Nerja with Kids: The Best Family Activities and Days Out

Nerja has everything a family needs for a perfect holiday: beaches with calm waters, activities for all ages, playgrounds, and a dining scene where children are welcome. Here are the best plans.

Family-friendly beaches

Not all beaches in Nerja are equally suitable for children. These are the most recommended:

• Burriana — The best for families: sand, calm waters, lifeguard, beach bars with shade, toilets, and sunbed hire. There is also a small playground nearby.
• El Salón — Small and central, perfect if you are staying in the old town. Very little surf and easy access.
• Torrecilla — Spacious, with a promenade, ideal for walking with a pushchair.

Avoid taking young children to the coves along the acantilados de Maro (difficult access) and Alberquillas (rocky, no facilities).

Las Cuevas de Nerja

The Cuevas de Nerja will fascinate children: giant stalactites, the world's largest stalagmite, and a route that feels like an underground adventure. The temperature inside is a constant 19°C, so bring a light jacket. Children under 4 enter free.

Water activities

From age 6, children can enjoy:

• Guided snorkelling in Maro or Burriana — crystal-clear waters with colourful fish.
• Family kayaking — the Nerja-Maro route has shorter versions suitable for children.
• Boat trip — no physical effort required, perfect for younger children.

Playgrounds

Nerja has several playgrounds dotted around the town, ideal for afternoons when the children need to burn off some energy away from the beach. The most central one is next to the Plaza de España.

Family day trips

• Frigiliana — Just 6 km from Nerja, this whitewashed village is perfect for a morning stroll. There are artisan ice cream shops that the children will love.
• Acueducto del Águila — An impressive feat of 19th-century engineering, a quick and free visit.
• Río Chillár — The river route is great fun with children: you walk through the water, jump between rocks, and there are pools to cool off in. Only suitable for children aged 5–6 and above.

Where to eat with children

Nerja is very family-friendly. Most restaurants have high chairs and children's menus. Some favourites:

• Chiringuito de Ayo — Giant paella served outdoors, the children will have a wonderful time.
• Ice cream shops in the centre — There are several along the Balcón de Europa promenade, with artisan flavours.

Practical tips

• Bring water shoes for the rocky coves.
• SPF50+ sunscreen and a hat, always.
• The local bus connects the main beaches if you would rather not move the car.
• You can find on-duty pharmacies in our pharmacy guide.