t want to miss.

Beautiful Beaches in Nerja

Playa Burriana

Playa Burriana is Nerja’s most famous and beloved beach, and for good reason.

It’s a wide, golden-sand stretch with incredibly clear water, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking. The cliffs on the left side create a stunning backdrop, and if you’re feeling adventurous, this is one of the best spots for cliff-jumping and exploring underwater rock formations.

The promenade behind the beach is lined with restaurants, cafés, and chiringuitos, so you’re never far from a great paella, an ice-cold drink, or a scoop of gelato.

With sunbed rentals, showers, water sports, and plenty of space, Playa Burriana has everything you need for the perfect beach day.

Playa de la Calahonda

Tucked just below the Balcón de Europa, Playa de la Calahonda is one of Nerja’s most picturesque beaches.

This small cove is framed by cliffs, fishing sheds, and bright turquoise water, giving it a charming, traditional Andalusian feel.

Because of its central location, it’s an easy beach to pop down to while exploring the Old Town. The water here is calm and clear, perfect for a refreshing swim or a peaceful morning by the sea.

It’s a smaller beach, so it fills up quickly in summer, but the views and atmosphere make it absolutely worth a stop.

Playa Chica

Playa Chica is one of Nerja’s tiniest and most secluded beaches, a peaceful little cove tucked between rocky cliffs.

It takes a bit of a walk down the hillside paths to reach it, but once you’re there, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem. The water is beautifully clear, and on calm days it’s perfect for snorkelling or simply floating in the sun.

If you prefer a more adventurous approach, you can even swim from Playa Burriana and relax here for a while, avoiding the walk down.

Playa el Salon

Just west of the Balcón de Europa, Playa el Salón is a lovely dark-sand beach that feels both central and slightly tucked away at the same time.

You reach it via a sloping footpath from the Old Town, and once you’re down on the shore, the surrounding cliffs create a sheltered, peaceful atmosphere.

The water here is calm and clear, making it great for swimming, and the beach attracts a nice mix of locals and visitors.

There aren’t any chiringuitos directly on the sand, which gives Playa el Salón a more natural feel, perfect if you're looking for a little more quiet.

Playa de la Caletilla

Nestled right next to the Balcón de Europa, Playa de la Caletilla is a small, sheltered beach with beautiful turquoise water and dramatic cliffs on either side.

It’s one of the most centrally located beaches in Nerja, making it incredibly convenient for a quick swim or a relaxing break while exploring the Old Town.

The sand here is soft, the sea is calm, and the views are stunning, especially with the iconic Balcón perched just above.

Because of its size, it fills up quickly in summer.

Playa de Maro

Often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Andalucía, Playa de Maro is a stunning, unspoiled cove surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery.

The water here is crystal clear and perfect for snorkelling, swimming, and spotting marine life close to the shore.

Playa de Maro is also the gateway to some of the area’s best adventures, including kayaking to the famous Maro Waterfall and exploring sea caves along the protected coastline.

If you’re looking for a blend of scenery, tranquillity, and outdoor activities, this beach is truly exceptional.

Playa de Chucho

Playa de El Chucho is a small, relaxed beach tucked between Playa Torrecilla and El Playazo, making it a quieter alternative to the nearby, more popular spots.

It has a mix of sand and pebbles, calm water, and plenty of space to unwind without the crowds.

Because it’s slightly off the main tourist path, El Chucho feels peaceful and local, but still offers easy access to the promenade and nearby restaurants.

It’s a lovely choice if you want a simple, laid-back beach day with clear water and a mellow atmosphere.

Playa del Carabeo

Hidden below the clifftops of Nerja’s Old Town, Playa del Carabeo is a beautiful little cove accessed by a steep set of steps from Calle Carabeo.

Once you reach the sand, you’re greeted with clear turquoise water, dramatic rock formations, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from the busier central beaches.

It’s a fantastic spot for swimming, sunbathing, and taking photos.

Playa del Carabeo is small, so it can fill up quickly in summer, but its charm and secluded feel make it one of Nerja’s most rewarding beaches to seek out.

Playa Torrecilla

Playa Torrecilla is one of Nerja’s most convenient and family-friendly beaches, located on the western side of town.

It’s a wide, golden-sand beach with calm, shallow water, perfect for swimming, paddling, and relaxing without worrying about waves.

The promenade behind Torrecilla is lined with cafés, restaurants, and shops, making it easy to grab lunch or an ice cream between swims.

With plenty of space, sunbed rentals, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and easy beach day close to all amenities.

Nerja Beaches Map

Amazing Beaches Near Nerja

Just beyond Nerja’s borders, you’ll find some truly spectacular beaches that are well worth the short drive.

La Herradura is one of the most loved nearby spots, a long, sheltered bay with calm water ideal for snorkelling and paddleboarding.

To the east, Cala del Cañuelo and Cantarriján Beach (also a nudist beach) sit within the protected Maro–Cerro Gordo Natural Park, offering crystal-clear water, dramatic cliffs, and a more untouched, natural feel.

Which Beaches in Nerja Have Water Activities

Playa Burriana is the central hub for water activities in Nerja.

You'll find kayaking, paddleboarding, parasailing, jet skis, and boat rentals all in one place. Playa de Maro is another fantastic spot, especially for kayaking to the Maro Waterfall and snorkelling along the protected cliffs. You can also do paddleboarding and kayaking from Playa Torrecilla during the summer months.

Which Beach in Nerja Has a Waterfall

The waterfall isn't located on a beach, but the closest one is Playa de Maro.

From here, you can kayak, paddleboard, or swim along the cliffs to reach the Maro Waterfall, a 15-metre cascade that drops straight into the sea. It's about a 10–15-minute paddle from the beach and one of the most beautiful spots on the coastline.

How Far is Nerja From the Beach

Nerja is a beachfront town, so many of the beaches are just a short walk from the Old Town.

Popular spots like Playa Calahonda, Playa el Salón, and Playa la Caletilla are only a few minutes' walk from the Balcón de Europa. Even the larger beaches, like Playa Burriana and Playa Torrecilla, are usually a 10–15 minute walk depending on where you're staying.

Wrapping up Beaches in Nerja

Nerja’s beaches offer a fantastic mix of relaxed shores, hidden coves, and crystal-clear water, making this stretch of coastline one of the most beautiful on the Costa del Sol.

All that’s left is to pick your favourite and dive in.

If you're driving, you might find my guide to parking in Nerja handy.