Located in the center of Estepona, La Rada Beach is the most popular and widely used beach in the area. Backed by a beachfront promenade, numerous eateries, bars and shops are within a short walk of the sand. Stretching nearly two miles, the beach is known for its golden sand and moderate tide, which helped garner a Blue Flag designation from the European Commission. Because of its popularity and central location, La Rada teems with visitors from May until October, making it far busier than other beaches in the area.
Situated past the marina in Estepona, Playa del Cristo is a small beach curving around a secluded cove. At just over 2,000 feet long and 100 feet wide, it holds far fewer people than La Rada and is popular with sunbathers and families. A mix of sand and stone covers the waterfront, making it slightly less welcoming than other nearby beaches, but its secluded location and southwesterly-facing waterfront keep the temperature warm and ocean wind to a minimum. Two small beachfront bars and eateries stand nearby, and lifeguards monitor the water during the summer months.
Stretching over two miles, Punta de Plata is an extensive beach winding past residential and commercial areas of Estepona. Although some areas provide access to dining and drinks, much of the beach is secluded and undeveloped. During peak season, Punta de Plata sees an influx of local families but it is seldom crowded. No lifeguard service is offered.
El Padron Beach stands to the east of Estepona near the mouth of the Rio Padron. Stretching just over 3,000 feet, it is a relatively small beach covered in pebbles and gray sand. Popular with sunbathers, El Padron becomes crowded during the summer when the people of Estepona city flock to it to avoid the more popular urban beach of La Rada. Two bars serving food and drinks stand at the edge of the beach, but there is no lifeguard on duty.
Located just west of Estepona, Costa Natura is the only nudist beach in the area. Established in 1979, it was originally a private beach used by the adjacent Costa Natura naturalist village, but it is now open to the public. Covered in pebbles and gray sand, it enjoys a mild to moderate tidal surge with small surf. Popular with swimmers and sunbathers, Costa Natura stands near dining and bars as well as shopping.
