El Faro de Calaburras: lighthouse and hidden beaches
Between La Cala de Mijas and Fuengirola a rocky point juts into the sea, topped by a white lighthouse: El Faro de Calaburras. It is one of those spots most tourists drive straight past, when in fact it is quiet and lovely right here. We like coming for a walk by the sea and fresh fish at sunset.
The lighthouse
The Faro de Calaburras stands on the Punta de Calaburras, the southernmost tip of this coast, and has guarded the ships sailing the Costa del Sol since the nineteenth century. You cannot go inside the tower, but the path around it gives a wonderful view over the sea, and on clear days you can see far along the coast.
It is a lovely spot for a short stop, especially late in the afternoon when the light turns soft.
The beaches around it
Around the lighthouse lie a few smaller, quiet beaches and coves, a welcome change from the busier town beaches of Fuengirola. The water here is clear and the mood relaxed. Among the rocks you will find spots where you are almost alone.
Want to know more about where to lay your towel? See our guide to the beaches of Mijas.
Walking along the coast
The Senda Litoral, the coastal boardwalk, runs past El Faro and links it to the beaches of Fuengirola on one side and towards La Cala de Mijas on the other. It is a flat, easy walk with the sea always beside you.
Take it slowly, pause on a bench and watch the fishing boats come in. This is the Costa del Sol at its relaxed best.
Eating by the sea
At El Faro there are a few chiringuitos and fish restaurants where the day's catch lands on the table. Order the espeto de sardinas, sardines on a skewer grilled over charcoal, the most typical dish of this coast. With your feet almost in the sand and the sun sinking into the sea, it tastes better here than anywhere.
More beachside spots are in our guide to the chiringuitos of La Cala.
Where is El Faro de Calaburras?
El Faro de Calaburras is on the Punta de Calaburras, the rocky point between La Cala de Mijas and Fuengirola, right by the coast road. From La Cala you are there in a few minutes by car.
Can you visit the Calaburras lighthouse?
The lighthouse itself is not open to visitors, but the path around it is freely accessible and gives a lovely view over the sea and the coast.
Are the beaches at El Faro worth it?
Yes, around the lighthouse lie a few smaller, quiet beaches and coves with clear water, a nice change from the busier town beaches of Fuengirola.
Can you eat at El Faro de Calaburras?
Yes, there are a few chiringuitos and fish restaurants. Order the espeto de sardinas, sardines on a skewer grilled over charcoal, the signature dish of this coast.
Looking for a place to stay in Riviera del Sol? See the Coral Mijas Stay penthouse