From a hidden volcanic bay in Almeria to the golden sands of the Costa del Sol and the wild Atlantic coastline of Cadiz, Andalucia is home to some of Spain’s most spectacular beaches.

Now, British newspaper The Times has recognised four of them in its annual ranking of the 28 best beaches in Spain, praising the region for offering everything from family-friendly resorts to untouched natural escapes.

Here are the Andalucian beaches that made the cut.

12. Playa de los Genoveses (Almeria)

The highest-ranked Andalucian beach sits inside the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, where The Times says ‘Europe’s only true desert meets the sea’.

Located just outside the village of San Jose, Playa de los Genoveses is an unspoilt sweep of golden volcanic sand stretching for more than a kilometre.

With crystal-clear, shallow waters and no bars, restaurants or beach clubs, it’s a favourite for visitors looking to escape the crowds.

The newspaper recommends bringing plenty of water, food and a hat, as there are no facilities on the beach.

It also notes that swimmers can walk almost half a kilometre into the sea before the water reaches chest height, making it one of the safest beaches for families.

During the summer, access by private vehicle is restricted to protect the natural park, with shuttle buses running from nearby San Jose.

20. Playa del Bajondillo (Costa del Sol)

If you’re after a classic Costa del Sol beach holiday, The Times recommends Playa del Bajondillo in Torremolinos.

Less than a mile long and just 30 minutes south of Malaga city, the beach combines soft golden sand with one of the busiest promenades on the coast, lined with tapas restaurants, chiringuitos and cafes.

The newspaper highlights its neat rows of sunbeds and parasols, children’s play area and calm, shallow shoreline, making it ideal for families.

Visitors can also hire jet skis, pedal boats and kayaks during the summer months.

It’s the perfect choice for travellers who want to combine lazy beach days with lively nightlife and easy access to Malaga Airport.

21. Playa de Bolonia (Cadiz)

One place higher than Bajondillo sits Playa de Bolonia, one of Cadiz province’s most celebrated natural beaches.

According to The Times, the beach is among the most peaceful in southern Spain, lying beside the Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia and backed by enormous sand dunes and fragrant pine trees.

Its vast stretch of white sand and Atlantic waves have made it a favourite with nature lovers, while the publication notes that one section of the beach is popular with naturists.

Despite its growing reputation, Bolonia remains one of Andalucía’s least-developed beaches, with very little construction surrounding it.

28. Playa de Castilla (Costa de la Luz)

Rounding off the list is Playa de Castilla, a remote stretch of coastline inside Doñana National Park.

The newspaper describes it as one of Spain’s last truly wild beaches, reached only after a walk through pine forests and across the towering Asperillo dunes.

The reward, it says, is miles of uninterrupted golden sand framed by dramatic sandstone cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean.

Because of its isolated location, visitors are advised to bring everything they need for the day, as there is only a small beach bar nearby. The beach is also known for attracting naturists due to its secluded setting.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.