Santa Ana Beach
A vibrant, shallow, sandy urban beach in Benalmádena, lined with hotels, bars, and restaurants, perfect for convenience and lively atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sand cools down
Santa Ana Beach
Best Time
Sand cools down

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant, shallow, sandy urban beach in Benalmádena, lined with hotels, bars, and restaurants, perfect for convenience and lively atmosphere.
"Great beach but the sand is extremely hot!"
☀️ Sunbed Costs
Sunbeds are available for rent, typically around 7 euros per person. Plan your budget!
👟 Hot Sand Alert!
The sand gets extremely hot, especially in August. Consider water shoes for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stroll Along the Promenade
Full length of the beach
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, sea breeze, and views of the Mediterranean. Perfect for evening walks.

Relax on the Golden Sands
Main beach area
Soak up the sun on this popular, clean beach. Remember to bring your own shade or rent a sunbed.

Nighttime Serenity
Beachfront
Experience the calm after sunset with gentle waves and ambient lights. A different, peaceful vibe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Urban Beach Vibe
Sunbed Strategy & Sand Savvy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Sunbed Costs
Sunbeds are available for rent, typically around 7 euros per person. Plan your budget!
👟 Hot Sand Alert!
The sand gets extremely hot, especially in August. Consider water shoes for comfort.
🚶♀️ Evening Strolls
The promenade is perfect for a relaxing walk after sunset, with a calmer atmosphere.
🌊 Water Temperature
The Mediterranean water can be a bit chilly, even in peak summer months like August.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Sunbed Costs
Sunbeds are available for rent, typically around 7 euros per person. Plan your budget!
👟 Hot Sand Alert!
The sand gets extremely hot, especially in August. Consider water shoes for comfort.
🚶♀️ Evening Strolls
The promenade is perfect for a relaxing walk after sunset, with a calmer atmosphere.
🌊 Water Temperature
The Mediterranean water can be a bit chilly, even in peak summer months like August.
🚗 Parking Considerations
Parking can be challenging in this urban area; consider walking or using public transport if possible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Santa Ana Beach is praised for its clean sand, shallow waters, and convenient location with many amenities. Visitors appreciate the lively atmosphere and proximity to restaurants and shops. However, the sand can get extremely hot, and water temperatures can be cooler than expected.
"Real nice, clean sand beach, lifeguards on duty, no shade. Water a bit cold in August. Lots of restaurants and shops close by. 💯"
David Riedmiller
"Nice beach lots to do and sunbeds"
Mark Hurst
"A great beach to relax on. If you take a sunbed, then do not forget the money ( 7 euros per person per day )"
Evgeni Chikinov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santa Ana Beach is easily accessible in Benalmádena. You can reach it by local bus services that frequent the coastal road. If you're staying nearby, it's often a pleasant walk along the promenade.
Parking can be difficult due to its urban location. There are some paid parking lots, but they fill up quickly. Consider public transport or walking if possible.
Yes, it's a beautiful walk! Puerto Marina is adjacent to Santa Ana Beach, and the promenade makes for a scenic 20-minute stroll.
The closest airport is Málaga Airport (AGP). From there, you can take a train to Benalmádena-Arroyo de la Miel and then a bus or taxi to the beach.
Absolutely! It's a straightforward journey from Malaga by train or car, making it a popular day trip destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Santa Ana Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You only pay if you choose to rent sunbeds or umbrellas.
As a public beach, Santa Ana Beach is accessible 24/7. However, lifeguard services and amenities operate during daylight hours.
Yes, sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent. The cost is typically around 7 euros per person per day.
Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions. Standard beach rules apply, and lifeguards are on duty during operational hours.
It's usually not necessary to book sunbeds in advance, especially outside of peak season. However, during busy periods, arriving earlier might be advisable.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find numerous amenities including hotels, bars, restaurants, public restrooms, and lifeguard stations.
Yes, the beach is shallow and sandy, making it suitable for families. However, shade is limited, and the sand can get very hot.
Besides swimming and sunbathing, you can enjoy walks along the promenade, dine at nearby restaurants, and explore the adjacent Puerto Marina.
The water temperature can be a bit cool, even in August. It's refreshing but might be a surprise if you expect tropical warmth.
Yes, lifeguards are typically on duty during the main beach season to ensure visitor safety.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! The beach is lined with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars offering a variety of cuisines.
You'll find a mix of Spanish tapas, fresh seafood, international dishes, and casual beach bar fare.
Yes, while some restaurants are upscale, you can find more affordable options like tapas bars and casual eateries along the promenade.
There are kiosks and beach bars that sell snacks, drinks, and ice cream. You can also find convenience stores nearby.
Definitely! Many restaurants along the promenade offer stunning sea views, perfect for a romantic evening.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the long stretch of sand, the promenade with its palm trees, and the views towards Puerto Marina. The beach at sunset offers beautiful light.
While drone usage might be restricted in urban areas, check local regulations. The aerial views of the coastline can be stunning.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides soft, flattering light. Sunset offers dramatic colors.
Yes, the hotels like Hotel Las Arenas are part of the scenic backdrop. Be mindful of privacy if photographing people.
Consider capturing the contrast between the urban development and the natural beauty of the sea, especially after a rain shower.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Be prepared for the hot sand by bringing water shoes or visiting earlier in the day. Shade is limited, so consider bringing your own umbrella or renting one. The proximity to attractions like Parque de la Paloma also offers a nice break from the beach.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Look for tapas bars and casual eateries along the promenade for more affordable dining options rather than the beachfront restaurants. Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help keep costs down.
🌙 Couples Seeking Ambiance
Many restaurants along the beachfront offer sea views, perfect for a sunset dinner. The walk along the promenade after dark is also a lovely, tranquil activity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Benalmádena's Coastal Charm
Adjacent to the vibrant Puerto Marina, Santa Ana Beach benefits from its prime location. This proximity means easy access to a plethora of restaurants, bars, and shops, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day and into the evening. The promenade running alongside the beach is perfect for leisurely strolls, offering picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea and the coastline.
While the beach itself is a draw, the surrounding area offers more. Nearby attractions like the Bil Bil Castle provide cultural insights, and the Parque de la Paloma offers green space for families. This makes Santa Ana Beach not just a place to sunbathe, but a gateway to exploring more of Benalmádena's offerings.
The Santa Ana Beach Experience: From Hot Sand to Cool Waves
However, a recurring theme in reviews is the intense heat of the sand, especially during the summer months. This has led some visitors to recommend water shoes or visiting during cooler parts of the day. The water temperature, while refreshing, can also be cooler than expected, even in August.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the beach's convenience, with numerous restaurants and shops nearby, and the availability of sunbeds (for a fee) contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable beach day for many. The option for late-night visits offers a different, more tranquil experience with just the sound of the waves.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit