Basking in over 320 days of sunshine a year, the Costa del Sol is part of the aptly-named ‘Sunshine Coast’. Once famous for vibrant nightlife, Costa del Sol holidays can now be as up-tempo or as laid back as you want them to be. Family-friendly resorts, such as Benalmadena, offer everything you could possibly need if you’re taking a break with the kids, while couples might prefer the tranquillity of resorts such as Marbella and Pueblo Quinta.
There’s also the opportunity to enjoy a slice of old-school Spain, with a visit to the cobbled streets of Malaga’s Old Town and the Andalusian charms of Nerja. With almost 200 beaches to choose from, holidays to Costa del Sol are ideal for sun-worshippers, while those who’d like to get some sightseeing done will find plenty to see and do.
Things to do
Those with a head for heights will enjoy the awesome views from the cable car from Benalmadena town up to Monte Calamorro. Overlooking Benalmadena, the journey takes you up into the clouds, and on a clear day you can even see the coast of Africa! If you’d prefer something a little less vertigo-inducing, take a gentle walk along the promenade at Fuengirola, or relax in Marbella’s whitewashed old town before checking out the eye-wateringly expensive yachts in the marina.
Alternatively, head to the foothills of the Almijara mountain range to the neighbouring resorts of Nerja and Almuñécar, with their long beaches and palm-shaded promenades. After a day at the beach at Torremolinos, drive into the hills to visit some of the most picturesque "white towns".
Most famous for its beaches, Costa del Sol is home to the sun, sea and sand holiday. With a glass of refreshing sangria in hand, you can relax with a good book at Torremolinos, or splash in the crystal clear Mediterranean seas at the beaches in Fuengirola.
If you’re travelling with the kids, there are plenty of brilliant attractions to explore on your Spain holiday. From the Bioparc Zoo to the sea life centre in Benalmadena, there are endless possibilities for family fun on the Costa Del Sol. At Cocodrilos Park you can see all kinds of crocodiles in their large enclosures.
If you like to be active on holiday, take a scuba diving lesson, or go and see the world’s longest stalactite in the Nerja Caves. When you’ve worked up an appetite, head back to the coast to feast on freshly-cooked seafood at one of the wonderful family-run restaurants.
Places to stay
Head west of Málaga for some of the best-known resorts in Spain. Bustling Torremolinos and its family-friendly neighbour Benalmadena share some of the most exceptional beaches in the Costa del Sol. Further west is Fuengirola with its Blue Flag beaches and ancient castle. Chichi Marbella attracts the wealthy and famous to its beautiful beaches and upscale port.
Estepona combines fun on the beach with a delightful old town of cobbled streets and narrow lanes. The Costa del Sol’s capital, Málaga, has an elegant traffic-free old town and seafront lined with some of the Costa del Sol’s top restaurants.
More Travel Guides
We also have travel guides available for destinations including: Benalmadena | Fuengirola | Marbella | Nerja | Torremolinos