Millions of British tourists flock to Spain late in the year for balmy weather and beautiful beaches – with temperatures often still in the early 20s as the UK is busy wrapping up for winter.
In the province of Malaga, for example, not only is the weather currently a pleasant 21 to 23 degrees, but there’s Blue Flag beaches galore to enjoy.
The Blue Flag Certification, now applied at beaches in 52 countries, considers a range of factors from bathing-water quality to environmental management and safety.
There are 45 stretches of coastline which currently have the status in Málaga, higher than in any other province in Andalusia.
And with flight prices to Spain in November cheaper than for much of the rest of the year, there’s still time before Christmas to bag some winter sun.
Here’s our pick of the best Malaga beaches that have a Blue Flag flying…
Playa de la Caleta
Playa de la Caleta has everything from palm trees to 1,000m of sand
Close to Málaga’s bustling old quarter, La Caleta’s dark sand is popular with those wanting to escape the busyness of the city.
The beach is lined with palm trees that provide welcome shade, with the sands stretching 1,000m in length.
Visitors will find a selection of restaurants and beach bars in the local area, and in peak season there are sun loungers to hire.
Playa de la Malagueta
At Playa de la Malagueta visitors can enjoy a children’s play area and Spain’s oldest yacht club
Popular with locals and tourists alike, Playa de la Malagueta is one of the area’s most famous beaches.
It offers 1,200m of dark sand and is just ten minutes’ walk from Malaga’s centre. There is even a children’s play area, making it a perfect spot for families hoping to enjoy the sunshine together.
Spain’s oldest yacht club, Real Club Mediterráneo de Málaga, is nearby too.
Casablanca-Nagüeles
Casablanca-Nagüeles is lined with hotels and restaurants
If you’re looking for a touch of luxury as well as some sunshine, Casablanca-Nagüeles beach could be the place to go.
It is situated on Milla de Ora (Golden Mile) – known as one of the most exclusive stretches in Marbella, according to Malaga Council.
Think high-end restaurants, luxurious hotels and 1,600m of sand.
San Pedro de Alcántara
As one of the quietest beaches in the area, San Pedro de Alcántara is a peaceful spot for some early winter sun
For holidaymakers seeking a shore that offers peace and tranquility – San Pedro de Alcántara beach is a good choice.
Known as one of the quietest beaches in the area, it is located between Estepona and Marbella.
San Pedro de Alcántara boasts a life-size sculpture of an elephant walking along the sand and towards the sea, which makes for a good photo spot.
Calahonda Beach
Calahonda Beach is a lovely spot to spend an afternoon in the sunshine
Offering 4,400m of golden sand, Calahonda Beach can be found in the town of Mijas.
It’s a popular spot for scuba diving and fishing, and even has a free car park according to Visit Costa del Sol.
With crystal clear waters and moderate waves, it’s the perfect spot to visit for a sunny afternoon paddle.
Cala de Maro
Cala de Maro is described as a ‘hidden gem’ beach in the Acantilados del Mar nature reserve
Frequently described as one of the best beaches in Spain, Cala de Maro can be found in the Acantilados del Mar nature reserve.
With soft, golden sand across 500m, it’s described as a ‘hidden gem’ by Malaga council.
The beach has a ‘special wild charm’, say those who love it, with cliffs and farmland surrounding it.
Bajondillo Beach
Bajondillo Beach is a lively spot in Torremolinos that’s popular with locals and tourists
Over in Torremolinos, Bajondillo Beach is a dark sandy one kilometre-long spot with plenty of beach clubs, cafes and restaurants.
Popular with locals and tourists, it’s perfect for a November stroll along the shore before enjoying the lively promenade.
In the summer, there are pedal boats, kayaks and other water sports available to hire.
El Morche
El Morche offers 1,200m of fine dark sand to stroll along
Often popular during the peak season, El Morche is also bliss in November when the crowds disperse.
Its waves are usually gentle and with 1,200m of fine dark sand, there’s plenty of space for walking or beach games.
Benajarafe Beach
Benajarafe Beach guarantees access for people with disabilities
Benajarafe Beach is a cheery spot perfect for families.
It boasts traditional ‘chiringuitos’, traditional beach bar areas that have been transformed into playground spaces for children.
What’s more, the beach guarantees access for people with disabilities under its ‘Beach 2.0’ distinction.
Torre del Mar
Torre del Mar has a vibrant promenade with bars and restaurants galore
With 2,000m of dark sand, Torre del Mar won’t disappoint those looking for a spot to catch some sun.
The beach is backed by a vibrant promenade with bars and restaurants galore offering authentic local cuisine.
Aside from its Blue Flag status, Torre del Mar has also been awarded the Q quality by the Institute for Tourism Quality – which is given to beaches that provide a good service to tourism, according to Malaga council.
Algarrobo Costa
Algarrobo Costa’s pebble and dark sand shore is a good spot for an afternoon stroll in the winter sunshine
Algarrobo Costa, located in a town of the same name, is a pebble and dark sand Blue Flag beach.
At 800-metres long, it’s perfect for strolling along in the winter sunshine and recent developments in the local area, thanks to a boost in tourism, mean there are plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy too.
Fuente de la Salud
Fuente de la Salud regularly has artists along its shore who carve out impressive sculptures
Fuente de la Salud is often frequented by local street artists who carve out sculptures in its sandy shore.
The 150m-long beach is in the district of Benalmádena and has a sailing club as well as various water sports on offer.
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