When you think of the Costa del Sol, sunshine and sangria probably come to mind first. But look a little closer at that shimmering coastline, and you’ll find an endless list of water activities in Malaga that make this region one of the best for getting out on the Mediterranean.
Whether you fancy paddling along quiet coves, joining a boat trip, or trying something faster-paced, this coastline has it all. And to top it all off, most of it comes with warm weather, light winds, and calm waters!
Most popular water sports on the coast
Paddle surfing and kayaking
Two of the easiest ways to explore the coast are kayaking Costa del Sol and paddle surfing (SUP). Both are beginner-friendly and ideal for calm days. Nerja’s Burriana Beach and Maro’s cliffs are particularly scenic, with caves and crystal shallows that feel worlds away from the busier resort fronts. Paddleboards can be hired right from the beach, and guided tours often include time for swimming and photos beneath the cliffs.
Jet skiing and parasailing
If you prefer more speed, the water sports Costa del Sol scene is alive and well. Jet skis are available in all the main hubs — Fuengirola, Benalmádena, Torremolinos, Marbella — and offer the thrill of flying across the open sea with the mountains behind you.
Parasailing is another popular choice, especially around Fuengirola and Puerto Banús, where you can take in panoramic views while dangling from 100 metres above the water.
Diving and snorkelling
Malaga’s waters are surprisingly clear, particularly near the Maro-Cerro Gordo cliffs and around the protected marine areas west of Estepona. Dive schools across the region offer taster sessions, wreck dives, and guided snorkelling tours for those who want to see the quieter side of the Med.
Best areas and beaches to practise them
Nerja and Maro
On the eastern end of the coast, Nerja and neighbouring Maro offer some of the most dramatic scenery. The cliffs here create natural coves that are perfect for kayaking, snorkelling, and paddleboarding. You can even explore sea caves accessible only by water.
Marbella and Puerto Banús
Further west, Marbella is the hub for luxury boat trips Costa del Sol. From the marina, you’ll find everything from catamaran cruises to private yacht charters with champagne on deck. This part of the coast is also excellent for parasailing and jet skiing, especially in the calm waters around Puerto Banús.
Torrox and Torre del Mar
Torrox has one of the most relaxed stretches of coastline, great for families and first-time visitors. The beaches are broad, facilities are good, and the sea is calm enough for stand-up paddleboarding or pedalos. Nearby Torre del Mar offers a slightly livelier scene with water sports rentals and small-boat excursions.
Experiences by boat, kayak or paddle surf
Boat trips and catamaran cruises
There’s no shortage of boat trips Costa del Sol options. From short coastal cruises to full-day adventures, most depart from Malaga Port, Benalmádena Marina, Fuengirola Port, or Marbella. Many include dolphin watching, swimming stops, or onboard BBQs.
Kayak tours through sea caves
If you’d rather do the paddling yourself, join one of the kayak tours that run between Nerja and Maro. It’s one of the most photogenic stretches of the entire coastline. Tours often include time to swim beneath waterfalls or explore caves only reachable by sea.
Paddleboarding at sunset
SUP tours are now one of the most popular water activities Costa del Sol experiences. Glide along the shore as the sun dips behind the mountains, watching the light bounce off the waves. It’s peaceful, easy to learn, and a great way to end the day without needing an engine.
Activities for families and beginners
Not every family wants adrenaline, and that’s fine! The Costa del Sol caters just as well to beginners and kids. Most beaches have dedicated rental huts offering kayaks, paddleboards, and pedal boats. The calm shallows at Burriana, Torrox, and Carvajal (Fuengirola) are perfect for little ones. Some resorts even offer mini sailing lessons or snorkelling experiences in waist-deep water.
Water parks are another option. Aquavelis in Torre del Mar and Aqualand in Torremolinos are ideal for families looking for a full day of slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. If you’re based near Benalmádena, Selwo Marina combines sea life with small-scale dolphin and penguin exhibits — ideal for younger visitors.
Safety and sustainability tips
Staying safe on the water in Malaga is simple enough if you follow a few basics:
- Check local flags before swimming or heading out — conditions can change quickly, especially when offshore winds pick up.
- Use the right zones: kayaks and paddleboards should stay within marked areas, away from jet ski and boat channels.
- Wear a life jacket if you’re joining a guided tour or hiring equipment. Most rental companies will provide one as standard.
- Follow lifeguard guidance and avoid swimming after hours, particularly on the quieter stretches of coast.
And when it comes to sustainability, a few small choices go a long way:
- Avoid single-use plastics, especially on boat trips Costa del Sol.
- Choose eco-conscious operators who promote responsible wildlife viewing and reduce engine impact near marine life.
- Respect local habitats, particularly around the protected dolphin zones west of Malaga.
Conclusion and invitation to enjoy the sea in Malaga
Whether you’re exploring sea caves near Nerja, paddleboarding off Torrox, or joining a dolphin-spotting cruise near Benalmádena, there’s no shortage of water activities in Malaga to fill your itinerary. This stretch of coast offers variety without the chaos — calm water for families, action for thrill-seekers, and sunset views for everyone else.
When you’re ready to turn your plans into reality, At Home offers handpicked holiday rentals along the entire Costa del Sol, from seaside apartments to modern villas with sea views.
Book directly through their website to find your perfect base, and start exploring the Mediterranean one wave at a time.
