The best beaches in Provincia de Granada

La Herradura Beach is a spectacular destination known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful clear waters. Visitors often describe it as 'authentic Spain' and a true 'paradise on Earth'. Here are some highlights and considerations based on user reviews:

• Amazing Scenery: The beach boasts beautiful views and a picturesque environment, perfect for enjoying sunsets.
• Clean Waters: Many reviews highlight the crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• Access to Amenities: The area is equipped with various restaurants and bars, offering a great selection of food and drinks.
• Family-Friendly: This beach is a popular spot for families, hosting a variety of activities that cater to both children and adults.
• Parking Considerations: Although generally available, parking can be challenging during peak times, and early arrival is recommended.
• Beach Experience: While some find the pebbly sand to be an inconvenience, others appreciate the unique character it brings.
• Noisy Water Sports: A common complaint is the noise from jet skis, which can detract from the tranquil beach experience.

Overall, La Herradura Beach remains a beloved spot, perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

The Nudist Beach of Cantarriján, located on the Granada coast, is a beautiful spot known for both its naturism and stunning natural surroundings. Here are some highlights:

• Tranquil Environment: The beach features calm waves and is ideal for relaxation.
• Access: From mid-June to mid-September, access is facilitated by a convenient shuttle service for only €3 round trip.
• Services Available: There are two beach bars where visitors can enjoy local delicacies and drinks.
• Beautiful Waters: The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, with fish often spotted swimming close to shore.
• Mixed Atmosphere: Although it is primarily a naturist beach, many textile bathers also visit, particularly in summer.

However, some visitors have noted the following:

• The beach can become very crowded, especially on weekends.
• The stony beach requires appropriate footwear, as flip-flops can be uncomfortable.
• Some have expressed concerns about the behavior of a few patrons and the need for a more regulated atmosphere.
• While the surroundings are lovely, the access points and parking areas might need better maintenance.

Overall, Cantarriján is highly recommended for those seeking a unique beach experience with the option to relax in a naturist setting, provided you plan ahead for the crowds during peak season.

La Playa de La Rijana is a hidden gem located on the Spanish Costa Tropical, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque scenery. This small pebble beach is perfect for snorkeling and relaxation. Here are some points to consider:

• Positives:
  • Excellent visibility underwater, making it ideal for snorkeling.
  • Offers a charming chiringuito (beach bar) where you can enjoy refreshments.
  • Beautiful views and well-maintained surroundings.
  • Close proximity to parking, though you should arrive early to secure a spot.
• Negatives:
  • The beach can be quite crowded, particularly in the summer months.
  • Access involves a short walk, which can be steep.
  • Limited parking space, which fills up quickly.
  • Mostly rocky terrain, so bringing water shoes is recommended.

This beach may not be ideal for those looking for vast sandy areas, but its natural beauty and underwater life make it a must-visit for anyone in the area.

Torrenueva Beach is a lovely and tranquil spot perfect for families. It features a wide sandy area with well-kept facilities including nearby cafés and restaurants, making it a convenient choice for a day out.

• Pros:
• Family-friendly atmosphere with a children's park
• Clean waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling
• Good bars and eateries with reasonable prices
• Wide beach with ample space
• Access for individuals with limited mobility

However, some users reported a few drawbacks:

• Can get crowded during peak times
• Presence of pebbles in the water, so special footwear is recommended
• Concerns about cleanliness in certain areas
• Lack of sufficient sunbeds and umbrellas for rent

Overall, the beach has seen significant improvements, and many recommend visiting for a family-friendly day out.

La Playa de la Guardia in Spain boasts stunning features, making it a captivating destination. Visitors have appreciated its crystal-clear waters and tranquility, ideal for family outings. However, some points of concern have been noted by users:

• Beautiful scenery with different shades of blue in the water.
• Nearby restaurants and facilities like toilets and showers.
• Some users reported the beach can be quite crowded, especially during weekends.
• It's a pebble beach, which may be uncomfortable without appropriate footwear.
• Inconsistent cleanliness reported, with some days experiencing littering issues.
• Access to snorkeling requires a boat, complicating aquatic activities.

Overall, Playa de la Guardia is a lovely spot with potential drawbacks that visitors should be aware of.

Calabajío Beach, located in Almuñécar, is a hidden gem known for its fine black sand and serene atmosphere. This small beach is easily accessible and offers ample parking nearby, making it a family-friendly destination. Many visitors appreciate the clarity of the water and the shallow entry, ideal for children to play safely.

Highlights:

• Beautiful black sand beach perfect for families.
• Clean and warm water, suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
• Facilities include showers and nearby restaurants.
• Easy access and reasonable parking options.

However, some users have voiced concerns about the beach becoming overcrowded, particularly during peak season. Issues such as litter, particularly from cigarette butts and plastic waste, have been reported. Moreover, some visitors noted that there can be limited showers and restrooms, which detracts from the overall experience.

Despite these challenges, many still recommend Calabajío Beach for its unique charm and beautiful natural surroundings, especially for a family outing.

Playa El Chucho Nerja is a picturesque beach backed by cliffs and palm trees, known for its clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Just ten minutes from the town center, this beach offers a variety of nearby restaurants making it a perfect spot for relaxation. However, visitors have noted that the beach can be quite stony and difficult to access, particularly when entering the water. Many recommend bringing water shoes due to the rocky entrance.

Highlights of Playa El Chucho include:

• Beautiful scenery with clear, swimmable waters.
• Close proximity to restaurants and amenities.
• A tranquil atmosphere, especially during off-peak seasons.

Some downsides visitors have mentioned are:

• Lack of showers or amenities, particularly in peak summer.
• Overcrowding during high season.
• Difficulty accessing the beach due to stones and rocks.

Overall, Playa El Chucho is appreciated for its natural beauty but may require some preparation for a comfortable visit.

Playa Salobreña is a beautiful beach located near Granada, known for its charming atmosphere and crystal-clear waters. Visitors enjoy the following:

• Family-friendly environment: A tranquil and spacious beach, perfect for families with children.
• Accessibility: Great for walking to shops, restaurants, and enjoying all the beach services.
• Scenic views: The area offers lovely sights, including stunning sunsets over the Mediterranean.
• Rich gastronomy: Excellent beach bars and restaurants with delicious local food.

However, some visitors mentioned:

• Stony beach: The beach is primarily made of small pebbles, which can be challenging for some.
• Limited services: While the beach is well-kept, some services can be scarce, and the area can get crowded during weekends.
• Parking issues: Finding parking can be a challenge, especially in the high season.

Despite these minor drawbacks, Playa Salobreña continues to attract visitors looking for a relaxing getaway on the Costa Tropical.

The Playa de la Charca/Salomar is a beautiful beach located near Granada, known for its stunning clear waters and a family-friendly atmosphere. Many visitors appreciate its clean conditions and the availability of several facilities:

• Ample parking: Paid parking is available just across the street.
• Dining options: Numerous beach bars (chiringuitos) and restaurants offer a variety of seafood.
• Accessibility: The beach features public toilets, including facilities for those with reduced mobility.
• Activities: The beach provides a peaceful environment ideal for swimming and relaxing.

However, there are some downsides mentioned by users:

• Rocky shore: The beach consists mainly of small pebbles, which can be uncomfortable for some visitors.
• Overcrowding: The beach can become quite crowded, especially during weekends in summer.
• Parking issues: Although ample, parking may be difficult to find at peak times.
• Maintenance concerns: Some users noted lingering issues with cleanliness and service management.

In summary, Playa de la Charca/Salomar is recommended for those looking for a lovely beach experience with great amenities, but it’s advisable to visit during weekdays to avoid the crowds.

Rijana Beach is a hidden gem on the Granada coastline, offering stunning views and crystal-clear waters that make it a perfect spot for snorkeling and enjoying the beauty of nature. Visitors often describe the beach as 'beautiful' and 'tranquil,' with a lovely atmosphere. Here are some key highlights and considerations based on various reviews:

• Highlights:
• Beautiful, crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and kayaking.
• A nearby beach bar (chiringuito) for refreshments, although it has limited food options.
• Access through a short tunnel, making it a unique location.
• A relatively short walk from parking, though the descent can be steep.
• Plenty of fish and marine life to observe.

• Considerations:
• Parking can be limited, especially in summer; it is best to arrive early.
• The beach can become crowded during peak season.
• The sandy entrance can be rocky, so wearing water shoes is recommended.
• Some users noted issues with litter and cleanliness in certain areas.
• Be cautious of jellyfish during summer months.

Overall, Rijana Beach is a highly recommended destination for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and families alike. Just make sure to prepare ahead for the best experience!

Playa de Cabria is a beautiful and charming small beach located in Spain, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and amazing underwater life, making it a great spot for snorkeling. There are several beach bars and restaurants nearby that offer delicious and reasonably priced food.

• Positives: Beautiful scenery, tranquil environment, clean water, and excellent food options.
• Negatives: The beach has a rocky entrance with many stones, making it difficult to access the water. Additionally, some users have reported issues with jellyfish presence.

Despite its small size and occasional overcrowding, Playa de Cabria is recommended for those seeking a picturesque and peaceful beach experience.

Playa Motril is a serene beach located in Spain, offering a spacious environment that's ideal for families and pets.

Highlights:

• Clean and relatively warm waters, perfect for swimming.
• Designated dog area for pet owners to enjoy time with their furry friends.
• Several chiringuitos (beach bars) available for refreshments.
• Less crowded, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
• Beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Points to Consider:

• The beach has a rocky shoreline, which may be uncomfortable for those preferring sandy beaches.
• Some users reported litter and insufficient maintenance in certain areas.
• Limited variety of restaurants and bars along the beach.
• Parking can be an issue, especially with recent restrictions.

Overall, Playa Motril offers a unique experience, blending relaxation with family-friendly features, despite some areas needing improvement.

Playa de Granada is a large, spacious beach known for its family-friendly atmosphere and numerous services nearby. Users appreciate the clean water quality and variety of chiringuitos offering local specialties. Many visitors find the beach less crowded compared to other areas, providing a tranquil environment for relaxation. However, some have pointed out the pebbly terrain as a downside, suggesting it may not be ideal for everyone; proper footwear is recommended. Additionally, while parking facilities are available, they can be far from the beach, and the infrastructure could use enhancements to improve accessibility. Overall, it remains a recommended spot for enjoying a day at the beach.

La Playa La Mamola is a hidden gem located in a tranquil village, renowned for its clean and transparent waters. Visitors appreciate the peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for families looking to relax.

Highlights of the beach include:

• Peaceful atmosphere with not many visitors
• Several beach bars and restaurants like Restaurante Onteniente and Pub Oasis
• Clear waters perfect for snorkeling and fish watching
• A family-friendly environment suitable for all ages

However, some travelers have noted:

• Rocky entrances to the water, suggesting the use of swim shoes
• Parking can be limited
• Occasional cleanliness issues on the beach

Overall, Playa La Mamola offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy a peaceful day at the beach away from the crowds.

San Cristóbal Beach in Almuñécar stands out as one of the best beaches on the Granada coast, known for its charm and crystal-clear waters. It's a perfect spot for those seeking peace and relaxation, as it offers a family-friendly and tranquil atmosphere. Many visitors consider it the best beach in Almuñécar and highlight its promenade filled with gastronomic options.

Despite its beauty, some users mention that the beach has small pebbles instead of fine sand, which can be a drawback for some. Additionally, the facilities of nearby hotels have received criticism for being outdated and poorly maintained.

Overall, San Cristóbal Beach is a highly recommended place to enjoy the sun and good food, with a cozy environment and stunning views.

Playa Punta del Rio is a charming and tranquil beach that offers a perfect escape to nature. Users praise its clear, warm waters and spacious sandy areas, making it a delightful spot for a relaxing day by the sea. The presence of the nearby surf club, 18 Nudos, adds a lively atmosphere with good food and drinks. Visitors appreciate that dogs are allowed, although there are concerns about upcoming restrictions.

However, some users noted issues such as litter and the presence of rocks on the beach, which could detract from the overall experience. Additionally, popularity during the summer can lead to larger crowds and noise from music. Despite these drawbacks, the beach retains an appealing natural setting, ideal for those seeking tranquility away from mass tourism.

La Herradura is a beautiful coastal location that offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. The family-friendly beach features crystal clear waters and is surrounded by breathtaking cliffs, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. While many visitors praise its peaceful setting and cleanliness, some express concerns about the development around the area, indicating a lack of charm compared to its past.

However, the beach provides various amenities including chiringuitos and restaurants, which enhance the experience. Although it suffers from occasional overcrowding during peak months, the overall beauty of the location and the welcoming locals make it special.

For those seeking a mix of relaxation and water sports, La Herradura is a perfect retreat, though visitors should be prepared for possible parking difficulties during high season.

Playa La Rijana is a beautiful beach located in the Costa Tropical of Granada, known for its crystalline turquoise waters and picturesque landscapes. Many users describe it as a paradise, perfect for snorkeling and enjoying marine life. The beach is often praised for its tranquility and cleanliness, making it a favorite spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

However, there are some drawbacks noted by visitors. Occasionally, jellyfish can be present in the water, and the beach is made of stones, which can be uncomfortable for walking barefoot. Access to the beach involves a steep incline, and while there is limited parking available, it can fill up quickly.

Despite these challenges, many users express their desire to return, citing the charming chiringuito (beach bar) where they can enjoy food and drinks. Overall, Playa La Rijana offers a beautiful escape, but prepare for some logistical challenges.

San Cristóbal Beach, located in Almuñécar, is a beautiful pebble beach known for its clear waters and vibrant atmosphere. The beach offers a variety of amenities including beach bars, showers, and rental options for sun loungers and umbrellas, making it a comfortable spot for visitors. However, it can get quite crowded during peak summer months, which detracts from the overall experience at times.

Although the beach is appreciated for its picturesque views and family-friendly environment, some visitors have noted issues such as disrespect for personal space, with many sun loungers left unattended to reserve spots, leading to a cluttered appearance. Also, the rocky entry into the sea can be difficult for some, and it's advised to bring water shoes for better comfort.

On the positive side, the beach's close proximity to local shops and restaurants enhances its appeal, especially for those looking to enjoy a day of sun and relaxation. San Cristóbal is well-maintained and celebrated for its clean environment, though there are calls from locals for better management regarding pet regulations and litter, particularly cigarette butts.

In summary, San Cristóbal Beach is a charming but busy beach destination perfect for experiencing the lively spirit of Almuñécar, especially appreciated for its exceptional climate and stunning sunsets.

La Playa de La Rábita is a beautiful and tranquil beach located in Granada, known for its crystal-clear waters and calm sea, making it an ideal spot for families and friends to relax. Visitors appreciate the picturesque fishing village atmosphere and the availability of decent dining options. However, there are notable concerns regarding cleanliness, with many guests reporting litter and unsatisfactory maintenance, including non-functional showers and parking issues. Despite these downsides, those who enjoy natural beaches with a mix of pebbles and sand may still find it appealing. The area is also suitable for snorkeling and offers a rich local culture to explore.

Playa del Cable, also known as Playa Grande, is an ideal destination for dog owners looking to enjoy a day at the beach with their furry friends. The beach is spacious and equipped with showers for both pets and their owners, making it convenient for families visiting with dogs.

Highlights:

• Large, clean beach perfect for dogs.
• Respectful crowd, ensuring a friendly atmosphere for all.
• Easy access and ample parking nearby.
• Beautiful sunsets that enhance the beach experience.

However, there are some drawbacks. The beach is located near a commercial port, leading to issues with cleanliness and pollution in the water, which historically has posed health risks for swimming. Some visitors noted the presence of fishing gear left by anglers, which poses safety concerns for pets. Additionally, the amenities for dining are limited, and the showers might not always be operational. The beach can get overcrowded, especially in peak summer months, which could detract from the relaxing experience.

Overall, Playa del Cable offers a unique environment for dog lovers, though improvements in maintenance and safety could greatly enhance visitors' experiences.