Torremolinos, Benalmadena and Nerja
If you want sea, sun and value, the resort towns flanking Malaga deliver. Torremolinos sits a short train ride west, while Nerja anchors the prettier eastern coast.
Torremolinos for value and trains
Torremolinos is the easiest beach base of all because the Cercanías commuter train links it to Malaga city and the airport in minutes. It is unpretentious, friendly and affordable, with a long beachfront, plenty of family hotels and an open, welcoming nightlife scene.
Benalmadena in between
Next door, Benalmádena adds a marina that often tops lists of the prettiest in Spain, a cable car up Calamorro mountain and a hilltop old quarter. It splits the difference between Torremolinos energy and a calmer family stay, and it sits on the same train line.
Nerja and the eastern coves
East of Malaga the coast turns rockier and more scenic. Nerja is the star, with the famous Balcón de Europa viewpoint, small sheltered coves and the whitewashed village of Frigiliana just inland. It feels more Andalusian and less built up than the western resorts.
Choosing your side of Malaga
Go west to Torremolinos and Benalmádena for the train link, budget hotels and a livelier scene. Go east to Nerja for prettier swimming, dramatic scenery and a slower pace. The east has no commuter train, so plan on a bus or car for Nerja.
Beaches and the Nerja Caves
Nerja's Burriana beach is one of the best on this coast for a full day, with watersports and beach bars. The vast Nerja Caves sit just outside town and make an easy half day, especially when the midday sun pushes you off the sand.
Frequently asked questions
How do I reach Torremolinos from Malaga?
The Cercanías C1 train runs from Malaga center and the airport to Torremolinos every twenty minutes and takes about twenty minutes from the city.
Is there a train to Nerja?
No. Nerja is served by frequent buses from Malaga that take around ninety minutes, or by car in about an hour along the A-7.
Which is better for families, Torremolinos or Nerja?
Torremolinos is easier for car free families thanks to the train and flat beaches. Nerja is prettier but needs a bus or car and has more steps down to its coves.