Want to enjoy Malaga with your feet in the water? You’re right, the capital of the Costa del Sol has plenty to tempt you with its many beaches. There aren’t many places where you can take a dip, but Region Lovers has a nose for them! After testing a few addresses, from luxurious downtown establishments to beachfront resorts, discover our selection of the best seaside hotels in Malaga.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Hotels by the sea in Malaga
Although Malaga is renowned for its beautiful beaches, the hotel offer by the sea remains limited, with mostly apartments or hotel complexes lacking character. For this reason, we advise you to opt for hotels in the city center, which have magnificent roof terraces with panoramic views over Malaga’s crystal-clear waters, rather than direct access to the sea. However, if you want to sleep close to the sea, we’ve found a few places to stay, including Torremolinos, a family-friendly seaside resort.
1. Gran Hotel Miramar (palace)
Why stay there?
If you’re looking for a memorable experience, we recommend the legendary Gran Hotel Miramar! Nestled in a listed 20th-century building, this palace is perfectly located, just a stone’s throw from the sea and close to the city center.
The height of luxury is to ask for a sea-view room (as we did!) to enjoy the spectacular view over the Bay of Malaga, its azure waters and palm trees.
We were pleasantly surprised by the refined details of the room, such as the Bulgari toiletries, the fresh flowers and the bed-making service before bedtime! Also noteworthy are the many luxurious amenities (exceptional pool, direct beach access, the Sisley Spa) the fabulous breakfast and, as a bonus, the friendliness of the staff.
Swimming pool and beach access
- Outdoor swimming pool with large adult lap pool and children’s paddling pool
- Two large solariums with sun loungers and parasols around the pool and another on the lawn
- Indoor pool with hydrotherapy facilities, Finnish sauna, steam room and sensory shower circuit
- Terrace and bar with panoramic view of the sea and Malagueta beach
Practical information
- Neighborhood: near Playa de Malagueta
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: The hotel has 3 restaurants (a gourmet, a buffet and a pool bar) and 2 bars (one on the rooftop and another in the magnificent lobby).
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: Full PRM access, Playground and children’s club service, Sisley Spa and beauty salon, gym, reception and meeting rooms, TV room, bike rental, valet parking and 24/7 concierge service.
- Parking: private on site (reservation required)
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
RENT A CAR IN Andalucia
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a compact car, as some villages have very narrow streets!
- Think ofcomprehensive insurance for the same reason
- Book early for choice.
2. Mac Puerto Marina (Benalmádena)
Why stay there?
If you’re looking for a hotel where you can relax, the Mac Puerto Marina Benalmádena is the place to be. Just a few steps from Fuente Salud beach, it is also located in the heart of Marina Benalmádena. Enjoy the beach waters during the day and dine in one of the harbor’s tasty restaurants in the evening.
Last but not least, the hotel’s many facilities, including several swimming pools, a programme of shows and a pretty patio offering pleasant breaks in the sun, will delight you if you prefer to stay in.
Swimming pool and beach access
- 2 outdoor pools, one of which is reserved for children, and an indoor pool
- 5-minute walk to Playa Fuente Salud
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Torremolinos, 30min from Malaga center
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes, buffet area, pool bar and lounge bar
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: fitness center, spa, billiards, bike rental
- Parking: private with charge
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
PLAN YOUR DREAM TRIP TO andalucia
All the information you need for your trip:
- 7 maps that make planning easier
- + 150 pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- 300+ photos to help you choose
3. Hotel Ocean House Costal del Sol (Torremolinos)
Why stay there?
Located on the seafront of Playa Sol Timor and the charming Benalmádena Marina, this hotel is ideal for a break from the hustle and bustle of Malaga.
This resort offers no less than five swimming pools, a gym, a yoga area and direct, private access to the beach. With plenty of entertainment and shows on offer every day, you won’t have time to get bored!
The little extra? Late-night dj sessions with sea views and an Adults-only area with access to a private rooftop featuring a pool, Balinese beds and an included refreshment service.
Swimming pool and beach access
- Direct access to Playa Sol Timor with a private area equipped with deckchairs and umbrellas
- 5 pools, including a paddling pool for the little ones
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Torremolinos, 30min from Malaga center
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes, a sheltered buffet area for various meals, a pool bar with DJ-set programming and another bar in the lobby.
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: gym, yoga area on lawn, PRM access and rooms, bike rental, vending machines, travel agency services.
- Parking: private with charge
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
4. Hotel Only YOU Málaga (view of Malaga harbor)
Why stay there?
Although it doesn’t have direct access to the beach, Only YOU Malaga deserves its place in our selection thanks to its ideal location! Located on the lively Avenida Alameda Principal, it’s just a 13-minute walk from the Playa de Malagueta and offers stunning harbor views. Beyond these surroundings, the refined decoration of the rooms, using noble materials, and the excellence of the service add to the luxury of the place.
Finally, note the exquisite breakfast, served in a room with a beautiful view of the city and surrounding mountains.
Swimming pool and panorama
- Small infinity pool with panoramic view of Malaga harbour
- Solarium with deckchairs
- Sky bar with late-night cocktail menu
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Soho, just off Paseo del Parque
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes, the Carmen restaurant on the first floor offers tapas, the Lola restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine on the rooftop and the sky bar offers cocktails in the evening.
- Family rooms: no
- Facilities: PRM access, gym, cot on request, pets allowed
- Parking: no, but you can opt for the Camas parking lot, which is a 7-minute walk away.
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
FUN in Andalucia: activities
- Cooking course in Sevilla
- Canyoning from the Costa del Sol
- Caminito del Rey guided hike
5. Hotel Soho Boutique Castillo de Santa Catalina
Why stay there?
If you’re looking for a peaceful haven away from the city, we recommend the Hotel Soho Boutique Castillo de Santa Catalina. Although we haven’t yet had the chance to test it, we found it simply exceptional. Nestled in the hills above Malaga, this 1932 building boasts historic charm and extensive gardens. Reserved for adults, it’s perfect for couples in search of peace and quiet. Special mention for breakfast, served on the panoramic terrace overlooking the sea! Located just a 15-minute walk from the Playa de Caleta, the hotel offers a true break from the hustle and bustle of Malaga’s urban life.
Swimming pool and panorama
- Panoramic view over the Bay of Malaga from the terrace
- Pool area with sun loungers
- Magnificent Andalusian terraced garden
Practical information
- Location: outside Malaga’s historic center, 950m from Playa de Caleta
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: no
- Facilities: swimming pool, concierge service for excursions, vegetarian options in restaurant
- Parking: free private parking on site
- Check photos and availability – book now!
Subscribe to our Newsletter
- Get away from it all with Region Lovers’ beautiful destinations!
- Once a month
- Advertising-free
Other seaside hotels in Malaga
Below is a list of seaside hotels. We haven’t had time to test them yet, but we’re putting them on our wish list:
- The Soho Boutique Las Vegas hotel (3 stars) opposite the Playa de la Malagueta.
- Hotel La Chancla (3 stars), one of the few hotels located directly on the seafront, on Playa de Pedregalejo.
- Hotel Sol Guadalmar (4 stars) offers direct access to Playa de Guadalmar.
- Hotel Vincci Selección Aleysa (5 stars) located in Benalmádena, opposite Playa de Santa Ana.
Special mention goes to the 4-star Hotel Parador de Malaga Golf , with its magnificent 18-hole historic golf course, huge swimming pool and direct access to the Playa del Campo del Golf.
Finally, we’d also like to list the hotels in the center of Málaga that offer a beautiful sea view, even if they don’t have access to the beach:
- Hotel Room Mate Valeria (harbor view): See prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro, which we find incredible for its 360°c view of the sea, port and city: See prices, photos and availability
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Andalusia
Inspiration
Practice
- Where to stay in Andalucia
- Best luxury hotels in Andalusia (coming soon)
- Best restaurants
- Rent a car in Andalucia
- Driving in Andalucia
- Itineraries: 3 days – 4 or 5 days – 1 week – 10 days – 2 weeks (coming soon)
