Between Fuengirola and La Cala de Mijas, on a stretch of coast where the concrete pauses for a moment, lies El Chaparral: a beach flanked by low cliffs and pine trees, with a dirt car park and a beach bar. Not much else. And that’s precisely why it’s one of the best along this stretch.
Getting there
From the A-7 (old N-340) at around kilometre 200, taking the turning for the El Chaparral development. Free dirt parking beside the access. The final descent to the sand is by steps or a ramp depending on where you come down.
Facilities
- ✓ Beach bar in season
- ✓ Lifeguard during the bathing season
- ✓ Showers
- ✓ Free dirt parking
- ✓ Mijas coastal boardwalk
- ✗ Reduced facilities outside summer
The Mijas coastal boardwalk
Over recent years Mijas has built a wooden walkway running the length of its coastline, hugging the sea, crossing cliffs and coves. The section passing El Chaparral is among the prettiest: you can walk from cove to cove with the water directly below. It’s an excellent outing for spring and autumn and it’s well signposted.
What the beach is like
Around 600 metres of dark sand mixed with gravel, some rock at either end and clean water. Occupancy stays low even in summer. The entry into the sea has a moderate slope and rounded stones in places: water shoes recommended.
Who it’s for
For anyone wanting a quiet beach reachable by car ten minutes from Fuengirola. It isn’t a beach for facilities or for very young children, but it’s one of the best on the Fuengirola–Marbella stretch for a day without the crowds.
