Things to do in Costa del Sol

The Port of Málaga is one of the oldest seaports in Spain and the first stop for many visitors on a trip to the city. The port is both a transportation hub and a popular destination itself. Shop in chic malls, lounge on beaches and explore cutting-edge art galleries, all within the marina area.

La Carihuela started out as a fishing village but, with the growth of Torremolinos as a coastal resort, it has become most popular for its huge, sandy beach. Visit to explore the last remnants of the old village or to simply enjoy swimming in the sheltered natural harbor. The area is also getting increasingly famous for its delicious fresh cuisine.

Malagueta Beach is an ideal place to escape the city and unwind by the sea. During the high season, waterfront food vendors and busy restaurants line the shore, parents and children use the playground facilities and visitors enjoy beach activities. Stretch out on a sun lounger, walk barefoot on the sands and cool off in the calm waters.

Join in the fun at one of the best-loved beaches on the Costa del Sol, Los Boliches Beach. This dark-sand stretch of coast is rarely quiet, and its dynamic atmosphere is typical of the lively, youthful spirit of Fuengirola. Enjoy the calm waters and take advantage of the excellent facilities as you spend a day basking in the sun here.

Enjoy an authentic Mediterranean seaside ambiance at Burriana Beach (Playa Burriana). This is Nerja’s largest and busiest beach, a place adored by both locals and tourists. Come to Burriana Beach to swim in the warm water and have fun trying various aquatic activities. Marvel at the beautiful coastal scenery and dine, drink and shop along the waterfront esplanade.

Relax amid the attractive charms of the Costa del Sol at Cabopino Beach (Playa Cabopino). Set between the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and rugged sand dunes, the beach lets you connect with nature away from Marbella’s tourism bustle. Visit Cabopino Beach throughout the year to benefit from mild temperatures and some 320 days of sunshine.

Once you have found your sandy sanctuary at Fuengirola Beach roll out your towel or rent a sun lounger and umbrella.

Puerto Banús Marina is where the international jet-set moor their yachts. With berths for more than 900 boats, it is the main harbor for that playground of the rich and famous, Marbella. However, it’s more than just a place for vessels to dock. This luxury harbor is a destination in its own right, with upscale boutiques, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and beaches. Come here to shop, party, sunbathe and gaze at multimillion-dollar yachts.

This ornate and stately cathedral is known among locals as La Manquita, or “The One-Armed Lady,” because its tower was intended to be one of two. The first tower was erected to an imposing 276 feet (84 meters), but then construction ceased because the funds were sent to American troops in the War of Independence in 1780. Even without the second tower, the cathedral is grand.