This beach bar in Málaga was one of the first in the history of Spain: it has survived almost a century next to the beach.

From east to west, the entire coast of the Costa del Sol is dotted with beach bars. Some are truly innovative, eye-catching, and have the vibe of a beach club or restaurant. Others, the old-time ones, the most long-standing, still cling to the classic beach bar concept, reminiscent of past picnicking spots. Today we discuss one of the oldest beach bars in Spain, one of the first under this name in the country, which, as Traveler magazine reports, is located in Málaga: the Chiringuito María.

"The oldest beach bars in Spain," states the article from Traveler where it talks about "picnic areas, bathing huts, and brandy." "There are as many beach bars as there are fish in the sea, but it wasn’t always this way. In fact, many didn’t even start with their current purpose. There was a time when beach bars didn’t serve ceviche, nor did they blast loud music," they recall, reviewing some of the most iconic and long-standing beach bars and picnic spots in Spain, with a stop in Málaga, at the Playa de la Misericordia.

"In Málaga, some beach bars (then picnic spots) opened that still keep their doors open today. From this era is the Chiringuito María, on the beach of Huelín (Málaga) where, just like on the Catalan beaches, bathing huts were installed. And also Playa Miguel, Casa Miguel, and Los Leones, three essentials of Torremolinos that have stood the test of time," mention in Traveler, referring to both the Chiringuito María and three others from Torremolinos.

Almost 90 years by the sea

Located on the Playa de la Misericordia, on Pacifico Street and near the Parque del Oeste, the Chiringuito María has been a direct witness to the evolution of Málaga and the Huelin neighborhood itself. With nearly nine decades of activity, this family business has managed to maintain its roots without giving up modernization, becoming a landmark in the capital.

The place is still led by the family of Juan Manzano, the business pioneer, who have preserved the essence of the establishment as a meeting point for generations of people from Málaga and visitors. Its seafood cuisine, based on traditional recipes, is the axis that keeps the fame of this historic beach bar alive.

A tradition of seafood cuisine

The Chiringuito María is known for its specialization in quality fish and seafood, with Malaga-style fried fish as one of its main attractions. The sardine skewers, made in the traditional way over wood fires, have become one of the emblems of the house, attracting both local customers and numerous visitors who want to experience the authentic cuisine of the coast.

Besides its sardines, the menu includes a wide variety of seafood products, from monkfish to other seasonal fish. There is also a selection of fresh shellfish and homemade dishes that reinforce the family character of the business. To finish the meal, traditional desserts such as apple pie or a fruit cake that is part of their own signature are highlighted.