Strand von oben...
1 / 10

Playa de Calahonda

4.3
·279 reviews·, Spain

A collection of beautiful beaches along the Costa del Sol, offering stunning sunsets, charming chiringuitos, and relaxing boardwalks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Strand von oben...

Playa de Calahonda

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A collection of beautiful beaches along the Costa del Sol, offering stunning sunsets, charming chiringuitos, and relaxing boardwalks.

4.3
(279 reviews)

"Beautiful sunsets!! The beach is not very busy (july), the views are stunning."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Sunset Magic

Catch the breathtaking sunsets; the sky's colors reflect beautifully on the calm waters.

🍽️ Dine on the Sand

Enjoy meals at beachfront restaurants; some offer service to sunbeds. Portions can be small but food is good.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Serenity

Sunset Serenity

Along the boardwalk

Witness the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips below the Mediterranean horizon. A truly magical experience.

Chiringuito Charm

Chiringuito Charm

Beachfront restaurants

Enjoy delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks with your toes in the sand. Some offer service directly to your sunbed.

Coastal Boardwalk Stroll

Coastal Boardwalk Stroll

From Cabopino towards La Cala de Mijas

A well-maintained, flat boardwalk perfect for a leisurely walk with stunning sea views and ample chiringuitos.

Iconic Nerja Views

Iconic Nerja Views

Near Balcón de Europa, Nerja

This emblematic beach offers easy access and picturesque views, making it a photographer's delight.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Calahonda Bliss

While Playa de Calahonda is often described as less crowded, visiting during peak summer months or weekends can still bring more people. For a more serene experience, aim for weekdays or early mornings. Consider the specific Calahonda you're visiting, as some are more urban than others.Instagram

Know Your Calahonda

There are multiple beaches named Playa de Calahonda across the Costa del Sol. The most popular are near Mijas, Marbella, and Nerja. Each offers a slightly different vibe, from semi-urban to more secluded coves.Instagram+1 Research which Calahonda best suits your travel style before you go.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Spectacular colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

One of the most stunning beaches on the Costa del Sol 🌊✨ and an absolute hidden gem! 💎🌅 #malaga #costadelsol #andalucia #hiddengem #spain #hiddenparadise #spanishbeach #beachvibes #sunsetbeach #discoverspain #travelspain #discovermalaga #cabopino #dunasdeartola #naturalreserve #tiktoktravel #spaintravel #fyp
@itsyaboyalexis
37.5K likes • 654.7K views

🌅 Sunset Magic

Catch the breathtaking sunsets; the sky's colors reflect beautifully on the calm waters. Instagram

🍽️ Dine on the Sand

Enjoy meals at beachfront restaurants; some offer service to sunbeds. Portions can be small but food is good. Reddit

🎥 @luis_2022007 ⛱️ La playa de Calahonda en Motril, Granada, es una playa urbana de arena, con una longitud de aproximadamente 1.5 km y una anchura que supera los 40 metros. Se caracteriza por tener aguas tranquilas y un grado de ocupación alto. 🔐 Guardate este reel para no perderte este increíble lugar y sígue a @luis_2022007 para descubrir más sitios espectaculares 🥰 📍Playa de Calahonda, Motri...
andaluciadecolores
9.3K likes • 259.8K views
La playa de Calahonda se encuentra en el extremo oeste del municipio malagueño de Mijas. Es una playa semiurbana de 4.400 metros de longitud y unos 20 metros de anchura media, situada entre el puerto de Cabopino y la playa de El Bombo. Tiene diferentes zonas: desde las más urbanizadas, con viviendas y establecimientos cercanos, hasta las más vírgenes, con abundante vegetación. /// Calahonda beach...
magicofmalaga
0 likes • 670 views

🚶‍♀️ Boardwalk Bliss

Stroll the extensive, flat boardwalk for scenic views and easy access to chiringuitos. Reddit

🏖️ Beach Access

Some Calahonda beaches offer excellent accessibility features, including reserved parking and amphibious chairs. Instagram

Hoy visitamos la playa de Calahonda para ver las medidas de accesibilidad tomadas y sus características. 📍Calahonda es un pueblo situado en la costa de Granada. 🅿️ Dos plazas reservadas para PMR, en frente de la entrada a la playa e iglesia. 🚾 Aseo público y accesible. ♿️ Zona acotada reservada de sombra. 🛟 Asistencia al baño con silla anfibia. 🏖️ Mejoras realizadas: Pasarela de hormigón que u...
rayadalife
126 likes • 2.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Sunset Magic

Catch the breathtaking sunsets; the sky's colors reflect beautifully on the calm waters. Instagram

🍽️ Dine on the Sand

Enjoy meals at beachfront restaurants; some offer service to sunbeds. Portions can be small but food is good. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Boardwalk Bliss

Stroll the extensive, flat boardwalk for scenic views and easy access to chiringuitos. Reddit

🏖️ Beach Access

Some Calahonda beaches offer excellent accessibility features, including reserved parking and amphibious chairs. Instagram

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking can be challenging in busier areas; consider arriving early or using public transport. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(279 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Playa de Calahonda is widely loved for its beautiful scenery, especially the stunning sunsets, and its relaxed, less crowded atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the charming beachfront restaurants (chiringuitos) offering good food and service, with some even providing service to sunbeds. The well-maintained boardwalks are a significant plus for leisurely strolls. However, some reviewers note that portion sizes at restaurants can be small.

"Beautiful sunsets!! The beach is not very busy (july), the views are stunning."

evelyn lesan

"Nice beacht with a nice restaurant. You can order from the sunbeds. Very nice people. And good food. the portion was a bit small, but it was good."

Nicole Blum

"Beautiful little beach"

Kenn Madsen

What People Like

Beautiful sunsets
Relaxed atmosphere
Charming chiringuitos

What People Dislike

Small portion sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access varies by location. The Calahonda near Mijas/Marbella is semi-urban with good road access.Instagram The one in Nerja is centrally located near the Balcón de Europa.Instagram Public transport options like buses are available, and parking can be found, though it might be limited during peak times.TikTok

Yes, but be aware there are multiple beaches with this name. Look for signs for 'Playa de Calahonda' in Mijas, Marbella, or Nerja depending on your destination. Instagram+1

If you're exploring multiple Calahonda locations, a rental car offers the most flexibility. Alternatively, local bus services connect coastal towns, and some stretches are walkable or bikeable.

The Calahonda beach in Nerja is very close to the Balcón de Europa, making it easily accessible on foot from the town center. Parking near the Balcón can be busy.

Yes, taxis are readily available in most coastal towns and can take you directly to the beach access points. This is a convenient option if you're not driving.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Playa de Calahonda is a public beach, so there is no entrance fee to access the sand and sea. Instagram

Beaches are generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. Restaurants and bars along the boardwalk will have their own operating hours, typically from morning until late evening. Reddit

While some chiringuitos offer sunbed rentals, booking in advance is usually not necessary unless you're visiting during the absolute peak of summer or have a large group. Reddit

There are no special tickets required for general access. However, some beach clubs or restaurants might have specific entry policies or minimum spend requirements if you wish to use their facilities.

To experience a less crowded Playa de Calahonda, aim for weekday mornings, especially outside of the main summer holidays. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the sand. The boardwalks are great for walking or cycling, and some areas are popular for beach volleyball. InstagramReddit

Yes, many sections of Playa de Calahonda are family-friendly with calm waters and amenities. Some locations offer accessible features like amphibious chairs for children with mobility needs. Instagram

Facilities typically include public restrooms, showers, and lifeguard services during the summer season. Some beaches have accessible toilets and parking. Instagram

Yes, you can usually rent sunbeds and umbrellas from chiringuitos or dedicated rental points along the beach. Reddit

Several Playa de Calahonda locations are noted for their accessibility, offering reserved parking, accessible restrooms, and even amphibious chairs for assisted bathing. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find numerous 'chiringuitos' (beach bars and restaurants) lining the boardwalk, offering fresh seafood, tapas, and drinks. Reddit

Yes, many chiringuitos offer service to sunbeds, allowing you to enjoy a meal without leaving your spot on the sand. Reddit

Prices are generally moderate, typical for a beachside location. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for a main dish and €3-€5 for a drink. Reddit

While seafood is prominent, many restaurants offer salads, vegetable dishes, and other options that can be adapted for vegetarian or vegan diets. It's best to ask.

Reviews suggest a positive experience with friendly staff and good food, though portion sizes might be on the smaller side. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The iconic view near the Balcón de Europa in Nerja is a must-capture. Sunsets over the Mediterranean are also spectacular. Instagram+2

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant blue of the water. Instagram

Look for the charming houses by the sea in Nerja,Instagram the unique rock formations, and the local life around the chiringuitos. The boardwalk also provides great perspectives. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach and coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant views. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies and water. Instagram

Drone regulations vary by location and municipality. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over the beach or surrounding areas.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Playa de Calahonda offers a welcoming environment for families. The waters are generally calm, making them suitable for children to paddle and play. Some locations, like the one in Granada, provide accessible facilities including amphibious chairs, which can be a great help for families with children who have mobility needs.Instagram The boardwalks are also perfect for strollers, allowing for easy exploration along the coast.

Many chiringuitos are family-friendly, offering a relaxed setting for meals. You can often find simple, crowd-pleasing dishes that kids will enjoy. The sand itself provides endless entertainment, and the generally less crowded nature of some Calahonda beaches compared to larger resorts means more space for kids to run around safely.TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers and couples seeking a peaceful escape, Playa de Calahonda offers a serene setting. The opportunity to witness stunning sunsets is a romantic highlight, perfect for couples.Instagram The well-maintained boardwalks provide a lovely backdrop for leisurely walks, and the numerous chiringuitos offer a chance to enjoy a meal or a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.Reddit

Solo travelers will appreciate the laid-back vibe and the safety of these coastal areas. It’s easy to find a quiet spot on the sand to read a book or simply soak in the Mediterranean sun. The friendly nature of the beach bars also makes it easy to strike up a conversation if you wish.

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Playa de Calahonda is a dream destination for photographers. The iconic views, especially near Nerja's Balcón de Europa, offer postcard-perfect shots.Instagram+1 The dramatic sunsets paint the sky with vibrant colors, creating magical lighting conditions for golden hour photography.Instagram Look for charming houses by the sea in Nerja for unique compositions.Instagram

Beyond the scenic beauty, the beach life itself provides ample subject matter – from the bustling chiringuitos to people enjoying the sun and sea. The accessible boardwalks offer excellent vantage points for capturing panoramic shots of the coastline. Remember to check local drone regulations if you plan on aerial photography.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Multiple Calahondas

When planning a visit to 'Playa de Calahonda,' it's crucial to understand that this name refers to several distinct beaches along the Costa del Sol. The most prominent ones are located in Mijas, Marbella, and Nerja.Instagram+1 Each offers a unique atmosphere. The Calahonda in Mijas is a semi-urban beach known for its extensive boardwalk, while the one in Marbella is often praised for its sunset views and charming beachfront dining.Instagram The Calahonda in Nerja is particularly iconic, situated near the famous Balcón de Europa, and is a favorite for its picturesque setting and easy access.Instagram+1

Understanding which Calahonda you're heading to will help manage expectations regarding crowds, amenities, and the overall vibe. For instance, the Mijas/Marbella stretch is longer and more developed, whereas the Nerja version is a more compact, cove-like beach. Social media often showcases the beauty of all these locations, so cross-referencing images and descriptions is key to finding your perfect spot.Instagram+3

Travelers often highlight the boardwalk as a significant feature, particularly the one stretching from near Cabopino towards La Cala de Mijas. This well-maintained path is ideal for leisurely strolls, offering continuous sea views and access to numerous 'chiringuitos' (beach bars and restaurants).Reddit This makes it a great option for those who enjoy a walk with amenities readily available.

Accessibility and Inclusivity at Calahonda

Playa de Calahonda is making strides in accessibility, with several locations offering features to accommodate visitors with reduced mobility. For example, the Calahonda in Granada has been noted for its accessible public restrooms, reserved parking spaces for PMR (Persons with Reduced Mobility), and even an amphibious chair service to assist with bathing.Instagram This commitment to inclusivity ensures that more people can enjoy the beauty of the Spanish coastline.

Beyond specific facilities, the generally flat and wide boardwalks found along some stretches of Playa de Calahonda, such as the one between Cabopino and La Cala de Mijas, provide a smooth and accessible surface for wheelchairs and strollers.Reddit This makes it easier for families and individuals with mobility challenges to explore the coastline and enjoy the sea views without significant barriers.

When planning your visit, it's advisable to check the specific amenities available at the Calahonda beach you intend to visit. While many are well-equipped, the level of accessibility can vary. Online reviews and local tourism websites can provide the most up-to-date information on accessible parking, restrooms, and any specialized equipment available for rent or use.

The Chiringuito Experience: Dining by the Sea

A quintessential part of the Playa de Calahonda experience is dining at its numerous 'chiringuitos' – the charming beachfront restaurants and bars. These establishments offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can savor fresh seafood, traditional tapas, and refreshing drinks with the sound of the waves as your soundtrack.Reddit Many chiringuitos pride themselves on their friendly service and the quality of their local cuisine.

Travelers often praise the convenience of being able to order food and drinks directly from their sunbeds, allowing for a truly leisurely beach day.Reddit While the portions might sometimes be described as modest, the overall consensus is that the food is good and the experience is highly enjoyable. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.

When choosing a chiringuito, consider looking for those that are well-integrated with the beach environment. Some are known for their vibrant atmosphere, especially in the evenings, while others offer a more tranquil setting. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from locals or check online reviews for specific culinary highlights.

You may also like