Playa Burriana is Nerja's longest and busiest beach, about 800 metres of fine sand mixed with gravel, a kilometre east of the town centre. Chiringuitos back onto the sand, grilling sardines and stirring big pans of paella, and kayak and paddleboard rentals sit along the same stretch. Lifeguards, playgrounds and showers make it easy with children, and it holds a Blue Flag. Take a sunbed, eat lunch with the sea in front of you, then paddle out along the coast towards the coves and the Maro waterfall.
Sand, gravel and the length of the beach
Playa Burriana lies east of Nerja town, about a kilometre from the centre. It runs for roughly 800 metres and is around 40 metres wide, which is why it keeps its space even when the town is full. The surface is a mix of fine sand and small pebbles. Some stretches feel more like sand, others more like shingle, and the sea floor changes along the shore too, with stones going into the water in places.
Conditions shift from week to week. Big waves can bring rocks up the slope, and a calmer week leaves more sand. Nerja has ten beaches in all, and Burriana is one of two that have kept a Blue Flag in recent years. If it is too crowded, a walk along the cliff leads to Playa Calahonda on the other side.
Outside summer the beach is quieter. In winter the mild weather suits long walks along the shore, shell hunting and photographs of the waves.
Eating along the sea front
Restaurants, tapas bars and chiringuitos line the back of the beach. Several cook over charcoal, and the local seafood comes off the grill with the sea in view. The dish to know is espeto de sardinas, grilled sardines, which suits a beach lunch. Shellfish barbecues are common too, and lunchtime paella is a big event here, often served in generous portions.
Chiringuito de Ayo, at the far end of the beach road, is known for its paella and has a link to a Spanish television series from the 1980s. Another open-air place right on the sand cooks paella over an open fire, and its staff are known to give a free second helping if you finish your plate. If you want something from home, the Black Horse serves an English steak and kidney pie with a pint of lager.
For coffee and baking, Nybakat is a family-run bakery and cafe just off the beach. It is known for sourdough bread, cinnamon rolls and princess cake, with vegan and gluten-free choices and a sunny terrace.
On the water
Burriana is the main place in Nerja to hire water gear. Kayaks, paddleboards, paddle boats, banana boats, jet skis and speed sofas are all available, and the shops along the promenade also sell snorkels and towels. The water is clear enough for snorkelling.
The longer outing is by kayak or paddleboard along the coast. The route passes coves, caves, narrow gorges and small beaches that can only be reached from the sea, and kayaks can go as far as the Maro waterfall. If you would rather not go out alone, guided tours leave from the same beach.
Facilities and getting here
The beach has lifeguards, public showers and toilets, a volleyball court, playgrounds, picnic tables and barbecue grills. Dogs are allowed, and the entrance, seating and parking lot are wheelchair accessible. Chiringuitos and the promenade bars and shops mean you can stay all day without leaving.
From the Balcón de Europa it is a walk of about 15 to 20 minutes, past views of Nerja's colourful buildings. Driving, you can use the free lot, free street parking, or the paid lot and paid street spaces. The beach is open at all hours, and some people come at dawn to watch the sunrise before anyone else arrives.
FAQ
Is Playa Burriana sand or pebbles?
Both. It is a mix of fine sand and small pebbles, and some stretches have more of one than the other. The sea floor also has stones in places.
How far is Playa Burriana from Nerja centre?
It is about 1 km from the centre. The walk from the Balcón de Europa takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
Is there parking at Playa Burriana?
Yes. There is a free lot, a paid lot, and free and paid street parking. Free spaces fill quickly in summer, so arrive early.
Can you rent sunbeds and water sports equipment?
Yes. Sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented on the sand, and kayaks, paddleboards, paddle boats, banana boats and jet skis are available. In summer, book a sunbed early.
Is Playa Burriana good for families?
Yes. It has lifeguards, playgrounds, showers, toilets and beach restaurants with child-friendly meals.
What should you eat at Playa Burriana?
Try espeto de sardinas, grilled sardines, or the lunchtime paella at one of the chiringuitos. Grilled shellfish and local seafood are also common.
