Nerja Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Beaches, Day Trips & Where to Stay
Nerja is one of southern Spain’s most underrated coastal gems. Located on the eastern edge of the Costa del Sol, this charming seaside town offers crystal-clear beaches, dramatic viewpoints, whitewashed streets, and easy access to some of Andalusia’s most beautiful day trips.
I had the pleasure of visiting Nerja recently and spent two weeks there during my travels. While it’s quieter than nearby cities like Málaga or Marbella, I really enjoyed the peacefulness of the town. It offered the perfect balance of slowing down and still having plenty to explore, from beaches and viewpoints to nearby day trips.
Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning a longer stay, this Nerja travel guide covers the best things to do, where to eat, day trips, nightlife, and the best hotels for every budget.
Why Visit Nerja, Spain?
Nerja blends the relaxed vibe of a beach town with authentic Andalusian charm. Unlike larger cities on the Costa del Sol, Nerja feels walkable, local, and scenic, yet still has plenty to do.
It’s perfect for:
- Solo travelers
- Couples
- Digital nomads
- Beach lovers
- Anyone wanting a quieter alternative to Málaga or Marbella
Must-Do Things in Nerja
+ Explore Nerja’s Beaches
Nerja is known for its coves and turquoise waters. Some of the best beaches include:
- Playa de Burriana – The most popular beach with restaurants, water sports, and sunbeds
- Playa Calahonda – Small and picturesque, right near the old town
- Playa El Salón – Great for swimming and sunsets
+ Visit Balcón de Europa
One of the most iconic viewpoints in southern Spain, Balcón de Europa offers sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s especially beautiful at sunset and a must-see during any Nerja visit.
+ Stroll Through Boutique Shops & Old Town
Nerja’s old town is filled with charming boutiques, souvenir shops, and local artisan stores. Wander the side streets near Balcón de Europa to discover handmade jewelry, ceramics, and beachwear.
Things to Do in Nerja (Beyond the Basics)
1. Kayaking Along the Cliffs
Kayaking in Nerja is one of the best ways to experience the coastline up close. You’ll paddle past dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear water that you simply can’t see from land. Many guided kayak tours also include stops for swimming or snorkeling, making this a great half-day adventure. Book one here.
Best for: first-time visitors, couples, and anyone wanting an active but relaxing experience.
2. Snorkeling & Sea Scooter Experiences
If you want to explore below the surface without scuba diving, snorkeling and sea scooter tours are a fun option. The water around Nerja is known for its clarity, especially on calm days, and sea scooters make it easy to glide through the water with minimal effort. I really liked this experience here.
Best for: beginners, families, or travelers who want something unique and easy.
3. Boat Trips Along the Costa del Sol
A boat trip is a must if you’re visiting Nerja. Options range from relaxed sightseeing cruises to small-group excursions that include swimming stops and drinks on board. Sunset boat tours are especially popular and perfect for photos. You can book one here.
Best for: couples, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a laid-back experience on the water.
4. Guided Paddleboarding (SUP)
Stand-up paddleboarding along the Nerja coast is another great way to enjoy the sea while staying active. Guided SUP tours are ideal if it’s your first time, as they often include safety tips and scenic routes along calmer parts of the coast.
5. Hiking Near Nerja & Frigiliana
For travelers who enjoy being outdoors, hiking near Nerja is underrated. Trails around Frigiliana offer panoramic views of the coast, white-washed villages, and surrounding mountains. Some guided hikes include local insights into the area’s history and culture.
Best for: active travelers, photographers, and anyone wanting a break from the beach.
Best Day Trips from Nerja
+ Nerja Caves (Cuevas de Nerja)
The Nerja Caves are one of the most impressive natural attractions in Andalusia. These massive caves feature enormous caverns, stalactites, and even host concerts inside. Check out my review here, and book here.
- Entry ticket: approx. €16.50, you can also book it with the train (round trip from the city center) which is about €20 – info here.
- You can visit by car or taxi.
- Tip: Visit early morning or close to closing time to avoid crowds
+ Frigiliana
Just 15 minutes from Nerja, Frigiliana is often called one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. With whitewashed houses, colorful flower pots, and cobblestone streets, it genuinely feels like a Greek island in southern Spain.
- Easy half-day trip
- Perfect for photos and lunch
- Can be reached by car, bus, or tour – we grabbed the bus at the main station, which costs €1.30 each way
+ Caminito del Rey (From Nerja)
If you’re looking for an unforgettable day trip from Nerja, Caminito del Rey is absolutely worth adding to your itinerary. Known as one of Spain’s most iconic hikes, this scenic walkway winds through dramatic gorges, cliffs, and suspended paths with breathtaking views the entire way.
Visiting Caminito del Rey from Nerja is easiest on a guided day trip, which includes transportation, entrance tickets, and a guide, so you don’t have to worry about logistics or securing timed entry on your own. The hike itself is manageable for most fitness levels and takes a few hours, making it a perfect full-day adventure.
This experience is ideal if you want to balance Nerja’s relaxed beach vibe with a more adventurous, bucket-list activity during your stay.
👉 You can check availability and book a guided Caminito del Rey day trip from Nerja here.
Where to Eat in Nerja
Tapas & Spanish Favorites
- El Pulguilla – A local favorite for classic Andalusian tapas and fresh seafood.
- La Puntilla – Known for traditional Spanish dishes and a lively local atmosphere.
- Mesón Jose y Victoria – Great for sharing plates and trying regional specialties.
Seafood with a View
- Ayo – Famous for paella and beachfront dining; casual and popular with both locals and visitors.
- La Barca – Solid seafood option near the beach, ideal for a relaxed lunch or early dinner.
Asian Food
- Yutaka Teppanyaki – A great option if you’re craving Asian flavors in Nerja.
Italian Restaurants
- Trattoria Italia – Cozy, authentic Italian food loved by locals.
- Portofino – Italian restaurant with sea views and great ambiance.
- Little Italy – Budget-friendly with dishes starting around €3–5.
Where to Go Out in Nerja
Tutti Frutti Area
If you’re looking for nightlife, head to the Tutti Frutti area. This zone is packed with bars and clubs where you can hop between venues, especially lively in summer.
Getting to Nerja & Getting Around
Airport Transfers
Nerja is about 1 hour from Málaga Airport (AGP).
For a smooth arrival, booking a private airport transfer is one of the easiest options, especially if you’re arriving late or with luggage.
👉 You can book my favorite airport transfer here – and use code NANCY for a discount!
Car Rentals
Renting a car is ideal if you plan on visiting Frigiliana, nearby beaches, or doing multiple day trips along the coast.
👉 You can book my favorite rental car brand here
Where to Stay in Nerja
Budget-Friendly Hotels
- Hostal Azahara – Located close to Carabeo Beach and Caletilla Beach, Hostal Azahara provides free continental breakfast, a terrace, and a coffee shop/cafe.
- Mb Hostels Premium “eco” – Industrial-chic rooms, centrally located and offers seaviews.
- La Puerta de Nerja Boutique Hostal – Modern, clean, offers a terrace, a hot tub, and more.
Mid-Range to Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Balcón de Europa – Stunning sea view, and a great location.
- Hotel Riu Monica – Centrally located, accomodating staff, offers a pool with sea views.
- Sibarys Boutique Hotel – A lovely boutique hotel with great amenities and modern rooms.
Home Swapping with Kindred (What I Personally Used)
For this stay in Nerja, I actually used Kindred home swapping for travelers, and it’s been one of the most convenient and affordable ways I’ve been able to travel as a full-time traveler.
Kindred allows you to swap homes with other members around the world, making it a great option if you’re traveling long-term or prefer staying in real homes rather than hotels. As someone who travels full-time, it’s been incredibly helpful for having comfortable, fully equipped places to stay without the high nightly costs of short-term rentals.
That said, it’s important to know that you do need to have your own home to list on the platform in order to join Kindred, it’s not a traditional booking site like Airbnb. But if you do, it can be an amazing way to travel more sustainably and affordably.
👉 I’ve written a full breakdown of how it works here.
✨ Tip: You can try Kindred using my code NAN.SEV when signing up.
Is Nerja Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Nerja offers the perfect mix of beaches, culture, food, and easy day trips, without the crowds of larger Costa del Sol destinations. Whether you’re stopping by for a weekend or staying longer, it’s a place that’s easy to fall in love with.
Planning Your Trip to Nerja?
Save this Nerja travel guide, bookmark it for later, and use the links above to book tours, transfers, and accommodations with ease.
