Is it safe to swim on the beaches of Nerja?

Is it safe to swim on the beaches of Nerja, Spain? What do I have to take into account? Telephone in case something happens in Nerja.

Yes, it is generally safe to swim on Nerja’s beaches, but it is always important to keep some precautions in mind. It is advisable to monitor the flags that indicate the state of the sea, avoid swimming in areas with strong currents and respect the instructions of the lifeguards.

In the event that an incident or emergency occurs on Nerja beach, you can contact the emergency telephone number 112. You can also contact the Nerja Local Police at the number 952 52 33 33.

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Problems that can occur swimming at the beach

Drowning: The biggest danger when swimming at the beach is the risk of drowning, especially in deep water or with strong currents.
Disorientation: It can be easy to lose orientation in the water, especially if swimming far from shore, which can cause difficulty returning to dry land.
Sunburn: Prolonged exposure to the sun while swimming at the beach can cause severe sunburn, especially in people with sensitive skin.
Jellyfish stings: On some beaches, it is common to find jellyfish that can sting swimmers and cause pain, irritation and in severe cases, allergic reactions.
Hypothermia: In cold waters, swimmers may be at risk of hypothermia, especially if they stay in the water for a long time without adequate protection.
Boat Accidents: On busy beaches, there is a risk of collisions with watercraft such as jet skis or boats, which can result in serious injuries.
Ocean currents: Ocean currents can drag swimmers out to sea and make it difficult for them to return to shore, which can endanger their safety.

Where to go if I have a problem at the beach?

If you have a problem on the beach, such as an accident, injury, or any medical emergency, you should seek help immediately. In case of emergency, you can call the local emergency number (for example, 911 in the United States), or seek help at a lifeguard station or first aid booth on the beach. You can also ask for help from lifeguards or anyone in a safety uniform on the beach. It is important to act quickly in an emergency to ensure you receive the necessary medical care as soon as possible.

Shark attacks in Spain

There are various speculations about the presence of sharks on the Spanish coasts, but in general, it is not considered common for there to be sharks on the beaches of Nerja. On the other hand, dolphins are usually more common to spot in this area.

As for shark attacks in Spain, they are extremely rare and unlikely. Sharks tend to avoid waters near busy beaches and tend to attack only in very exceptional situations.

Problems with dolphins

Dolphins are very friendly and peaceful animals, so it is highly unlikely that a dolphin would have aggressive behavior towards humans in the water. Therefore, the risk of being attacked by a dolphin in Nerja is practically non-existent.

There are organized boat excursions to spot dolphins in the Mediterranean Sea. However, it is important to do so with responsible tour operators who respect animal welfare and follow marine conservation regulations. Touching or disturbing dolphins in their natural habitat is not allowed and can cause stress in these animals. Check: Nerja Free Tours

Are there jellyfish in Nerja? What do I do if I get stung by a jellyfish?

Yes, in Nerja it is possible to find jellyfish in its waters. If you are stung by a jellyfish, it is important to follow these recommendations:

Rinse the affected area with sea water, never with fresh water.
Do not rub the bite area, as this can release more toxins.
Apply vinegar to the affected area to neutralize toxins.
Carefully remove the jellyfish’s tentacles if they remain stuck to the skin.
Apply cold compresses to the area to relieve pain and swelling.
If the bite is severe or if you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, or nausea, seek medical attention immediately.

It is important to remember that each person can react differently to a jellyfish sting, so it is advisable to see a doctor if you have questions about how to treat the sting.