Things to do in Motril are plentiful for visitors looking to combine sunshine, beaches, culture and fantastic local food. Nestled in the heart of Granada’s Costa Tropical, this charming Andalusian town is perfect for a weekend break or a longer holiday. Its authentic atmosphere and superb location make it an ideal base for exploring both the Costa Tropical and the wider Andalusia region.
Set between the Mediterranean Sea and the Sierra Nevada mountains, and just an hour from Granada, Motril offers peaceful beaches, delicious local cuisine and easy access to some of Andalusia’s most beautiful hidden gems.
Whether you’re visiting as a couple, with family or with friends, this guide will show you the best things to do in Motril, top nearby excursions and practical tips to help you make the most of your stay.
Discover Motril’s Historic Town Centre
Beyond its beaches, Motril’s historic centre is perfect for a leisurely stroll, where you can soak up its rich history and local charm.
Iglesia Mayor de la Encarnación
Built in the 16th century on the site of a former mosque, this is the town’s main church. Its blend of Gothic, Mudejar and Renaissance styles is striking. Be sure to admire its impressive façade and beautiful interior.
Teatro Calderón de la Barca
This 19th-century theatre is the cultural heart of Motril, hosting performances of theatre, music and dance throughout the year.
Pre-Industrial Sugar Cane Museum
An original museum that tells the story of sugar cane cultivation, which played a key role in Motril’s history. A fun visit for all ages.
Santuario de Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza
Perched on a hill, this sanctuary offers some of the best panoramic views over the town and coastline.
Wandering the Old Town Streets
One of the best ways to experience Motril is simply wandering its streets. You’ll find picturesque squares, traditional shops and inviting cafés and terraces — perfect for a coffee or tapas break.
Motril’s Best Beaches
Motril offers a choice of wide, well-equipped beaches — ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Playa de Poniente
The most popular beach with locals. A lively atmosphere, good facilities and plenty of beach bars for a meal by the sea.
Playa Granada
Quieter, and close to several hotels and the golf course. Great for long walks and laid-back afternoons.
Other Recommended Beaches
If you fancy exploring a little further:
- La Rijana (20 minutes by car), a stunning cove with crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkelling.
- Playa de La Herradura (around 30 minutes), ideal for a beach day with activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding.
Where to Stay in Motril
Motril offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Hotels
Top recommendations include the Hotel Impressive Playa Granada, perfect for beach and golf lovers, and the Hotel Elba Motril, located right on Playa de Poniente with modern facilities.
Campsites
For a holiday closer to nature, Camping Playa Granada and Camping Playa Poniente are great choices — both just steps from the sea.
Holiday Apartments
Motril and its surroundings offer plenty of holiday apartments and villas — ideal for families or groups of friends.
Recommended Excursions from Motril
Motril is an excellent base for exploring some of Andalusia’s most beautiful spots.
Granada
Just an hour away, Granada is a must-visit. The Alhambra, the Albaicín, its tapas culture and charming streets make for a perfect day trip.
Frigiliana and Nerja
A fantastic combination of coast and culture. Frigiliana, with its beautiful old town, is one of Spain’s prettiest villages. Nearby, Nerja offers stunning caves and the famous Balcón de Europa.
Córdoba
A little further (2h 30min), but well worth the trip. The Mezquita-Catedral and the old Jewish Quarter are unique cultural highlights — ideal for a day immersed in history and great food.
La Alpujarra Granadina
Less than an hour away, this mountain region offers a cool escape. Villages like Lanjarón, Pampaneira and Capileira boast spectacular scenery, hiking routes and superb local cuisine.
Caminito del Rey (Málaga)
If you love adventure, the Caminito del Rey is an unmissable experience. Around two hours from Motril, it features a thrilling walkway with incredible views. Advance booking essential!
Other Great Excursions
If you have more time, don’t miss Ronda, the White Villages of Cádiz or Gibraltar — all perfect day trips from Motril.
Exploring Motril’s Surroundings by Car: Why Hire a Vehicle
Many of the best excursions from Motril require driving along scenic roads where public transport is limited. Hiring a car is the best way to enjoy your trip with total freedom — allowing you to reach beaches, hiking trails and charming villages easily. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family or with friends, having your own car means you can explore at your own pace, discover hidden gems and make the most of every day.
With Bahia Sexi Rent a Car, booking your car is simple. We’ll deliver it directly to your hotel in Motril or meet you at Malaga Airport. You’ll enjoy top-quality service, fully personalised and hassle-free — so you can focus on enjoying your holiday. 🚗
What to Eat in Motril: A Food Lover’s Guide
Motril Prawns and Dried Octopus
Motril prawns are one of the local seafood highlights — enjoy them boiled or grilled. Don’t miss the traditional sun-dried octopus, served grilled for an authentic taste of the region.
Fresh Fish, Migas, Sardine Skewers and Tapas
Motril’s beaches are the perfect place to enjoy fresh sardine skewers (espetos), homemade migas and generous tapas served with your drinks — a true local tradition.
Traditional Pastries and Leche Rizada
Local sweet treats include the famous torta real, filled with angel hair pumpkin. For something refreshing, try leche rizada (a spiced frozen milk drink) from the renowned Periandrés ice cream parlour — a local favourite.
Tropical Fruits of the Costa Tropical
Motril and its surroundings are known for avocados, mangoes, custard apples and papayas. You’ll find them in local markets, on dessert menus and even as fresh juices — some local farms also offer guided tours.
Where to Eat
For beachfront dining, La Ballena Azul and Bambú Beach are top picks. In the town centre, La Espichá is a great choice for enjoying authentic local flavours.
Festivals and Events in Motril
Semana Santa (Holy Week)
Motril’s Semana Santa has been recognised as a Festival of Tourist Interest in Andalusia. The solemn processions attract many visitors each year between late March and April.
Virgen del Carmen Festival
On 16th July, Motril celebrates the patron saint of sailors with religious events, a maritime procession and a lively festival atmosphere at the port.
August Fair
Motril’s main summer festival takes place in mid-August in honour of the Virgen de la Cabeza. Expect concerts, a funfair, fireworks and events for all ages.
Motril Air Festival
Every June, the Motril Air Festival fills the sky with spectacular aerobatic displays — a much-loved event for both locals and tourists.
Cultural Events
Throughout the year, the Teatro Calderón de la Barca hosts a varied programme of music, dance and theatre. Check the official town hall website for details.
Outdoor Sports and Activities in Motril
If you enjoy sport and the outdoors, Motril offers plenty of ways to stay active.
Water Sports
At Motril’s beaches you can try kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing or diving. Several local schools and companies offer equipment hire and guided outings for all levels.
Golf
The Los Moriscos Golf Club, next to Playa Granada, offers an 18-hole course with sea views — perfect for combining sport and relaxation.
Hiking
The area around Motril offers routes for all abilities — from gentle coastal walks to more demanding trails in the Alpujarra Granadina and Sierra de Lújar.
Cycling
Motril is a paradise for cyclists, whether you prefer road or mountain biking. Ride scenic routes through the Alpujarra or tackle the legendary climb of the Puerto de la Cabra.
Practical Tips for Your Trip to Motril
How to Get There
Motril is about 60 km from Granada and 100 km from Malaga Airport — both well served by national and international flights.
Best Time to Visit
Thanks to its mild climate, Motril is pleasant all year round. Spring and autumn are perfect for combining beach time with excursions, while summer brings a livelier atmosphere.
Getting Around
To explore the region freely, having your own car is highly recommended. With Bahia Sexi Rent a Car, you can book your vehicle easily — with delivery to your Motril hotel or at Malaga Airport, plus personalised service and no waiting around.
Make the Most of Your Trip to Motril
Motril is a fantastic destination for those seeking peaceful beaches, delicious food, traditional festivals and the perfect base for exploring some of Andalusia’s best excursions. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family or with friends, you’ll find the perfect balance of relaxation, culture and adventure here. From tasting local products like Motril prawns and tropical fruits, to hiking its trails, joining in its lively festivals or exploring nearby gems such as Granada or the Alpujarra — Motril will delight you.
For total freedom and to get the most from your stay, having your own car is the way to go. With Bahia Sexi Rent a Car, booking is quick and easy: we’ll deliver your vehicle directly to your hotel in Motril or to Malaga Airport — with personalised service, no waiting and at the best price. If you’re staying in a Motril hotel, book now on our website and use the code MOTRIL15 to enjoy an exclusive 15% discount for guests staying in the town. Discover Motril and its surroundings at your own pace!
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