Some beaches are about more than swimming. Burriana Beach is the best-loved beach in Nerja for one simple reason: it has everything. Eight hundred metres of fine sand, water that touches 23°C in summer, a Blue Flag and the most legendary beach bar in the Axarquía. If you can only pick one beach in this part of the Mediterranean, make it this one.
Getting there
By car, the paid car park on Calle Burriana costs around €5 a day in high season. In July and August it pays to arrive before 10am if you want a space nearby. Out of season there is metered parking on the surrounding streets. By public transport, Nerja town bus route 1 runs down to Burriana, with a stop 300 metres from the shore.
Facilities
- ✓ Lifeguard and watch post
- ✓ Beach bars (several, including the historic Ayo)
- ✓ Showers and public toilets
- ✓ Sunbed and parasol hire
- ✓ Kayak hire
- ✓ Paid parking
- ✓ Accessible for people with reduced mobility
Ayo’s: an institution since 1959
You cannot talk about Burriana without talking about Ayo. Since 1959 this beach bar has cooked the most famous paella in Nerja in giant pans over an open wood fire, right on the sand. Paella is served only at weekends in high season and the tables fill fast, so it’s worth arriving early or booking ahead. It’s one of those places you don’t forget.
What to do nearby
Some of the area’s best-known attractions are minutes from the beach. The Caves of Nerja are essential viewing: a listed cultural monument holding some of the oldest known cave paintings in the world. A morning on the beach followed by an afternoon at the caves is the perfect Nerja day.
When to go
Burriana works from June to September for swimming, and it is busy: expect crowds in August. Come early in the morning for space, or late afternoon for the best light. Out of season it stays pleasant for walking, and several beach bars keep serving at weekends.
