If you have small children, the beaches in Salobrena are highly recommended. To get there just follow the sign to Salobrena which is only 3 kms away from the roundabout in Motril. When you get to the beach turn right and park the car anywhere.
There are excellent seafood restaurants, tapas bars and steak houses all up that end. The restaurant on the rocks El Penon has excellent views and lovely seafood.