Get your bearings
The Costa del Sol in the south of Spain extends for most of
Andalucia’s Mediterranean coast, between Almeria in the east and Tarifa to the west. Its transport and commercial hub is the city of
Malaga. Eastwards, the main resorts are
Nerja and
Torrox while westwards,
Torremolinos and
Benalmádena are popular spots for Costa del Sol holidays. Further west,
Marbella and
Estepona are home to boutique Costa del Sol hotels. Inland, whitewashed villages like
Ronda and
Mijas dot the hilly landscape.
Family fun in the sun
The safe shores and shallow waters of
Cabopino beach near Marbella and waterparks like
Bahia Park in Algeciras make holidays in the Costa del Sol great for families. Kids love
Selwo Adventure Park’s safari-style escapades near Estepona and the marine wonders of
Selwo Marina in Benalmádena always fascinate. Nearby,
Tivoli World theme park in Arroyo de la Miel has everything from a 60-metre freefall to mini Formula 1. The cable car to the
Calamorro Mountains offers impressive views while
Nerja’s famous caves make an interesting subterranean excursion.
Sun-seekers and spa lovers
With over 300 days of sunshine days a year, the Costa del Sol’s beaches are the main attraction. East of Malaga, Nerja’s Calahonda and Calas beach is a top draw. Hammocks and beachfront beds are part of the Nikki Beach experience in
Marbella, while
Estepona’s Laguna Village leisure complex has an infinity pool. Nearby, spa hotel
the Selenza has Andalusia’s largest thalossotherapy centre, using only fresh, untreated seawater.
Alfresco activities
For golfers, holidays in the Costa del Sol mean a bewildering choice from over 80 golf courses.
La Cala Resort in Mijas has three courses with stunning views and the championship
Valderrama Golf Club in western Sotogrande is a highlight. Walking trails in the
Sierra de la Nieves Natural Park near
Ronda pass deep ravines and gorges that are home to wild cats and mountain goats. Walks along
Puerto Banus’ marina near Marbella are particularly pleasant at sunset. Tennis centres and watersports activities are also plentiful in the area.
Fine wine and food
Tapas, sangria and seafood paellas are a Costa del Sol must. The Moorish mountain village
Benahávis, dubbed the 'dining room of the Costa del Sol’, is a particularly special gastronomic treat. At its famous
Los Abanicos restaurant, suckling lamb and fresh catch of the day are among the specialities. For a simple alfresco experience, ‘chirringuito’ beach bars serve up cocktails, snacks and meals by the sea. In
Malaga, don’t miss sampling
fritura malagueña, the city's legendary fried seafood.
Nightlife haunts
The Costa del Sol caters to all, from families to bar-hoppers.
Benalmádena’s seafront is popular with families with its ice-cream parlours and alfresco restaurants. In glamorous
Marbella, Havana Bar often hosts live Latin bands or head to
Puerto Banus’s Golden Mile and sit out on the terraces of the Portside Cafe.
