Pedregalejo: Malaga’s Traditional Fishing Neighbourhood
Have you heard of Pedregalejo, Malaga?
Many travellers explore Malaga city centre but miss Pedregalejo, a traditional fishing neighbourhood not far from the city centre.
As a local, I can say that Pedregalejo Beach is one of the best beaches in Malaga, and Pedregalejo is a fantastic place to enjoy its relaxing vibes and the traditional grilled sardines.
Are you ready to uncover the best things to do in Pedregalejo? Keep reading.
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Where is Pedregalejo?
Pedregalejo is a fishing neighbourhood located on the east side of Malaga, 10 minutes drive from the city centre.
Things to do in Pedregalejo
Pedregalejo is a small residential area; however, there are plenty of good chiringuitos (beach restaurants) and amazing beaches that make this area worth visiting.
Wondering what to do in Pedregalejo? Let’s dive into the best things to do in Pedregalejo.
1. Walk the beach promenade
One of the best things to do in Pedregalejo is to walk its beach promenade.
Enjoy the beautiful sea views, see bougainvillaea flowers hanging down some houses and explore the little streets behind the promenade.
When you walk on these streets, you can find some colourful houses nicely decorated with plants.
Sunset is my favourite time to wander the beach promenade. The contrast of the sky colours with the blue water is magical.
During this time, you’ll see more and more families going out for dinner and street singers.
2. Visit Astilleros Nereo
Despite being a small neighbourhood, you can find a museum in Pedregalejo.
Astilleros Nereo is a unique museum because it specialises in wooden boats, which are typical for fishing.
It is the best place to learn about all types of boat construction, from traditional boats to kayaks.
The museum offers guided visits that are perfect for immersing yourself in the culture because they aren’t all related to the construction of boats but gastronomy and music.
You need to book guided visits in advance.
3. Eat the traditional espetos
You can’t go to Pedregalejo without trying the traditional espetos (grilled skewers). You’ll see sardines and other fishes being roasted in a barbecue made in a small boat.
There are plenty of restaurants on the promenade offering delicious and fresh espetos, which are considered one of the star dishes of Malaga.
If you don’t like sardines, you can opt for pescaito frito (fried fish) or a refreshing tomato salad with olive oil, garlic and salt.
4. Relax at Pedregalejo Beach
Malaga city has accessible and good beaches, but they aren’t paradisiacal beaches like some of the ones in Nerja.
Within the city, Pedregalejo Beach is, without a doubt, one of the best beaches in Malaga.
Why? Its clear waters and small coves are beautiful, and it won a Q Quality Seal in 2018. Although this beach can get busy in the summer, it’s a less popular option among travellers.
Facilities at Playa de Pedregalejo:
- Cafes and restaurants
- Showers
- Public toilets
- Accessible for disabled people
- Lifeguard
5. Visit Baños del Carmen at sunset
Next to Pedregalejo, you’ll find Baños del Carmen, a restaurant and terrace with incredible coastal views.
In my opinion, you can find better and more affordable places to eat, but you won’t get the view you see from Baños del Carmen.
My recommendation is to have a drink, either boozy or non-alcoholic, and contemplate the stunning sunset, especially on a summer evening.
Things to do near Pedregalejo
Pedregalejo is pretty close to Malaga city centre, so there are plenty of activities to do nearby.
Go on an e-bike tour
Riding a bike is one of the best ways to explore Malaga coastline. You can rent a bike from 9 euros, but going on a bike tour can be a fun activity to meet other travellers and get some insights into the city.
Hit the street markets at Muelle Uno
Street markets used to be a temporary thing at Christmas; however, Muelle Uno now hosts markets all the time.
Spring, summer and other themed markets where you can find lovely stuff, from clothing to traditional ceramic objects and local products like cheese and wine.
If there aren’t any when you go, another shopping spot in Malaga is Calle Larios.
Take a sunset cruise
Do you love sunsets and a different view of the city? Taking a cruise is a fantastic option.
I love catching sunsets, and I can guarantee you they’re even more magical with a sea view.
You might even be lucky to spot dolphins!
📌 Check out this highly-rated Malaga sunset cruise
Spend the day sightseeing
Malaga might not be the most famous city for its landmarks, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth visiting.
If there’s one place you shouldn’t miss is Alcazaba de Malaga. It’s my favourite attraction in Malaga because of its history, Moorish architecture and stunning views of Malaga.
Apart from wandering the gardens and rooms, my local tip is ordering a lemonade from the small bar inside. It tastes just like a mojito but without alcohol! Enjoy it while contemplating the views.
Castillo de Gibralfaro is part of the Alcazaba complex, so you can visit it too. In my opinion, it’s only worth the view.
Note that you can buy a combo ticket, and you need to either walk all the way to the castle or take a taxi or the sightseeing bus to access it.
Other popular sites are Malaga Cathedral and Picasso Museum.
Where to eat in Pedregalejo
If you’re wondering where to eat in Pedregalejo, these are my recommendations:
Chiringuito Los Cuñao
Pedregalejo is home to many chiringuitos serving sardines. They are one after the other, so you can feel the competition.
Chiringuito Los Cuñao is my go-to restaurant for traditional fish, including sardines.
Every time I go, I enjoy the delicious salty grilled sardines with a touch of lemon.
If you want to eat them like a local, you grab the sardine and bite into it with the skin, avoiding the head.
Another great dish I enjoy at Los Cuñao is berenjenas con miel, fried aubergines with a drizzle of sugar cane honey.
Personally, I think it’s one of the best Pedregalejo restaurants!
📍 Address: P.º Marítimo el Pedregal, 93, 29017 Málaga, Spain
Mafalda
Mafalda is one of the classic places to eat in Pedregalejo. They serve the traditional camperos.
If you’ve never heard of them, they are big sandwiches served on bread, similar to a burger bun.
They can have different fillings, but the most popular one is made with ham, cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise.
📍 Address: P.º Marítimo el Pedregal, 71, 29017 Málaga, Spain
Restaurante Pez Tomillo
Restaurante Pez Tomillo is for anyone who wants something different from traditional fried fish. You can eat anything from spring rolls to risotto and prawns. It’s more varied than other restaurants in the area.
Also, I love the atmosphere and the decor, plus it has a beautiful view of the seafront!
📍 Address: P.º Marítimo el Pedregal, 1, 29017 Málaga, Spain
How to get to Pedregalejo
The quickest way to get to Pedregalejo from Malaga city centre is by car, which takes approximately 10 minutes.
If driving isn’t an option for you, you can take buses 3, 8 or 11, which are affordable and take 20 minutes.
Other ways to get to Pedregalejo include walking and riding a bike. If you choose to walk from Malaga city centre to Pedregalejo, you’ll do the walk in an hour.
Where to stay in Pedregalejo
La Chancla Hotel
La Chancla is a beachfront 3-star hotel in the middle of Pedregalejo. It’s cosy, modern and welcoming.
The rooms are equipped with TV, complimentary WIFI, air conditioning and a safe. Also, most rooms have beautiful views of the sea.
Although the hotel is surrounded by restaurants, it has an on-site restaurant offering local and international dishes. Its top dish is tuna tartare, which is fresh and flavourful.
Other reasons to stay at La Chancla are its lively outdoor beach terrace and its jacuzzi on the rooftop.
📌 Check out availability and prices at Hotel La Chancla
Conclusion about Pedregalejo Malaga
If you love exploring beyond the city centres wherever you go, I highly recommend visiting the Pedregalejo neighbourhood. It’s small but unique and rich in culture.
Do you have any questions? Drop them in the comments below, and I’ll be happy to help you.
Enjoy your trip to Malaga!
Cristina xx
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Top things to do before visiting Malaga
- Book accommodation in Malaga. This hotel guide will tell you the city’s best hotels for all budgets.
- Read this Malaga food guide to discover the typical food and sip cocktails on the best rooftops.
- Stay connected with your loved ones by using an e-Sim with Airalo. They have affordable plans.
- Are you planning to visit other nearby Andalusian destinations? Check out these day trips from Malaga.
- Rent a car to travel with ease around Malaga and Costa del Sol.
- Book travel insurance; this is a must for any trip!
Read more about Malaga
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- The Best Views in Malaga
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- Best Beaches in Malaga and Costa del Sol
- Where To Stay in Malaga: Best Hotels and Areas
