Day Trip to Nerja from Malaga: Beaches, Caves, and Views

We used to go to Nerja to park our butts at Playa Burriana and enjoy a different beach. Now that we've bought a car, we've discovered that there's so much more to enjoy from day trips to Nerja from Malaga.

As it turns out, Nerja doesn't just deserve a day. But a day is enough to see the highlights.

Just an hour from Malaga, this laid-back town blends cliffside beaches with no less than four waterfalls, epic sea views, and underground wonders (yes, literal caves) into a one-day trip that doesn't feel rushed. If you've got time for a beach towel and a bocadillo, you've got time for Nerja.

Here's how to make that day count.

P.S. Nerja is just one of 10 amazing day trips from Malaga that we recommend, in case you're still looking at options.

Quick Overview: Why You'll Love a Nerja Day Trip

• Cuevas de Nerja: One of Spain's most famous cave systems, with the world's largest stalactite
• Balcon de Europa: A lookout that delivers 180º views over the Mediterranean
• Beaches to fit your vibe: From buzzing Playa Burriana to hidden coves like Playa Carabeillo
• Frigiliana: An optional side-trip to the prettiest whitewashed village we've ever wandered

You don't need a car, a plan, or a lot of time: just a beach towel and a few euros.

Map of Our Favourite Attractions in Nerja

Don't worry if the Spanish names don't make sense; we will cover them all in this post.

How to Get to Nerja from Malaga

By Bus – Easiest on a Budget

The Alsa bus runs frequently between Malaga and Nerja.

You'll hop on at Malaga's main station and land in the centre of Nerja in under an hour and a half for around €5. Pro tip: book ahead online if you're going during peak season.

By Car – For the Scenic Route

Take the A7 east out of Malaga, about 50 km of coast-hugging highway. It's a smooth drive under an hour. Nerja's old town is car-free, so we recommend parking at any of these spots:

• Plaza de España (paid)
• Parque Verano Azul (paid)
• Los Huertos (private, central)
• Calle del Ingenio (free, 15-min walk)

Finding parking can be pretty annoying in Nerja, thanks to its popularity.

Here's a map of all the parking in Nerja. If this doesn't help, we recommend heading away from the beach a little to try to find a spot.

By Taxi – Best for Small Groups

Taxis or Uber from Malaga cost €70–€80 one way. Best if you're travelling with friends or want door-to-door ease.

Guided Tours – Zero-Hassle Option

Viator and GetYourGuide offer full-day trips that include Nerja, Frigiliana, and the caves. We met several travellers who went this route and loved not worrying about cave tickets or bus schedules.

Bonus Option: Getting to Nerja from Granada

You can also make Nerja a day trip from Granada, as it's about 100 km away.

• Self-drive: A44 to A7, 1 hour
• Alsa bus: Runs every 4 hours, ~€12
• Tours: Some guided trips include Nerja + Frigiliana + caves from Granada

What to Do in Nerja in One Day

We managed to hit the town's highlights without rushing, and still left with a list for next time.

Cuevas de Nerja – The Underworld Spectacle

We're cave people.

Not in the Neanderthal sense (though they did live here), but we've got a thing for underground wonders. We used to go hiking and stay overnight in Caves back in our home country, South Africa, all the time. And these caves? Mind-blowing.

Discovered by teenagers in 1959, the Cuevas de Nerja stretch 5 km, but only a third of it is open to visitors. The highlight? A 105-foot stalactite, the largest in the world, looms in the Hall of the Cataclysm.

Nerja's Old Town – Whitewashed Wandering

After the caves, we wandered into Nerja's heart: ceramic tiles, quiet plazas, souvenir shops, and cobbled alleyways.

It's always fun meandering through the hearts of these old cities. They're perfect for taking a break and enjoying gelato, churros, or a quick bite to eat. Our favourite is Pitufo with olive oil.

Balcón de Europa – Mediterranean Eye Candy

Once a military fort, now Nerja's most beloved viewpoint, the Balcón de Europa offers panoramic views of the coastline.

On one side, Playa Calahonda, on the other, Playa la Caletilla. King Alfonso XII's statue also stands here. He dubbed this spot the "Balcony of Europe" after visiting it in 1884 during an earthquake.

Pick Your Beach

You've got a dozen beaches to choose from. These are our top three:

• Playa Burriana – Largest, busiest, loaded with restaurants and water sports
• Playa Calahonda – Smaller, scenic, near the Balcon
• Playa Carabeillo – Secluded, low-key, perfect for quiet lounging

What to bring: Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and grippy flip-flops.

We recommend Playa Buriana.

It's touristy, but the beach is beautiful, there are tons of restaurants and stores, and you can easily swim along the coast to see at least one waterfall. And if you're brave, look for a rope hanging from one of the cliffs. Climb up, and jump down if you dare.

El Salvador Church – A Glimpse into Nerja's Past

Right near the Balcón stands Iglesia El Salvador, built in the 1600s with influences of both Baroque and Moorish styles. There's a centuries-old pine tree outside, and inside, a bronze Christ and murals of archangels.

Optional Adventures (If You've Got Time)

Kayak or Snorkel the Cliffs of Maro

Paddle past sea caves and waterfalls on a guided kayak tour from Playa Burriana. Several include snorkelling at hidden coves.

Book early because slots fill up in summer. Best done early morning when the sea is calmest.

Buggy Tour into the Countryside

These off-road tours take you beyond Nerja, past rivers, into olive groves, and to spots most tourists miss. A fun, muddy way to see the area's rugged side.

Walk to the Sugar Mill Ruins & Eagle Aqueduct

From Nerja, walk toward Barranco de Maro to see the remnants of old sugar mills.

Along the way, you'll pass the Acueducto del Águila, a 19th-century brick aqueduct built in Mudejar style. Still functioning today, it's one of the best-kept secrets in the region.

Bonus Stop: Frigiliana – A White Village You Can't Miss

Frigiliana is 15 minutes up the hill and worth every second.

Blue pots, white walls, cobbled lanes, and beautiful views. This is a "Pueblo Blanco" at its prettiest.

We explored all of Frigiliana, including the Mudejar district, followed a trail of historic plaques, and sat on a terrace sipping café con leche and taking in a valley view.

Getting there:

• Local bus from Nerja (~€1.60)
• Taxi (~€10)
• Walk (about 45–60 mins with elevation gain)

Where to Eat in Nerja (and What to Order)

You can expect the typical Spanish fare when visiting Nerja, although there does seem to be a lot more fish on the menu in this town than in most.

Chiringuitos (beach bars) are your best bet along Playa Burriana and Playa Torrecilla.

However, there are many interesting restaurants scattered throughout the city and up the hill. Our favourite thing to do is to forget recommendations and go walking until we see something we like.

Top bites to try if you're new to Spain:

• Grilled sardines (espeto de sardinas)
• Boquerones al limon
• Seafood paella
• Churros con chocolate for a snack

Yes, Nerja is absolutely worth visiting for a day. It offers a perfect mix of scenic coastline, cultural attractions, and unique natural landmarks like the Cuevas de Nerja, all within walking distance.

Yes, you can visit both Nerja and Frigiliana in a single day. Frigiliana is only 15 minutes from Nerja, making it an easy addition to your day trip itinerary if you plan your time wisely.

Yes, the Nerja caves are suitable for both kids and elderly visitors. The pathways are well-maintained, but there are stairs and some uneven ground, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Final Thoughts: Is Nerja Worth a Day Trip From Malaga

There are day trips that feel like pit stops, and there are day trips that reset your soul. Nerja falls firmly in the latter.

We came for the beaches.

We stayed for the caves. And somewhere between a plate of sardines and a stroll through Frigiliana, we realised we were smiling for no reason. That's what a good travel day does to you.

Let us know if Nerja made it onto your Spain list, or check out our Malaga travel guide for more Costa del Sol escapes.

If you enjoyed this content, consider exploring our day trip to Frigiliana.