5 stretches of breathtaking coastline along Andalucía’s Costa Tropical

The Costa Tropical, located in the province of Granada, Spain, between Costa del Sol of Málaga and the Costa de Almería, stretches itself long and languidly alongside the azure Mediterranean Sea. Renowned for its mild climate and breathtaking beaches, this stunning strip of coastline can’t be missed if you’re in the region of Andalucía for holiday.

One look at the cliff- and cove-lined coastline and you will understand why so many empires—from Romans to Arabs—fought passionately to remain the master of these coveted shores. Each and every one certainly left a mark. You may chose to leave the northerly mountain winds behind for a day of (20°C on average) fun and sun on one of the beaches themselves, where you’ll find a subtropical micro-climate boasting 320 days of sunshine and countless beach options—such as windsurfing, scuba diving, fishing, sailing, waterskiing, golf, tennis, squash and horseback riding—in one of the Costa’s six tourist centers:

1. La Herradura
2. Almuñécar
3. Salobreña
4. Motril
5. Castell de Ferro
6. La Rábita

Or you may choose to catch the view from the various peaks along Spain’s Peninsula, such as the Sierra Nevada, which offers its mountains at over 3,000 meters high for skiing and mountain climbing—only a short distance from the coast.

As mentioned, there are many beautiful spots along the shore to choose from within the province of Adalucía, and we don’t have room to tell you about all of them. However, we will share our top 5 favorite Granada beaches with you…if you promise to keep them a secret.

1. Playa de Poniente

The popular tourist destination of Motril welcomes visitors to a summery climate, a population of 50,000, and a busy port with its bustling marina and nautical club. Watersports and fishing are the popular pastimes in Motril, where the beach is large and pebbled. It’s always full of tourists, but not of the sun worshiping variety that frequent the villas in Cabo . Instead, Motril’s waters are ideal for water-skiing, paragliding, and boating. Motril’s bustling beachfront is spotted with shops, bars, restaurants, camp sites, and a busy public fish and seafood auction.

2. Salobreña

Follow the winding road along the cliff from Almuñecar, and you will find Salobreña, built as a fortress by the Arabs who lived here. Below the town, a leafy plain of tropical crops runs along the coastline of transparent blue. Wander and marvel at the Arab-inspired architecture. The white-washed houses and steep winding streets, sprinkled with lush vegetation. The La Playa del Peñon and the Playa de la Guardia, Salobreña’s two untamed beaches, are separated by a huge rock in the Mediterranean Sea, and surrounded by secret coves, which make either beach ideal for scuba divers.

3. Mirador de la Cruz

This popular tourist spot offers a stunning view over the bay. It’s located in a small town called Almuñecar, situated on the westernmost point along the Costa Tropical and sheltered by a small hill. The area was first discovered by the Phoenicans, who settled here over 3000 years ago. During a visit here you will see a cemetery built on Roman fortifications. Stand on the hill and you can overlook the entire town of Almuñecar. The long flight of steps built over the rocks leads up to the Mirador de la Cruz and offers a spectacular view bay and a glimpse of the 26 beaches that surround the area.

4. Playa de Granada

Offers up its shores for sunbathing—compared to the buzzing of boats and Jet skis in Playa de Poniente. However, golf enthusiasts flock to Playa de Granada for more than it’s peaceful, fine sand beach. They come for Los Moriscos golf course, and its 18-holes split by the natural elegance water and palm trees.

5. La Rábita

This popular Spanish resort town is located in the easternmost area of the Costa Tropical. Visitors come here to sample the most authentic Spanish seafood dishes and to experience the rural, seafaring life. La Rábita’s beach offers something for every age group—a lively child’s play area, tapas bars and restaurants worthy of a New York nightlife, and exploring in the various supermarkets and small shops.