City beaches
La Malagueta is the most central and liveliest; La Misericordia and Huelin, to the west, tend to be calmer with a longer promenade.
Things to do
Beaches in Málaga: city beaches, beach bars and snorkelling
Málaga has city beaches a few minutes from the centre, with a promenade, beach bars and facilities.
We rank the ones visitors rate highest on Google, with what is worth knowing before you go.
Málaga city and the Costa del Sol
Ideas for this trip
Water and services
Facilities, lifeguards and flags change through the year: check the beach's status on the day.
Places to go
Indicative details only: check opening times, prices and minimum ages on each official website before you go.
Playa Bonita (punto de snorkel)
Area: Benalmádena
Best for: Snorkelling in calm water
A snorkelling spot with a very high rating. Bring your own gear or confirm rental, and check sea conditions that day.
Playa de la Malagueta
Area: Centro de Málaga
Best for: A beach near the centre, with a promenade
The most central city beach, with a seafront promenade, restaurants and beach bars. Very busy in summer.
Playa de la Misericordia
Area: Oeste de Málaga
Best for: A bit calmer, with a long promenade
A city beach to the west with a wide promenade and beach bars. Good for walking or running by the sea.
Playa de Huelin
Area: Oeste de Málaga
Best for: A neighbourhood beach, more local
A city neighbourhood beach with a promenade. A more local, calmer feel than in the centre.
Want a tailor-made plan with a local guide?
This site is an information guide: it does not run tours or sell packs. If you want something personalised with a tour guide, email us and we will see how to help.
Need a car to get around?
Several of these places are outside the city. Compare your options for hiring a car.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about beaches and beach bars in Málaga.
Which beach is best to walk to from the centre?
La Malagueta is the closest to the old town and takes a few minutes on foot. For more calm, try La Misericordia or Huelin.
Are the opening times, prices and minimum ages reliable?
They are indicative. They change by season and by place, so always confirm on each official website before you go. This guide does not sell tickets or manage bookings.
Other traveller profiles
- Families with childrenParks, adventure, animals and plans for kids
- Travelling with a petPet-friendly routes and beaches in Málaga
- Couples / romantic getawaySunsets, wine and quiet routes
- Young people and groupsAdventure, beach and group plans
- Companies / team buildingTeam activity and downtime ideas
- Seniors / relaxed paceRelaxed pace, accessibility and comfort
- Eating in MálagaTapas, espetos, markets and mountain ventas
- Hiking and natureTrails, mountains and gorges within two hours
- Rainy-day plansMuseums, markets and caves for wet weather
- Flamenco: tablaos and peñasShows in the centre and peñas with a local feel
- Day tripsRonda, Antequera, Nerja and Frigiliana from Málaga
- Nightlife and live musicRooftops, cocktails and concerts in the centre