Torremolinos' Seafaring Gem

Nestled between Torremolinos and Benalmádena on Spain's glorious Costa del Sol, Playa de la Carihuela stands as one of the region's most iconic beaches. What was once a humble fishing village has transformed into a vibrant coastal paradise that manages to preserve its authentic Andalusian charm while offering all the amenities of a modern beach destination.

Beach Details

  • Location: Western part of Torremolinos, extending to the border with Benalmádena
  • Size: Approximately 2.1 kilometers long and 40 meters wide
  • Sand type: Fine, dark sand of volcanic origin
  • Water conditions: Calm, moderate waves, shallow for a good distance
  • Environment: Urban beach with a promenade lined with restaurants and shops

What Makes La Carihuela Beach Special?

La Carihuela has a fascinating history as a backdrop to the early days of Costa del Sol tourism. In the 1950s and 60s, it became a playground for international celebrities like Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner, Orson Welles, and Grace Kelly, who were drawn to its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. This golden era helped establish Torremolinos as a premier resort destination.

Unlike many overdeveloped beach destinations, La Carihuela has managed to maintain its fishing village roots. The neighborhood still retains some of its original small houses and narrow streets that recall its humble origins, providing an authentic glimpse into traditional Andalusian coastal life.

The waters at La Carihuela are notably calm and shallow for quite a distance, making it an ideal beach for families with children. The beach's cleanliness is also noteworthy, with special cleaning services that maintain both the sand and water, especially during the busy summer months.

Dining and Services

La Carihuela is widely regarded as a culinary paradise, particularly for seafood enthusiasts. The beach is famous for its exceptional "pescaíto frito" (small fried fish), considered among the best on the Costa del Sol:

  • Chiringuitos: The beach is lined with traditional beach restaurants where you can enjoy freshly caught fish and seafood while sitting just steps from the Mediterranean.
  • Seafood Specialties: Don't miss trying local specialties like espetos (sardines grilled on skewers over open fires), calamares, and fresh shellfish.
  • International Options: Beyond traditional Spanish cuisine, you'll find restaurants offering Italian, Asian, and other international fare.
  • Bars and Cafés: Numerous options for drinks, tapas, and light meals line the promenade.
  • Ice Cream Parlors: Perfect for cooling down on hot days.

La Carihuela offers comprehensive facilities and services including:

  • Bathroom facilities and showers
  • Sunbed and parasol rentals
  • Children's play areas
  • Lifeguard services
  • Water sports equipment rentals
  • Beach volleyball courts
  • Sports and entertainment activities during summer
  • Special services for people with disabilities, including assisted bathing (by appointment)
  • Shaded areas with support materials (loungers, amphibious chairs)

How to Get There

Playa de la Carihuela is easily accessible by various means of transportation:

By Car:

  • From Málaga: Take the MA-21 ("Carretera de Cadiz") towards Benalmádena. Before reaching Benalmádena, look for signs to Avenida Carlota Alessandri and turn left. Most right turns from this avenue will lead you to the beach.
  • Parking Options:
    • PARKIA Playa de la Carihuela: A covered 24-hour parking garage located about 5 minutes from the beach on Avenida Carlota Alessandri. This is a convenient option with surveillance and facilities for people with reduced mobility.
    • Street parking: Free but limited spaces are available along the streets near the beach. During summer months, finding a spot can be challenging.
    • The beach area has over 100 non-supervised parking spaces, but these fill quickly in peak season.

By Public Transport:

  • Train: Cercanías commuter trains run with high frequency between Málaga and Fuengirola, stopping at Torremolinos station. From the station, it's about a 15-20 minute walk to La Carihuela beach, or you can connect with a local bus.
  • Bus: Several local bus routes serve the La Carihuela area. From Torremolinos center, you can take buses heading towards Benalmádena that stop along Avenida Carlota Alessandri.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Torremolinos and can drop you directly at the beach. The town has a fleet of around 135 taxis operating 24/7.

On Foot:

  • From Torremolinos center: Head down to Playa El Bajondillo and continue westward along the promenade, passing the rocky promontory known as La Punta or El Morro de Torremolinos.
  • From Benalmádena: Walk eastward from Puerto Marina along the beachfront promenade.
  • Walking is one of the best ways to experience the coastal area, with the entire beachfront connected by a pleasant promenade.

By Bicycle:

  • Cycling is popular in Torremolinos due to the favorable climate.
  • Bike lanes run along the promenade from Bajondillo to Los Álamos, making it easy to reach La Carihuela by bicycle.

Google Maps Location

Surrounding Area and Accommodation

The La Carihuela neighborhood offers much more than just the beach:

  • Plaza del Remo: A charming square that serves as a focal point of the neighborhood, just a short walk from the beach.
  • Paseo Marítimo: A bustling promenade perfect for evening strolls, shopping, and people-watching.
  • Historic Hotels: Some of the first major hotels on the Costa del Sol are located here, including the Hotel Pez Espada, which hosted numerous celebrities in the 1960s.
  • Parque de la Batería: A beautiful park with a lookout tower offering stunning views, located a short distance from the beach.
  • Traditional Architecture: Wander into the narrow streets behind the beachfront to discover traditional Andalusian architecture and a more authentic atmosphere.

Accommodation options around La Carihuela are plentiful and varied:

  • Hotels: From luxury establishments to more budget-friendly options, including:
    • Riu Nautilus (adults-only hotel)
    • Sol House Costa del Sol
    • Hotel La Luna Blanca
    • Hotel Tarik
    • Hotel Carmen Teresa
  • Apartments: Numerous holiday apartments and vacation rentals are available in the area, including Carihuela Beach by Madflats Collection and Apartamentos María del Carmen.
  • Location Advantage: Staying in La Carihuela puts you within easy walking distance of both the beach and numerous dining and entertainment options.

Best Time to Visit

La Carihuela can be enjoyed year-round thanks to the Costa del Sol's favorable climate, but different seasons offer distinct experiences:

  • Summer (June-August): Peak season with hot temperatures, bustling atmosphere, and all services in full operation. The beach can get crowded, especially in July and August.
  • Late Spring/Early Autumn (May, September-October): Excellent times to visit with warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and most facilities still operating. May is particularly pleasant with mild weather.
  • Winter (November-March): Quieter with mild temperatures (around 15-20°C/59-68°F). While swimming may not be ideal, it's perfect for beach walks and enjoying seafood at the local restaurants. Many establishments remain open year-round.
  • Holy Week and Easter: A festive time with special events and increased visitor numbers.

Tips for Visitors

  • If visiting during summer months, consider arriving early to secure a good spot on the beach and find parking more easily.
  • Sunbed and parasol rentals typically cost around €5-€8 each, but prices can vary by season.
  • For a full experience, explore both the beachfront and the traditional streets behind it to discover the area's authentic charm.
  • Try the local culinary specialty, "pescaíto frito," at one of the traditional chiringuitos for a true taste of the region.
  • The walk along the entire promenade from La Carihuela to Los Álamos provides beautiful views and access to different beaches.
  • For people with disabilities, assisted bathing services are available by appointment at +34 674 335 971.
  • If driving, consider using the PARKIA parking facility to avoid the stress of finding street parking, especially in peak season.
  • Summer evenings on the promenade are particularly lively, with restaurants and bars filled with locals and tourists enjoying the cooler evening temperatures.