The Costa del Sol translates to the ‘Sun Coast’. Golden sands, buckets of sunshine and happy demeanours, it’s no wonder people flock there every year to enjoy a well-deserved break. The Costa del Sol has so many destinations to choose from, but how do you pick just one? Here’s our introduction to some of the best destinations in the Costa del Sol…

Málaga

Málaga is the gateway to Spain’s Sun Coast. It’s a vibrant city that seamlessly blends a sun holiday with all the best elements of a city break. The birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Málaga has plenty of culture to soak up. Visit the Picasso Museum and admire Picasso’s most famous cubist art. Explore the Alcazaba, Málaga’s Moorish fortress-palace with sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea. Ramble around Málaga’s Port, one of the oldest in Europe. Aside from expensive yachts, the Port has some excellent tapas bars, restaurants and cafes, perfect for people watching. Or take it easy, enjoy delicious seafood and relax on the beach in the Pedregalejo neighbourhood. 

Benalmadena

With 10km of stunning golden beaches, Benalmadena is the perfect place to visit to soak up the sun. Benalmadena is particularly popular with families thanks to the plethora of things to see and do. There are three main areas in Benalmadena: Costa, Puerto Marina and Pueblo. Benalmadena Costa is naturally located along the coast where you can really enjoy the wide sandy beaches and the majority of Benalmadena’s attractions like Selwo Marina. In Puerto Marina, you’ll see what life under the sea is like in The Sea Life Centre, stroll around the port and check out the millionaires’ yachts or enjoy the nightlife once the sun sets! Benalmadena Pueblo is the old town, set in the hills. Here you’ll see whitewashed buildings and get a real feel for a traditional Andalusian village. One of the main attractions here is Colmares Castle and what’s said to be the smallest chapel in the world. Or head to the Arroyo de la Miel neighbourhood, home to the famous amusement and theme park Tivoli World.

Torremolinos

Torremolinos is the original sun holiday destination in Spain. Its Blue Flag beach, Los Alamos beach, is perfect for a day in the sun as it’s a spacious, sandy and all-around superb beach. Its promenade is lined with bustling bars, cafes and shops. If you like shopping, cocktails and chilling on the beach, don’t miss The Carihuela area that borders Torremolinos and Benalmadena as its boutique shops and reasonable cocktails make for an excellent day out! Two of the biggest attractions in Torremolinos are Aqualand, the biggest water park in the region, and Crocodile Park where you can see the largest croc in Europe! Torremolinos is a great choice if you want a laid back beach holiday!

Nerja

Sitting atop a cliff is the picturesque village of Nerja, with whitewashed buildings and vibrant bougainvillaea flowers. This traditional town has a maze of streets, each bursting with life come dusk as restaurants and bars fill up.  During the day, Burriana Beach is the best place to relax, swim in the Mediterranean waters and, children big or small can spend their time building sandcastles. Don’t leave Nerja without exploring its famous caves that are roughly 5 million years old. You can take a free tour to see the ancient stalactites, fascinating rock formations, and the traces of cave paintings made by early hunter-gatherer tribes. It’s a truly charming destination!

Marbella

Marbella doesn’t need much of an introduction as it’s well-known as a place for luxury, pampering and treating yourself to some 5* service. Filled with top-class accommodation, swanky bars and the highest quality restaurants, Marbella is definitely a glamorous destination.  Marbella’s promenade has bars and restaurants to suit every age, taste and budget so whether you’re a couple or a family, there’s something for everyone. Near the promenade, is the quaint old town of Marbella. Its square is typical of Andalusia, lined with orange trees and a sweet scent in the air. In neighbouring Puerto Banus, let your hair down and immerse yourself in the beach and pool parties that are a constant during the summer. Puerto Banus is just as glamorous as Marbella with super yachts docking in its port and designer boutiques lining its promenade. 

Where will you stay along the Costa del Sol?