Family-Friendly Beaches in Northern andalucia
When most people think of Spanish beaches, they picture the crowded Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca. But along the northern Andalusia and Murcia border, you’ll find some of Spain’s most stunning stretches of coastline — and without the heavy tourist crowds. From wild coves to soft-sand family playas, this area is made for families who want space, sun, and a slower pace.
Here are some of the best family-friendly beaches to visit, plus handy tips on parking, food, and accessibility.
Mojácar Playa (Almería)
If you’re staying in the area with kids, Mojácar Playa is the easiest and most convenient choice. It stretches for several kilometres, so you’ll always find space, and it’s well-equipped with everything a family needs: lifeguards in summer, public toilets, beach bars (chiringuitos), playgrounds, and plenty of parking.
Best for: Young children, pushchair-friendly, first-time visitors.
Facilities: Restaurants, shops, shaded spots, lifeguards.
Why go: Safe, easy, affordable, and a great base for exploring other beaches. Sunbeds start from 7 Euros for the day!
Playa de los Cocederos (Águilas / Almería border)
One of the most unique beaches in the region, Los Cocederos is famous for its honeycomb-like rock formations. The cove is shallow, sheltered, and brilliant for kids who like rock-pooling or splashing in calm waters. It feels adventurous, but it’s still easy to access by car.
Best for: Kids who love exploring rock pools, families wanting a “wow” factor.
Facilities: Parking close by, a few seasonal food huts.
Why go: A natural playground and one of the most photographed beaches in Almería.
Playa del Monsul (Cabo de Gata)
Cabo de Gata’s most iconic beach — you may even recognise it from films like Indiana Jones. Wide and sandy with shallow waters, it’s ideal for a beach day with older kids. There are no shops or cafés, so bring a picnic, plenty of water, and shade.
Best for: Families who don’t mind packing supplies.
Facilities: Car park (paid in peak summer), no shops nearby.
Why go: Wild, unspoilt, and great for families who enjoy nature.
Playa de los Genoveses (Cabo de Gata)
Another gem in the national park, Genoveses is a long, wide beach framed by dunes and volcanic hills. The water is calm and shallow, making it safe for children, but like Monsul, it has no built-up facilities.
Best for: Picnics, running around, paddling.
Facilities: Parking, but no shops or toilets.
Why go: A truly unspoilt “desert beach” that feels worlds away from busy resorts.
Playa de las Delicias (Águilas, Murcia)
On the Murcia side, Águilas has several family-friendly beaches. Playa de las Delicias is one of the best, with calm waters, lifeguards, and a promenade lined with cafés and ice-cream shops. It’s also overlooked by Águilas Castle — perfect for a little sightseeing after the beach.
Best for: Families who like facilities nearby.
Facilities: Toilets, lifeguards, promenade cafés.
Why go: Easy beach day with a mix of history and seaside fun.
Vera Playa (Almería)
Vera is famous for its naturist zone, but don’t let that put you off — most of the beach is family-friendly and excellent for children, with shallow waters and good facilities. It’s popular with locals and has plenty of nearby restaurants and shops.
Best for: Families wanting a busier beach with lots of facilities.
Facilities: Toilets, showers, lifeguards, beach bars.
Why go: Spacious and reliable, with calm waters.
Insider Tips for Families
Parking: Most beaches here have car parks, but in peak summer they fill up quickly. Get there early, especially in Cabo de Gata.
Shade: Many beaches don’t have natural shade. Pack a parasol or beach tent.
Food: Mojácar and Águilas beaches have plenty of restaurants, but Cabo de Gata beaches require a picnic.
Prams: Mojácar Playa is accessible, but Cabo de Gata’s sand dunes and tracks make pushchairs tricky — a baby carrier is easier.
Timing: Afternoons can get hot, so mornings or early evenings are best with little ones.
The northern Andalusia and Murcia coastline is a dream for families — safe, clean, and full of variety. Whether you want the convenience of Mojácar Playa, the dramatic scenery of Cabo de Gata, or the culture-meets-coast charm of Águilas, you’ll find a beach that suits your style.
And the best part? You won’t be fighting for sunbeds or paying tourist-resort prices. Just golden sand, sparkling sea, and time well spent together.
