Malvarrosa beach (Valencia) — Attraction in Valencia

Malvarrosa Beach, known locally as Playa de la Malvarrosa, is one of the most iconic and well-loved beaches in Valencia, Spain. Its history, intertwined with the city's cultural and social evolution, paints a vivid picture of its significance through the years.

Located just a short distance from the heart of Valencia, the origins of Malvarrosa Beach can be traced back to the 19th century. The beach was named after the numerous malva-rosa plants (a type of mallow) that used to grow in the dunes of the area, giving it both its name and trademark natural allure.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Malvarrosa Beach became a fashionable getaway for the Valencian elite. It was a period of transformation, as the beach evolved from a remote area into a trendy destination. Prominent figures of the time, including intellectuals and artists, frequented the beach, seeking its serene environment and picturesque views.

One notable personality associated with Malvarrosa Beach is the renowned Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla, who drew endless inspiration from its bright light and vibrant surroundings. Sorolla's legacy is intrinsically linked to the beach; many of his masterpieces depict the local scenery and the daily lives of Valencians by the sea. Sorolla's family also spent significant time in their summer home near the beach, further cementing his connection to Malvarrosa.

As time progressed, the beach became increasingly accessible to the wider public. With urban development during the mid-20th century, it transformed into a communal space for locals and tourists alike. The creation of infrastructure, including the extension of tram lines, made it easier for residents to visit, solidifying its status as a beloved recreational destination.

In recent decades, Malvarrosa Beach has continued to thrive, undergoing improvements and amenities to cater to a diverse audience. It now serves as a bustling social and cultural hub, hosting various events, festivals, and recreational activities throughout the year. The promenade, lined with restaurants and bars, offers a taste of local cuisine while overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Despite modern developments, Malvarrosa retains the charm and character of its storied past. Its historical significance remains visible, encapsulated in its role as a source of artistic inspiration and a community focal point. Today, it stands as a testament to Valencia's rich history, mirroring the city's growth and cultural vibrancy...

Valencia is Spain´s 2nd biggest city by the Mediterranean Sea, after its famous rival Barcelona. The beach comparison between the 2 cities comes naturally and, in my opinion, Valencia has better urban beaches though, with its most popular one, the Playa de la Malvarrosa.

Beaches in Valencia, in general, are way longer, larger and usually cleaner. Water is very decent and it does not get that crowded, even during summer time...and even if it does get crowded, no worries, there´s still plenty of room left so you won't feel that sense of claustrophobia. It does not get that packed, due, also, to the fact that it's not as popular as its rival.

Malvarrosa Beach will please your days with its very spacious sandy beach, its promenade full of cheap (but very good) bars, restaurant and souvenir shops. The palm trees give the place that Southern California feeling...which is always good! Malvarrosa is easy to reach from anywhere in the city, thanks to Valencia´s great public transport. Do not forget to eat Paella (the most famous typical Spanish food...which actually comes from Valencia) on the beach,...

A lovely beach, wide with so many sport facilities to play volleyball and football in the evening, a family beach with a warm and calm water in the summer, however the beach is neglected by the authority's as there are so many rubbish and even brocken glass on the beach, there is one cigarette butts in every square centimeters which is horrendous. The beach has only 2 toilet 😳,and 2 showers for thousands of people visiting in the summer months, the sidewalk or promenade is also very tired and needs to be renovated, Valencia is a magnificent city, but when you go to the beach it seems you are going to an undeveloped country. So much potential has been neglected, what a shame, I don't think they clean the beach at night as there are millions of cigarettes butts everywhere, i tried to clean up around where my children were seated but it was impossible to remove all the cigarette butts. The water was also very dirty which showed the lack of beach culture, I'm not going to say what I saw in the water but it was disgusting 😳. The beach needs a better management, it has...