Granada is one of the most beautiful provinces in Spain, and that is partly thanks to the beaches of the Costa Tropical, which is the name given to the area where its sandy beaches are located.
It is possible to enjoy clean and crystalline waters, although it is true that the type of sand is not what some tourists are looking for, as it tends to be black and pebbly. What is a blessing for everyone is the sun that shines brightly during the summer months. The heat is intense and the occasional dip is the best way to beat the heat.
Calahonda Beach
It is an urban beach located in Motril with an extension of more than 1,000 metres. The sand is dark and coarse, not at all with the blue of its calm waters. It is a Blue Flag beach that lacks nothing, as it is equipped with showers, toilets, lifeguards, access for people with reduced mobility, Red Cross hut… There are just over 100 parking spaces and you will have no problem finding hotels and restaurants near the area, as it has a promenade that in summer is full of life.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
La Rijana beach
About 20 kilometres from Motril, in the town of Castell de Ferro, we come across a beach that is ideal for snorkelling, as its waters are also crystal clear and it is possible to see various species of fish. However, don’t expect to find many services, as it is far from the town and the only thing there is a small beach bar. It is 250 metres long and 20 metres wide and it is not usually difficult to lay a towel on it, as it is a beach that is not very popular all year round.
More information about La Rijana.
Photo: Traveler
Beach of La Herradura
About 7 kilometres away from Almuñecar, at the foot of the Sierra de Almijara, the beach of La Herradura offers 2 kilometres of sand for a relaxing stroll. That is when there are not many people, because in the summer months the beach is usually very busy. It has everything (even a parking area) and offers beautiful views of the area. The waters are calm and the sand is dark with small pebbles. It preserves corals and endangered species, which is why it is a protected natural site.
More information about La Herradura.
Photo: Objetivo Granada
Torrenueva Beach
Torrenueva is a small town in the province of Granada with a beautiful beach of the same name. It’s quite big, so you can walk along the shore until you get tired. The sand, contrary to what I have said so far, is fine and white, so it is the exception that proves the rule. There is a lifeguard service and beach bars. In fact, from 8 p.m. onwards, it is common for the bars to turn up the music to cheer people up. There are also restaurants in the area, as it has a promenade that fills up with stalls like a street market at night.
Photo: Exclusive Granada
CantarrijĂĄn Beach
This naturist beach is perfect for relaxing. It is only 380 metres long and is in the municipality of Almuñecar. It is not easy to reach because you have to walk a long way over rocky terrain that is not suitable for everyone. However, it is worth the effort to complete the route to enjoy a beautiful spot in the Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Park. Both diving and snorkelling are recommended activities, while fishing is prohibited. In addition, I must tell you that it is one of the best places in Granada to watch a beautiful sunset.
Photo: Discover Almuñecar
La Guardia Beach
I end this review with a beach located in Salobreña. It is 1,100 metres long and 25 metres wide, full of dark sand. Its waters are clean and calm, and I must say that it is very good for families. There is parking and a multitude of services. In fact, you can even have a barbecue or cook “espetos” with Sierra Nevada in the background.
Photo: Exclusive Granada
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