Costa del Sol Resorts 2026: Where to Stay, What to Do, and What Nobody Tells You
I’ve lived on the Costa del Sol for nearly 20 years. In that time I have watched resorts reinvent themselves, watched the tourist crowds shift, and answered thousands of questions from readers trying to work out where to base themselves.
The honest answer is: it depends entirely on what you want. Torremolinos and Fuengirola are brilliant for families on a budget. Marbella and Puerto Banús are for couples who want luxury or nightlife, and you need a big wallet for the latter. Nerja, Estepona, and the east coast towns are for people who want Spain to actually feel Spanish.
Below is my updated guide for 2026. I’ve expanded it from the original five resorts to ten, including several that readers have been asking about in the comments for years. I have also updated all the prices and added specific sections on where to eat, what to do, and which hotels I’d actually recommend in each resort. No filler, no sponsored fluff.
In This Guide
- Quick Guide: Which Resort Suits You?
- Malaga City
- Torremolinos
- Benalmadena
- Fuengirola
- Marbella and Puerto Banús
- Estepona: The 2026 Hotspot
- Nerja: The East Coast Crown Jewel
- La Cala de Mijas: The Quiet Alternative
- Rincón de la Victoria: Where the Spanish Holiday
- East Coast Hidden Gems: Torrox & Torre del Mar
- Local Secrets: How to Travel Like a Resident
- 2026 Price Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
Find Hotels on the Costa del Sol
Check availability and compare prices across all resorts for your travel dates:
Quick Guide: Which Resort Suits You?
Not sure where to base yourself? This table gives you the one-line version. I’ve gone into detail on each resort below.
| Resort | Best For | Vibe | Price Level | Train from Airport |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malaga City | Culture, city break, food | Urban, cosmopolitan | Mid | Yes — 12 min |
| Torremolinos | Budget breaks, beach bars, seafood | Lively, affordable, reinvented | Budget | Yes — 5 min |
| Benalmadena | Families, all ages, couples | Family-friendly, marina life | Budget-Mid | Yes — 15 min |
| Fuengirola | Budget, long beach, expat community | Unpretentious, practical | Budget | Yes — 30 min |
| Marbella / Puerto Banús | Luxury, nightlife, beach clubs | Glamorous, high-end | High | No — taxi ~€50 |
| Estepona | Authentic Spain, flowers, families | Traditional, floral, relaxed | Mid | No — car/bus |
| Nerja | Couples, scenery, nature, caves | Dramatic cliffs, Spanish village | Mid | No — ALSA bus / car |
| La Cala de Mijas | Quiet families, village atmosphere | Low-key, Spanish coastal village | Mid | No — car/taxi |
| Rincón de la Victoria | Authentic, zero tourist traps | Spanish family resort | Budget | Cercanías train, ~30 min |
| Torrox / Torre del Mar | East coast escape, off the beaten track | Quiet, genuine, cheap | Budget | No — car recommended |
Malaga City: Best for Culture and City Breaks
Malaga was overlooked as a holiday destination for years. Tourists flew in, transferred straight to the beach resorts, and didn’t think twice about the city. That’s changed completely. Malaga is now a seriously good European city break destination with world-class museums, a brilliant food scene, and more to do per square kilometre than most cities in Spain.
Getting here from the airport is simple: the Cercanías train runs directly into Malaga Centro station in about 12 minutes, costs around €1.80, and runs every 20 minutes. Once you’re in the city, everything is walkable.
What to Do in Malaga City
Start with the Calle Larios, the main marbled street running through the centre. It has good shops and decent pavement cafes, but don’t linger too long. The real Malaga is in the side streets. Wander down any alley off Calle Larios and you’ll find independent boutiques, tiny tapas bars serving their daily menu for €10–12, and considerably less tourist pricing.
The Alcazaba is the 11th-century Moorish fortress that sits directly above the city. Entrance is around €3.50. Spend a morning here: the gardens, courtyards, and Roman theatre at the base are better than the website photos suggest. The views over the port are excellent.
For art, the Picasso Museum in the old town houses 233 works from Picasso’s personal collection, donated by his family. The city is his birthplace and the museum is well curated. The Centre Pompidou Malaga down at the port is the more accessible option for modern art, with changing exhibitions and a building that’s striking enough to be worth seeing from the outside.
Book: Malaga Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Two routes (red and green) covering all the main sights. Open-top deck. Buy in advance to save queuing.
Eat, Drink and Where to Go After Dark
El Pimpi is a Malaga institution and rightly so. It’s one of the oldest wine bars in the city, decorated with hundreds of signed barrels from everyone from Antonio Banderas to various Spanish kings. The tapas are good, the sweet Malaga wine is unique, and the covered terrace overlooking the Alcazaba is one of the better settings in the city. It does get busy; go before 8pm or after 10pm to avoid the worst of the queues.
The new marina area (the Muelle Uno) has a good selection of restaurants and bars. At night, Malaga’s nightlife doesn’t get going until well after midnight. Clubs run until 6am. If that’s too late, the rooftop bars are the better option. The terrace at the AC Hotel Malaga Palacio has the best view of the illuminated cathedral in the city.
Head east along the promenade from the city beach (La Malagueta) towards El Palo for the best espetos: fresh sardines skewered on bamboo and grilled over an open wood fire on the beach. It’s one of those things that sounds like a cliché until you taste it. Don’t order sardines at a restaurant; only ever eat them at a chiringuito on the sand.
Where to Stay in Malaga City
The Room Mate Valeria is probably the best-located hotel in the city. It’s a few minutes’ walk from the marina, the old town, the beach, and the Cathedral. The rooftop pool and bar are a genuine draw. It consistently scores 9.2+ on Booking.com with over 1,700 reviews. For a longer trip or a self-catering option, there are good apartments available through the marina area.
Staying in Malaga City?
Check availability for your dates. City centre hotels fill up fast in summer:
Don’t miss in Malaga City: Calle Larios, the Alcazaba, El Pimpi, the Picasso Museum, the Centre Pompidou Malaga, espetos at La Malagueta heading east, the AC Hotel rooftop at sunset, the Malaga wine tours.
Torremolinos: Best for Beach Bars and Seafood
Torremolinos was the original Costa del Sol resort for British tourists back in the 1950s. It went through a rough patch in the 80s and 90s when the crowds drifted to Benalmadena and Fuengirola, but the town has completely reinvented itself. It now has upmarket hotels, a good shopping street, and La Carihuela: one of the best seafood-by-the-sea areas on the coast.
From the airport, it’s a 5-minute train ride. Torremolinos station is in the centre of town and within walking distance of everything.
La Carihuela and the Beach
La Carihuela borders Torremolinos and Benalmadena and is where you want to spend most of your time. It’s a long pedestrianised promenade facing a wide, clean, sandy beach. The chiringuitos (beach bars) here attract a young crowd in summer, prices are competitive because there’s so much choice, and a mojito typically runs €6–8. It’s also fully pedestrian which makes it a good option for families with young children.
Calle San Miguel is the main pedestrian shopping street in town. It’s busy in peak season but good for browsing: a mix of independent boutiques, clothes and shoe shops at reasonable prices, and plenty of cafes where you can sit down for a menú del día.
Things to Do in Torremolinos
Aqualand is the biggest water park in Malaga province. It has rides for all ages from serious thrill-seekers to toddler splash zones. Be warned: August sees the longest queues. Going on a Tuesday or Wednesday is considerably more pleasant than a weekend. Book tickets in advance to skip the door queues.
Book: Things To Do in Torremolinos
Save money booking online vs. at the door. Family tickets available.
Parque La Bateria is a flat public park above La Carihuela overlooking the sea. It has a lake with rowing boats for €1 per 30 minutes, a large kids’ play area, and a watch tower with original artillery guns at the far end and a tunnel that children can explore. It’s free, it’s traffic-free, and it’s one of the most underrated afternoons out in the resort.
The Crocodile Park is next to Aqualand and a good half-day out if you want something different. You can hold baby crocodiles, watch feeding demonstrations, and see the largest crocodile in Europe. Not for everyone, but kids tend to love it.
Plaza Mayor, the shopping and entertainment complex near the airport (one stop on the train), has a cinema, bowling alley, restaurants, and an entertainment area open until 1am. The adjacent McArthur Glen designer outlet has discounted brands including Zara and Mango. It’s a useful option for a rainy afternoon or for anyone who needs a shopping fix.
Where to Stay in Torremolinos
The Clubhotel Riu Costa del Sol sits directly on the Torremolinos beachfront, 10 minutes’ walk from La Carihuela. It’s a large all-inclusive hotel that works well for families and anyone who wants to keep costs predictable. The Sol Principe Hotel is good value with half-board options, a kids’ club, and a pool scene right across from the beach.
Benalmadena: Best for Families
If you’re travelling with children, Benalmadena is the resort I’d recommend first. It has more to do per square kilometre than anywhere else on the coast, the beach is good, the marina is outstanding, and there’s a cable car to the top of the mountain with views across to Africa on a clear day. It’s also flat, which matters if you’re pushing a pushchair or travelling with elderly relatives.
Get the train to Arroyo de la Miel station. The coast is a 5-minute taxi ride from there, or a 20-minute walk downhill.
Things to Do in Benalmadena
Paloma Park is one of the nicest public spaces on the Costa del Sol. It’s a large green park with a lake, three cafe-bars, and several play areas. There are rabbits and peacocks wandering freely. On summer evenings, families sit out by the lake for hours. It’s free, it’s beautiful, and it doesn’t appear in most guidebooks because it isn’t a ticketed attraction.
Puerto Marina is the award-winning marina at the bottom of the hill. It’s an impressive piece of design: the buildings are built out over the water. The Sea Life Aquarium here is good for a few hours out of the heat. Go through the underwater tunnel at shark feeding time. In the evenings, the marina comes alive. The best seats are at the restaurants on the upper level with panoramic views over the port.
The Mount Calamorro Cable Car takes you from the edge of town to 769 metres above the coast. From the top, on a clear day, you can see the mountains of Morocco. There are bird-of-prey shows at the summit. It’s a reliable half-day and works for all ages.
Selwo Marina (next to Paloma Park) is a marine wildlife park with penguins and a dolphin show. It’s well-maintained and genuinely entertaining. Book ahead in summer when visitor numbers are highest.
Benalmadena Pueblo
Most visitors never make it up to the village, which is their loss. Benalmadena Pueblo sits in the hills above the coast and feels like a different world: whitewashed streets, a pretty central square, and views down the coastline. Take the bus from the coast road up in the evening, have dinner in one of the restaurants overlooking the fountain in Plaza de España, and walk up to the Santa Domingo church for the views. In August, the village runs a fantastic Arabic-style night market with music, street food, and rides for children.
Where to Stay in Benalmadena
The Holiday Village World Resort is my first recommendation for families. It has its own water park, a kids’ club, a games room, multiple restaurants, and enough activities that you genuinely don’t need to leave the hotel if you don’t want to. I’ve taken my own family there and the value is excellent. For couples who want luxury, the Vincci Selección Aleysa is a boutique spa hotel right on the beach that scores 9.5 on Booking.com, one of the highest ratings I’ve seen on the platform for a Costa del Sol property.
Staying in Benalmadena?
Check availability for your dates. Family hotels fill early in summer:
Fuengirola: Best for a Budget Break
Fuengirola is the end of the Cercanías line from Malaga airport: about 30 minutes by train, around €2.50 one way. It has 8 kilometres of wide, flat sandy beach, a long promenade packed with restaurants of every type, and a large international community. Around 25% of the population is from other European countries, which gives the town an unusual character: unmistakably Spanish in many ways, but with a genuine cosmopolitan quality that the more resort-heavy towns lack.
Prices in Fuengirola are notably lower than Marbella or even Benalmadena. You can eat and drink here for less than anywhere else west of Malaga.
Things to Do in Fuengirola
Bioparc Fuengirola (formerly Fuengirola Zoo) is one of the better animal parks in southern Spain. The enclosures are designed to mimic natural habitats, replicating a tropical rainforest. The animals genuinely appear well-kept. There are different shows throughout the day and evening opening in summer months. Book tickets online before visiting: it’s cheaper than paying at the door and saves time in the queue.
Sohail Castle at the western end of the beach is a restored Moorish fortress dating from the 10th century. It hosts outdoor concerts and festivals throughout summer. At other times of year, you can walk up the path to the top for a view along the whole beach. The walk takes about 15 minutes.
The area known as Fish Alley is behind the main road running along the beach, near the Hotel El Puerto. It’s a maze of narrow pedestrian streets packed with tables spilling onto pavements, a mix of cuisines from every corner of the world. It’s always busy in the evenings and genuinely good value.
Fish Alley also has a food market, La Galeria, in the same format as the Mercado de la Merced in Malaga: find a table, then browse the different food stalls and choose whatever takes your fancy. Good for a relaxed, sociable dinner.
For nightlife, Speakeasy Jazz Club under the Las Rampas Hotel is the best live music bar in Fuengirola. It’s themed around the prohibition era, opens from 10pm, and has a different act every night. The cocktails are excellent. It’s not cheap for Fuengirola but it’s genuinely unique.
Miramar Shopping Centre is near Sohail Castle and has good high street shops including Primark, cinema, food court, and a large supermarket. Useful in the heat of the afternoon or for a rainy day. The Tuesday market on the feria ground in Los Boliches is worth an early morning visit: fresh produce, clothes, bags, local crafts, all at low prices.
Where to Stay in Fuengirola
Hotel Las Palmeras is opposite the marina and within a few minutes’ walk of hundreds of bars and restaurants. It has a good pool and gets strong reviews for location and value. The Hotel El Puerto is right on the beach, recognisable by the two round high-rise towers, and is well-placed for Fish Alley.
Marbella and Puerto Banús: Best for Luxury and Nightlife
Marbella and Puerto Banús are not connected to the rail network. A taxi from Malaga airport costs around €50–60 for the whole cab, or there is a bus service from the airport. For groups of four or more, a private transfer often works out cheaper. The journey takes 45–55 minutes depending on traffic.
These two neighbouring resorts remain the most talked-about on the Costa del Sol. Puerto Banús is the playground: superyachts, designer boutiques, beach clubs, and summer parties that cost more than most people spend in a month. Marbella itself is more versatile and better value.
Puerto Banús: What to Expect (and What It Actually Costs)
Puerto Banús harbour is lined with Ferraris and Prada boutiques. The ocean clubs (Ocean Club, Nikki Beach, Playa Padre) run pool and beach parties from late April through September. A “Super VIP” bed at Ocean Club on a Sunday in August costs €7,950. Standard weekday bed prices start from €195 for a small round bed for three people. Nikki Beach is about 20 minutes in a taxi but worth it for their Sunday events.
That said, you do not need a celebrity budget to enjoy Puerto Banús. Go one row back from the port and prices drop dramatically. Linekers Bar and several others along the second line are where the majority of British visitors spend their evenings. There is a huge tapas bar at the entrance to Marbella port that does €1 tapas and always has a good crowd around it.
Marbella: More Than the Glamour
Marbella’s Old Town (Casco Antiguo) is five minutes’ walk from the marina and a completely different world: narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and the famous Orange Square where hundreds of orange trees provide shade for the outdoor restaurants. It is genuinely beautiful and far more affordable than the front-line port restaurants.
The Marbella promenade is 6km long with hundreds of bars and restaurants. The Boardwalk near the port does a €5 lunch menu daily. For evening drinks with views, Lemmon bar gets going after midnight at weekends. Marbella also works well for families: the long flat promenade is good for children and restaurants are accommodating.
For a full guide to the beach clubs, pool parties, and nightlife, see the Puerto Banús insider guide.
Where to Stay in Marbella
The Puente Romano Hotel is the best address on the Costa del Sol. Expect to pay accordingly. For the party crowd, Sisu Boutique Hotel in Puerto Banús never sleeps. The Nobu Hotel Marbella is the current top choice for couples wanting luxury with excellent service and food.
Staying in Marbella or Puerto Banús?
Accommodation here books out early in summer. Check availability for your dates:
Estepona: The 2026 Hotspot
Estepona is where I would go if I wanted luxury without the Marbella price tag and with considerably more actual Spain. The local council has spent the past decade pedestrianising the old town, painting murals on hundreds of building walls, and planting thousands of flowers on every street corner. It is one of the most photogenic towns on the coast and still primarily a working Spanish town, which means the restaurants are better and cheaper than in resorts built purely around tourism.
There is no train to Estepona. From Malaga airport, a taxi or pre-booked transfer takes about 70–80 minutes. A car is helpful if you want to explore the surrounding area, but the town itself is compact and walkable.
What to Do in Estepona
The Estepona Orchidarium is worth a morning of your time. Three massive glass domes house Europe’s largest orchid collection, with a 15-metre indoor waterfall as the centrepiece. The architecture and scale are impressive even if you have no particular interest in plants. It is free to enter.
Playa del Cristo is the sheltered cove just past the marina. The water is unusually calm and shallow because of the natural curve of the bay, making it excellent for families with young children. It is noticeably warmer than the more exposed beaches further east. Arrive early in July and August.
The old town is worth a few hours. Walk away from the main tourist drag and look for places where Spanish families are eating. The cobbled alleys around the central square have independent restaurants that do not appear on the main review sites because they have never needed to market themselves.
The Estepona Marina runs dolphin watching boat trips with the Sierra Bermeja mountains as a backdrop. The dolphins along this stretch of coastline are reliably present from spring through to autumn.
Book: Activities in Estepona
Dolphin watching, boat trips, Orchidarium tours and more. Browse and book in advance.
Estepona vs Marbella: The Quick Comparison
| Feature | Marbella | Estepona |
|---|---|---|
| Vibe | Glamorous, fast-paced, international | Traditional, floral, genuinely Spanish |
| Best beach | Beach clubs: Nikki Beach, Ocean Club | Playa del Cristo: calm, shallow, families |
| Price level | High, especially Puerto Banús | Mid, noticeably cheaper |
| Best for | Luxury, nightlife, beach clubs | Families, authentic Spain, slower pace |
| Nightlife | Extensive and expensive | Local bars, relaxed evenings |
Staying in Estepona?
Check hotel availability and rental apartments for your dates:
Nerja: The East Coast Crown Jewel
Balcon de Europa Nerja with Mediterranean sea views
Nerja is my favourite resort on the entire Costa del Sol. It is about 55km east of Malaga city, built on a series of cliffs above the Mediterranean, with a completely different microclimate and character to the resorts west of Malaga. The water is clearer, the setting is more dramatic, and the town still feels primarily Spanish despite the tourist traffic it gets in summer.
Getting there: there is no coastal train east of Malaga. Take the ALSA bus from Malaga bus station (around 1 hour 20 minutes, roughly €5 each way) or hire a car and drive (45–55 minutes along the A-7). A car gives you access to the surrounding coves and the Río Chillar walk, which is worth the hire cost on its own.
What to Do in Nerja
The Balcón de Europa is the focal point of the town: a natural promontory with a promenade jutting out over the sea, surrounded by palm trees and coastal views in both directions. Most people spend their first evening here. Street performers play in summer, the whole town gravitates towards it for the sunset. It is free and it is as good as it looks in the photos.
The Cuevas de Nerja (Nerja Caves) are about 4km from the town centre and are one of Spain’s top natural attractions. The cave system contains prehistoric paintings and one of the world’s largest stalactite columns. Go early (opening at 9:30am) to beat the summer crowds. The caves stay at 18°C inside, which makes them a welcome escape from the July heat.
Book: Nerja Caves Entry Ticket
One of Spain’s most visited natural sites. Book in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
The Río Chillar walk is the best thing to do in Nerja that nobody in the UK seems to know about. It is a gorge walk where you literally walk through the river itself: cool water, narrow limestone walls, total shade overhead. The walk takes 3–4 hours return and is best in July and August when the water is warm. Wear old trainers you do not mind getting wet. Start at the car park on the edge of town (Avda. Pescia) and follow the riverbed upstream. It is free and it is unlike anything else on the coast.
Burriana Beach is the main beach in Nerja: wide, golden, with cliff views on both sides. The chiringuitos at the back of the beach cook giant paellas over open wood fires on the sand. Follow the smell of smoke. Sit down with a beer. That is the correct way to spend a Nerja afternoon. From Burriana you can rent kayaks and paddle past the cliffs to the Maro waterfall and hidden coves accessible only by sea.
For families with teenagers, Aventura Amazonia in nearby Elviria is an outdoor adventure park with zip wires and treetop assault courses, good for ages 10 and above. From Elviria there is also an inflatable water park on the sea from June to September.
Where to Stay in Nerja
The Hotel Balcón de Europa sits directly on the promontory and is the most sought-after address in town. The town centre is small enough that almost any central hotel is within easy walking distance of the beach, the caves bus stop, and the restaurants.
Staying in Nerja?
Nerja books out early in summer, especially July and August. Check availability now:
La Cala de Mijas: A Quiet Alternative?
La Cala sits between Fuengirola and Marbella, about 10 minutes by car or taxi from either. It is a compact resort centred on a small Spanish fishing village with a good sandy beach, a wooden coastal boardwalk, and a main street with low-key restaurants and bars. It is not on the train line, which is why it stays considerably quieter than the large resorts.
Readers who have been asking for “somewhere not too crowded but with a nice beach and a bit of life”: La Cala is the answer. It has a good selection of apartments to rent, food is better and cheaper than in the more tourist-heavy resorts, and there are quieter stretches of coastline accessible along the wooden walkway in both directions.
There is a Saturday morning market in the village, several good fish restaurants along the beachfront, and a golf resort (La Cala Golf) in the hills above. If you want to visit Mijas Pueblo, the white village in the hills, La Cala is the closest coastal base to it, about 15 minutes by car.
Rincón de la Victoria: Where the Spanish Holiday
Rincón de la Victoria is 15 minutes east of Malaga city by car, or accessible on the Cercanías train. It does not appear in most UK travel guides because it has no hotel chains, no tourist shops, and no English breakfast menus. That is precisely why it is on this list.
This is where Spanish families from Malaga city go for their summer holidays. The beaches are clean and uncrowded. The chiringuitos are excellent and the prices are the lowest you will find anywhere near the coast: a menú del día here runs €10–12 and a beer costs €2 or less. You are not paying the tourist premium.
The Cueva del Tesoro (Cave of the Treasure) near the town is one of only seven known sea caves in the world and contains prehistoric cave paintings. It makes a good half-day if you are based here. Beyond that, Rincón is about the beach, the food, and the Andalusian atmosphere that the bigger resorts have gradually traded away. No nightclubs, no boat trip touts. If that sounds right, it is worth a serious look.
East Coast Hidden Gems: Torrox and Torre del Mar
East of Nerja, heading towards Granada province, two small coastal towns offer genuine budget holidays with minimal tourist infrastructure: Torrox Costa and Torre del Mar.
Torre del Mar is about 30km east of Malaga city and has a long, wide beach backed by the Axarquía hills. It is primarily a Spanish family resort: good seafood restaurants along the promenade, very low prices, almost no British presence. Accommodation here costs considerably less than anywhere west of Malaga.
Torrox Costa is next door. The village of Torrox in the hills above the coast is a Moorish white village and a good base for exploring the Axarquía interior. If you are coming with a car and want to see a part of Andalucía that tourists rarely reach, this area is worth a few days. The mountain villages (Frigiliana, Cómpeta, Canillas de Aceituno) are among the most beautiful in the province.
Property prices east of Malaga are noticeably lower than west. Several readers have asked about this over the years. If you are looking for a holiday home or investment property, start your search east of Nerja rather than west of Malaga, and the budget goes considerably further.
Local Secrets: How to Travel Like a Resident
I’ve been living on this coast for nearly 20 years. Here are the things that actually make the difference between a good holiday and a great one.
The Espeto Rule
Never order sardines in a sit-down restaurant. You only eat espetos at a beach chiringuito: fresh sardines skewered on bamboo, cooked over a boat filled with burning olive wood right on the sand. Most restaurants order their sardines frozen. A chiringuito uses fresh fish from that morning. The difference is immediate and obvious. Ask the chiringuito how fresh the catch is before ordering.
The Terral Wind
If you visit in July or August and suddenly feel a blast of wind that feels like an open oven door, that is the Terral. It blows down from the inland valleys through gaps in the hills. Locals close the shutters and stay indoors until it passes. Usually an hour or two. If you are on the beach when the Terral hits, the sand hurts. Head to a cafe, have a beer, and wait it out. It always passes.
The C1 Train: The Best Transport Decision You Will Make
The Cercanías C1 train runs from Malaga airport directly through the city centre and all the way to Fuengirola. It costs €2.50 or less per journey, is fully air-conditioned, and runs every 20 minutes. It connects Malaga, Torremolinos, Benalmadena (Arroyo de la Miel) and Fuengirola. If you are staying in any of those four places, you do not need a car. The train is faster than a taxi in summer traffic and considerably cheaper. Download the Renfe app before you travel to buy tickets in advance.
The Menú del Día
The best value meal in Spain is the menú del día (daily set menu), served at lunch between roughly 1pm and 3:30pm. Look for the chalkboards outside cafes and restaurants: starter, main course, bread, a drink (beer, wine, or water), and dessert or coffee for €12–16. The portions are large. In more Spanish-facing areas (Rincón, Torrox, parts of Fuengirola) you can still find menus for €10–12. Never pay tourist-menu prices when a chalkboard menú is on the same street.
Book Tickets in Advance
Aqualand, the Picasso Museum, and the Nerja Caves all sell out in August. Book at least 24 hours ahead, ideally more. The same applies to the popular flamenco shows in Malaga city. See the Malaga flamenco guide for specific show recommendations and prices.
Mijas Pueblo for a Half-Day
If you are staying west of Malaga, the white hill village of Mijas Pueblo is 20 minutes from Fuengirola and worth a half-day. Go before 10am or after 4pm to avoid the coach party crowds. On Wednesdays and Saturdays at noon, the village square hosts a free outdoor flamenco performance. It is short and informal and genuinely worth seeing.
2026 Costa del Sol Price Guide
Spain has seen inflation like everywhere else, but the Costa del Sol still offers significantly better value than most comparable destinations in Western Europe. Here is what to budget for in 2026:
| Item | Estimated 2026 Price | Local Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Menú del Día (set lunch) | €10–16 | Look for chalkboards between 1pm and 3:30pm. Includes starter, main, bread, drink, dessert. |
| Local beer (caña) | €1.80–€3.50 | A caña is a small draft. It stays cold while you drink it. Avoid ordering pints: the price per ml is worse and the beer gets warm. |
| Tapas (per plate) | €3.50–€6 | Portions are generous. Three plates between two people is typically enough for lunch. |
| Dinner for two (mid-range) | €50–70 | Three courses with a bottle of house wine in a decent local restaurant. Double this in Puerto Banús. |
| Sunbed rental (2 beds + umbrella) | €15–25 | Higher end in Marbella. Many beaches have free stretches alongside the rented areas. |
| Airport taxi to Fuengirola | ~€30–35 | The C1 train costs €2.50 and takes 30 minutes. Use it. |
| Airport taxi to Marbella | ~€50–60 | Book a private transfer for groups of 4+: often the same price and more comfortable. |
| Malaga–Fuengirola train | ~€2.50 | C1 Cercanías. Air-conditioned, reliable, 30 minutes. |
| Flamenco show (Malaga) | €22–€29 | Book ahead for weekend shows. See the Malaga flamenco guide for full venue breakdown. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Costa del Sol resort is best for families with young children?
Benalmadena is the top choice. Paloma Park has rabbits, peacocks, a lake with rowing boats, and several play areas. Puerto Marina has the Sea Life Aquarium. The cable car to Mount Calamorro works for all ages. The Holiday Premium Resort hotel has its own water park. The town is flat and pushchair-friendly. For something quieter, La Cala de Mijas has a safe beach with a wooden walkway and far fewer crowds. If you want a water park, the Aqualand in Torremolinos is the biggest on the coast.
Which resort is best for couples who don’t want nightclubs?
Nerja for the combination of scenery, good restaurants, and a genuinely Spanish atmosphere. It has bars and live music without the club scene. Marbella Old Town is good for a more luxurious version of the same: beautiful streets, good restaurants, cocktail bars that are lively without being overwhelming. Estepona is the quieter option with excellent food and a relaxed pace. All three work without a car if you’re comfortable taking the occasional taxi.
Do I need a car on the Costa del Sol?
Not if you are staying in Malaga city, Torremolinos, Benalmadena, or Fuengirola. The C1 Cercanías train connects all four and runs every 20 minutes. You need a car for Nerja, Estepona, Mijas Pueblo, La Cala de Mijas, Rincón de la Victoria, or any of the east coast towns. Marbella is technically reachable by bus from the airport, but the bus journey is slow and a car makes the surrounding area much more accessible.
Which Costa del Sol resort is best for a budget holiday in 2026?
Fuengirola and Torremolinos are the most affordable resorts west of Malaga. Both are on the train line, which keeps transport costs down. For genuinely low prices and an authentic Spanish experience with no tourist premium, Rincón de la Victoria east of Malaga is the best option on the coast. Beer for €2, menú del día for €10–12, clean beach, no English bar scene. Torre del Mar is similar and even further off the tourist track.
Is Marbella very expensive?
Puerto Banús is expensive everywhere. Marbella itself is more mixed: the Old Town and the promenade have affordable tapas bars and restaurants alongside the premium places. Go one row back from the port and prices are reasonable. A good rule: eat lunch in the Old Town, drinks along the promenade in the evening, and avoid the front-line port restaurants. The beach clubs (Ocean Club, Nikki Beach) are expensive by design, but you can walk along the beach without spending anything.
What is the best Costa del Sol resort for a hen or stag weekend?
Puerto Banús for maximum nightlife: ocean clubs by day, bars and clubs by night. Marbella is a better base if you want the nightlife option without being committed to it: the Old Town for evenings, the beach clubs for daytime, and a mix of price ranges so not everyone needs to spend the same. Marbella is also closer to Malaga airport by taxi, which matters if the group is arriving at different times. For specific venue tips, the Puerto Banús guide covers the current beach clubs and bars in detail.
Are there any quieter resorts near Malaga without the British bar scene?
Yes. East of Malaga: Nerja, Rincón de la Victoria, Torrox, and Torre del Mar. All primarily Spanish. Prices are lower, the beaches are quieter, and English-language menus are the exception rather than the rule. West of Malaga: Estepona has a strong Spanish character despite being on the tourist trail. La Cala de Mijas is quieter than the main resorts and still well-located. Any of these work for readers who have been asking in the comments for years about where to go to avoid the British pub circuit.
— Anna Collins
I’ve lived in Spain for nearly 20 years and run Malaga Travel Guide. The recommendations in this post are based on personal experience and regular visits to every resort on this list. No resort paid to be included.
Hi Anna this was very informative been going to benalmadena for over 20yrs got friends there lily langtrys at the bottom of cardiac hill are good friends there is so much to do there I never get bored of it be there in may of 2015 Thanks for the info although been to every resort u mentioned but still it’s very helpful thank you!!!
Glad you still found it informative even though you sound quite an expert on Benalmadena yourself, wow 20 years, you must have seen a lot of changes! Anything you can add that you like to do when you visit that I missed would be great. Thanks for the comments Barry and enjoy your holiday when you come in May, it’s one of my favorite months here, just before the summer season really kicks in.
Great pieces, but apart Mijas, are there any other resorts that arnt as overcrowded as the above but with some liveliness and nice beach
Hi Louise, I mentioned the most popular resorts when flying into Malaga which as you say get quite busy especially in summer months. If you were to head East of Malaga to the Axarquia area, there are much less crowded and built up resorts along the coast such as Torre del Mar and Torrox, in general accommodation as well as the cost of food and drink tends to be cheaper East of Malaga too. Nerja is a personal favorite of mine but does get very busy in high season. Thanks for your comment.
Hi Anna,
Thanks for this, you have been a great resource. We are going to Puerto Banus/Marbella for my hen weekend next weekend and also to celebrate my 40th. The info on the transfers were great and also the bit about Marbella and Puerto Banus. As we are not on celebraty earnings. Is there any nice wine bars, tapas bars, restaurants and clubs in Puerto Banus or Marbella that are nice but wont break the bank either 😉 I look forward to your reply. Thanks Corinne
Hi Corinne. Oh how lovely, a double celebration and Marbella/Banus is a great choice of location to celebrate. As I’m writing this, I’m mentally walking along Marbella’s main promenade and picking out all the affordable but nice places you could go for cocktails, tapas, restaurants etc in my head. There are loads and despite the reputation Marbs has, there are tons of places you could go that won’t break the bank. Where are you actually staying in Marbella or Puerto Banus? There’s a short taxi ride between the two so if you could give me a bit more info on location of your hotel, I can help you further.
Hi Anna, Thanks for coming back to me. We are staying in Bluebay Banus in Puerto Banus, but happy to go into Marbella too and appreciate any tips and advice you can give. Many Thanks Corinne
Bluebay is in a great location to the port and lots of nice beach clubs in Banus as I’m sure you know. Only thing is, most of the beach clubs (Ocean club,plaza beach), La Sala by the sea etc) don’t officially open until the last weekend in April. Having said that there are still lots of nice places you can go for drinks and dinner in Banus. Astral cocktail bar is unique & does some amazing cocktails, Black & White is a nice restaurant, Picassos is a good pizza/pasta place and has 30% discount between 4.30 & 7.30pm I think. Along Marbella promenade you should try & stop off at The Boardwalk (close to the port) the decor is beautiful, as are the cocktails & they do a €5 lunch menu every day. Theres a huge tapas restaurant right at the entrance to Marbella port which does €1 tapas, its always busy & has a good buzz about it.
Marbella old town is lovely, great boutique shops & lovely to have lunch or drinks, be aware of siesta time in shops though. I could go on, if you wander about especially along Marbella’s promenade you’ll find lots of places advertise specials on food & drinks and Marbella is generally better value than Puerto Banus for most things.
For parties,booze cruises, clubs etc, check out these guys, there maybe something you could arrange privately for your group: http://www.marbsparties.com/
Hi Anna just reading all your info on Malaga most informative 🙂 i was wondering could gve me some advice on the best resort to stay with my husband & fifteen year old son ( i know it’s a big ask with a teenage boy that’s half our problem trying to keep him happyentertained
Hi Dorothy, thanks for taking the time to comment, lad you found my blog informative. My sister came to visit with her 15 year old son recently and i had the same task, planning things we could all enjoy. To be honest, there’s things all along the coast that would suit, do you plan on hiring a car and traveling or do you prefer to go to a resort and stay there?
Benalmadena is a good option, there’s Tivoli world, a good amusement park which generally opens evenings in summer, nice for all of you to wander round, have a bit to eat and your son can enjoy the rides. Also in Benalmadena is the Sea Life Centre and Selwo Marina, you can take boat trips from Puerto Marina, there’s a good choice of different trips on offer down at the port.
Fuengirola and Torremolinos both have water parks, Torremolinos water park is bigger and better. Fuengirola also has a great Bio park (zoo) which is a nice day out, in summer there’s shows on an evening too.
A bit further along the coast at Elviria is Aventura Amazonia, its fab for kids your sons age, its an outdoor adventure park with zip wires etc, http://www.aventura-amazonia.com/. Also in Elviria there’s an aqua park out at sea from June to September, great fun.
Hope this helps a little, if you need any more specific info about any resorts,please let me know.
Hi Anna
We are thinking of Costa del sol but don’t know which resort? We are mid forties with a 17yr old daughter.
We love to walk round shops on promenade and eating and stopping for a drink.
In the evenings we love to listen to live music in bars and go from bar to bar.
Which do you think would be the best resort?
hi Kelly
As mentioned in the post, really any f the resorts i think would suit your family. Marbella or Fuengirola for me being the obvious choice with lots of bars, promenade, beach and music bars.
Here is a link to you may find useful, please consider using my ink if you do book as it helps fund my blog and all of the free information i provide to readers.
Hi,
we’re planning on flying to Malaga in July/August- family of 5 including 3 kids, aged 1yr to 6yrs old. Can you recommend any nice villages/ resorts along the coast that are suitable for a family? We’d like a self-catering apartment but we’re not into the loud, bar vibe. Nice sandy beaches for building sandcastles and some reasonably priced restaurants would be great.
Thanks in advance for sharing your knowledge,
Kind regards,
Mary
Hi Mary. Thanks for your question. There are loads of resorts great for kids. Benalmadena is probably the first one that comes to mind simply because it offers so much for the whole family. There’s a long flat paseo right on the beach lined with restaurants and low key bars, nothing too expensive in Benalmadena too. Theres a lovely Marina where you can take the kids on a boat trip, have an afternoon out of the heat at Sea life centre, play mini golf or just have a bite to eat watching the boats come and go. Benalmadena has a fantastic huge park (Paloma park) with 3 cafe bars, a lake and several play areas, nice on an evening after dinner for all the family. You can find lots of apartments for rent around the park area too and your only 5 mins walk to the beach.
La Cala de mijas is a little further along the coast, rather than being a long stretch, La Cala is centred around a village with lots of shops and low key bars and some very nice restaurants. It has a lovely beach and a new wooden walkway where you can access many other quiet parts of the beach with lots of chiringuitos to grab a nice paella or a cool drink.
To the other side of Malaga is Nerja, a beautiful Spanish village built on a cliff with stunning views and some great little coves. Nerja has a maze of streets full bustling at night full of places to eat and drink and burriana beach is the best place to spend days building sand castles.
Hope this helps a little, let me know what you decide and please pm me if you need any more info.
Hey,
Great blog. Myself and my girlfriend have a wedding in San Jose the end of September.. We would like to make a holiday of it. We are both 27, we would like a nice lively resort (we won’t really be night clubbing), but a busy resort with a variety of things to do.. We would be flying in to Malaga airport, plan would be to go to the wedding for 2 nites and then go to a resort for the rest of the holiday.. Wat would u recommend? Thanks a mill..
Hi Ben, thanks for your comment. Great time of year to visit this area of Spain and why not make a holiday of it. As you are flying in and out of Malaga you have loads of options for the remainder of your stay.
Nerja is a lovely resort about 2 hours from San Jose, heading back towards Malaga. Its a really pretty Spanish town built on a cliff edge so offers stunning views and a dramatic coast line with lots of coves and sandy beaches. The town is packed with restaurants, bars and shops and there’s always something interesting around every corner. The Nerja caves are really interesting and you can spend a nice afternoon walking the Rio chillar which is a mountain river walk.
Malaga itself is a fantastic city and is quite often overlooked as a destination, I love Malaga its one of my favourite cities, its got everything, beaches, culture, sight seeing, fantastic places to eat, drink, shop, watch Flamenco etc. There’s the new marina always bustling day or night with cruise ship passengers from all over the world, often you can watch live bands at the weekend while having a drink or bite to eat. The old town just 10 minutes walk from the marina is different again, theres loads of really cool rooftop bars with great views of the city, fantastic for sundowners, the city has come a long way in recent years. Oh and a fantastic new boutique hotel has just opened up in Malaga (with a nice rooftop bar) in possibly the best location:https://room-matehotels.com/en/valeria/
Marbella is about 40 minutes the other side of Malaga (dont get confused with puerto banus). Marbella has a huge long paseo lining the beach where you can walk for miles, theres a real mix of traditional Spanish places to grab a bite or drink and trendy beach side places for a cocktail or meal. The old town of Marbella is just lovely and fantastic to wander round at night…use this guide for the best accommodation in Marbella:
http://malagatravelguide.net/hotels/hotels-luxury-budget/
If there is anything specific you want to do while you are here please let me know and ill try my best to suggest the best resort to suit but you cant go wrong with the above three. Please let me know what you decide and where you book, i’d be interested to know…
Hi there, really appreciating your recommendations here. I’m walking the Camino from Astorga to Santiago de Compostela (leaving Australia in a few days.) it’s my first time to Europe! Malaga has been suggested to me for a rest at the end of the long walk (first week of July) and to soak up the sun. I’m travelling solo and would like to stay centrally beside the beach, hopefully with a pool and some great cafes/bars within walking distance. As I’m mid 40’s (and my kids are grown up) I’m not looking for a family resort, though am fine with kids.
I would be delighted to hear from you.
Hi Jenn, wow what a fantastic way to see a beautiful part of Europe, I have always wanted to do the Camino, many people walk this route solo, its very safe and you’ll meet lots of people on along the way I’m sure. For your (well deserved) rest at the end of a very long walk you can’t beat Malaga itself. Of course I’m a little bias as I live here ;). You can fly direct from Santiago to Malaga in around 1.5 hours and from the airport you can take the train into the city, its very easy. As I’m sure you have read in the post, Malaga is great because its a relatively small city for example you could have a morning coffee on the marina, spend the afternoon on the beach and have dinner in the old town on the evening, all do-able in a day foot. Temps are in the high 20’s at least in July so the beach or pool is your best option during the hot summer days.
Most of the hotels have a pool, the city centre ones are usually rooftop with bar for a cocktail watching the sunset. Molina Lario is my personal favourite hotel in Malaga, I also like the AC marriot and the Vincci posada, all have rooftop pools and great bars too and rooms are very comfortable, which is what you want after several days hiking, The Marriot is the closest to the beach. Depending on how many days you plan to stay, malaga is a good base for seeing more of southern spain either by coach or train although you are best off sticking to coastal resorts in July as in land places like Seviile or cordoba will just be too hot for sight seeing. See one of my other comments about Nerja, just 30 minutes or so from Malaga and accessible by bus.
See my other posts for things to do in Malaga:
http://malagatravelguide.net/tourism/malaga-wine-traditions-tours-and-tasting/
http://malagatravelguide.net/locations/exploring-malaga-city/
At the opposite end of the country in Northern Spain,and a little closer to Santiago is Bilbao. Very different to Malaga and the costa del Sol. Temps even in july only really reach as high as 24 degrees in the Basque region with most days averaging at 20, still warm enough for sunbathing and swimming. The food in Bilbao is to die for, the city is known for its michelin star restaurants and has become a bit of a food haven in recent years. Obviously I don’t know this part of Spain as well as Malaga at all, just thought i’d mention it as another option for you as you will be in Northern Spain for the Camino….
I hope this helps a little, if you need any further info, please don’t hesitate to ask, good luck on your walk!
Hi Anna,
I’m getting married on 29th August 2016, can’t really afford a honeymoon but noticed you mentioned Fuengirola was best for a bargain break. I’m 48 my partner 51. Any suggestions?
Sue x
Hi Sue. Thanks for reading the post and congratulations on your upcoming wedding! Yes, Fuengirola is a great resort for a bargain break, there’s lots of reasonably priced hotels and as mentioned in the post, loads of cheap places for a drink or a meal along the paseo, I mean where else can you get a €1 glass of wine!
You might be better off booking a package type holiday through someone like icelolly.com to get the best deal as opposed to booking flights and accommodation separately. If you come early September just after your wedding you are still guaranteed fantastic weather but prices are not as high as they are in August, September is one of my favourite months actually.
Here’s a few hotels for you to check directly which are in a good location to the beach and restaurants and should come in at a decent price: Hotel Myramar, La Jabega apartments, Veramar (self catering) and Hotel Las Piramides. As far as food is concerned, lots of the Spanish restaurants do a great ‘menu del dia’ which is always fantastic value and will include a starter, main and dessert, some will also throw in bread and a drink too. Prices start from as little as €7.50 for a menu del dia but you can pay up to say €20 depending on the restaurant.
Tapas bars are a good option especially when you don’t want a large meal at lunch time and its a nice way to sample authentic Spanish food, tapas usually starts at €1.50 up to about €4 each tapas and 2 or 3 with bread to share can be enough for a light bite.
The thing about Fuengirola is, you can spend as little or as much as you like, bring a sandwich to the beach during the day and have a menu del dia in the evening and you could get away with spending as little as €40 a day for the both of you.
Hope this helps, if you need any more advice please don’t hesitate to contact me again and best of luck with your wedding.
Anna
Hi, Anna,
Loved reading your post. My partner and I are late 50,s but very young at heart, ha ha. Really not sure what resort is best. We like to walk on a coast road with many stops for beverages – usually alcoholic during the day and. In the evening we like a bit of atmosphere but not rowdy. Some culture would be good too. Where would you recommend.
hi Wendy
You could always split your time and have a few days in Malaga, here you will find the most culture but also beaches and tons and tons of good bars, many hotels have lovely rooftop bars. Always a favourite pastime of mine when i’m in the city having a Mojito on the top of a hotel rooftop.
Nice resort for a good coastal walk with a few stop offs would be my favourite Marbella, otherwise for somewhere a bit cheaper but still lively look at Fuengirola or Benalmadena. They all have a lovely long beachfront paseo lined wit hotels, bars and restaurants, it just depends on your budget. Fuengi being the most reasonable i’d say with Marbella prices being slightly higher.
Here’s a link to hotels in Malaga: https://booki.ng/2z8BJCN
And another for Marbella: https://booki.ng/2u5Eij7
If you do book, consider using my link please, it doesn’t cost you anymore but helps keep my blog going and all the free information and advice I give. thank you, hope this helps.
Hi Anna,
Your blog is really informative, thanks for taking the time to put it together. My wife, 1yr old daughter and I are staying with friends 40 minutes north of Malaga in September. We have hired a car and are hoping to book somewhere along the coast for a 2-3 night stay to break things up. We aren’t keen on the touristy side of things so were hoping to find a reasonably quiet resort with great restaurants and nice beaches. Have you anything in mind?
Thanks again.
Paul
Hi Paul, thanks for reading the post and your comment. September is a lovely time to come to the Costa as many tourists have left and it is still very warm without the scorching midday sun of August. For less touristy resorts you are better of going just East of Malaga to the area known as the Axarquia region where resorts are much less developed than those I mention in my post for example.
Some starting points for you to consider would be Torrox, Nerja/Frigiliana and Torre del Mar.
The old moorish village of Torrox has a main square with bars and restaurants and narrow side streets to explore, its great because you feel you are in a traditional Spanish pueblo but only 3km from the beaches and all of its amenities.
Frigiliana is similar in that its a white washed Spanish village with some very nice restaurants but benefits from being only a few km inland from the toen of Nerja. While Nerja is a tourist destination, its much more low key and laid back than the likes of Benalmadena and Fuengirola. Nerja itself is built around a lovely village overlooking the many beaches to the left and right of the main town, there’s loads of choice for accommodation, food and drinks. We just came back from a weekend in Nerja and have been going there for many years with our young daughter.
Torre del Mar is a coastal resort but mainly used by Spanish tourists in summer as its not widely promoted as a tourist destination for the Brits. It has a lovely long stretch of promenade beside wide sandy beach to take walks and pop into many of the beach side restaurants for a bite to eat, the seafood is great. It has a nice atmosphere and the views up to the mountains are of tiny Spanish villages as opposed to huge hotels, although there are some very good hotels in Torre del Mar. There’s a little fishing port (La Caleta de Velez) where you can take a boat trip and do some dolphin watching or just watch the Spanish fishermen go about their day.
Hope this gives you somewhere to start your search, if you need anymore help or advice,please let me know. I’d be interested to know where you do book and what you think of your trip to Malaga.
Anna
Hi Anna
We are a family of 5 (three children under 5) all travelling to Malaga on 27th Sept for 5 nights. Had booked the Ibeorstar Malaga Playa in Torrox but think the beach looks very stoney with dark sand and not very inviting and I know the kids love to build sand castles. Where else would you recommend for a good standard family hotel on a nice sandy beach. Also would you have an indication of what the weather is typically like that time of year. Could the kids go into the pool. Many thanks X
Hi Rachael, I must apologise for the late response, I’ve actually just returned from holiday myself. Assume you mean you’ve booked for September of next year? To start with, the weather is usually great that time of year, its still hot with temps in the mid to high 20’s, sometimes hotter so yes the pool will still be warm enough to go swimming in, I think that hotel has an indoor pool too which i assume would be heated. You will see lots of people swimming in the sea also in September and early October.
The beach in Torrox is quite stoney but only on the waters edge, the rest of the beach leading down to the shore is nice and sandy and because the temperatures are not so high, the sand doesn’t get too hot so the kids will be able to happily build sandcastles. If you have your heart set on this hotel and don’t want to change the best thing to do is just buy some of the jelly type shoes for the kids feet, you can get them here in the souvenir shops. Its actually a very nice hotel, Ive looked at it myself before for a weekend break, depending on whether you have booked all inclusive or just b&b Torrox is lovely, it has a very nice promenade with lots of beach bars and restaurants and its safe for kids too. You are also not far from the lovely village of Nerja where you can take a day trip and see the caves or just wander round the village, I’m sure the kids will be happiest on the beach and by the pool though by the sounds of it. If there’s anything else I can help with,please let me know.
Hi Anna,
myself and the hubby are looking for a suitable resort between Christmas and New Year. We’re late 30’s and like the idea of jumping on a bus/train and going to different places in the day and returning for drinks / food and to relax in the evening. I’m not sure which resort will be lively (ish) that time of year.
Any suggestions ?
Hi and thanks for contacting me. The best place to be around christmas and New year is Malaga itself. It’s busy all year round unlike some of the resorts which are only very seasonal in terms of tourists and things to do.
In Malaga you have the benefit of being able to see the gorgeous Christmas lights in Calle Larios, (the main shopping street in the city) and have the best access to the train and bus stations. You can take a bus to pretty Nerja village in around an hour or even hop on the high speed train (AVE) and head up to Cordoba for the day. You can get round Malaga on foot including walking to bus and train stations and if the weather is warm you are also right on the beach but can head into the old town at night where you can find some great restaurants and its usually buzzing this time of year. Loads of cultural things to do in the city too or just enjoy wandering round and taking in the sights, in my ‘Malaga wine’ post I mention a very good bike tour company where you can book various different tours of the city including wine tasting and tapas etc, a very nice way to get to know the city better.
If you need help with hotel recommendations come back to me and I’ll be happy to offer some suggestions. I hope this helps.
Anna
Hi, we are planning a trip to spain in December. We are in our 50’s, relatively good health. Do not want night life, but would like beach, a little space, and maybe a small town environment – where you can walk to a “market” and get fresh veggies, or walk to a good restaurant, or sit and watch the view from your own place. Where would you recommend.
Hi Jackie, thanks for your comment. I have been meaning to up date my post with a lovely little town called la Cala de Mijas which is about 30 minutes from Malaga airport by car, it would be perfect for what you are looking for. If you’ve been watching the series lately ‘Playa in Marbella’ Olivia’s restaurant which is featured is actually in la Cala not Marbella as the program would lead you to believe. Don’t let that put you off though as Olivia’s is fairly unique to La Cala, most of the other restaurants and bars are more low key than this, it is a nice place to go for a cocktail however.
La Cala is a lovely sea side town with a long wooden boardwalk connecting it to many other beaches and little towns or its good for just a stroll and stopping off at some of the beach bars which line it. La Cala is an all year round type of town and although the population does go up in summer it has a nice feel about it all year with lots of the bars and restaurants still fairly busy. It has a village type feel to it with lots of individual shops, supermarkets and plenty of restaurants as well as the beach all within easy walking so you wouldn’t need a car. There’s a twice weekly market (Wednesday and Saturdays) where you can pick up your fresh veg as well as many other things and you are only 10 minutes in a taxi or bus from the busier town of Fuengirola if you wanted a change of scenery.
If you would like more info on accommodation or restaurant recommendations in La Cala, please come back to me, I’ll be happy to point you in the right direction.
Anna
Hi Anna,
Your recommendations seem to be really helpful. I wondered where you would recommend mid March for a short break of 5 days for 2 adults? I’ve seen lots on offer to torremolinos and benalmadena but wondered if they would have enough to do? Any advice would be very welcome.
Thanks,
Tricia
Hi Tricia. Thanks for your comment. Mid March most of the coastal resorts are just starting to get ready for the season so you’ll still be able to get some great deals on accommodation at this time of year also lots of the bars and Chiringuitos which have been closed for winter will be starting to re-open, some are open all year of course but you’ll have a bit more choice. It really depends on what you want to do, I would say Benalmadena probably has more to offer but if you are keen walkers, you can actually walk from Benalmadena Marina to Torremolinos along the beach paseo and then up into the main high street area of Torremolinos, its a lovely walk and there’s tons of places to stop off for refreshments along the way.
Both resorts are accessible by train and from Benalmadena coast you can take a bus up to the village where you have amazing views over the coast, it has a really different feel to the coast and you can while away a couple of hours exploring the narrow streets. Further still, the bus will take you onto Mijas village/Pueblo which has even more to see and do, lots of little museums and churches etc. http://malagatravelguide.net/locations/6-must-do-things-to-in-stunning-mijas-pueblo/
If there’s anything specific you are interested in doing,please let me know and I can guide you further. I should say that a day trip to Malaga is a must, its a really beautiful city and the train will take you into the centre from either resort.
Anna
Hi Anna
This was very informative, thank you.
My hubby and I have booked flights to Malage for the end of September, for 4 nights and we’re unsure where to stay. We’ve been to Benalmedina & Torremilinos previously with the kids, so know these resorts.
We enjoy walking (so walking from one resort to another isn’t a problem), watching the world go by and stopping for a beer and nice food.
We like the sound of Nerja, but wondered if we’d be better off just going for a day trip, rather than staying there for 4 nights.
Where do you recommend?
Thanks
Hi Sam, Thanks for your comment. End of September is a great time to come to Malaga, in fact for 4 nights you would have a great time staying in Malaga itself. There is a great city beach with a long paseo for walking and numerous bars and restaurants to stop off for a couple of beers. The food scene is really great in Malaga too, as you can imagine like any city there is every type of cuisine available and of course some of the best tapas around. The city centre, beach and the marina are so close, you could see them all in a day but with 4 days you can really get to know the city. Malaga also has some really cool roof top bars where you can enjoy sundowners or a late night drink after dinner.
Nerja is a good choice too and one of my personal favourite places on the CdS, its just so scenic and the coastline very dramatic. The village of Nerja itself is beautiful and great for a wander, but its small and you may get bored. The beach at Burriana is just a short walk away from the centre and has a good choice of restaurants. You could always take the bus up to the white washed village of Frigiliana from Nerja, or for a good walk head to Torrox costa where you can walk along the paseo for miles, Torrox is a lot cheaper than Nerja for food and drinks too.
Its a tough choice and it really depends on what you want to do, I would say Nerja would be them more relaxing of the two but there is more to see and do in Malaga…let me know what you decide I’d be interested to know.
Hi, this information is very useful, we are looking for a holiday apartment and have 2 children (4 & 7 year). We were looking for walking distance to Marbella but this appears out of our budget. We will travel and stay for 5 to 6 weeks at a time and so do not want to go in a small area as we will become board with the choice. Could you suggest any other areas? From reading your posts we may look at Benalmadena. Your help would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks Steve
Hi Steve, thanks for your message. My daughter has just turned 5 so I’m reading your comment with her in mind and thinking of the best family options. You will struggle in Marbella to find a good price apartment I think, especially walking distance to all Marbella has to offer, what time of year are you coming by the way?
As I mentioned in my review, Benalmadena is the best choice for families with young kids but not everything is free or cheap but there is lots to do…. Tivoli world, Sea life centre, Selwo Marina and the cable cars or a boat trip from the marina, Paloma park is lovely, and free and of course the beach stretches for miles in Benalmadena. There are usually lots of holiday lets around Paloma park area and from here you are only 5 minutes from the beach too. In general food and drink tends to be cheaper in Benal compared with Marbella and if you really want to go to Marbella, you can take a bus from the main road running through Benalmadena right by the tourist info kiosk and go for the day. There’s also a small ferry boat which runs from Benalmadena and Fuengirola every hour in season, its a nice trip and you can have a few hours in Fuengirola for a change of scenery.
In the other direction you could hop on a train from Arroyo de la Miel station and be in Malaga in 30 minutes or take a bus up to the lovely little village of Mijas where the views over the coast are fantastic, the kids will enjoy making their own chocolate bars in the smallest chocolate factory in the world.
I would use Benalmadena as your base and take a few day trips if you start to get bored, check out the links below for tips on Malaga and Mijas:
http://malagatravelguide.net/locations/6-must-do-things-to-in-stunning-mijas-pueblo/
http://malagatravelguide.net/business-directory/chocolate-tap-mayan-monkey-mijas/
http://malagatravelguide.net/locations/exploring-malaga-city/
If you need any more help or advice please come back to me.
Anna
Hi Anna loving all your recommendations. ..I’ll be 50 and my sister will be 48 when we will be on holiday..planning for end of August or end of September as my sister has already booked her holidays and they are the only times she will be able to come with me I’m not sure what the best month would be and also not sure where our base should be although I’d like to visit malaga, fuengarola,benaldemena and marbella .. we don’t mind kids,noise,crowds ect..just looking for a fab holiday with a base to stay that’s got loads to do when we get back from our sight seeing during the day …..where would you recommend…never been anywhere in spain always wanted to so sis is coming along with me she’s always going to Greece so hoping she’ll enjoy spain x
Hi Amanda, lovely that you and your sister are coming to explore somewhere new together, I’m sure you’ll think Spain is fab! End of August is going to be hotter, busier and more expensive but if you don’t mind crowds and sightseeing in the heat then don’t let me be the one to put you off. End of September is lovely, still hot but not so humid, still busy but with less kids obviously and loads going on as resorts are still in full swing. Honestly the time you come really depends on you and maybe your budget.
If you are here the third week of August you might catch the Malaga feria, its a huge festival for Malaga and for a week the city is alive during the day with ladies dressed in flamenco and lots of street parties, by night there is a huge feria (carnival) with rides and casetas (huge tents) where you can party the night away.
As for the best place to be based Marbella although fantastic with the coast line, tons of trendy beach bars and restaurants and of course the old town with the orange tree square and a more Spanish feel is maybe a little far out for the places you want to visit. The reason is that the train line finishes at Fuengirola so you would have to take a bus or taxi to any of your day trips if you were staying in Marbella, although from Marbella you can go into Puerto Banus for a meal and if you like to stay out late there are some great bars and clubs which get busy after midnight in Banus.
If you choose to stay in Malaga, Benalmadena or Fuengirola you can hop on the train. I mentioned in one of my recent comments to a family looking for a base that Benalmadena is a good option as there’s lots going on with the lovely Puerto Marina which is stunning at night, Benalmadena pueblo and also Mijas Pueblo for day trips or an evening out, both easily reached by local bus then you have fuengirola just a few stops on the train in one direction and Malaga a few stops in the other. You can even get to Fuengirola by boat, they run every hour between Benal and Fuengi during the day. There are loads of tourist offices dotted along the coast and they have coach trips to all of the major tourist spots, Nerja and Gibraltar too so you won’t get bored.
Hope that helps, have a look at some of my other posts on my site for ideas on what to do in Mijas and Malaga, there’s also a post on where to see Flamenco and if you need any more advice please come back to me!
Anna
My husband and I are flying to Costa Del Sol for a 2 day wedding which will be taking place in Cancelada (in Villa Africa). We will be there for 10 days and we are looking for a relaxing holiday close to the beach, being not too far from nice restaurants and a bit of local markets/shopping /culture and anything more local. We are not really fans of crowds of tourists being from London where there are more than enough 🙂 We might have a hire car for at least some of the time but that is yet to be determined. I have looked at Estepona as an option but is that a place you would recommend and of course any others you would say would be somewhere we might enjoy. We are in our late thirties so not totally opposed to fun and some local wine just not the clubbing kind I look forward to hearing from you.
Oh I forgot to say that we will be travelling in the middle of May this year.
hi Merete, oooh villa Africa is a lovely place for a wedding and the weather mid May is lovely, it can be hot but not unbearable like in July and August. Also in May you won’t find places crowded like in peak season but there’s enough going on and plenty of people around.
Just about every town has a weekly market but based on what you are looking for you can’t go wrong with Marbella, its about 20 minutes from the wedding venue and has some great restaurants and bars and the beach and promenade stretches for miles. If you prefer a bit of culture you could stay in the Old Town of Marbella which is only a 5 or 10 minute walk down to the beach and the marina and will give you the chance to explore the more traditional side Marbella has to offer, there’s a great Flamenco venue in the old town and lovely narrow streets to explore with little restaurants around every corner.
Estepona is nice too, not as upmarket as Marbella but similar in what it offers in terms of the old town and the beach and marina area. Food and drink tends to be a bit cheaper in Estepona too and you are slightly closer to where the wedding will take place.
You mentioned hiring a car for a few days, you could have a day in the mountain village of Rhonda, around an hour or so in land from Marbella. Take a trip into Malaga where you can visit museums and see lots of culture, try some sweet Malaga wine or book a bike tour or tapas tour to get to know the city. You could even break your trip up and have a couple of nights in Malaga when you first arrive as its literally 8km from the airport where you can hop on the train straight into the city centre.
I could go on but I think those are your best options, I hope you have a lovely holiday and enjoy the wedding.
Anna
HI Anna, thank you for a very informative sight. I last stayed in Benalmadena but would like to try somewhere different. I am coming over with my sister in October and we are both in our 50’s. Ideally we would like to stay somewhere that has plenty of attractions, shops/supermarkets and restaurants within walking distance as we won’t have a car. We don’t mind if we stay in a hotel or private self catering but would like a sea view to wake up to every morning as this is one of the best parts of our holiday. What do you recommend?
Thank you so much.
Carrie
Hi Carrie, thanks for contacting me. What did you think of Benalmadena did you ike it?
For a sea view you can’t go wrong with either Fuengirola or Marbella. Lots of sea front hotels in both resorts, Fuengirola being a little cheaper although in October you may get some pretty good deals in Marbella too. In terms of things to do, shops restaurants etc, again both resorts have plenty but Marbella is a bit more upmarket. Both resorts have a nice weekly market and plenty shops, Marbella has both designer and high street as well as little boutique shops especially in the old town. Don’t be put off by me saying its pricey, there are so many restaurants and bars competing, you can find good priced meals and menu del dias (set 3 course menus) around.
Both resorts have a lovely long promenade where you can stop for drinks along the way and if you wanted to see other places there are local buses or excursions available to take you wherever you want to go.
Hope this helps a little, let me know what you decide.
Anna
Hi Anna,
I love the sound of so many of these resorts you have mentioned previously. My partner and I are looking to book and go in May,we are in are early 30’s and want somewhere that’s not full of nightclubs but has a good selection of bars and restaurants. My main problem is that I have a lung condition that limits me walking in very hilly or built up areas,are there any resorts that is easily accessible to the beach and main resort area? I can get a taxi /bus to and from but it’s when I am there I can’t walk up hilly streets etc.
Many thanks
Karen
Hi Karen. Most of the beach front hotels and promenades are very flat so if you booked somewhere to stay on the beach front you would be fine, saying that I would avoid Nerja as there are too many hills and steep steps for you to venture too far. Benalmadena is also hilly but the main front stretches for miles and is fairly flat with the roads going up hill further into town being slightly hilly. I think your best option would be Fuengirola, its very flat, has a huge paseo lining the beach with tons of bars and restaurants and the area that comes alive at night, known by the locals as ‘fish alley’ is a maze of streets in a type of grid system filled with every type of restaurant, but it is all completely flat and easy to walk to. There’s a great jazz bar called “Speakeasy” in Fuengirola that does great cocktails and fab live music, a weekly market (Tuesdays) and if you come early May there’s a fantastic food festival which takes place on the market ground where food and drink from every country you can think of is celebrated.
Another option is Marbella, but there is a slight hill to walk to get up to the old town, its quite gentle and takes no more than 5 minutes from the beach front but I guess only you know what your limitations are, you can’t go to Marbella without a visit to the old town but you could always take a short taxi ride to it from wherever you stay in Marbella. I would absolutely look for accommodation on the beach front to be sure of being on a flat and prices in May are still affordable for beach front accommodation.
Hope this helps to answer your question, if you think of anything else or find a hotel you would like to comment on, come back to me. Have a great holiday!
Hi Anna,
I have enjoyed reading all the great advice you have given people. My husband and I are flying to Malagasy at the end if May and staying a week. We are in late 50s but very active people. We enjoy cycling ( but not too hilly areas) I’ m thinking of staying at Nerja or Malaga for 4 nights then busing to Granada for 3 nights. Is it possible to cycle along the coast? Thanks
Hi Claire
Thanks for reading my post. You can definitely cycle from Malaga to Nerja, its around 113km and is quite a nice route as much of it is beach promenade with lots of nice places to see and stop at along the way such as Rincon de la Victoria and Torrox. There is a well known bike tour company in Malaga which offers bike tours and also bike hire, they are close to the Marina near the new Room Mate Valeria hotel and are very helpful, here’s a bit more info on the route from Malaga to Nerja:
http://www.bike2malaga.com/en/cycling-routes-malaga-andalusia/mtb-biking-trails-malaga/563-malaga-nerja-malaga.
Beyond Nerja is not really my area of expertise to be honest so im really unsure of a bike route from Nerja to Granada. I would say its probably the same distance again at least so around 110km or there abouts and once you leave the coastal road at Motril the rest of the route to Granada is heading in-land. Perhaps the specialists at ‘biketomalaga’ will be more help with this one.
By the way, 4 nights in Malaga would be lovely, or break it up with 2 nights in Malaga and 2 in Nerja, both favourites of mine.
Hope I’ve been some help, happy planning!
Anna
Hi Anna,
Great advice for everyone. My wife and I are coming to the Malaga region for 2 weeks in July. We are planning on staying in Marbella for the first week. So we have a more lively week. However, for the second week we would like to go somewhere more traditional (possibly more inland) than the more tourist orientated resorts. We have been looking at places like Ronda and Frigiligana. We are looking to rent a villa with private pool. Will rent a car, but also happy to walk about the resort.
Do you have any recommendations on a town that has maintained many of the traditional features, but has enough bars and restaurants to allow us to out for dinner / drinks a few nights?
Thanks
Allan
Hi there Allan. I love your idea of breaking up your holiday with a week in Marbella and a week in a more traditional village. While in Marbella, be sure to visit the old town, to see the more traditional side of Marbella, its especially lovely on an evening.
For your second week, Ronda or Frigiliana definitely offer what you are looking for in terms of tradition but with plenty bars and restaurants. Ronda is a fair size so offers more and although attracts lots of tourists it is still essentially a traditional Spanish town but with a few more modern bars and restaurants as well as the Spanish offerings. Frigiliana is smaller and much closer to the coast, only about 6km from the pretty village of Nerja which is worth a day trip or a visit one or two evenings for a meal and to feel a nice sea breeze, you will find the inland mountain villages hotter in general than the coastal resorts in July. Frigiliana is beautiful to wander around through the narrow cobbled streets and is very low key although there are still lots of places to eat and drink.
Another village worth considering is Benahavis, only about 15km from Marbella north of San Pedro, Benahavis has gained a reputation for its food scene as has many excellent restaurants. Its fairly small but if you are happy spending your days in the villa and coming out on an evening for a bit to eat, Benahavis is a good option.
Hope you find what you are looking for and have a great holiday.
Thanks for the reply Anna. Will continue to base my searching around Ronda and Frigiliana, and will add Benahavis into the equation. Final question, are there towns around Ronda that you would suggest as a good base, in case I cant find an appropriate property in Ronda itself.
Thanks again,
Allan
Honestly Allan, I’m not sure about towns around Ronda. There’s definitely not much on the approach leading up to Ronda, as you will see if you do decide to go there, It kind of stands alone surrounded by valleys. I’m sure there must be but I would guess they would be small village type dwellings with not much for you to occupy a week. I wouldn’t like to say for definite or advise you on where else you could stay outside of Ronda itself.
Thanks that’s definitely cleared that up. Will concentrate within Ronda itself. Thanks again.
You’re very welcome, happy holiday planning!
Hello Anna
Could you tell me which town would be better for a fit retiree to live in: Benalmadena or Fuengirola? Just trying to get some ideas. I am single and don’t want to live anywhere too quiet but neither too noisy! Thank you
Sarah
Hi Sarah. That’s a tough question and I would say to anyone thinking of moving here on a permanent basis to spend time in resorts they are considering to live in, and by that I mean at least a couple of days, longer even. Also visit resorts you haven’t considered as you might be surprised at what you find.
When I first moved to Spain, I lived in Benalmadena Pueblo (village) for 4 years so it will always hold a special place in my heart, i still visit most weekends as we have family living there. There are things about Benal that I love and other things I don’t love quite so much. You say you are fit, that’s good because Benalmadena is very hilly, the Pueblo being at the top with fantastic views from the church grounds overlooking the coast. It is quite diverse in that the Pueblo is charming and traditional and the coast, especially in summer gets very busy attracting people of all ages. The marina development is very nice and from the Marina heading East you can walk along the paseo (beach promenade) all the way to Torremolinos. The paseo stretches for a miles in both directions actually and there are lots of bars and restaurants along the way. The town centre of Benal is up hill slightly but walkeable from the coast and it has all you need without being overwhelming, also Paloma park with its wild rabbits and chickens roaming round is a welcome break from the high rise apartment blocks which surround it.
Fuengirola is more flat with everything including the feria ground where there is a weekly market and many festivals are held throughout the year. Town centre of Fuengirola is a stones throw from the beach paseo and offers many shops and restaurants in an area nick named ‘fish alley’ a maze of streets full of restaurants. Just a little further on the outskirts of town, just behind the castle is “Mirimar” a large indoor shoping centre with cinema (some English movies), restaurants and even a Primark! Fuengi is generally a little cheaper for eating out, probably because there are so many places to eat and drink in one place but honestly it would be really hard to choose between the two towns.
Have you considered or even heard of La Cala de Mijas, you might know the restaurant featured on TV recently “Olivias”, this is in La Cala. It’s a really lovely, small town but with plenty supermarkets, bars and restaurants, health centre and gym too. La Cala is great because it has an all year round good population whereas some of the bigger tourist towns like Benal and Fuengi can appear a bit quiet out of season, especially at night, it also has a large expat population but still has a Spanish feel. La Cala just has one decent size hotel but none of the high rise apartment blocks like the other places so it appears more laid back and unspoilt. There is a wonderful “Sandero” a wooden walkway built along the beach which stretches a few miles and plans are in place to extend it as far as Fuengirola.
Lots for you to think about I hope, please let me know if I can be any more help.
Anna
Sarah hi again. Just thought I would give you an update to your question. I asked my followers on my face book page on your behalf which they preferred for retirement, Benalmadena or Fuengirola.
Interestingly everybody who commented voted for the same resort… see the link here and feel free to ask or comment yourself: https://www.facebook.com/Malaga-Travel-Guide-1576600269233959/?fref=nf
Hi Anna
I’m spending four nights in Malaga in june and was wondering if I’d get a better hotel deal by just turning up and inquiring at hotels rather then booking in advance.
Hi Mark. If i were you, I’d absolutely book in advance, you’d be surprised at how quickly hotels get fully booked in Malaga and rather than you wandering from hotel to hotel to be disappointed its worth spending a little time in advance looking at the area you want to be and booking before you arrive. There are also lots of apartment rentals available in great locations (which you wouldn’t know about if you just turned up in the city)if you prefer that type of self catering accommodation rather than a hotel.
Lots of choices and types of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets ranging from hostels from €40 a night to 5 star at €350+ a night. See some of the best here: https://booki.ng/2nUG1CK
Anna
Hi Anna myself and 5 friends are wanting to come to Malaga for 4 nights in June next year! Where all in our 40s and enjoy the beach and busy bars maybe some of us may venture to a club or 2!! But don’t want to be surrounded around 18 year olds in the evening and would prefer not to be surrounded in a hotel with children as I’m escaping mine ? But would love a decent hotel with pool near a beach! Could you please help us to choose a hotel and a good place to stay ? Thank you
Hi Angela. How lucky are you to be coming away without the kids, If I got the chance to do the same I wouldn’t want to be surrounded by them either. June is a great time to come as there aren’t as many kids here but the weather is fantastic, hot and sunny!
Based on what you’re looking for I would avoid Puerto Banus. Marbella would be a great option for you and your friends though, it has loads of nice bars which get busy on the evening especially on the port. Some have a bit of a club feel t them after midnight but without any entrance fee, hey kind of just pick up the pace a bit. I really like Lemmon on Marbella port for late night drinks and some of the bars surrounding it for drinks earlier on.
There is a slightly more mature crowd in Marbella rather than Banus, the beaches are fab (check out https://mahikibeach.com/) and stretch for miles with tons of hotels beach side. For a good hotel in a great location on the beach and 5 mins walk to the port and old town but reasonably priced check out the Princesa Playa
If your budget will stretch a gorgeous hotel perfect for a girlie trip which is adults only is the Amare beach hote, I would love to stay here myself, its gorgeous, ultra chic and modern and has a fantastic beach and rooftop bar area.
I hope that helps a little to narrow your search, let me know if i can do any more to help…happy holiday planning!
Anna
Hi Anna,
Very informative and interesting read about the Costa Del Sol. My girlfriend and I are looking to head to the area the first week of October. We are unsure of the area to choose, hopefully you can help?
We’re looking for somewhere offering plenty of local Spanish restaurants and bars. We are not looking for clubs and just want somewhere to relax, eat, drink and enjoy the weather. We plan to go to the likes of Ronda, Malaga and Estepona for the day trips. Ideally looking somewhere we can relax by the beach and wander around the rest of the time.
Any help is greatly appreciated,
Greg & Megan (28 from Scotland)
Hi Greg. There are a few places which would tick most of the boxes based on what you are looking for. Malaga itself is a good start, as mentioned in the post its a great mix of city life and everything that brings like great restaurants, bars (some fab rooftop bars with great views), marina, shopping, culture etc mixed with some nice beaches and long promenades both to the East ad West of the city which you can walk for miles and enjoy the coastline. It might even be an idea to break up your week and have maybe 2 days in Malaga and 5 in one of the resorts you mention like Estepona which is about an hour or so drive from Malaga centre. Just a thought…
Marbella would be a good base for exploring both Ronda and Estepona as day trips and would perhaps make fr a more relaxing base than Malaga which is why I suggested breaking it up. The old town of Marbella is a welcome break from the coast with a lovely Spanish village feel to it, I love to wander round window shopping and having a bite to eat in the evenings in the old town. There are loads of bars to have a quiet-ish drink and watch the world go by along the long coastline of Marbella, there is every type of cuisine you could wish for too with hundreds of restaurants, some casual and some more fine dining so you can really mix it up a bit. You could even hire bikes and cycle all the way to Puerto Banus for the day or take a short 15 minute or so taxi ride.
For somewhere a little cheaper but still with plenty to see and do, take a look at Fuengirola or Benalmadena, from either of these towns you can take the bus to the top of the mountains to Mijas Pueblo and spend a nice afternoon exploring this lovely white washed village with amazing views of the coast.
Given a choice I would choose Marbella for a weeks stay as a base and if you have time spend a day and a night in Malaga.
Hope this helps, enjoy!!
Hi Anna
I am hoping to go towards the end of September beginning of October. It will be my first holiday as solo woman Traveller (42). Where would you recommend to stay. I just want to chill and read through the day but have somewhere to go for a meander and have a nice meal and people watch on an evening without feeling like a gooseberry haha! Also an thoughts on hotels? I would prefer 4/5* with a nice pool area. Any tips greatly appreciated.
Many thanks
Helen
Hi Helen. Tough question as there are loads of places that come to mind when considering what you are looking for. I have filtered a couple of to show whats on offer around Marbella for the end of September for a few days. Depending on your budget really depends on where you stay, the first one on the list the ‘Princesa Playa’ in my opinion is a great price for its fantastic location. Its the quieter side of Marbella port so you could spend the days around the hotel pool reading or on the beach right at the front of the hotel. Then come evening you are just 5 to 10 minutes walk along the promenade to the marina and loads of restaurants and bars. There are hundreds of restaurants lining the front and you could walk for miles before or after dinner. From the port head up into the old town which is lovely at night, sit in orange tree square with your book and enjoy a meal or drink or browse the boutique shops in the old town when you get bored.
Possible cheaper options for accommodation but still with plenty of people watching to do at night are Fuengirola, Estepona and to the other side of Malaga, Nerja is a good choice.
Hi Anna
Many thanks for all the wonderful tips. Getting a bit overwhelmed with it all.
One minute i’m thinking Benalmendena, then Malaga iteself, then Estaponia..HELP!!
We are 6 ladies between 50 and 75, flying into Malaga end of May.
Looking for pretty, beachy, near shops and restaurants, def a beautiful old town to explore. No car so things need to be close. We’ll be staying apartment or villa hopefully with a sea view.
Stayed in Alicante this year and loved it but want to try something different.
Please help Anna as am going mad looking.
Many Thanks
Therese
Oh Therese that’s a tough one but I’ll do my best to help. Ok there are tons of coastal resorts with good beaches, shops and restaurants but not all are ‘pretty’ or close to a nice old town. You mentioned Benalmadena, its got a great stretch of beach with a lovely Marina to explore at night full of restaurants and shops so as long as you stay near the coast and central you won’t need a car. There is a lovely ‘Pueblo’ or old village in Benalmadena, its a bus ride away but buses are good, reliable and cheap and will take you from the coast road up to the Pueblo in a bout 20 minutes or stay on and go all the way up to Mijas Pueblo even further up the mountain. This would make a great day trip as Mijas pueblo is a lot bigger than Benalmadena pueblo and you can easily while away a few hours eating, shopping exploring this ancient village. See my post on Mijas pueblo for ideas: http://malagatravelguide.net/locations/6-must-do-things-to-in-stunning-mijas-pueblo/
If you really want everything literally on your doorstep then Nerja is probably the prettiest resort you could go to. Its the other side of Malaga and so is generally quieter, its really beautiful and we try to go at least once a year. Built high up on a cliff edge the little village/town of Nerja is a labyrinth of white washed streets bursting with quaint little restaurants and shops. The beaches are more like coves due to the nature of the rocky coastline and although the sand is more pebbly it makes for a very pretty setting. Be aware though that to get to the beaches (Burriana is the best) you would have to walk down quite a few steps and steep paths, something to bare in mind for you and your friends. Once there though there are loads of places to eat on the beach front and its also nice and busy at night down on Burriana with lots of good bars and restaurants. We normaly spend one evening in the town and one on the beach front, Rincon del Sol beach restaurant built into the cliff side is lovely: https://www.facebook.com/Rinc%C3%B3n-del-Sol-Beach-Club-118630421486980/
Another good option which ticks all your boxes is Marbella, don’t be confused with Puerto Banus and all the clubs etc (think TOWIE). Marbella itself is great for all ages including families, couples, groups like yourselves etc. Stay close to the port of Marbella and you will have wonderful beaches, restaurants and gorgeous Marbella old town all within walking distance. The old town really is so pretty and the main square is lined with hundreds of orange trees and pavement cafes/restaurants under the shade of the trees, venture down the side streets for boutique shopping and ore places to eat/drink.
Some more things for you to consider, if you need help with accommodation in any of these places, please get in touch.
Anna
Hi Anna.
Thank you so much for going to the trouble of writing such an informative response. I think I am now definitely going to concentrate my villa/apartment search in Marbelle as it seems to tick all the boxes. You are right about my concerns regarding the trendier Puerto Banus; I was thinking that Marbella would be super expensive and akin to PB. So again, many thanks. I’ll let you know how I get on.
Warm Regards
Therese
Glad i could help. The media portray all of these celebs as coming to ‘Mabella’ when in fact all of the bars and clubs they are seen in are all in Puerto Banus which is a good 15 minutes drive away. Just be careful with your accommodation though and make sure to check that you are booking in Marbella rather than Banus. If you use the old town or Marbella port as a guide when looking for places to stay and try to stay close-ish to those then you can’t go wrong. Please keep in touch with what you decide and let me know what you think.
Hi Anna
So much information, thank you!
A girlfriend and I are coming to Malaga mid November, both in our mid 50’s. Enjoy a normal stress free lifestyle but with plenty to see and do. Where would you recommend we stay for 3 nights? No car.
Hi Kate, thanks for your message. Mid November can be fairly quiet on the coast, although there are still some tourists about. For a 3 night break in November, Id say Malaga itself would be a great place to stay.
I have said it many times before but Malaga offers everything, if its warm enough the beach stretches for miles so you can enjoy a day sunbathing. If not then enjoy a long walk along the promenade and have seafood lunch in one of the beach bars. There’s loads of great shops in Calle Larios, traditional Arab baths are good for a nice relaxing afternoon, tons of Muesums and a fantastic marina with restaurants, bars, entertainment over the weekend sometimes. Come evening you’ll be spoilt for choice for places to eat and drink, there’s also a really good restaurant with a Flamenco show every night from Wednesday til Sunday: http://www.restaurantevinomio.es/en/
The Vincci Hotel has jazz over the weekend in their bar. You dont have to be staying at the hotel to enjoy the music but it is a very nice hotel and ive priced it here for you
Ive priced other hotel options in Malaga see the link here:
Enjoy!!
Looking to buy small holiday home half our or just a bit more from Malaga airport what area would you recommend. X
Hi Liz, lots of if’s and but’s there as it all depends on your budget, what you like to do and be close to, whether you prefer somewhere busy and lively or quiet. But to the East of Malaga within 30 minutes or so is the quieter towns of Torrox, Rincon de la Victoria and about 40 minutes away is the lovely town of Nerja, one of my favourite places on the CdS.
To the West are the more well known towns of Torreolinos, Benamadena and Fuengirola all within 15 to 30 minutes from the airport and all on the coast. Bear in mind that the East tends to be cheaper for property as it is less built up and touristy so if you are on a budget then I’d look there first of all.
A real up and coming little town about 35 minutes from the airport is La Cala de Mijas. People who come here tend to fall in love with it as it still has a lot of charm about it but at the same time there’s plenty of great restaurants, beach bars and a lovely long wooden boardwalk joining lots of little resorts together. It’s another fave of mine and the beauty is, if you buy fairly central to La Cala then you don’t need a car as the town has everything you need.
If you need guidance on reputable estate agents, please come back to me as its important to buy from reputable people. Also help with short term accommodation while you are here searching for properties I ca help with that too.
Any more specific questions, let me know.
Hi Anna,
Thank you for all the information that you’re posting on this website. My wife and I are planning to come to Malaga next summer for about 10 days and I’m researching a location there for our stay. We love to swim in a relatively calm waters at day time in a beautiful, not so crowded beach, and go out to restaurants and entertainment at night. Which resort town do you recommend? Thanks.
Hi Tom
Thanks for your question. Depending when in summer you are coming, beaches here can get crowded especially at weekends between Malaga and Estepona which is the more touristy west region of Malaga. School summer holidays are the busiest times as you would expect.
For more quiet beaches with calm waters you would be better off heading to the East of Malaga to the Axarquia region. Torre del Mar, Rincon de la Victoria, parts of Torrox and Nerja and especially Maro and La Herradura will offer quieter areas to sunbathe and swim than the more popluar resorts like Benalmadena and Marbella for example on the West. Choose carefully though as there are quite a few nudist beaches around.
To the far West in the province of Cadiz which is about 1 and a half hours drive from Malaga where the Med meets the Atlantic, you will find much wider and sandier beaches. The sea tends to be a little rough down here though so might t be deal for swimming, but you can certainly find some very beautiful and quiet spots in Vejer de la Fronterra. See this article for more info: http://www.vejerdelafrontera.co.uk/beaches.html
A good idea would be to hire a car and explore the beaches or break up your stay and have a few days to the West of Malaga and a few days to the East. Good luck.
hi, thanks for a great blog full of information! We are two families (adults and teenagers) searching for a nice place to stay in the Costa. We normally go to Nerja which we love but we are just looking for a change, somewhere with pool, beach and shopping and not high rise
what would you recommend? Thanks
hi Caitriona, Oh we love Nerja too and always try to get down there during the spring for a weekend but it’s always good to have a change of scenery. Hmmm, San Pedro is nice. It has a lovely beach front, safe promenade with wide sandy beaches, you can actually walk or cycle to Puerto Banus along the prom from San Pedro, always good for people watching ad spotting the fancy cars and yachts. There are plenty apartment buildings and villas beach side too available for rent and the good thing is its still fairly low rise.
The town centre which is just up from the beach front has loads of very nice restaurants to choose fro and a square with a pretty church surrounded by restaurants. If you have kids, the San Pedro Boulevard is fantastic, its a few km’s of different pay parks, great for kids age between 2 and 10. Every 100 metres there is something different to play, zip wires, climbing frames etc and it has a few cafes/restaurants for refreshmets long the way.
San Pedro makes for a good base for seeing nearby Marbella or Estepona or even Gibraltar which is only about 45 minutes away in a car. It doesn’t have the charm that Nerja does as its a fairly new and modern town in comparison but its not too built up and the beach and town are very nice. For shopping, San Pedro has some small individual shops but you can get to La Canada, a fantastic indoor shopping centre in around 10 minutes by car/taxi.
I hope this helps, if you would like more specific info, please get back in touch.
A
Hi Anna,
so happy to have read your blog, very informative esp for first timers like us.. we will be traveling with 2 kids (ages 2 & 6) this July 1st week and I’m torn between Torremolinos and Benalmadena… we haven’t booked a place to stay yet, would you recommend going for resort hotels or apartments?
Thanks again.
Hi. Thanks for reading the post, glad you found it informative. There are so many resorts and hotels on the Costa that It can get quite overwhelming choosing the right place to stay, especially with kids. It’s a tough call between Torremolinos and Benalmadena as both have great long stretches of beach, some nice kid friendly hotels and plenty of activities and things for families to do.
But whichever resort you choose, you are only ever a short bus or taxi ride away from the other. If you were to stay around the Puerto Marina area of Benalmadena for example you are just a short walk along the promenade to Torremolinos.
Did you see my recent blog post about the new Riu hotel in Torremolionos? My daughter who was 5 at the time and husband and I stayed there last summer and I wrote a detailed and honest report about it. I would recommend this hotel for you as a young family, its new and modern, loads of sun beds, clean, the evening entertainment was good with a mini disco etc early on for the little ones, there are 3 swimming pools and a great splash park both kid would enjoy, oh and a free kids club. Its over the road from the beach too and from here you are not too far from the water park and Crocodile park.
Benalmadena probably just edges it for me though to be honest, Paloma park, although too hot to enjoy during the day in July is lovely at night with park cafes/bars open a lake and great play facilities for kids. The town of Benalmadena is quite hilly in places though so be careful if choosing a hotel that isn’t on the beach front as you might have hills to contend with. Tivoli world theme park is a great place to spend an evening and also the marina, as mentioned earlier is great day time for taking a boat trip or evenings for a meal and a stroll.
I have put together a hotel search for your week in July.
Holiday world, although its pricey it is all inclusive and its fantastic for families. We try to stay here once a year as my daughter loves it, the pools are amazing for kids at this resort and the rooms are spacious apartment style with a kitchen. Bear in mind that’s its actually in the middle of Benal and Fuengirola and you can’t really walk to much ,if that doesn’t bother you then its a great choice.
A bit cheaper is Sunset beach, right on the beach too so good location and nice pool area for adults and kids but a little bit of a walk to get to things. The best location and value for money is The Palmasol hotel. Its a few minutes walk to the beach and also the marina which is fantastic and can’t be beaten on location.
I hope this has been some help, if you have any other questions please come back to me.
Anna
Hi Anna,
Thanks for the great advise. We picked Benalmadena as you suggested and yes it best for family holidays. We really had great time and we would definitely go back there again.
Thanks again.
Dell
Hi there. Thank you so much for taking the time to write a message to tell me you had a lovely family holiday in Benalmadena. It really is the nicest feeling when readers comment to thank me for recommendations!!
I give so much ‘free’ information and don’t request anything back from readers, so honestly your comment has made my day and this blog and all the time and energy I put into it worthwhile.
THANK YOU and have a lovely day!
Anna
Hi, thank you for your information and very full responses. Reading what you have put I feel I am having a change of mind. I was thinking of Benalmadena of Torremolinos but now think perhaps Fuengerola or Marbella. We are 2 couples in mid 50s. Don’t want anything overun with children and whilst we like to spend time on the beach and pool we like to see things as well. Will definitely have a day in Malaga. Not clubbers but like nice food and drinks and live music. An adults only hotel would be good but then not known for hen/stag parties..
Any help would be great.
Thanks
hi Janice. Thanks for reading the post and commenting. I can see why you are unsure about where to spend your holiday, there are a few paces that would suit the style of holiday you are looking for actually. You didn’t mention when you are thinking of coming, from end of June until end of August all of the coastal resorts are busy with families with kids. But that doesn’t mean you have to be in the thick of a full blown kids entertainment program day and night. There are adults only hotels along the coast but steer clear of Sisu Hotel in Puerto Banus if you don’t wish to be surrounded by hen and stag parties.
The best two adults hotels that immediately come to mind are the Double Tree Hilton which is between Benalmadena and Fuengirola. It’s in a very peaceful location a couple of km’s away from the beach but the hotel offer a shuttle service down to the beach every day. The hotel has one of the best spa’s on the coast, gorgeous outdoor pools and a lovely rooftop bar. It also has tennis and paddle courts and there are at least 4 restaurants within the hotel too. From here you are within easy reach of stunning Mijas pueblo which is just 10 minutes or so by car, or take the local bus, either way you would have a lovely day out exploring. Also not far is Benalmadena Pueblo, fab views from the little church and some very quaint bars and restaurants in the fountain square. I would recommend taking a taxi which is just 5 mins from the hotel and spending a couple of evenings in the Pueblo, El Muro restaurant is lovely next to the church.
The other hotel is one of my personal favorites, the Amare Beach in Marbella. This hotel is right on the beach, in fact it has its own beach and beach restaurant, one of the nicest places to have lunch in Marbella. The hotel is modern and new and again adult only, it has regular entertainment like flamenco and live music which would suit you and a dj on weekends by the pool. Its not loud and lairy though like some Marbella hotels, more of a laid back vibe. The location is perfect, you can walk to the old town in Marbella which is lovely day or night and also the port, both are just 5 minutes walk. There are bike hire places in Marbella and you can also cycle all the way to puerto Banus along the coast, my daughter and i do this regularly.
If you choose Benalmadena, you are closer to Malaga and you can catch the train which is a cheap and easy way to get there. Marbella is probably slightly more expensive in terms of accommodation. Its a tough call…have a closer look at both hotels and come back to me if you need any more info.
Hi Anna. We had to cancel our holiday to Gran Canaria and didn’t have a clue where to try. We wanted something new. After reading your blog you have me sold. We have booked a week in Benalmadena first week in May. Will keep you posted on how we get on. Thanks for your advice
Hey Bernie. That’s amazing, people like you are the reason I write this blog and spend so much time giving readers my insight. Thank you for sharing this with me, I really mean that, and yes please please tell me all about your holiday and what you thought about Benalmadena after you return. If you need any more info in the mean time, please come back to me.
Happy holiday planing!!
Hey Anna!
My boyfriend and I will be visiting the area in April for 3-4 days. Having trouble trying to decide where to stay based on all the wonderful info you have given on the different areas. We are in our 30s and are looking to be able to relax and explore as well. We will have a car and are not into the club/party scene. It seems Marbella or Malaga may be the best bet for us but wasn’t sure if you had a better recommendation. Any hotel recs would be great too since it seems like there are so many wonderful places to stay in the mid-price range. Thank you for any advice you can give us!
hi Katie. Thanks for reading and posting a question. I would probably agree with you that either Malaga or Marbella would make a great base for your few days here. Malaga has more to keep you interested if you are looking to keep busy, sight see and explore, it has the added bonus of being a city with a beach too. So if the weather is nice the beach makes a welcome break from sightseeing. Many hotels in Malaga have rooftop swimming pools and bars too which are lovely in the evening as the sun sets. The AC Marriot rooftop pool/bar has amazing views especially at night and is a great location to the port beach and city centre. The hotel itself is lovely and would make a great base. There’s loads of lovely traditional Spanish restaurants and tapas bar in Malaga all within walking distance, I mentioned El Pimpi already which is great for lunch. Meson de Cervantes or Vino Mio is nice on an evening especially if you catch the flamenco show at vino mio.
If you prefer to stay somewhere a bit more relaxing then Marbella is perfect. My favorite hotel in Marbella is the Amare adult only hotel. I think it would be great for you and your BF too, its adults only but has nice entertainment a lovely pool area and a great beach restaurant. The old town is only a few minutes walk as is the port and you can walk or cycle for miles along the beach paseo stopping at shops, bars and cafes along the way.
From Marbella you could reach Malaga in less than an hour in your hire car and spend a day here, or vise versa should you choose to stay in Malaga. Another one of my favourite beach resorts is Nerja, its the other side of Malaga about 45 minute drive. Nerja is a smallish Spanish village built on a cliff, the main focal point is the balcon de europa with stunning views and lot of narrow streets full of shops and quaint restaurants. Spend a day here to get a different feel of the Spanish coast.
I hope that helps, if you need any more ideas on hotels, please ask.
Anna
Thank you Anna for your response!
Hi Anna, great article, most helpful! I wondered what some of the places you mentioned are like in the evenings – we love going to places where there’s some atmosphere with live music/acts etc, do these places offer things like this? And as we’re travelling with a baby and toddler, are they child friendly?! We’re hoping to find a villa for a couple of weeks, but trying to work out best location as we don’t want to be restricted in the evenings. Thank you 🙂
Hi Emma. Thanks for your question. Have you booked your flights yet? If you could tell me when you are coming or thinking of coming I can do the research for you, since the Costa del Sol is a big place and I’ve only really covered the main areas, there may be other that will suit you better. I’ll source a villa that will suit what you’re looking for. Just give me a bit more info like how many people are in your party, dates and a rough idea of budget and whether you prefer to be close to the beach and within walking distance or whether you are planning to hire a car.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Tks Anna
Thank you Anna! We’re planning on driving (with a couple of stopovers of course!), so we’ll have our car, we’re thinking of arriving for the villa the first weekend in May for two weeks, we’re a family of four, two adults, a three year old and baby will be nine months. Ideally we’d like three bedrooms so the boys can be separate! As I mentioned our main requirement really is being easy waking distance to some child friendly evening life, restaurants etc! We’re not massively fussed about beach and budget is pretty flexible. Thank you so much!
hi Emma. Thanks for getting back to me with some more info. Ive had a look at villas available and to be honest to be close-ish to child friendly evening life, you are better close to the coast even though you say you are not massively fussed about the beach. The coastal resorts tend to be where everything is happening.
You may have heard of the little town of La Cala de Mijas?? It’s in the spotlight because of the TV show featuring restaurant ‘Olivia’s’. La Cala would be a great place for you to because your holiday because it’s very child friendly. There are some lovely restaurants ranging from reasonably priced Spanish tapas to a la carte dining, including Olivia’s of course which is actually very child friendly. The beach goes on forever and there’s a fantastic boardwalk where you can take a stroll with the boys and stop at the beach cafes along the way. La Cala has supermarkets, banks, shops and a great outdoor play park with a cafe and lots of open space to play. There are also some pay areas along the beach too with plenty places to eat on an evening, all of which are quite bustly and family friendly. La Cala is great because it still has a kind of village feel to it, there’s only 1 biggish hotel, everything else is really low rise and the coastline here is lined with villas as opposed to huge tower blocks.
I’ve found a villa for your dates, it might not be ideal as it doesn’t have a pool, but it has a lovely big enclosed garden and it’s beach front so you could park up your car and walk to everything, its in a perfect spot and not badly priced either.
Let me know what you think and if you do book and need recommendations for restaurants that are child friendly, let me know.
Hi Anna
What a fantastic blog!! We’re two couples 45/55 in age. We’re looking for a nice hotel – not too many children please!! We’re going for Christmas 21-29 December and I have spent an age trawling areas and hotels. Torremolinos/Benalmadena or Marbella?? We like shopping, good restaurants, nice bars, sunshine, promenades, marinas. What we’re after is rest and relaxation in a nice hotel in a slightly more upmarket area without it costing the earth!! I’ve looked at Riu Nautilus and various hotels in Marbella. As a bench mark one of our favourite holiday destinations is Costa Adeje. Thanks for your guidance!!
hi Tracey. Thanks so much for your kind words. Hmmm to me it would appear the best location based on what you have described is Marbella. Everyone assumes it’s really expensive to stay and eat out in Marbella but it really doesn’t have to be. I’ve never been to the Costa Adeje actually so can’t really compare.
It ticks all your boxes in terms of shopping, restaurants, bars, promenades, marina and of course sunshine and its a bit more upmarket than some other resorts.
I have a great aparthotel that I recommend first of all. It’s the Princessa Playa, its on the beach front and therefore right on the promenade which you can walk or cycle (there are cycle rent places close by) for miles, in fact all the way to Puerto Banus if you are fit enough. To get to Marbella port or Marbella old town it will take you 5 minutes on foot and while this isn’t adults only, there would not be many kids at this time of year. I’ve pricd it for yu on your dates and it comes in at less than €500 per couple.
Its a shame the Amare adult only hotel isn’t open during the winter as that is fabulous…but anyway, another good option and just a few minutes away from the port again and old town is the Fuerte hotel. It offers a little bit more than the Princessa playa and that’s reflected in the price but it is still not bad at just over €1000 for your 8 days.
Both are surrounded by shops, restaurants and bars and as mentioned a short walk to the lovely old town too. I really hope that helps narrow down your search a little, please come back to me if i can help any further.
Anna
Hi Anna
Many thanks for coming back to me with so much information. I actually made a decision a couple of days before your reply and … went for Marbella for and the Fuerte Marbella – 8 nights half board and a room with a front sea view – glad I did when I read your email!!
One thing you may be able to help me with – my husband wants a traditional English Christmas lunch on Christmas Day – yes I know!!!?? We’d like to go to Puerto Banus ideally somewhere with a view of the marina. I’m currently looking at Sloanes Bistro but unsure. We want a nice position good food not ludicrously priced. Also when restaurants state “open bar” is this as we know it and what drinks are included?
Many thanks for your help – your blog is wonderful!!
Tracey
Ohhh wow, great minds hey haha!! Glad you have something booked, now the planning is the fun part. I was in Marbella for the weekend actually for our wedding anniversary, our hotel was the Amare which I mentioned is lovely (we were child free for a night). We walked past both the Princesa and the Fuerte several times and the Fuerte is definitely nicer so you’ve made a good choice.
I’m actually with your husband there by the way, got to have an English Christmas dinner on Christmas day no matter where you are in the world. Im a little confused though as the only Sloanes Bistro I know is in Elviria which is in the opposite direction, heading back towards the airport, is that the restaurant you mean?
Gran Gatsby has just about the best panoramic views over the port of Banus. They do serve Christmas lunch as far as i know but i don’t know how much it would be, worth contacting them as its a fab restaurant. If the weather is good you can dine outside here too.
For an equally nice restaurant that you could walk to and then stumble home (as Banus is a taxi ride) is Alevante although i think its just changed its name to The Harbour restaurant. It has lovely views over Marbella port, book early to get a good table with a view as its quite a big restaurant. Drinks on the port followed by Xmas dinner here sounds just lovely to me…
If i can think of any others ill get back to you Tracey. I would assume ‘open bar’ would mean the price you pay includes unlimited alcohol but check their policy to be sure.
P.s Thank you for the kind comments about my blog, ,Its always nice to be appreciated x
Hi Anna,
I’ve enjoyed reading your blog and wonder if you could answer a couple of questions please? I’m looking to go away for my 30th birthday on a very rare kid free few days! My boyfriend suggested the Costa del Sol but I was hesitant as I always assumed it was the Spanish version of Skegness. Your blog has turned that around somewhat, but could you recommend an area and hotel at all? My boyfriend likes being near a Marina, and I’d be looking for a hotel with a decent pool, perhaps one that attracts adults mostly as we won’t be taking children. I thought Nerja sounded lovely but I’m really not sure. Our budget is modest. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you!
hi Zoe. Thanks for the comment, sorry for the slightly delayed reply, just had my family over for a visit. How nice you are going away somewhere lovely to celebrate your 30th, especially child free, the Costa del Sol would be a great place.
There are lots of lovely marinas dotted along the coast, some busier and more commercial than others depending on what you are looking for. Nerja is gorgeous and very picturesque because of how it is built all along a cliff edge with little beach coves. The village itself is a pretty little whitewashed maze of streets with some great restaurants, bars and shops too.
I would absolutey recommend a couple of days here with your other half. Hotels in Nerja can be a bit pricey though, my favourite is Hotel Carabeo, its a boutique style with a lovely pool area i a quiet location right on the sea front but within a few mins walk to everything. Even if you don’t stay here is recommend having dinner in the restaurant one night.
Hotel Villa flamenca is also nice and has just had a refurb and is in a great location close to the burriana beach which is also a good place to walk to on an evening as there are many restaurants and bars down at this beach, it makes a change from the village centre, we always try to stay close to Burriana when we go to Nerja.
There isn’t a marina in Nerja so if he’s really set on being close to one I’d look at Marbella or Benalmadena. A really affordable hotel close to the marina in Marbella and also on the sea front is the Princesa Playa. They do happy hour cocktails for 5 euros every day so definitely not expensive!!
Hi Anna
I’ve been reading your site for a while now as my wife’s folks have a house in Benalmadena Pueblo and it’s really handy and well researched. So when I was told that the Series I produce in Benidorm was moving to the Costa del Sol and would take in everything from Malaga to Marbella and up into the mountains one of the first places we came was to the website and it seem you are the person with all the knowledge. So I just wanted to say hello and ask would you mind having a chat with us about the show, whether to point us in the right direction or maybe take part?
All the best
Bob Brear
Hi Bob. Thanks so much for reaching out and also reading some of my posts, appreciate the kind comments. I heard about the TV show coming to the CdS and actually mentioned it to my social media followers, many of whom are expats like me so are ideal candidates. I’m pretty sure there would be plenty of them looking to be a part of the show. I see you have sent me a private message too so I will respond to that and we can discuss further.
Anna
Hello Anna. Let me begin by saying that your blog has been extremely informative and helpful, especially for first timers to the costa del sol. My wife and I have booked our tickets to Malaga for a week between the 20th and 27th of December. We have already pencilled in Nerja for a couple of days. but confused and a little overwhelmed about having a perfect remaining 4-5 days in Malaga/Costa Del Sol. We are a recently married couple in our late 20’s.. We aren’t looking for clubs. We are after an idyllic and romantic holiday where we want to eat, drink, go for walks and relax by the beach and also take in the christmas festivities. We were thinking Malaga itself for Christmas and a beach resort in any of the Costa del sol cities/towns for a couple of days. We would be traveling from London. Your suggestions would be extremely helpful and welcome. Much obliged..)
Hi Ganesh. Thanks for the message, I’m glad you’ve found my blog helpful so far. You’re right, where to go on the Costa del Sol ca be a bit overwhelming for first timers especially at Christmas time when you want everything to be perfect.
I would absolutely suggest staying in Malaga city itself but NOT on christmas eve or Christmas day. The reason – most bars and restaurants will close mid afternoon christmas eve and will stay closed until 26th December. Think of it as similar to the UK where christmas day moslty people visit eachother at home. If you book a hotel with a restaurat i would assume that will be open xmas eve/day but worth checking with them first. Some beach front cafes and restaurants remain open however but i would definitely recommend a ‘resort’ for christmas eve/day instead…ill come to that in a while.
A good time to stay in Malaga would be the build up to Christmas, you could get the train straight from airport on 20th into Malaga, it takes just a few minutes. Calle Larios has the most amazing light show to music every night and plaza constitution have evening entertainment. There are christmas markets around the city and lots of nativity scenes. The huge department store El Corte ingles have a lovely gourmet food market on their roof top and an ice skating rink and toboggan rides outside. Also the marina area is buzzing with lots of festive goings on to get you in the mood too.
Ive done a hotel search for you for two nights in Malaga city from 20th December, from the list my top pics would be: Petit plaza (a stones thrw from calle larios xmas lights). AC Marriott (views of marina from rooftop bar) Vincci selecion Posada (lovely jazz bar) Molina Lario (opposite the stunning cathedral) Room mate Valeria (bang central to marina and city). ALL of these recommendations are walkable from train station and to all the attractions.
You mentioned you like walking, have you considered heading in land for a day or two and walking the Camino del Rey? I did it last December and it should be on everyone’s bucket list IMO. You could get there by train in 45 minutes and either stay over at La Garganta hotel or do the walk then head back to the city all in one day.
For Christmas day Consider a beachfront hotel in Marbella (dont confuse marbella with puerto banus). Lots of hotels and restaurants will be offering a traditional Christmas meal and the promenade and old tow of Marbella offer lovely walks with tons of places to stop for food and drinks. There are various bike hire places along the prom too. In this hotel search The hotel fuerte is a great location and lovely hotel, for a much cheaper price and equally good location is hotel princesa playa.
Nerja you mentioned is one of my fave places on the CdS. youd have to hire a car or look into a bus from Malaga to get to Nerja. There’s various things going on over christmas on the balcon de europa and the hotel balcon also do a lovely christmas feast and party o the night of 25th. It’s not at all badly priced for 3 nights over christmas too!
For other options, also look at La Carihuela beachfront hotels, you can walk into Torremolinos one direction and Benalmadena puerto marina in the other. Lots of bars and restaurants remain open in this area over xmas.
I hope this helps you decide a little, I’d genuinely love you to tell me what you decide and where you stay, please keep in touch and i hope you have a wonderful time.
Thanks a million Anna. This is brilliant. I have been stressing about this for the last few days and now I have a beautiful picture. I have decided on the Gran Melia Don Pepe in Marbella and the balcon de europa in Nerja. I will choose one among the few you mentioned for Malaga. So we will spend the 21st and 22nd in Malaga and move to Marbella/Nerja from the 23rd.
So Im thinking we will do 23 and 24 in Marbella and 25 and 26 in Nerja. Do you think this will work well or should it be the other way round.?
Cant thank you enough once again..!!
Hello Anna. I thought I had sent you a message but apparently it had not been delivered. First of all, thanks a million for your reply Anna…! Your suggestions have been of immense help and Its given me a lot of clarity. I have been able to finish my plans and make my bookings now…). This is what we have decided we will do-
Since we are flying in and out of Malaga airport. We have decided to spend a couple of days in Malaga – the day after we fly in and the day before we fly out. Booked one day in the Vincci and booked the other day in the Petit palace plaza. Im planning to do the Caminito del rey walk in one of those days. (Looking at Slots).
We have decided on Marbella for 2 nights – 22nd and 23rd. The Fuerte hotel was not available and we have have booked in the Gran Melia Don Pepe.
I have taken your word on Christmas in Neja..! We are spending christmas eve and Christmas day in Nerja on the Balcon De Europa..). Then onwards to Malaga on 26th (see Calle larios) and board the plane back.
We have the satisfaction of feeling satisfied about our plans and counting the days thanks to you..! You have been a god-send and we will definitely stay in touch. Thank you once again Anna.
Ganesh, I’m sorry I didn’t see your other message until now, they have both come through at once so it seems. Well anyway you have everything firmly in place and it all sounds fantastic, 3 of my favourite places for sure. I have never stayed in the Melia Don Pepe but I hear it is lovely and has a indoor pool and spa too which will be perfect for cooler weather, let’s hope it’s hot and sunny though!
Please let me know what you think on your return of all the places, especially Christmas at the Balcon. By the way, a nice restaurant to try on christmas eve for lunch or dinner if it’s open is the Restaurant 34 inside the Hotel Carabeo, its just around the corner from the balcon and is one of my faves.
I’m so happy I could help, please keep in touch and let me know if you need anything else at all.
By the way, if you still need to book some of your hotels, could i ask if you would consider using the links i included on the previous reply to booking.com. It doesn’t cost you anymore but I have an agreement with them that any customers i send their way, they help fund my coffee addiction haha.
Thanks
Hello Anna,
I enjoyed reading through your post and reading the comments. My wife and myself are contemplating retiring to the area. We are planning on traveling to the Costa del Sol in March of 2019 for the sole purpose of checking out different towns. We both love the ocean and beach though do not enjoy the hustle and bustle of a large tourist area. I was wondering if you could recommend some quiet, quaint towns either on the ocean or close to it that would be great to live in. We would be looking first at long term rentals with a rough monthly rental budget of 1,800 euro. Any information you could supply would be greatly appreciated.
Thank You
Jim & Kate
Hi James. Thanks for your message. I’d agree that long term rental first is the ideal way to go, many people i know including myself have lived in 3 or 4 different properties, towns etc until they found the right place for them. With your budget you’ll easily find a nice 3 or 4 bed villa with a pool probably or a luxurious penthouse apartment with sea views.
Regarding places that tick the boxes, I would suggest La Cala de Mijas, around 30 minutes West of Malaga between Fuengirola and Marbella. It’s a lovey village with a long seafront boardwalk and the sea front is very low rise apart from just 1 hotel, there are many villas or low rise apartment buildings. There are lots of restaurants, bars, banks, supermarkets, twice weekly market etc, basically all you need but without feeling like yu are in a built up tourist resort.
Ive done a search here for you for a few days next march on places to stay to get a feel for the area, Dream gardens would be a nice base, and the VIK hotel is seafront.
Other areas to look at would be to the East of Malaga, like Rincon de a Victoria or Torrox costa. The coastline to the East is quieter, a little more Spanish and cheaper than places to the West. Also Nerja is beautiful but can feel touristy especially in summer.
If you do book, please consider using my link to booking.com. It does’t cost you any more but i have an agreement with them which helps fund my coffee addiction if i pass people their way.
Thank you
Hi Anna – thank you so much for your informative blog and also for taking so much time to answer our questions! My wife and I will be traveling through Spain with our daughter and her best friend, both 18, as a high school graduation celebration. We have planned two nights to enjoy the Costa Del Sol (we will also spend additional time in other parts of Andalucia). The young ladies would like to stay at a resort with a great pool, beach access and some night life. We parents want somewhere safe, somewhat luxurious, and a night life scene that’s a little less crazy than what the girls might think they want – if you know what I mean. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I am thinking Benalmadena which seems to have many activities available nearby. Thanks so much1
hi Brian. Thanks for your message. Im actually steering towards Marbella for a base to stay. The reason is it has some great beaches, good night life for the girls but also some much more relaxed bars and restaurants which might suit you and your wife.
The bars in the port of Marbella would actually appeal to all of you, there are soem nice places to go for afternoon or evening drinks then come midnight the couples and families tend to head back to their hotel and the area is busy with a younger crowd. Lemmon bar is great late into the early hours. The promenade along marbella stretches for miles towards banus and there’s a real mix of restaurants and bars. Also the Old town has some amazing restaurants like Zoizoi and Casa Tua, and its lovely for an evening stroll before or after diner. If the girls want to they can easily taxi into Puerto Banus for a real party atmosphere, worth checking out some of the places to eat front line port too for lunch or dinner.
Ive done a search on hotels fr 4 adults and one that I can recommend as I stayed here for my wedding anniversary is the adults only Amare beach.
It would suit all 4 of you as it has a nice pool, great beach bar/restaurant and a really modern decor. Also look at the hotel Fuerte Marbella, both of these hotels are really close to the port and the old town and have direct beach access too.
If you do book, please consider using my link with booking.com. It doesn’t cost you anymore but I have an agreement with them which helps my coffee fund if they receive any bookings through me 🙂
Thanks Anna
Hi Anna, I’m seeking an advice. I’m planning to go to Costa Del Sol by the end of September and I’m not sure which resort to choose. We’re looking for a beautiful beach, not too much of night life, and no crowds. I was thinking of Marbella or Torremolinos? Please advice. Thank you! J.
hi there. I would suggest Marbella over Torremolinos although it depends on your budget. Torremolinos is generally speaking a little cheaper for accommodation as well as eats and drinks when you get there. There are quite a few All inclusive hotels in Torremolinos however right on the beach front which can help you budget. A nice area of Torremolinos worth looking at is La Carihuela, its bustly but not crowded and there are some nice hotels there close to the beach, the MS Amaragua is really good and a stones throw from all of the bars and restaurants and also beach of La Carihuela. The chiringuitos are very good in this area too, seafood and paellas are their speciality and yu can pick up a nice Mojito for around €6.
Marbella has a lovely long stretch f beach (as does Torremolinos) and there are tons of restaurants and bars lining the promenade as well as the old town which has a very different more authentic feel to it. Best times to see the old town are for a morning coffee/stroll and in the evening when you have a choice of some wonderful restaurants and boutique style shops, Casa Tua is my personal favourite placce to eat in the Old Town. Marbella is quite busy but you can avoid crowds of people quite easily as there is so much choice and there is always a quite beach away from the main port area.
I have done a search based on 2 sharing a hotel at the end of September for a week in Marbella. For a great hotel in a good location but for a limited budget i recommend from the list Princessa playa, if you can stretch a bit more than Hotel Fuerte is lovely, for a real treat go for the Amare or Gran melia Don pepe.
If you do book, please consider using my links as it doesn’t cost you anymore but helps keep my blog and all the free info i provide going. Thank you.
Hi Anna
Great site and info, thanks.
What would you recommend for us in mid June, first time to Costa Del Sol region: Mid 50’s couple, accom near beach, nice walks with bars/ restaurants, not too busy, nice pool/ small private pool ?
Thanks. Dave
hi Dave
Assuming you read the whole article, as mentioned Torremolinos is great for seafood and beach restaurants, Fuengirola great if you are on a tight budget and Marbella is perfect for couples of any age. Accommodation near to the beach very reasonably priced is The princessa playa hotel in Marbella, I have done a search for mid june for 2 people based on 1 week and there are lots of great hotels. Depending on your budget of course but the princessa playa is a good option, as is the Amare which is adults only but a bit more expensive.
Also read more of my replies to comments below as lots of info has been given about the resorts in great detail rather than repeat it again. Please consider using my link if you do book as it helps me give all of this free information to my readers.
Thanks for your question, enjoy the Costa del Sol.
Hi Anna,
Thinking of travelling to malaga in August with my husband to celebrate my 40th..travel rep recommended Amare but im open to suggestions and have been looking at the oasis Don Carlos…First time travelling abroad without 3 kids…and probably wont again for a long time. Budget is flexible within reason for a special occasion. Where would u recommend we stay and visit during our 5 or 7?? day stay. Would love to hear your suggestions
hi there. Thanks for your question, it can be quite overwhelming looking at all the different hotel choices along the coast from Malaga if you’ve never been before. How nice though a few days away just you and the hubby for your 40th…there are tons of places i could recommend for a super relaxing break so i’ll do my best to narrow them down.
First off, did you see my blog post on hotels in Marbella? There are 3 gorgeous luxury hotels featured in the guide, take a look at the post, my top picks from the two would be Hotel Claude and La Villa Marbella. The reason is that they are both in the centre of the beautiful Old Town which I would say is one of the nicest places you can stay for your birthday celebrataion away from the kids. There are some amazing restaurants in the Old Town (Casa Tua is my fave) and its just gorgeous on a summer’s night walking around the little streets.
Also from the Old Town you are only 5 minutes walk down to Marbella port/beaches and lovely long promenade.
But….neither of these hotels have a pool, so for something lovely, adults only and right on the beach I would agree is a top choice. I stayed here with my husband for our wedding anniversary last year and we both loved it. The whole hotel has a great vibe without being too busy, however we were there early in the summer season when it wasn’t so busy. You have to expect though everywhere in August will be very busy.
Also consider , just a few steps from the Amare and also very nice…both hotels are a few mins from the port and the Old Town and are beach front so really can’t be beaten on location.
For a real taste of luxury if your budget will stretch then take a look at the fantastic , i cannot tell you how lovely this hotel is, its like a little village on the beach but its pricey lol. The Plaza within the grounds is worth going to one evening for a special meal at the Sea Grill or Nobu or just for a drink in the Plaza.
The Don Carlos by the way is also a stunning hotel and is where the famous Nikki Beach Marbella takes place every summer, it about 10km away from Marbella centre though and although is on a beautiful stretch of beach with some other restaurants and bars around, there is not as much choice as in Marbella itself, still plenty to keep you going though and some fab beach bars very close by too for daytime dining and cocktails.
All of the links i have given you by the way are for a double room for 5 nights in August so the prices you see when clicking the links are correct. Also if you do book, could i ask that you consider using one of my links. It doesn’t cost you any more but i have an agreement with booking.com which helps to fund my coffee addiction here in Spain with a small commission for all the help and advice i give my readers.
Hi Anna,
Thanks for all the advices! My husband and I are cyclinst and want to organize a trip to Malaga. We saw this page, with some great routes: https://escapadacycling.com/en/cycling-routes/malaga-andalucia-spain
Where do you think we should stay?
Thanks a lot!
hi Marta
Thanks for your message. Well it all depends on which routes you plan to cycle as these three routes are quite a way from eachother, Villanueva and Benamacorra are around an hour away by car. If you plan to do the Puerto del Leon route which starts in Malaga city centre then it makes sense to stay there. Also there are a few very good bike rental shops in the city centre, most of which can organise guided routes or will advise you on routes you can do alone if you prefer. Bike2malaga is one place that comes to mind.
Based on this search of hotels in Malaga centre i have done for you, my top picks would be Room Mate Valeria, perfect location and with a lovely rooftop bar and terrace for a nice cool drink after a day cycling.
Gran Hotel mirimar is just beautiful, but it is quite pricey. I also love the AC Malaga Palacio hotel, one of the best views of the port from the rooftop terrace and pool here.
I hope you find the right place to stay, if you do book, please consider using my link above. It won’t cost you anymore but it will help fund my coffee addiction here in Spain which gives me the inspiration for this little blog of mine.
Have a great cycling holiday
Anna
Hi Anna
Just wondering whether you can advise the best place to visit at the end of February. We don’t want clubs and super lively nightlife but some bars for dancing would be good. I just worry we could book somewhere out of season and be disappointed. Any advice you have would be appreciated.
Thank you
Rachel
hi Rachel. Thanks for your message. Honestly, i would stay away fro the resorts like Benalmadena, marbella etc. There are always people around but in February its an older crowd looking for day time drinks sitting in a quiet bar enjoying the winter sun. By night time, it can be very quiet.
Where I would suggest is Malaga itself. The city is lovely and buzzing all year round, great rate on nice hotels (otherwise too expensive in summer) and many of the rooftop terrace bars are open, such as the one at AC Palacio Marriott hotel. Also the rooftop at Room Mate valeria, speaking of which, i did a search fr hotels end of Feb 2020 for two and the comes in with a cracking price for 3 nights. This hotel would be my 1st choice of all in this list, new, modern, fab rooftop bar and super location.
For lively nightlife later on there are bars all over the city and the best part is wandering around and stopping at one that takes your fancy, then if you feel like staying up til the early hours then Plaza de la Merced has tons of music bars, great for dancing.
Hope this helps, enjoy planning.
Hi Anna,Iv’e picked up some great ideas reading through your comments..we went to Nerja at easter and had a lovely time..We are looking at having a weeks break from 26/12/19 and really not sure were to go..I’ve looked at palces around Mijas Costa like La Cala and Calahonda but not sure what they’re like during winter,weather wise and if restaurants/bars are open..Also looked at Torremolinos and Fuengirola..we’ve only been to Nerja at that end of Spain and although we loved the place we missed having a few livelier bars..We are in our 50’s but enjoy having a few cheeky drinks in an evening but also enjoy the old charms of Spain..we don’t like groups of youths but more people of our own age..We are looking for private rental if you could help with that…thank you for your time
hi Suzanne.
Thanks for your message, glad you have found my replies helpful. Nerja is just lovely and still one of my fave places to go for a nice weekend away when i get chance. I would say Nerja will be very quiet in December though and although the hotel Balcon is open and has a new years eve party, you might find that there’s not much else going on.
That can be said in many resorts on the coast if im honest. Expect the majority of Chiringuitos (beach restaurants) to be closed apart from a small handful and some restaurants take a break over winter too.
You mention La Cala/Calahonda. That might be a good option actually, La Cala is actually where i live and although it’s quieter than summer, La Cala has an all year round base of people who live here, and you can expect lots of the restaurants and to remain open. Not sure if you have ever been but from La Cala there is a gorgeous wooden coastal path (or Senda Litoral) which you can walk all the way to Calahonda and further o to Cabopino stopping along the way for a drink or bite to eat. Lots of beach front apartments open up directly onto the boardwalk. It will eventually be built all the way to Nerja.
I have done a search for a week on self catering accom from 26/12/19 and here are my top picks based on La Cala/Calahonda:
. This apartment is in a fantastic location, i noticed it right away because its above a little cafe i go to, only open during the day and would not be at all noisy. The beauty about La Cala is you can walk to everything so no need for a car, especially from this apartment. There’s Aldi, Mercadona and Supersol supermarkets as well as banks, fishmongers, bars, restaurants all within easy walk from here. You can pick up the bus in La Cala going to Marbella or Fuengirola in the opposite direction for a day out and there’s a twice weekly market a short walk away too (Weds & Sat).
This beachside complex at Calahonda’s Dona Lola woud again be a great choice. Directly onto the boardwalk and therefore being around 20 minutes walk to La Cala or 10 minutes to Cabopino port in the opposite direction. Great thing about Dona Lola is it has a community feel, there’s some very good restaurants on site, we like Da Vinci’s Italian. You also get the added benefit of the leisure club at the on site Mcdonald hotel which has a gym and indoor pool. A great option as it will probably be too cold to use the outdoor pool. I would say you will probably meet lots of other people like yourselves at Dona Lola and have a great time.
I hope this helps narrow down your search. please let me know if i can be more help.
P.s please consider using my link if you do decide to book. It doesn’t cost you anymore but any bookings do help fund my coffee addiction here in Spain 😉
Anna
Hi Anna how can I keep your blog?
Info on Marbella esp Puerto Banús is great just came back from there these posts would have been invaluable
We intend to go back often throughout the year
I’d love to keep all this info not sure how to? X
Hi Annie
Glad you enjoyed PB, it’s really a unique place. Do you have ‘bookmarks’ on your computer? You can copy the URL of the post you want to save and paste it into bookmarks where it will always be. It’s a really useful tool for any web sites/pages you want to keep handy.
Try this link as a guide to bookmarking things.
Thanks for mentioning the east of Malaga Anna! We fell in love with Torrox sme years ago although many websites talk more of Frigiliana and Nerja. Torrox does really seem to have the best climate of all and it will have us returning each year. When we looked at where to stay, the holiday rentals on the sea front of Torrox work well over priced so we decided to look for a cheap bed and breakfast. We found this accommodation by chance, which is further in land but just 10 minutes from Torrox costa. https://casaluthel.com/ We were fortunate to try it in August. It was an amazing place, not because of the things to do but because of the stunning scenic views and tranquility. We were able to drive to places like Benalmadana occasionally when we fancied a little more buzz. Thanks for mentioning one of my most fab places on the Costa del Sol.
Hi and thanks for commenting. The East of Malaga is so lovely and is very much overlooked as a holiday destination. However that’s not always a bad thing as it retains a more laid back vibe, even in the height of summer. I’m glad you found somewhere you love and could use it as a base to explore other areas, the accommodation you stayed in sounds great.
Hi
I have just booked a surprise holiday for my daughters 18th. We are coming for 6 nights over Easter weekend in April. How warm is it likely to be then? Also I have no idea where to stay. There is me,my husband , my 18 year old daughter and 15 year old daughter. We really don’t like very busy places and are quite happy with beaches and coastal walks and nice restaurants in an evening. Which if the 5 resorts would you’re on end for us? And is it worth hiring a car? Is parking ok everywhere!
Thank you so much in advance
Alison
Hi Alison
Thanks for contacting me. There are a few places that i could recommend for your family and your daughter’s 18th birthday celebration. One resort actually not in the post is La Cala de Mijas, it’s a small town or village about 30 minutes from the airport between Benalmadena and Marbella. La Cala is really up and coming but is still much lesser known than the 5 resorts i feature. It’s a lot smaller to start with but it has so many great things about it and lots packed into a small area, so much so that you don’t need a car in La Cala, it’s on a very good bus route to Marbella in one direction and Fuengirola in the other for day trips. La Cala has a twice weekly market, amazing 7km beach boardwalk for walks and a few pit stops on route and there are tons of restaurants and bars for all budgets and occasions. A great stretch of clean beach and everything you need in one place like supermarkets, banks etc. There is a car hire place in the centre if you decide you want to see more after a few day int your holiday.
There are some fab pool clubs in La Cala which would be a nice way to spend a day sipping birthday cocktails on a luxury poolside bed. Unico is great and on La Cala’s beachfront, reasonably priced and great for lunch and dinner too. A 5 minute taxi ride or a 20 minute walk along the boardwalk are Max Beach and El Oceano,
El Oceano is also a hotel, it’s gorgeous and would be a fab place to stay however the only downside it that it’s out of the way. Maybe look at staying there the night of your daughter’s birthday after a day at the pool as the restaurant is amazing for dinner at El Oceano too.
Another great place to celebrate her birthday is Olivia’s, check out their website for the packages they offer for special ocassions, they can take care of everything and it would make for a very special night.
I have done a search for 6 nights over Easter and here’s what i recommend:
Two bed apartment with communal pool a few minutes walk from everything in La Cala. only 575 for 6 nights.
The only real hotel in La Cala is the VIK Gran Hotel which is in THE best location right on the beachfront and with direct access to The Boardwalk. It’s over €1000 for the 6 nights but that’s two rooms.
Finally regarding weather in April…you might get a full week of 25 degrees and sunny, it is also possible to have a few rainy days in April so it isn’t guaranteed wall to wall sunshine.
I hope this helps with planning, if you need any more in depth help with accommodation, let me know. Please consider booking through my links if you do book as it doesn’t cost you anymore but helps me a little with my coffee addiction here in Spain.
Thanks
Anna
Hey Anna, My husband and are would like to move to Southern Spain to semi-retire and are looking for year round Spanish life with a mix of Expat life, we love eating authentic spanish food and drink too. We are not looking for the glitzy lifestyle of the Golden Mile. Appreciate any recommendations.
Hi Sam. Have a look at a resort called La Cala de Mijas not far from Fuengirola. Lovely village with lots of restaurants and bars, some traditional, some catering for the expat community which you will fins anywhere in Southern Spain. It’s an all year round village as opposed to some resorts which are very quiet in winter. The beaches are lovely and it’s low rise apart fro one hotel. Everything you need is within walking distance and it has a really nice community feel.
Le cala de mijas sound exactly what I’m looking for, but wandering would it be too quiet for beginning of February , what about estapona
Hi Catherine, The Costa del Sol is a tourist area and as such, all of the resorts feel a lot quieter between November and April generally and you will find some restaurants and particularly many of the beach front (chiringuitos) restaurants are closed out of season. That said, La Cala is one of the all year round towns as many people live there or close by permanently so lots of things will stay open. You can also catch a bus in either direction from La Cala into the centre of Fuengirola which is always busy, and in the opposite direction to Marbella which is good for a day trip. Estepona has a nice harbour front and a pretty old town too, although I am not as familiar with Estepona out of season so i can’t say for sure if it will be busy.