21 Best Things to Do in Nerja: Beaches, Caves & Local Tips (2026)
A local's guide to the best things to do in Nerja, Spain. From Nerja Caves and Balcón de Europa to hidden beaches, kayaking to waterfalls, and the best day trips.
Nerja, Spain Travel Guide
A charming Costa del Sol town famous for its dramatic Balcón de Europa, pristine beaches, and prehistoric caves.
Nerja offers the perfect escape from larger resort towns with its laid-back atmosphere and authentic Spanish character. The dramatic Balcón de Europa viewpoint, crystal-clear waters of Burriana beach, and the spectacular prehistoric Cueva de Nerja make this whitewashed town one of the Costa del Sol's most beloved destinations.
Ready to explore? Discover the best things to do in Nerja.
Nerja at a Glance
Best Place to Eat
»Chiringuito AyoBest Place to Stay
»Parador de NerjaBest Beach
»Playa de BurrianaBest Time to Visit
»May – June, Sept – OctBest Day Trip
»FrigilianaBest Activity
»Cueva de Nerja TourMust-See
»Balcón de EuropaDon't Miss Out
»Nerja Waterfall HikeWhat to Do in Nerja
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 s...
Nerja Old Town: Museums, Churches, Restaurants and Tapas
Every time I return to Nerja, whether it's for long summer days at Playa Burriana or to watch Jethro launch himself off the rocks on the left side of the beach ...
Nerja Markets: Tuesday Market and Sunday Flea Market Guide (2026)
Complete guide to Nerja's markets. The Tuesday fresh market and Sunday flea market on Calle Mirto. Times, what to buy, how to get there, and nearby markets.
Maro Waterfall: How to Visit the Beautiful Waterfall Near Nerja
If you're travelling to Nerja and love the ocean, then this waterfall has to be on your bucket list! Maro is a 15-metre cascade that plunges straight from the m...
Day Trips from Nerja: Caves, White Villages & the Axarquía Mountains
Discover the best day trips from Nerja. From Frigiliana and the caves to Granada's Alhambra, here's how to explore the quieter side of the Costa del Sol.
Find the Best Things to do in Nerja
VIEW HEREFind the Best Day Trips from Nerja
VIEW HEREBest Time to Visit Nerja
Nerja enjoys a mild microclimate and is pleasant year-round. For more detailed information, check out our best time to visit Nerja guide. Summer gets busy with Spanish holidaymakers.
for beach weather: June to September
for hiking: March to May, October to November
for fewer crowds: October to April
for local festivals: July (Virgen del Carmen)
for best prices: November to February
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More Guides to Nerja
Where to Park in Nerja: Free, Paid & Beach Parking Guide (2026)
Complete guide to parking in Nerja. Best free parking spots, paid car parks with prices, beach parking at Burriana and Calahonda, and tips to avoid fines.
Best Time to Visit Nerja: Season by Season Guide
Discover the best time to visit Nerja. From crystal-clear beaches to the famous caves, here's when to explore this charming Costa del Sol gem.
Getting Around Nerja: A Practical Transport Guide
How to get around Nerja by bus, taxi, on foot, and by car. A complete guide to transport in this charming Costa del Sol town.
Where to Eat in Nerja: Best Restaurants & Tapas Bars (2026)
Discover the best places to eat in Nerja, from seafood restaurants on the Balcon de Europa to hidden tapas bars in the old town. Your complete guide to restaurants and local cuisine in this charming Costa del Sol gem.
Where to Stay in Nerja: Best Areas & Hotels (2026)
Find the perfect place to stay in Nerja. From the clifftop Parador to beachfront apartments near Burriana, discover the best areas and hotels in this authentic Costa del Sol town.
Where to Eat in Nerja
Nerja's dining scene centers on fresh seafood from the Mediterranean, with chiringuitos on the beach and traditional restaurants in the old town. Don't miss the famous paella at Ayo's on Burriana Beach.
Recommended Restaurants
- Chiringuito Ayo – Legendary beachside spot on Burriana Beach, famous for its giant paella cooked over wood fire. A Nerja institution since the 1970s.
- Oliva Restaurant – Fine dining with Mediterranean and international cuisine, known for creative dishes and excellent service.
- El Pulguilla – Traditional tapas bar packed with locals, serving generous portions of classic Spanish dishes at great prices.
- Bakus – Relaxed beachfront restaurant with stunning views, perfect for sunset drinks and fresh seafood.
Where to Stay in Nerja
Nerja offers everything from budget-friendly apartments to luxury paradores. Stay near the Balcón de Europa for convenience, or on Burriana Beach for a more relaxed vibe.
Editor's Pick-18% OFFParador de Nerja
Burriana Beach
8.9
1,876 reviewsStunning parador perched on cliffs above the Mediterranean with direct access to a secluded beach, lush gardens, and spectacular views.
Clifftop locationPrivate garden beach accessPool with sea viewsHistoric building
From
Check Availability$180$220/night
Best ViewsHotel Carabeo
9.4
Carabeo Beach
From $150/night
View Deal
Hotel Balcón de Europa
8.5
Balcón de Europa
From $120/night
View Deal
Best ValueApartamentos Burriana Playa
8.7
Burriana Beach
From $80/night
View DealTours in Nerja
Nerja offers unique experiences from prehistoric caves to dramatic coastal kayaking. The surrounding natural parks provide excellent hiking and the clear waters are perfect for water sports.
Popular Tours & Experiences:
What to See Near Nerja
Nerja's location on the eastern Costa del Sol makes it a perfect base for exploring charming white villages, natural parks, and even day trips to Granada.
Frigiliana
Half day
One of Spain's most beautiful white villages, just 15 minutes from Nerja. Wander narrow streets, browse artisan shops, and enjoy panoramic views.
Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photos.
Río Chíllar
Full day
A spectacular river walk where you wade through crystal-clear water in a dramatic gorge. Ends at a beautiful waterfall.
Tip: Wear water shoes and bring waterproof bags for your belongings.
Maro Beach & Cliffs
Half day
Pristine beach within a natural park, famous for sea kayaking beneath dramatic cliffs with waterfalls and hidden caves.
Granada & the Alhambra
Full day
The legendary Alhambra palace is just 1.5 hours away, making it an unforgettable day trip from Nerja.
Cómpeta
Half day
A charming mountain village known for its sweet wine and stunning views of the Mediterranean from the Axarquía hills.
Why Visit Nerja?
Nerja offers the perfect escape from the Costa del Sol's larger, busier resorts while still giving you beautiful beaches and plenty to do. The dramatic Balcón de Europa, a palm-lined promenade jutting into the Mediterranean, offers spectacular views and serves as the heart of this charming town.
The beaches here are something special. Crystal-clear waters at Burriana and Maro are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and you won't be fighting for a spot on the sand. The nearby Cueva de Nerja contains some of Europe's most impressive prehistoric cave paintings and rock formations.
For something different, try the Río Chíllar river walk, one of Andalusia's most unique hiking experiences. With the beautiful white village of Frigiliana just minutes away and a relaxed, authentic Spanish atmosphere, Nerja captures everything visitors love about southern Spain without the crowds.
Museums in Nerja
While Nerja isn't a museum destination, the prehistoric Cueva de Nerja and the town's rich history offer fascinating cultural experiences.
Top Museums to Visit:
Festivals in Nerja
Nerja celebrates traditional Andalusian festivals with a distinctly coastal flavor. The town comes alive for religious processions and summer beach celebrations.
- July 16Virgen del Carmen — Fishermen carry the Virgin's statue into the sea, followed by fireworks and festivities
- OctoberFeria de Nerja — Week-long fair with flamenco, food stalls, and carnival rides
- March/AprilSemana Santa — Traditional Holy Week processions through the narrow streets
- May 15San Isidro — Agricultural festival with decorated carts and traditional dress
- June 23Noche de San Juan — Midsummer beach bonfires and celebrations until dawn
Planning Your Nerja Trip?
Explore our complete Nerja travel guide with insider tips and local recommendations.
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