If Torrox Costa is the shop window, El Morche is the kitchen. This district of Torrox has kept the feel of a fishing village that the rest of the coast lost long ago: boats pulled up on the sand, beach bars run by the third generation of the same family, and a seafront where at nine in the evening there are still men playing dominoes.
Getting there
It sits on the N-340 between Torrox Costa and Algarrobo, about 3 km from the Torrox lighthouse. Free parking on the village streets and along the roadside. As it isn’t a crowded beach, finding a space is usually straightforward except on August weekends.
Facilities
- ✓ Lifeguard in high season
- ✓ Beach bars grilling sardines over wood
- ✓ Showers
- ✓ Public toilets
- ✓ Free parking
- ✓ Children’s playground beside the promenade
The espeto, done properly
The espeto de sardinas — six sardines threaded onto a cane and grilled in a boat full of sand and olive wood — comes from the Axarquía, not from Marbella. In El Morche it’s still done with real wood and at the right time of year. Local rule: eat sardines in the months without an R (May to August), when they’re at their fattest. In winter, order the clams or the local anchovies instead.
What the beach is like
Close to a kilometre of dark sand and gravel, with a slightly steeper slope than Ferrara and very calm water thanks to its sheltered position. It’s a family swimming beach with no significant waves unless a strong easterly is blowing. Occupancy stays moderate even in summer, which makes it a sensible alternative when Torrox Costa or Torre del Mar are overwhelmed.
Who it’s for
For anyone after a beach for eating and napping rather than a beach for atmosphere. Families, older couples and residents. If you’re looking for water sports, designer sunbeds or a beach bar with a DJ, this isn’t it: Torre del Mar is ten minutes away for that.
