Playa de la Hípica

Imagine a vast coastline with fine golden sand, lapped by the azure waters of the Mediterranean. This is how Hípica Beach greets its guests—one of the most popular city beaches that adorns the city of Melilla. This unique location, situated on the northern coast of Africa, belongs to Spain, creating a fascinating cultural and geographical mix.

The beach stretches for approximately 600 meters in length, and its width reaches 80 meters, allowing everyone to settle in comfortably. One of the natural features of this spot is the small sand dunes that form under the influence of the "Levante" east wind. Thanks to its distance from the noisy center and its proximity to the Beni-Enzar port, it maintains an atmosphere of calm yet fully equipped relaxation.

Hípica Beach. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Also known among locals as Playa del Hipódromo or Playa de los Carabos, this stretch of coastline is considered a benchmark for cleanliness and convenience. It is ideal for family time as well as for those seeking solitude by the water's edge while admiring the marine horizons.

To clarify holiday details or contact local services, you can use the following information. The main contact details for the beach are provided below.

Everyone will find something to their liking at Hípica Beach: from lazy sunbathing to active strolls. The fine golden sand is perfect for setting up a cozy picnic or simply enjoying a book to the sound of the surf. For those who prefer a more settled getaway, it is common here to even set up tents for the weekend, creating temporary camps right at the water's edge.

A particular pleasure is visiting the local chiringuitos—traditional beach bars. Here you can order a glass of cool beer, which is usually served with appetizing tapas or full portions ("raciones") of fresh seafood. It is the perfect place to feel the rhythm of life of the locals, who come here with their whole families.

If you get bored of just lying in the sun, you can take a walk along the palm-lined alleys or walk to the Old Town of Melilla, which is within walking distance. The combination of the sea breeze, shady palms, and proximity to historical monuments makes a holiday here truly diverse.

There are several ways to reach this picturesque coast. If you are in the city center, a pleasant walk along the Paseo Marítimo promenade will lead you straight to the golden sands. However, due to its distance from the main residential areas, many travelers prefer to arrive by car or taxi.

For those arriving from other regions via Melilla Airport (MLN), the easiest way is to take a taxi, which will take you to P.º Playa de la Hípica, 3 in a short time. The beach is located in close proximity to the Beni-Enzar port, making it easily accessible for those traveling along the coastal roads by public or private transport.

The history of this place is inextricably linked to the region's military past. Originally, Hípica Beach was a restricted area intended exclusively for the recreation of military personnel. For a long time, it was separated from the rest of the coast by a wall, and small barracks-style cabins known as "casetas" were located along the shore.

Interestingly, these small buildings have survived to this day. Although many of them changed hands long ago and no longer belong to the army, they give the shore a special historical flavor. Nearby were also the officers' baths, which later transformed into prestigious clubs for military personnel of various ranks.

Over time, the boundaries fell, and the territory became public. Today, it is one of the city's most beloved and visited beaches, where a stern military past has given way to the carefree atmosphere of a Mediterranean resort.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of this place, a typical one-hour visit won't be enough. We recommend setting aside 2 to 4 hours for your visit. This time will be sufficient to swim at leisure, sunbathe, and feel the warm sand beneath your feet.

If you plan to have lunch or dinner at one of the coastal establishments, it's worth allocating half a day. A stroll along the promenade at sunset will be a great end to your holiday, turning a simple beach day into a real adventure.

Hípica Beach is open to visitors 24/7. You can come here in the early morning to catch the sunrise or late in the evening for a stroll under the stars. The beach is open every day of the week, from Monday to Sunday.

Nevertheless, it is worth keeping in mind that lifeguard services, equipment rental points, and beach bars operate on their own schedules, which may change depending on the season. For the most up-to-date information on services, it is recommended to check the city's official tourism website.

Exploring the surroundings of the coast will allow you to dive deeper into the unique atmosphere of the city, where European and African motifs intertwine. After relaxing by the water, be sure to take a stroll to the nearby historical forts and squares.