Playa de La Herradura
4.3 / 5 Horseshoe bay of grey pebbles below green hills in La Herradura, Granada
Photo: Zangarreon, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
La Herradura is a horseshoe-shaped bay of grey pebbles and coarse sand on the Costa Tropical of Granada, with steep green hills behind and clear blue water. It is a quiet, local resort with a small marina and good diving nearby.
Practical info for Playa de La Herradura
| Access | Easy to reach from La Herradura, on foot or by short drive. |
|---|---|
| Car parking | Free parking along the seafront; paid in the marina. |
| Sunbeds & umbrellas | Beach bars, sunbeds, showers and diving centres in season. |
| Food & drink | Cafes, bars or restaurants are close by. |
| Good to know | Walk to the headland of Cerro Gordo for coves and clear water. |
Last verified: October 2026. Compiled from official tourism pages, visitor guides and recent reports. Prices, fees and rules change by season, so confirm locally before you go.
Planning your visit to Playa de La Herradura
Pebble beaches usually mean clear water but awkward walking. Bring water shoes and a thick towel or mat to sit on.
Access is rated easy, so most visitors can reach the beach without a long walk or special equipment.
The usual season runs June–September. Visiting near the start or end of that window usually means fewer people, but the sea is cooler and some facilities may not be open yet or may have closed for the year.
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Featured in: Best Pebble Beaches in Spain · Beach finder
View Playa de La Herradura on the map · Compare with all beaches
Best months to visit Playa de La Herradura
The swimming season here runs from June to September. July, August are the warmest and busiest, with the sea around 22 °C, so arrive early for parking and a good spot. June and September are quieter and cooler: good for walking and photos, though some beach bars and lifeguard posts may not be open yet or may already have closed for the year.
Who Playa de La Herradura suits
Pebbles and clear water suit swimmers and snorkellers; bring water shoes for an easier entry. Easy access makes it practical for families, older visitors and anyone with a pushchair. Food and drink close by make it easy to stay for the whole day.
Getting there and nearby
Free parking along the seafront; paid in the marina. The beach sits at about 36.737, -3.731 on the map, so use the map link above for directions. If you are planning a day around it, the closest other beaches on our list are Playa San Cristobal, Almunecar (4 km), Playa Burriana (12 km), Playa de Calahonda (13 km).
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Playa de La Herradura?
Playa de La Herradura is best visited June to September. The sea is typically around 22 °C in season. Walk to the headland of Cerro Gordo for coves and clear water.
How do I get to Playa de La Herradura?
Access is rated easy. Free parking along the seafront; paid in the marina.
What facilities does Playa de La Herradura have?
Beach bars, sunbeds, showers and diving centres in season.
Where is Playa de La Herradura?
Playa de La Herradura is in La Herradura, Granada (approx. coordinates 36.737, -3.731).
Is Playa de La Herradura good for children?
Access is rated easy, so check that it suits young children before you go. Our family guide lists easier options.
What should I bring to Playa de La Herradura?
Facilities: Beach bars, sunbeds, showers and diving centres in season. Water shoes help on the pebbles. Bring water and snacks if there is no kiosk or restaurant.
Is there parking at Playa de La Herradura?
Free parking along the seafront; paid in the marina. Fees and rules change, so confirm locally.
Are there sunbeds at Playa de La Herradura?
Beach bars, sunbeds, showers and diving centres in season. Prices are approximate and change by season.
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Beaches near Playa de La Herradura
Playa San Cristobal, Almunecar
Almunecar, Costa Tropical · 4.2 / 5 · 4 km away
Playa Burriana
Nerja, Costa del Sol, Andalusia · 4.4 / 5 · 12 km away
Playa de Calahonda
Nerja, Costa del Sol, Andalusia · 4.2 / 5 · 13 km away
Playa de la Carihuela
Torremolinos, Costa del Sol · 4.2 / 5 · 71 km away
Playa de Cabopino
Marbella, Costa del Sol · 4.4 / 5 · 94 km away
Playa de la Rada, Estepona
Estepona, Costa del Sol · 4.3 / 5 · 131 km awayBrowse all beaches in Spain or compare every beach.
Scores are editorial ratings from the EuroShores team. Last updated 2026-10-21.