5 Best Beaches in Torremolinos: An Insider’s Guide
Torremolinos is one of the towns that I visit the most in the summer. It’s a short drive from my family’s house and so vibrant and convenient.
It’s a fantastic holiday destination because it’s next to the airport and Malaga, and a short train or car journey from other popular Costa del Sol destinations like Benalmadena or Fuengirola.
In addition, Torremolinos is home to well-kept beaches for all ages and offers a wide range of fun activities and restaurants.
I love the atmosphere in Torremolinos in the summer. The town becomes a vibrant place where you can enjoy a day on the beach or dance bachata in a beach club in the evening.
If you’re wondering about the best beaches in Torremolinos, I’ve created this list of my favourites.
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Beaches in Torremolinos
1. Playa de los Álamos
Los Alamos Beach is the best beach in Torremolinos if you’re looking for a lively and young atmosphere. However, you’ll also find families. In fact, I often visit this beach with my parents and cousins.
This sandy beach, awarded a Blue Flag, is good for sunbathing and swimming. The water is usually calm and not too shallow.
Many locals, like me, visit this beach because of the facilities. There’s plenty of free parking opposite the beach, but bear in mind that more spaces fill up quickly, especially on the weekends.
You’ll probably come across the “gorrilla.” This is what we call the men who ask for money. You give them a euro, and they will watch your car. You don’t really need to pay them, but most people do.
In addition to outdoor parking, the beach has other facilities, such as public toilets, showers and beach bars and restaurants.
Most places to eat in Los Alamos aren’t cheap, just like it happens with any beach club or restaurant. I find them more affordable than the ones in Marbella, but still, you pay more than you would in a typical restaurant.
I love La Playa Surf House. You can rent a sunbed for the whole day. I’ve done this a couple of times, and it’s great. They play great music and have delicious drinks and snacks.
If you’re looking for a good chiringuito (beach restaurant that serves traditional dishes), I had delicious sardine skewers and fried fish at Chiringuito Jesús Gutiérrez.
Another reason to love Los Alamos is the water activities. You can rent a pedal boat or a jetboat!
Facilities in a nutshell:
- Parking? Yes
- Public toilets? Yes
- Showers? Yes
- Lifeguard? Yes, in the summer
- Sunbed rental? Yes
- Water activities? Yes
- Wheelchair accessible? Yes
2. Playa de la Carihuela
Playa de la Carihuela is the most emblematic beach in Torremolinos and the Costa del Sol. It’s named after its location, the neighbourhood of La Carihuela, which was only a small fishing village until the 50s and 60s when it was developed and celebrities like Frank Sinatra visited the beach.
Since then, La Carihuela has started to become a popular beach near Malaga. Nowadays, this urban beach in Torremolinos is among the best.
It’s the largest beach in Torremolinos. It has dark sand because of its volcanic origins and calm waters.
The beach promenade at La Carihuela is one of my favourites as it’s very lively. Here, you can do some souvenir shopping, get a nice summer dress, or even buy jewellery. On the other hand, you’ll find fantastic beach clubs like El Horno Beach Club or Playa Miguel Beach Club.
Due to its size, you’re likely to find a spot at the beach, except at the weekends, especially on Sundays!
Overall, although La Carihuela Beach is popular, I love that it still respects its traditions and origins, and you can see this as you walk on the beach promenade and explore its nearby streets.
Facilities in a nutshell:
- Parking? Yes
- Public toilets? Yes
- Showers? Yes
- Lifeguard? Yes, in the summer
- Sunbed rental? Yes
- Water activities? Yes
- Wheelchair accessible? Yes
3. Playamar
Awarded a Blue Flag and recognised as one of the best beaches for facilities and cleanliness in Costa del Sol, Playamar is one of the beaches in Torremolinos to add to your list.
It has a moderate swell and is ideal for any type of traveller because this sandy beach has very good access and entertainment.
Whether you want to have some fun with your friends or family by renting a pedal boat or simply enjoy the atmosphere while having a refreshing lunch and listening to music, you can do so in Playamar.
As happens with Los Alamos Beach, Playamar has many beach restaurants and beach clubs. After all, these two beaches are next to each other.
If you love volleyball, Playamar Beach also has volleyball nets! You’ll actually see people playing outside the peak season, too.
In addition to these great facilities and activities, the beach is accessible for wheelchair users and any traveller with a disability. The beach promenade has a bike lane, which is another fantastic activity to do in Torremolinos in the evening.
Any questions about what to do in Torremolinos? The tourist office is on the beach promenade of Playamar, next to Chiringuito El Yate.
Facilities in a nutshell:
- Parking? Yes
- Public toilets? Yes
- Showers? Yes
- Lifeguard? Yes, in the summer
- Sunbed rental? Yes
- Water activities? Yes
- Wheelchair accessible? Yes
4. Playa El Bajondillo
El Bajondillo Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Torremolinos due to its location. It’s only a short walk from the old town and renowned beachfront hotels like Melia.
Many locals and tourists come to this beach because not only is it convenient, but it also offers a great variety of activities.
This dark sand beach, situated between Playamar and La Carihuela Beach, has a quality reward because of its facilities. It’s wheelchair accessible and has public toilets and showers.
The waters are calm, and I also like that there are small green spaces surrounded by palm trees where you can stay away from the sun when you’ve had enough.
You can rent a pedal boat and kayaks on the beach, have a cocktail at a lively beach bar like Copacabana or Eden Beach Club (well-known for being LGBTQI+ friendly), and more.
If you want a break from the beach, I recommend checking out the shops opposite the beach and visiting Casa de los Navajas, a hidden gem. It’s a small Moorish-style building that isn’t as famous as Colomares Castle in Benalmadena, but it’s lovely to see.
As the sun sets and it cools down, go for a walk on the beach promenade. I often head to Punta Gatuna, which is called this way because it has become a cat colony. If you’re a cat lover, this spot is a must. From here, you’ll enjoy spectacular coastal views and epic sunsets!
Finally, although there are free spaces to park near the beach, it’s very difficult to park in this area, especially on weekends. You might need to drive towards Plaza del Lido roundabout or Av. de Benyamina and its streets to find a space and then walk to the beach.
Facilities in a nutshell:
- Parking? Yes
- Public toilets? Yes
- Showers? Yes
- Lifeguard? Yes, in Easter and the summer season
- Sunbed rental? Yes
- Water activities? Yes
- Wheelchair accessible? Yes
5. Playa del Campo de Golf
Bordering the outskirts of Malaga, Playa del Campo de Golf is one of the quietest beaches in Torremolinos. It’s called this way because it’s next to the famous Parador de Malaga Golf Club.
It isn’t as developed as most beaches in Torremolinos and isn’t as touristy, so it’s a good choice if you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere.
This is the beach I go to when I don’t want the crowds of Los Alamos Beach.
It’s great for solo and couple travellers because the chances of hearing kids crying or running next to your towel and ending up with sand on your face are lower.
Something to note is that there is a part of this beach which is nudist.
What I love about this beach is that it feels more raw and its surrounding natural spaces.
If you’re visiting this beach off-season, I highly recommend going to the nearby Paraje Natural del Guadalhorce, a natural space where you can birdwatch, ride a bike or simply enjoy a walk in nature.
Facilities in a nutshell
- Parking? Yes
- Public toilets? Yes
- Showers? Yes
- Lifeguard? Yes
- Sunbed rental? No
- Water activities? No
- Wheelchair accessible? No
Map of the best beaches in Torremolinos
Click on the map below to open it in Google Maps. You can access directions to each of the beaches mentioned in this article.
Where to stay in Torremolinos next to the beach
Meliá Costa del Sol
⭐ 4-star hotel | Rate: 8.5 out of 10 | Book now!
I stayed at the Meliá Costa del Sol Hotel a couple of years ago, and I loved my stay. It’s a great hotel for couples!
This 4-star hotel is next to Bajondillo Beach and offers modern rooms with en-suite bathrooms, comfortable and large beds, and gorgeous views of the sea.
If you don’t fancy being on the beach, you can relax in one of their swimming pools. Their rooftop terrace is definitely worth visiting. They have great food and music, plus their second pool.
Hotel Riu Costa del Sol
⭐ 4-star hotel | Rate: 8.5 out of 10 | Book now!
Hotel Riu Costa del Sol is the one if you’re looking for an all-inclusive hotel next to the beach.
This 4-star hotel has comfortable and spacious rooms with all the amenities you need. However, one of the main reasons for staying is the facilities. Hotel Riu Costa del Sol has three outdoor pools, a spa and wellness centre, a gym, and numerous restaurants and bars.
If you travel with kids, you’ll love the fact that there’s a free children’s club, pool, and water park.
Frequently asked questions about Torremolinos
Does Torremolinos have a nice beach?
Yes, La Carihuela Beach is considered one of the nicest beaches in Torremolinos.
Are the beaches in Torremolinos sandy?
Yes, the beaches in Torremolinos are sandy.
Is it better to stay in Torremolinos or Malaga?
It depends on your travel style. If you want a beach holiday, stay in Torremolinos. If you prefer to sightsee, stay in Malaga.
Conclusion on visiting the beaches of Torremolinos
Overall, Torremolinos has many fantastic beaches for all ages. Although some people think Torremolinos is tacky, I have to disagree. I think Torremolinos has evolved and offers a great summer holiday.
It doesn’t have many historical attractions or museums, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t great things to do and see. For example, visit Parque de la Batería (Battery’s Park), walk Punta Gatuna, discover Casa de los Navajas, or spot street art.
Summer holidays in Torremolinos are cheaper than in other Costa del Sol towns and great for families. If you prefer the pool, there are many hotels with pools in Torremolinos, and you can also visit Aqualand Waterpark.
Enjoy your trip to Torremolinos!
Cristina x
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Top things to check before travelling to Torremolinos
- Book flights to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport with Skyscanner.
- Check out Get Your Guide to discover the best activities and excursions in Costa del Sol.
- Have a look at this Malaga food guide to discover the traditional food in Malaga and the Costa del Sol.
- Unsure where to stay? This guide will tell you the best hotels in the area.
- Rent a car in Torremolinos to travel with ease and explore other towns.
- Book travel insurance for your trip. This is a must for any trip!
