The Costa del Sol has no shortage of seaside spots, but Torrox beaches are often overlooked in favour of their glitzier neighbours. That’s a mistake. This stretch of coastline offers a straightforward, unfussy holiday experience with plenty of sunshine (Torrox famously claims the “best climate in Europe”), good facilities, and a mix of beach types that suit different tastes. Whether you’re the sort of traveller who wants to sprawl on soft sand, dip into calmer waters with the kids, or take your dog for a proper seaside run, the Torrox coast has an answer.
Overview of Torrox beaches
Torrox sits between Nerja and Vélez-Málaga, giving it a prime position for beachgoers who prefer a slightly quieter base. The town is split into Torrox Pueblo inland and Torrox Costa by the sea, so you’ll find the beaches clustered along the latter.
The main beach is Playa Ferrara (also known as Playa de Las Lindes), a Blue Flag beach with a long promenade lined with cafés, bars, and apartments. It’s broad, accessible, and rarely feels overcrowded thanks to its size. To the east, Playa Mazagarrobo-El Peñoncillo is a 1.4 km stretch of beach. It’s usually less crowded but still has clusters of chiringuitos (beach restaurants) where you can tuck into espetos (sardines grilled on skewers).
Head further west and you’ll come across Playa Cenicero, family-friendly and easy to access. If you want something quieter still, there are a handful of hidden coves near El Morche that are popular with locals who prefer a low-key day by the sea. Together, these make up a compact but varied stretch of coastline that appeals to a wide range of holidaymakers.
Sandy or pebbly? What to expect
One of the most common questions visitors ask is: “Torrox beach: sand or pebbles?” The answer is, frustratingly, both. Playa Ferrara, El Peñoncillo, and Cenicero are predominantly sandy, with some shingle and pebbles closer to the shoreline. As such, they’re all solid options for those who don’t want to spend half the day adjusting towels to get comfy. That said, you might need some booties for getting into the sea.
The smaller coves around the area can lean more heavily towards pebbles. The good news is that none of the beaches here are too difficult underfoot. If you’ve got children, stick to the sandier stretches. If you’re after a bit more peace and don’t mind sturdier terrain, the pebbly ones usually see fewer crowds (and clearer water for snorkelling).
Dog-friendly beaches
For those travelling with four-legged companions, Torrox dog beach is a useful find. Located just east of the Torrox Lighthouse between Playa Ferrara and Playa del Peñoncillo, this designated dog-friendly section is perfect for letting your pets run freely and splash about in the water. It’s not as polished as the main tourist beaches, but it does the job if you want your dog to enjoy the seaside too.
This dog-friendly stretch is accessible year-round, though you’ll need to keep an eye on signage about leash rules and restricted zones. It’s a handy option for families or couples who don’t want to leave their pets behind.
Facilities and accessibility
For practical travellers, this is where Torrox beaches stand out. Playa Ferrara has everything you’d expect of a Blue Flag beach: lifeguards in summer, showers, toilets, sunbeds, parasols, and a well-kept promenade. Accessibility is taken seriously, with ramps and walkways available for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
El Peñoncillo is less central but well supported by chiringuitos, making it easy to spend a whole afternoon without leaving the shoreline. Cenicero is less commercial but still has seasonal lifeguards, bins, and nearby parking.
For those with reduced mobility, Ferrara is the safest bet. It’s wide, flat, and easy to navigate. Some of the coves near El Morche are trickier to reach, but they reward the effort with fewer people and quieter surroundings.
Best beaches for families
If you’re visiting with children, you’ll want calm waters, easy access, and facilities close to hand. Playa Ferrara ticks all those boxes. Its sandy surface is comfortable for play, the sea here is relatively gentle compared to rockier parts of the Torrox coast, and the promenade means ice creams are never far away.
Playa Cenicero is another good option. It’s not quite as large, but it has a relaxed atmosphere and shallow entry points to the water, which makes it less intimidating for younger swimmers. Families staying in the El Morche area often favour this beach for its quieter vibe while still enjoying safe conditions.
El Peñoncillo is worth a look if you want a meal on the sand, but it’s more pebbly by the shoreline, so not ideal for toddlers. That said, older children who aren’t fussed about building sandcastles may enjoy it, especially when the chiringuitos fire up their barbecues.
Which beach is best for your visit
So, which is the best beach in Torrox? It depends entirely on what you’re after. Playa Ferrara is the all-rounder: sandy, spacious, and full of facilities. Cenicero works well for families wanting somewhere a bit smaller but still safe. El Peñoncillo has great food options right on the sand. And if you’re bringing your pet, the designated section of Torrox dog beach is the obvious choice.
The beauty of this area is that you don’t have to commit to just one. The beaches are close together, so you can try a different spot every day of your stay.
If you’re planning a trip to this part of the Costa del Sol, At Home offers a range of accommodation options right by the sea. From modern apartments with terraces to larger holiday homes suited to families, you’ll find a base that puts you within easy reach of Torrox beaches.
Book with At Home and you’ll have the comfort of a place that feels like your own while being perfectly placed to enjoy the best of the Andalusian coast.
