San Lorenzo
Melilla, Spain — Excellent water quality
Urban beach in the Barrios del Hipódromo and Industrial Bay neighborhoods. The beach is a 5-minute walk from the nearest bus stop, or you can drive and park nearby. You'll find sports facilities and restaurants along the waterfront.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to San Lorenzo
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is San Lorenzo?
Urban beach in the Barrios del Hipódromo and Industrial Bay neighborhoods. The beach is a 5-minute walk from the nearest bus stop, or you can drive and park nearby. You'll find sports facilities and restaurants along the waterfront.
It sits alongside Blue Flag beaches in Melilla, part of a broader network of Blue Flag certified beaches across Spain certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
San Lorenzo faces W toward Mediterranean Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in May, June. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Feb | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| Mar | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
| Apr | 16°C | 13°C | Low |
| May | 19°C | 16°C | Med |
| Jun | 22°C | 19°C | High |
| Jul | 25°C | 22°C | High |
| Aug | 26°C | 23°C | High |
| Sep | 24°C | 21°C | Med |
| Oct | 21°C | 18°C | Low |
| Nov | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
| Dec | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
The best time to visit San Lorenzo is May, June. Air temperatures peak around 24.9°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 21.9°C in July.
How crowded does San Lorenzo get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Spain, San Lorenzo sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is San Lorenzo open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (15-05 – 17-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at San Lorenzo
Is San Lorenzo safe to swim?San Lorenzo is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach — swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at San Lorenzo?Peak water temperature at San Lorenzo reaches around <span class="inline-stat">21.9°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 13.4°C.
What is the beach like at San Lorenzo?San Lorenzo is a sandy beach on the Melilla coast of Spain. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does San Lorenzo have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, San Lorenzo meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Parking is available nearby.
San Lorenzo sits on the Mediterranean Sea — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Mediterranean.
Planning a trip to Spain? Blue Flag Beaches Spain 2026 — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to San Lorenzo
How do I get to San Lorenzo by car?San Lorenzo is approximately 1.39 km from Melilla. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to San Lorenzo?The nearest airport is Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), approximately 170.3 km away.
Can I get to San Lorenzo by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Melilla.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Official Season | 15-05 – 17-09 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 35.2873°N, 2.9371°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Spain |
Frequently Asked Questions
San Lorenzo FAQ
Is San Lorenzo suitable for children?
San Lorenzo is a Blue Flag certified beach in Melilla, Spain. The EU Excellent water quality rating means the water is safe and clean for all swimmers, including children. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is San Lorenzo free to access?
Yes, access to San Lorenzo is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Parking is available nearby; check local signs for any parking charges. Facilities including beach amenities are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit San Lorenzo?
The best time to visit San Lorenzo is May, June. Water temperature peaks at around 21.9°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 24.9°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at San Lorenzo?
San Lorenzo is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to San Lorenzo?
San Lorenzo is located in Melilla, Spain. It is approximately 1.39 km from Melilla. The nearest airport is Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), 170.3 km away. Parking is available at or near the beach. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
Explore More
More Blue Flag Beaches in Spain
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status — from water quality to environmental education.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in Spain — rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
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