West of Málaga city, between the airport and the mouth of the Guadalhorce river, is a beach that doesn’t feel like a city beach at all: Guadalmar. Little development, low dunes, reed beds behind and, right beside it, one of the most valuable natural areas in the province.
Getting there
From Málaga city, along the Guadalmar road off the MA-21 or from the airport area. EMT city bus route 10 runs to the Guadalmar development. Free parking on the development’s streets.
Facilities
- ✓ Lifeguard in the developed section (in season)
- ✓ Beach bars in the development area
- ✓ Showers in the busier section
- ✓ Free parking
- ✗ No facilities on the stretch towards the river mouth
The Guadalhorce estuary
Beside the beach lies the Guadalhorce Estuary Natural Area, a 67-hectare wetland with artificial lagoons and several bird hides. It’s one of the best birdwatching sites in Andalusia: more than 260 species have been recorded, including flamingos, black-winged stilts, plovers and ospreys on passage. Entry is free and the paths are signposted.
Naturism
The stretch of beach closest to the river mouth has been a tolerated naturist area for decades, and it’s probably the most accessible naturist option from Málaga city. It isn’t official, but the custom is well established.
What the beach is like
Close to 1,500 metres of dark sand and gravel, with very little building and a semi-wild feel. Occupancy is low. Bear in mind you’re under the airport approach path: there’s aircraft noise at intervals, which bothers some people and not others at all.
