A guide to the best beaches in Costa Del Sol

Playa del Cristo, Estepona

Widely regarded as one of the nicest beaches on the Andalusian coast, Playa del Cristo is situated at Estepona towards the western extreme of Costa del Sol. Unlike many of the other beaches on the coast, Playa del Cristo offers the unique advantage of facing west, meaning you can witness some truly spectacular sunsets behind nearby Gibraltar.

The bay upon which the beach is located means the waves are calm and the slope into the sea gently, making it a perfect place for children and young ones. A handful of chiringuitos on the beach offer culinary opportunities, while there are many more options in the neighbouring marina. Parking is also available right next to the beach.

La Carihuela, Torremolinos

La Carihuela is the traditional Brits abroad choice for a beach holiday. With a cluster of high-rise hotel complexes backing onto the beach, expect the sands to be dominated by holidaymakers, many of them hailing from the British Isles.

The promenade is packed with sports bars showing the latest football games, fish and chip shops and beach bars which carry the party on long into the night. As for the beach itself, it’s famed for its comfortable loungers and clean appearance.

Puerto Banus, Puerto Banus

Located a stone’s throw from Marbella, Puerto Banus is the place to be seen on the Costa del Sol. The glitzy marina is crammed full of incredibly expensive and flashy ships, while Rolls-Royces and Ferraris are a common sight around town. Popular with international celebrities, Puerto Banus is Spain’s answer to Miami Beach or Los Angeles, and boasts an array of world-class dining establishments.

[url=https://www.holidayhypermarket.co.uk/destinations/spain/costa-del-sol/nightlifeNightlife[/url] is also notoriously raucous here, carrying on into the early hours, so this beach is really for the party animals and the glamourous.

Los Boliches, Fuengirola

As one of the most popular beaches in Fuengirola, Los Boliches offers all of the usual amenities you’d expect, including public toilets and showers, parasols, sunloungers, children’s play areas and a lifeguard post.

If you want to stay active, you can take advantage of the volleyball nets or try your hand at any one of the watersports activities along the beach. A wooden promenade also offers the opportunity to walk the length of the beach without burning your feet on the scorching sand. Nearby parking is at a premium, but a 10-minute walk will take you to the town’s train station, connecting with all other major hubs.

Playa del Canuelo, Nerja

Well and truly off the beaten track, this delightful cove is located within the confines of the Acantilados de Maro-Cerro Gordo National Park and can be reached via a small public bus from Nerja. After traversing the Maro hills, you’ll find yourself at a picturesque bay populated by alternative types. The crystalline waters just off the beach are perfect for discovering the local flora and fauna with the aid of a snorkel, while two beach bars supply all your gastric needs.

Costa Natura, Estepona

Though it might appear clothing is optional at many of the beaches along the Costa del Sol, few are legally nudist beaches. However, Costa Natura is an exception to the rule – it was actually the first nudist beach in the whole of Spain! Not one for the prudish… but if you want to bare it all on your holiday and come back with no tan lines, Costa Natura is your best bet. Estepona is located two miles away, while there are great facilities in terms of eating and drinking in the adjacent town, as well.