Playa de Santa Amalia
A beautiful, clean beach with a lively promenade, offering sand, pebbles, an aqua playground, and nearby restaurants.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Playa de Santa Amalia
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful, clean beach with a lively promenade, offering sand, pebbles, an aqua playground, and nearby restaurants.
"Beautiful and clean, this part of the beach offered walking, biking, seating, restaurants, etc."
🌅 Golden Hour Photography
Capture stunning sunset photos even if you miss the actual sunset with a clever trick!
🚶♀️ Promenade Strolls
Enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides along the expansive promenade with beautiful sea views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Castillo Sohail
Western end of the beach
A historic castle overlooking the sea, offering stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into the past.
Aqua Playground Fun
Splash and play at the beach's aqua playground, a hit with families and those looking for some water-based fun.
Chiringuito El Cateto
Playa de Santa Amalia
Enjoy delicious seafood and beachside vibes at this popular chiringuito, a local favorite.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Promenade Life
Sand vs. Pebbles: Know Your Beach
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Golden Hour Photography
Capture stunning sunset photos even if you miss the actual sunset with a clever trick!
🚶♀️ Promenade Strolls
Enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides along the expansive promenade with beautiful sea views.
🍽️ Beachfront Dining
Savor fresh seafood and local cuisine at the numerous chiringuitos and restaurants lining the beach.
🏖️ Beach Amenities
Rent chairs and umbrellas for a comfortable day, and check out the fun aqua playground.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Golden Hour Photography
Capture stunning sunset photos even if you miss the actual sunset with a clever trick!
🚶♀️ Promenade Strolls
Enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides along the expansive promenade with beautiful sea views.
🍽️ Beachfront Dining
Savor fresh seafood and local cuisine at the numerous chiringuitos and restaurants lining the beach.
🏖️ Beach Amenities
Rent chairs and umbrellas for a comfortable day, and check out the fun aqua playground.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Playa de Santa Amalia for its cleanliness, beautiful scenery, and the convenience of its promenade, which offers a wide array of restaurants and shops. The presence of the historic Castillo Sohail adds a unique charm. While the beach is mostly sandy, some areas have small pebbles, which is a minor point for some.
"Beautiful and clean, this part of the beach offered walking, biking, seating, restaurants, etc. There is a castle in the background, the sound of the sea washing up against the beach, and the smell of salt water."
Angela Smith
"The beach has everything you want. You will eat well, you can go for a long walk, mountains on the horizon. Part of the beach has fine sand, the rest has tiny pebbles, but it will not be a problem for your feet."
Lucca T.
"Beautiful beach ⛱️ and Bars and shop along the promenade...⛱️👍🏽🍷🍽️🍸🍹"
Stephen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa de Santa Amalia is easily accessible via the Paseo Marítimo Rey de España in Fuengirola. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby, or by public transport. Buses frequently run along the promenade, making it a convenient option.
Yes, there are parking options available along the Paseo Marítimo and in nearby streets. However, during peak season, parking can be challenging, so consider public transport or arriving early.
Absolutely! The promenade is perfect for cycling, and there are bike rental options available in Fuengirola. It's a scenic way to arrive and explore the coastline.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Playa de Santa Amalia is a public beach, so there is no entrance fee to access the sand and sea. You only pay for optional services like chair rentals or food at restaurants.
The beach itself is open 24/7. However, the restaurants and chiringuitos along the promenade typically operate from late morning until late evening, with some closing earlier on certain days. Chiringuito El Cateto, for example, is open from 12 PM to 11 PM.
For general access to the beach, no booking is required. If you plan to dine at popular chiringuitos like El Cateto, especially during peak season, making a reservation is highly recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The beach offers amenities such as chair and umbrella rentals, public restrooms, and an aqua playground for children. The promenade is well-equipped with restaurants, bars, and shops.
Yes, it's very family-friendly! The aqua playground is a big hit with kids, and the shallow waters are generally safe. The promenade also offers space for little ones to explore.
The beach has a mix of fine sand and small pebbles. While mostly sandy, some sections have tiny pebbles, which most visitors find comfortable underfoot.
Yes, you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas from vendors along the beach, allowing you to relax in comfort.
During the main summer season, lifeguards are typically on duty to ensure beach safety. It's always advisable to check local signage for specific hours and availability.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The promenade is lined with numerous restaurants and chiringuitos offering a variety of cuisines, from fresh seafood to international dishes. Chiringuito El Cateto and El Palmar Fuengirola are popular choices.
Yes, some establishments like Chiringuito El Cateto and El Palmar Fuengirola cater to gluten-free diets, making it easier to find suitable dining options.
Expect delicious Mediterranean flavors, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood, grilled fish, and traditional Spanish dishes. Paella and espetos (sardines grilled on skewers) are local specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
The Castillo Sohail provides a dramatic backdrop with sea views. The promenade itself offers lovely shots, especially during sunrise or sunset. Don't forget to capture the vibrant beach chiringuitos.
Even if you miss the actual sunset, you can still capture beautiful 'golden hour' photos by using clever photography techniques. Look for tutorials online that explain how to achieve this effect.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many of the beachfront restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Consider renting chairs and an umbrella for added comfort, and keep an eye out for lifeguards during the summer months for extra peace of mind.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Look for more casual eateries away from the prime beachfront spots, or pack a picnic to enjoy on the sand. Walking or cycling along the promenade is a free and enjoyable activity. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons when prices for accommodation and services might be lower.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The promenade itself, with its palm trees, beachgoers, and the endless expanse of the Mediterranean, creates picturesque scenes. Don't miss the chance to capture the vibrant colors of the chiringuitos and the unique light during the 'golden hour' – there are even tricks to simulate sunset photos if you arrive late!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Promenade
Along the promenade, you'll discover a vibrant array of restaurants, bars, and shops. This convenience means you can easily grab a meal, a refreshing drink, or pick up souvenirs without straying far from the beach. The lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings, adds to the charm of the area.
+1Family Fun at the Aqua Playground
While the beach itself is generally family-friendly with its mix of sand and pebbles, the aqua playground provides an extra layer of excitement. Parents can relax knowing their children are engaged in supervised water activities. It's a feature that consistently receives positive mentions from families.
Culinary Delights by the Sea
+1Beyond El Cateto, the promenade offers a diverse culinary scene. You can find everything from traditional paella and espetos (grilled sardines) to international dishes. For those with dietary restrictions, places like El Palmar Fuengirola are noted for offering gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal by the sea.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit