10 Best Malaga Surf Spots for 2026 + Top Nearby Surf Schools
I still get that flutter in my stomach thinking about the first time I paddled out in Malaga, back in the hazy summer of 2015. The Costa del Sol buzzed with salty air from beach chiringuitos grilling sardines, Vespas humming along palm-lined streets, and waves promising adventure without Atlantic ferocity. Malaga may not rival Tarifa or Mundaka, but its charm lies in consistent, forgiving swells year-round. The Malaga surf forecast winter 2026 looks promising, with Portuguese lows delivering 4-8 foot waves from December to March under steady offshore winds.
I've chased waves from Malaga city's urban grit to Marbella's glitz, sharing stories with local fishermen and watching families master their first pop-ups. The best surf spots in Malaga 2026 are evolving: fewer midweek crowds, eco-boards at rentals, and Malaga surfing holidays packages 2026 blending lessons, stays, and yoga. From beginner surf spots Malaga Spain to advanced surf spots Costa del Sol Malaga, plus top surf schools near Malaga beaches with multilingual instructors and fresh gear—it's all here.
The Best Beaches for Surfing Malaga: Top 10 Picks
These spots stem from dawn patrols and sunburnt afternoons. I've included nearby schools, as learning from wave-shaping locals adds the magic. Starting close to the airport—because who wants jet lag before suiting up?
1. Playa del Guadalhorce: Ideal Beginner Haven
Just west of Malaga city near the airport, this wide sandy beach at the river mouth stretches over a kilometer, backed by dunes and a bird sanctuary. Mellow beachbreaks hit 3-5 feet on southwest swells—perfect for longboarders or building confidence. Uncrowded even weekends, with free parking along the N-340. Water around 18°C; watch outgoing tides and jellyfish (rash guard essential). Winter 2026 promises cleaner lines from 10-second swells. Pro tip: it hooked me on my first visit; olive groves uphill release earthy scents after rain.
Nearby School: Malaga Surf Club (Paseo Marítimo El Pedregal s/n, 29017 Málaga). Open 9am-7pm (6pm off-season). Malaga surf lessons for beginners 2026 from €35/hour groups; video analysis included. Family camps with SUP for non-surfers—true family friendly surf schools Malaga. Instructors like Pablo break down the pop-up like poetry.
2. Pedregalejo Beach: Punchy A-Frames for Progression
Narrower with pebbly patches and colorful fishing boats, this spot delivers knee-to-head-high waves over rocky bottom. Sunset sessions glow against Sierra Nevada peaks; grab calamari at the chiringuito. Paseo Marítimo Pedro de Mena, 29016 Málaga—walkable, parking on promenade. Crowds pick up in summer, but locals share waves with a nod. Prime beginner surf spots Malaga Spain.
Nearby School: Malaga Surf Club base (Paseo Marítimo El Pedregal 23, 29017 Málaga). Rentals €15/day, small groups (6:1). Family packages €250/3 days with BBQs. GoPro replays turn wipeouts into laughs.
3. El Palo Beach: Gritty Wedgy Rights
East of the port, this urban stretch offers 4-foot peelers over sandbars on northwest winds. Cliff walks, street art, and pine scents mix with sea spray. Avenida Juan Sebastián Elcano; bus 11 access. Forgiving for intermediates, urchin watch on low tide—a hidden surf gem near Malaga. Grin onshore amid picnickers.
4. Torre del Mar: Postcard Beachbreaks
20-min drive east, vast bay with rolling waves best mid-high tide off the pier. Glassy 6-footers in winter fog; cafes line the promenade. Paseo Marítimo Torre del Mar, 29740 Vélez-Málaga. 2026 levante winds forecast ideal. Fog lifts to reveal herons fishing shallows.
Nearby School: Torre del Mar Surf School (Paseo Marítimo 40, 29740 Vélez-Málaga). 9:30am-8pm; €40/2hrs groups. Family weeks €300/4 pax with yoga. Instructors like Maria demo airs effortlessly.
5. Los Álamos Beach, Torremolinos: Sandy Soul Surfing
Sandiest spot with dunes, mushing south swells for longboarding. Jasmine and dolphin sightings add magic. Urbanización Los Álamos; train nearby. Mornings underrated—link 10 turns in bliss.
6. Los Boliches, Fuengirola: Consistent Harbor Rights
Head-high bombs off the wall; speed lines for advanced. Paseo Marítimo Rey de España, 29640 Fuengirola. Ice cream vendors cheer wipeouts. Stack hilariously on riptides.
Nearby School: Surfing Fuengirola (Paseo Marítimo Rey de España). Beginner focus, €35/group.
7. La Cala de Mijas: Sheltered Cove Peaks
Crystal waters in cliffs; sunrise yoga vibes. Paseo Marítimo La Cala de Mijas, 29649 Mijas. Beach bar coffees post-surf. Cliffs echo your whoops.
8. Cabopino Beach, Marbella: Powerful Dunes Break
Dunes, nudist section, rights/lefts over sandbars. Avenida de las Dunas, 29604 Marbella (€3 park). Advanced surf spots Costa del Sol Malaga pinnacle. Pull into spinners amid pine paths.
Nearby School: Oasis Surf Marbella (Calle de la Burbuja, Sitio de Calahonda, 29604 Marbella). €45/2hrs; packages €600/5 days all-in.
9. El Ancón, Sitio de Calahonda: Rocky Pointbreak Challenge
Fast walls, less crowded. Urbanización Calahonda, Mijas Costa. Commitment required.
Why Choose Malaga Surf Schools & Holidays in 2026?
Malaga's family friendly surf schools Malaga and pros offer pristine gear, small groups, and packages. Book early for winter swells—community fires and local tips seal the stoke. From groms to chargers, pack booties and paddle out. Updated for 2026 forecasts & packages. Always check local conditions.
