They say that in the 1960s, 21 tower blocks changed tourism on the Costa del Sol for good, especially in Torremolinos. It was then that this Malaga neighbourhood became a tourist hotspot, and the most iconic image belongs to Playamar, the best known and most visited beach area even today.
- Context of the most famous beach in Torremolinos
- Services and features of a Blue Flag and eco-friendly beach
- Things to do in Playamar in and out of the water
- Beach bars and places to eat the best fish in Torremolinos
Context of the most famous beach in Torremolinos
This incredible stretch of sand, about two kilometres long, is the perfect place to enjoy the sea and the sun without feeling overwhelmed by crowds, even in summer. The water here, along its fine golden sand, is calm and shallow across most of the beach, which makes it ideal for families with young children too.
Playamar has been a symbol of tourism in Torremolinos ever since the famous 21 towers were built in the 1960s, skyscrapers that broke the traditional skyline of what was then a Malaga neighbourhood and drew in tourists from across Spain and abroad.
The imposing Playamar Towers were described as a prime example of relaxed architecture and even linked to modern Corbusianism, as they freed up space for shared use such as gardens and car parks.
One thing is clear: the balconies on these 15-storey buildings offer spectacular views. Many say they seem to rival the Sierra de Mijas in the background, but what they really did was create the most iconic image of the 1960s and turn Torremolinos into a place for fun and enjoyment.
Services and features of a Blue Flag and eco-friendly beach
Playamar is one of the best beaches in Torremolinos, both for the quality of its sand and its size, around two kilometres long. The Mediterranean is calmer and shallower along this part of the coast, which makes it a safe choice for younger swimmers.
Even though it’s one of the most popular beaches in summer, it never feels overcrowded, not even in peak season, and there’s still space to hang out with friends, play games or enjoy sports like beach volleyball.
Playamar is fully accessible for people with reduced mobility and easy to reach from the promenade. There are parasols and sun loungers for hire, public toilets and showers, as well as lifeguards on duty to make sure everyone can swim safely.
All of this means Playamar not only flies its traditional Blue Flag, a sign of the quality of its water and sand, but has also been recognised as an ‘eco beach’ for standing out in terms of sustainability, the environment and tourism.
Things to do in Playamar in and out of the water
Playamar is the perfect spot for just about any activity that involves sand and sea, as well as relaxing in the sun or cooling off with a dip.
There’s a dedicated area for beach volleyball and other ball games on the sand, and a children’s play area designed especially for the little ones.
If you’re after some water-based fun, you can rent jet skis and kayaks there to explore the coastline, whether by engine or paddle. Paddle surfers are a common sight at sunset, when the view is even more stunning, and you’ll also see windsurfers and jet-skiers making the most of the rental huts to enjoy their favourite sports.
For those who fancy a bit of cardio or just want to relax, the promenade is ideal for running, walking or other types of exercise without losing sight of the sea.
Beach bars and places to eat the best fish in Torremolinos
The promenade that runs alongside Playamar is full of bars and restaurants where you can have breakfast, lunch or dinner with a view of the Mediterranean. But this part of Torremolinos is also famous for its beach bars right on the sand, where they light the coals to grill the famous sardine skewers, a local delicacy on menus packed with fish and seafood.
Among the most popular are Los Manueles, which also serves delicious rice dishes and meat, and Restaurante José Cerdán, founded in 1972 and run by three generations who have mastered the secrets of seafood.
Another beach bar with history is Casa Paco Playa, open for over 50 years and known for its fresh fish dishes, rice and the most typical Malaga-style tapas.
