Estepona is an attractive coastal town with golden, sandy beaches stretching 21 km from east to west. While it’s fast becoming a tourist hotspot, it’s still not quite as popular as Malaga or Marbella, which is all part of its charm. The beaches in Estepona are spacious, you won’t have to fight for a lounger, and there’s always room at a local chiringuito for a quick cerveza (beer) or a cocktail.
Whether you’re looking for a secluded cove, a beach with watersports, a beachside daybed or even a nudist beach, Estepona beaches offer something for everyone. And if you fancy a stroll, the beach promenade runs all the way to Marbella.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the 14 best beaches in Estepona so you can find the perfect sandy sanctuary for your next escape.
When is the Best Time to Visit Estepona’s Beaches?
Here’s a breakdown of how the seasons stack up for visiting Estepona’s beaches, taking into account typical weather, sea conditions, crowd levels, and what kind of beach experience you can expect.
| Season | Temperature in Estepona | Conditions | Best For |
| Spring (Mar–May) | Mild to warm – from early 20s °C | Sea still warming; calm waters common, low to moderate crowd levels | Peaceful walks, early sunbathing, exploring beaches before the rush |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Hot – often high 20s to low 30s °C | Warm sea, ideal for swimming & water sports, high crowd levels, especially on central beaches | Full beach days, water sports, beach clubs, social vibe |
| Autumn (Sep–Oct) | Warm – mid to high 20s °C | Sea is still warm, gentle breezes, moderate crowd levels | Long swims, mellow beach days, good value & quieter atmosphere |
| Winter (Nov–Feb) | Mild – typically mid-teens to low 20s °C | Sea cooler; some sheltered beaches are still swimmable, low crowd levels | Quiet strolls, off‑peak budget stays, coastal relaxation |
Typical air temperatures for spring to autumn follow the patterns common to the Costa del Sol region; sea water retains warmth into autumn.
Our take: If you want the liveliest beach days with warm sea and full amenities, go in summer. If you prefer fewer crowds and a relaxed pace, spring and autumn offer a great balance. For quiet coastal walks and off-season calm, winter can still be appealing.
Playa del Saladillo
Just a 15-minute drive away from Estepona town centre, Playa del Saladillo is the perfect family day out, with a long sandy beach for playing games and building sandcastles, facilities such as toilets and showers, and even a place to hire jet skis. For a bite to eat, head to Pepe’s Chiringuito, a local favourite or for something a little more indulgent, try La Antigua, set slightly away from the beach.
This beach is part of a larger dune and nature complex, the “Dunas de El Saladillo–Matas Verdes”, which is an area of ecological importance on the Costa del Sol. The dunes shelter a variety of Mediterranean flora and fauna, and the near-shore waters support seagrass meadows that help maintain water quality and marine biodiversity.
For travellers who enjoy nature and wide open space, this makes Saladillo a top candidate among the best beaches on Costa del Sol, quieter than central strips, yet with enough comfort for a full beach day.
Beach Highlights
- Long stretch of soft, golden sand ideal for long beach walks or family games.
- Dune-backed natural setting offers a sense of escape and relative tranquillity.
- Clear water and gentle entry make it suitable for families and less confident swimmers.
- With less crowding compared to central Estepona – excellent if you value space and calm.
Beach Details
Length: 3km
Location: Playa de El Saladillo Estepona, 29680
Restaurant recommendations: Pepes Beach & La Antigua
Playa Guadalmansa
If you’re looking for a quieter, urban beach – even in summer – Playa Guadalmansa offers just that. A long, thin beach, about a 10-minute drive from central Estepona, with a mixture of sand and a little stone, it’s ideal for long walks or relaxing with a book. Barraka Beach Club is at the east end of the beach and has day beds, should you wish to be a little closer to refreshments.
Because it’s somewhat off the main tourist map, Playa Guadalmansa tends to escape the busiest crowds. That makes it the perfect spot if you want calm without giving up proximity to the conveniences of the coast. As part of the collection of Estepona beaches, it gives a more laid-back vibe than the central beaches – a nice balance for those seeking a quieter Costa del Sol experience.
Beach Highlights
- Peaceful vibe, much quieter than town-centre beaches even in peak season.
- Mixed sand and stones give a more rustic, natural feel.
- Good for long coastal strolls or reading by the sea away from the hustle and bustle.
- Barraka Beach Club offers day beds and easy access to refreshment at one end.
- Easy drive from central Estepona – convenient for a more relaxed beach outing.
Beach Details
Length: 2.5km
Location: Playa de Playabella – Guadalmansa Estepona, 29680
Restaurant recommendation: Barrakabeach.com
Playa de Guadalmina
If you want to embrace a little local culture on your trip to the beach, visit Playa de Guadalmina, famous for its Roman ruins known as Las Bóvedas, an archaeological site sitting next to the beach from the 3rd century AD, and a defensive watchtower from the 16th century. A popular site, this isn’t the quietest beach in Estepona, but there are plenty of facilities and a few chiringuitos like Senora Beach, or head into the urbanisation behind the beach, where you’ll find Restaurant PlayaBella.
Although the beach area is more built-up than natural coves, it offers enough amenities and accessibility for a comfortable visit. For people who want both beach and local flair – a stroll through history and a quick dip in the sea – Playa de Guadalmina represents a mix of heritage and leisure that stands out among the best Estepona beach spots.
Beach Highlights
- Historical interest nearby (Roman-era ruins and old watchtower) – a unique beach and culture combo.
- Built-up facilities and easy access make it practical even for a half-day beach visit.
- Good for visitors who want more than sun and sea – a little local heritage gives added depth.
- Suitable for a quieter beach experience compared to central hotspots.
- Convenient for combining with visits to nearby towns or sightseeing inland.
Beach Details
Length: 1.5km
Location: Guadalmina Beach Marbella, 29670
Restaurant recommendation: Restauranteplayabella.com
Playa Arroyo de las Cañas – Playa del Velerín
This 1km beach is one of the quietest to the east of Estepona, as there’s only one chiringuito. Hotels such as Andalucia Beach are at the far end of the beach, so often it’s only hotel guests that you’ll see in this area. Towards the west end, Playa del Velerin, there’s a nice chiringuito (Chiringuito Torre Velerín), with tables on the sand and a few beds, too. There’s also another watchtower, from the 16th century, if you wanted to take a strolllookoutlook-out point.
Given its more secluded nature, it’s a good pick if you want tranquillity and fewer tourists. The relaxed ambience, combined with natural surroundings, makes it a solid pick among the best beaches in Estepona for visitors seeking calm and space.
Beach Highlights
- Low crowd density – often much quieter than central beaches.
- Natural, simple beach vibe – good for a peaceful, unstructured beach day.
- Great for early risers or those content with minimal facilities.
- Ideal for someone who prefers quiet over the bustle of busy beach clubs.
- A suitable option when you want a break from crowded beach scenes.
Beach Details
Length: 1km
Location: Arroyo las Cañas Beach – Velerin, Estepona, 29680
Playa del Castor
Similar to Playa del Velerín, this is a more secluded, urban beach, with just one place to grab a bite to each or drink – Dominion Beach. There are no water sports and only a few facilities, but it’s the ideal beach in Estepona if you want to escape the crowds for a little while and relax in the sunshine.
For travellers seeking downtime rather than activity, a place to read, sunbathe or listen to the sea, this beach fits nicely into the broader selection of Estepona beaches that emphasise peace and privacy over convenience.
Beach Highlights
- Very quiet and secluded – not crowded even in high season.
- Simple, calm beach – ideal for relaxation and solitude.
- Little development nearby – less commercial than many beaches in Costa del Sol.
- Good for those seeking to disconnect and enjoy the natural coastline.
- Perfect if you value calm more than amenities or beach bars.
Beach Details
Length: 880m
Location: Playa del Castor, Estepona, 29680
Playa del Padrón
Playa del Padrón used to be incredibly popular, with its blue flag-rated beach, soft sand, and the shopping centre and cafés of Laguna Beach. After a major redevelopment plan in 2020, Laguna Beach has all new features, including eco-friendly architecture, the sparkling Sublim Beach Club, and a delicious Japanese restaurant, Kai. You’ll also find several elegant hotels nearby, such as Spíler Beach Club and the Kempinski 5-star hotel, which bring plenty of visitors.
This beach combines ease of access with a coastline that’s wide enough for both active days and relaxed lounging. It tends to attract a mixed crowd, from families to sunseekers looking for comfort. Among the Costa del Sol’s best beaches, Padrón stands out when you want a balanced beach day: accessible, well-equipped, and still coastal charm without being over-the-top.
Beach Highlights
- Blue Flag status, recognised for clean sand and good water quality.
- Soft sand and a wide beach – good for sunbathing, families, or beach games.
- Nearby beach clubs and hotels – convenient if you prefer comfort and refreshments.
- Good accessibility, including parking – helpful if you’re driving.
- Balanced atmosphere – neither too busy nor too remote, ideal for many kinds of visitors.
Beach Details
Length: 1.4km
Location: Playa de El Padrón Estepona, 29689
Playa de Punta Plata
In the eastern part of Estepona, Punta de la Plata is a long, narrow beach with a mix of stones and dark sand. Even though there’s a large urbanisation behind the beach, it’s relatively quiet and a great place to watch the many cyclists and runners enjoying the new boardwalk. Plata Beach Restaurante is a lovely place for lunch or dinner, or if you walk a little further, Casa Wild is a very popular brunch and lunch spot, with lots of healthy and vegan options, too.
Because this beach isn’t among the busiest, it caters well to those looking to combine a beach visit with outdoor activity: locals often walk or cycle along the nearby boardwalk, especially during mornings and evenings when temperatures are milder. Given the variety of Estepona beaches, Punta Plata offers a calmer alternative when the central beaches feel too crowded.
Beach Highlights
- Less crowded – a tranquil option among busy coastal spots.
- More rugged beach character – stone and dark sand give a natural feel.
- Good for visitors seeking a peaceful beach walk or quiet reflection on the sand.
- Nearby urbanisation offers convenience without intrusive crowds.
- Great for those who prefer calmer surroundings over structured beach clubs.
Beach Details
Length: 2.3km
Location: Playa de Punta de la Plata Estepona, 29689
Restaurant recommendation: Casa Wild
Playa de la Rada
One of Estepona’s busiest beaches, expect fun for the whole family, from watersports to playgrounds, and long, sandy beaches. This iconic beach has many chiringuitos, including El Madero, and beach clubs, with plenty of daybeds and atmosphere, too. If you want to get away from the beach, you’re right by the town centre too, which has a brilliant restaurant scene, with places like Restaurant el Pescador offering views of the promenade and incredibly fresh seafood.
Facilities here are comprehensive: sunbeds, hammocks, water sports, children’s play areas, showers, and lifeguards in season. The beach offers easy access, making it particularly popular with families, couples, and anyone who wants beach, nightlife, and town all in one place. Among the best beaches in Estepona and arguably one of the best beaches on Costa del Sol, its mix of comfort and convenience makes it a solid go-to.
Beach Highlights
- Blue Flag beach with well-maintained sand, water quality, and full amenities.
- Direct access from the town centre – perfect if you want sea, restaurants and nightlife without transport.
- Plenty of water sports and beachside entertainment options.
- Family-friendly with lifeguards, gentle sea entry, children’s play areas and easy access.
- Great for a sociable beach day or combining beach time with town exploration.
Beach Details
Length: 2.6km
Location: Playa de la Rada Estepona, 29689
Restaurant recommendation: Chiringuitoelmadero.com, Elpescadorestepona.com
Playa del Cristo
A small, sandy blue flag-rated cove, to the west of Estepona Port, Playa del Cristo is popular with locals and tourists alike. The waters are warm, it’s slightly protected from the wind, and there’s plenty of parking, too. For a quick bite to eat, visit Lolailo Beach Bar or head to the port, where there are plenty of restaurants to choose from, whether you fancy Spanish, French, Italian or Asian Cuisine. If you walk to the far west of the beach, you’ll reach Playa Seghers, which is often quieter, and there’s a fun restaurant/bar overlooking the sea called Restaurante Ancla Sea Bridge.
Because it’s protected from wind and offers gentle entry, it’s often favoured by families with young children or by people seeking a peaceful day by the sea. The proximity to town means easy access to restaurants and amenities, while the sheltered waters make it safer and more relaxing than more exposed beaches.
Beach Highlights
- Sheltered cove – calm, gentle sea ideal for families and children.
- Soft sand and shallow water – comfortable for paddling and relaxed swimming.
- Easy walk from marina/town – convenient and accessible for day visitors.
- Beach-bar options nearby – good for a casual lunch or drink without leaving the beach.
- Great option if you prefer a more relaxed beach vibe rather than a lively beach club scene.
Beach Details
Length: 700m
Location: Playa de El Cristo Estepona, 29680
Playa de Guadalobón
Another narrow, dark sand/stoney beach, Playa de Guadalobón, stretches out west, and is the back garden to many of the guests who live in the apartments close by. Quite out of the way, this beach in Estepona never gets too busy, although you’ll have to walk to another beach for refreshments.
Because it sits away from the busiest tourist areas, it can be a good choice for those who favour calm, fewer crowds, and a more ‘lived-in’ beach atmosphere over loud beach bars or water-sport clubs. Among the broader set of best beaches in Costa del Sol, beaches like Guadalobón lean toward authenticity and tranquillity over showiness.
Beach Highlights
- Quiet and low-key – rarely crowded even during summer.
- More residential and local feel – handy if you want a genuine local beach experience.
- Good for simple walks and peaceful sunbathing without distractions.
- Less development – ideal for travellers seeking calm and simplicity over amenities.
- A helpful option for those staying in nearby apartments or villas seeking beach access without the bustle.
Beach Details
Length: 850m
Location: Arroyo Vaquero Beach, Guadalobón Estepona, 29680
Playa de Costa Natura
One of the first naturist beaches on the Costa del Sol, and the only one in Estepona, Playa de Costa Natura is a small, private nudist beach. You can wear clothes if you like, but be aware that many people don’t. It’s a very relaxed atmosphere, and certainly an experience.
For visitors seeking freedom, calm and a connection with nature, Costa Natura provides a different kind of beach day – less about clubs and sunbeds, more about privacy and natural surroundings. This makes it a unique pick among the best Estepona beach options, especially for travellers open to nudist beaches.
Beach Highlights
- Naturist-friendly – offers a relaxed, clothing-optional beach experience for those who prefer it.
- Quiet and less commercial than many mainstream beaches – good for peaceful solitude.
- More natural surroundings – ideal for travellers seeking a deeper connection with the sea and coastline.
- Broad sunbathing areas – space to spread out without feeling crowded.
- For those comfortable with naturism, it offers an experience different from typical beach outings.
Beach Details
Length: 100-200m
Location: Carretera de Cádiz Km 151, 29680 Estepona
Playa de Arroyo Vaquero
This wide stretch of sand, located just in front of the Vaquero stream, is bathed by rocky waters that are popular for snorkelling and scuba diving. The beach itself is a little rocky, but there are watersports available, as well as the popular Nido Estepona beach club, where you can grab a bed by the pool, overlooking the sea.
Ideal for anyone wanting to escape the busiest beach strips but still have a full-on beach day with sun, sand and sea – Arroyo Vaquero adds variety to the range of Estepona beaches with its laid-back coastal vibe.
Beach Highlights
- Crystal clear water – perfect for those who love snorkelling and scuba diving.
- Less crowded than central beaches – nice for those seeking quiet and space.
- Easy to combine with scenic coastal drives or visits to nearby towns.
- Options for a beach bed at Nido Estepona Beach Club.
Beach Details
Length: 700m
Location: Playa de Arroyo Vaquero, 29680 Estepona
Restaurant recommendations: Nidoplayaestepona.com
Playa Bahía Dorada
The quiet Bahía Dorada Beach is a tranquil spot, loved by locals and tourists who want to escape the busier beaches. The rocky seabed is great for snorkelling, and there’s enough sand that you can find a comfortable spot to relax, too. Again, you’ll need to bring some snacks along with you as there aren’t any chiringuitos around, although there are a few hotels.
Because it is less developed and less frequented than many other beaches in Estepona, Bahía Dorada gives a different, more natural experience compared with the busy promenade beaches. For travellers looking to combine beach with a bit of underwater exploration or a quiet retreat, this beach is a solid addition to the selection of the best beaches in Estepona.
Beach Highlights
- Quiet, peaceful atmosphere – far less crowded than central beaches.
- Rocky/pebbly seabed – ideal for snorkelling and discovering marine life.
- Good water clarity – often better visibility than busier beaches.
- Natural feel – less commercial development nearby.
- Great option for snorkellers or anyone wanting a calm, contemplative beach experience.
Beach Details
Length: 10m
Location: Playa Bahía Dorada, 29680 Estepona
Playa de la Galera
Although Estepona’s westernmost beaches are still very popular with tourists and locals who want a little more seclusion, there’s also a lot of space if you have children who want to run around. While mostly sandy, the beach is peppered with a few rocks, but if you walk along a bit, you’ll find a soft spot to set up camp. As before, a packed lunch is required as there aren’t any bars and cafes, with just apartments and a few hotels behind the beach.
This beach gains its name from the Torre de la Galera, an ancient tower dating back to the 14th century, just a few metres away. Because of its coarse sand/pebble mix and limited development (fewer beach clubs or facilities), it suits visitors looking for a slower pace, perhaps combined with coastal hiking, snorkelling or simply a quiet, contemplative coastal escape. Among the best beaches in Costa del Sol, Galera stands out for its wildness and natural charm.
Beach Highlights
- Rugged, natural coastline with a mixture of coarse sand and pebbles – more wild and less groomed than mainstream beaches.
- Clear water and rocky underwater terrain – good for snorkelling and underwater exploration.
- Historic backdrop (old watchtower) – adds cultural and scenic interest.
- Very few facilities – ideal for travellers wanting simplicity and seclusion.
- Great for those who prefer natural beauty over beach-club amenities.
Beach Details
Length: 2km
Location: Playa de La Galera Estepona, 29693
Ready For a Luxury Estepona Beach Holiday?
Estepona is a coastal town full of character and history, with flower-lined streets and a beautiful old town, which you can wander around in for hours. As you can see, you’re not short of choices when it comes to beaches in Estepona, making it a fantastic choice for a summer trip filled with days spent beside the sea.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our guides to Estepona restaurants and top things to do in Estepona.
And if you’re looking for a stylish base to beach hop from, be sure to browse our collection of luxury beachfront villas in Spain or take a look at our villas in Estepona.
FAQs about Beaches in Estepona
What’s the best beach in Estepona for families with children?
Beaches like Playa de la Rada, Playa del Cristo and Playa del Saladillo tend to be best for families. They offer gentle sea entry, lifeguards (in season), showers and child-friendly facilities.
Which beach in Estepona is best for a peaceful, less crowded day?
For calm and fewer crowds, look at Playa Guadalmansa, Playa del Castor, Playa de Arroyo Vaquero, Playa de Bahía Dorada or Playa de la Galera. These tend to be quieter and offer a more natural beach experience.
Are there naturist or clothing-optional beaches near Estepona?
Yes – Playa de Costa Natura is a long-standing naturist beach on the Costa del Sol, offering a more relaxed, clothing-optional environment.
Is the water warm enough at Estepona beaches for swimming year-round?
While summer and early autumn offer the warmest sea temperatures, some sheltered beaches, like Playa del Cristo, can still be suitable for swimming outside peak season. Always check local conditions before visiting!
Which beaches are considered the best on the Costa del Sol, not just in Estepona?
Beaches like Playa de la Rada, Playa del Saladillo, and Playa El Padrón often feature on lists of best beaches on Costa del Sol because of their amenities, accessibility, water quality, and variety of beach-day experiences.
Lindsay Gregory
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