Best Things to do in Costa del Sol, Spain
With year-round sunshine, championship golf courses, vibrant local culture and sun-kissed beaches, the Costa del Sol has long been a beloved holiday destination in Spain.
The region begins east of Malaga at Nerja and ends at Gibraltar at the southern tip of Spain. A cohesive mesh of glitzy seafront resorts, traditional Spanish towns and villages, green mountain landscapes and cork forests.
There are resorts popular with A-listers such as Marbella and Puerto Banus, and action-packed family towns like Torremolinos and Fuengirola, but there’s so much more to discover.
Read on to find our recommendations for the best things to do in Costa del Sol Spain. We detail scenic hiking trails, historic landmarks, secluded beaches and the less-touristy towns that make up the area.
Best Time to Visit the Costa del Sol
In a word, anytime. The Costa del Sol boasts year-round glorious weather with sizzling summers and mild winters.
The months of July and August are hot, with temperatures reaching in excess of 35°C/95°F. They are also the busiest and most expensive months for accommodations and flights. Spanish residents from inland cities tend to flock to the coast during the summer holidays, and the best beaches and restaurants are often packed.
Spring and autumn months are cooler and ideal for discovering lively local fiestas, relaxing on sun-drenched beaches, driving to pretty white villages and hiking mountain trails.
In winter, temperatures rarely dip below 16°C/60°F. These months are perfect for exploring the museums and historic sites of Malaga, venturing up the rock of Gibraltar, or taking a day trip to Granada or Morocco.
There may be a greater chance of rain (November is the wettest month), and evenings will require a jacket, but there’s so much to see and do, that you probably won’t even notice. Flights and hotel prices are reasonable during these times, so if beach fun is secondary to your stay, travel to the Costa del Sol outside of peak season.
Top Things to do on Costa del Sol
A destination for all, the Costa del Sol dazzles regardless of when you visit. Whether you’re into designer shopping, sipping cocktails in rustic chiringuitos, hiking, biking or exploring centuries-old castles and ruins, this region of Andalucia thrills visitors with its diverse attractions. Let’s take a look at where to go!
Hike the World’s (Once) Most Dangerous Trail – Caminito del Rey
If you’re seeking a great spot for walking near Malaga, this scenic 7.7-kilometre-long aerial walkway ticks all the boxes. Caminito del Rey consists of an elevated walkway set 100 metres above the ground, nestled aside a rugged cliff face!
It was once considered the most dangerous hike in the world and although safety has been much improved since its perilous beginnings, it’s definitely not for the faint-hearted (though I find it helped to not look down!).
The route was originally built in the early 20th century to allow workers to transport materials to a local hydroelectric dam. It was supposedly the idea of King Alfonso XIII, hence the name, “Little Walk of the Kings”.
Slowly navigate your way along the cliffside path, with gorges and canyons below. You may be fortunate to see Egyptian vultures and Iberian ibex during your travels too.
A couple of highlights to look out for include the centuries-old juniper tree growing from the rocks, and an area known to locals as “fossil beach” with relics dating to the Jurassic period.
The walk takes around 2 hours, beginning in Ardales and ending in the town of Alora. That said, you’ll need to allow around 3-4 hours for this activity, to account for parking, finding the starting point, and taking the shuttle bus back to your car at the end.
It’s one of the best activities in Costa del Sol – a day trip not to be missed. But do note it’s best to book well in advance, especially if you want to do the walk ‘self-guided’ – these are the first tickets to sell out.
You can purchase tickets directly on the Caminito del Rey website, or you can book it as a day trip from Malaga here.
Explore the Coast’s Hidden Gem – Nerja
Nerja is a superb day trip from Malaga for families. The scenic drive here is stunning. If you venture off the main N-340 coastal road – you may catch a glimpse of the Costa del Sol of yesteryear, complete with sombrero-clad men and donkeys in the olive groves.
Upon arrival in Nerja, most visitors head for Balcon de Europa – a lookout point with exceptional coastal views. Alternatively, you can learn about the town’s past at Nerja Museum or lounge on beautiful Burriana or Maro beaches.
The old town is a wonderful maze of tightly-knit streets to explore. Bursting with stores selling every souvenir you could wish for, and restaurants serving local fare, it’s a delight to the senses.
While here, take a side trip to Frigiliana, a picturesque, white-washed village bedecked in geraniums, with cute craft stores and eateries.
If you’re travelling with kids, pop into Nerja Caves above the town. They are considered to be some of the finest in Spain with light shows and up to 500 cave drawings dating to the Paleolithic era. Don’t forget to sample paella by the beach in Nerja at sunset before you depart!
Charco del Canalon & Istan Lake
Etched within the Rio Verde an hour from Marbella, visit Charco del Canalon. This area of pure natural wonders is ripe with flora and fauna and a great day out for families when combined with a kayaking/canoeing experience on nearby Istan Lake.
The gorge boasts beautiful waterfalls, walking trails and wild, crystal-clear swimming spots. Nature lovers will be able to glimpse the barbell, Spanish pond turtle and a number of wagtails and nightingales.
Don’t forget your camera – this is an incredible spot to capture the region’s natural beauty away from hordes of tourists. If you fancy mountain biking around here, you can also visit Castaño Santo nearby with rugged tracks, ancient trees and incredible views.
Gain the Best Views at El Torcal de Antequera
One of the top things to see in Costa del Sol, El Torcal de Antequera is popular with both locals and visitors to the region. The otherworldly park near Malaga is home to lofty limestone rocks and landscapes with epic views of the Andalucian landscapes surrounding it.
Set off along one of several scenic trails. If you’re travelling with younger kids, the green route is perfect at just 1.5 km in length, though be careful to watch out for the markers, as the green and yellow routes share the same start (I accidentally walked the yellow trail after missing a turn-off!).
If you’re wearing comfy walking shoes and want to wander a little further into the park, follow the yellow trail. The elevated viewpoints offer spectacular views along the coastline towards Morocco. This route takes up to two hours to complete and covers around 3 kilometres.
Before heading off into the wilderness, pop into the information centre. The displays detail endemic flora and fauna (including various orchid species) that you may encounter on your adventure.
Don’t fancy going it alone? Jump on this half-day tour & guided hike from Malaga!
Take a Trip Back in Time at Ronda
Ronda is a must-add to your Costa del Sol itinerary. Located an hour inland from the coast, the historic town is known for its beautiful scenic gorge – El Tajo and its historic landmarks.
During a visit, wander through the ancient stone gate of Almocobar, see the impressive 13th-century Arabic baths and sip espresso from the Parador terrace (near Mirador de Ronda) with expansive views of Andalucia’s patchwork landscapes.
Hike to the lookout points along Senda Ronda Molinos del Tajo for beautiful photographs of Puente Nuevo and the canyon.
Check out Ronda’s famous shoe stores, visit a local winery and pop into Ronda Municipal Museum showcasing a collection of artefacts depicting the town’s rich history. Alternatively, visit the Palace of Mondrágon – a former royal abode with beautiful, Mudejar-Renaissance architecture and shaded gardens.
You may notice that the town has a distinct North African vibe, courtesy of its Moorish heritage. It’s not unusual to find yourself dining in riad-like courtyards with open views of starry skies at night.
End your day in Plaza del Socorro, a charming square, sharing plates of tapas with family and friends as you gaze upon pretty fountains and illuminated churches.
You can also visit Ronda on a guided tour from Malaga (book it here).
Explore a Unique Cave Village – Setenil de las Bodegas
Setenil de las Bodegas is, in my opinion, one of the top attractions in Costa del Sol. Located around 20 minutes from Ronda, it’s ideal to combine the two places on a day trip from Malaga.
This place is known as the “cave village”, so called for its white-washed houses built into the cliffs. The town was once renowned for its winemaking, hence the name “bodegas”, but today it’s better known for its production of olives and almonds.
Wander through streets shaded by giant boulders from the overhanging cliffs, browse shops selling handmade arts and crafts and see daily menus of cavernous restaurants etched on chalkboards outside.
A highlight is Calle Cuevas del Sol, an alleyway with several quirky cave restaurants and bars. Also, walk to the Nazari castle remains and climb the tower to photograph the town rooftops.
Before you leave, check out the excellent Mirador del Carmen or Mirador del Lizon viewpoints for amazing photo opportunities.
Discover Hidden Treasures in Historic Malaga
Malaga is home to the region’s international airport, which means it’s utilised as a gateway to beach resorts and, unfortunately often overlooked as a destination in its own right.
However, those who do choose to spend time in the city will find it magical – absolutely brimming with historic treasures. This beautiful city has everything from golden beaches to colourful markets, botanical gardens and world-class museums.
Some highlights to discover include Gibralfaro Castle, an old Moorish fortress set atop the hill to deter invaders. See a concert or take a tour of the Roman amphitheatre – beautifully preserved in the heart of Malaga city centre. Learn about Malaga’s history at the Alcazaba, or marvel at Pablo Picasso’s artworks. The great artist was born in the city and the Picasso Museum displays many unseen works.
Mingle with locals in the city’s oldest wine bar Antigua Casa de Guardia, enjoy a flamenco performance in a cultural centre or browse seasonal produce at fabulous Mercado Central de Ataranzas. And don’t leave without climbing the tower of Malaga Cathedral for a bird’s eye view of the city.
Read more: Winter in Malaga (What to See & Do)
Relax and Unwind on Costa del Sol Beaches
This shimmering coastline stretches over 160 kilometres, and within that space, there are more than 120 sun-kissed beaches of varying shapes and sizes.
Let’s start east of Malaga at Maro Beach near Nerja. This small beach, hemmed between rocky outlets features an old Moorish tower nearby. You can swim in crystalline waters, sun worship and even enjoy paella overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
In Malaga, La Malagueta is a local favourite, flanked by a promenade of palm trees, shops and chiringuitos, all within a short walk of the city centre.
Cabopino Beach between Malaga and Marbella is also a family favourite. It can be busy in the summer months, but the amenities are endless with bars, restaurants, watersports activities and sun loungers. It’s accessible via bus from other coastal resorts, plus, if you prefer to get an all-over tan – parts of the beach are swimsuit optional.
If rubbing shoulders with VIPs is on your Costa del Sol holiday wish list, you can spend days sipping cocktails and listening to world-class DJs spin their tunes at private beach clubs like Nikki Beach or Ocean Club Marbella.
Read More: Best Beaches in the Costa del Sol
Stay in a Traditional Spanish Town – Estepona
There are plenty of places that cater to glitz and glamour on the Costa del Sol, but should you prefer somewhere more traditional, infused with the spirit of Andalucia, opt for Estepona instead.
Once a fishing port, Estepona is enchanting with a historic old town (Casco Antiguo), a modern marina with restaurants, and beautiful golden beaches. Wander along charming streets adorned with flowerpots, visit the Orchid House, learn about the town at Casa de las Tejerinas and stop for coffee and pastries in Plaza de las Flores, the main square.
Abundant water sports are available, from kitesurfing to paddle boarding, or you can jump on a boat trip, strap on some good shoes and tackle a nearby hiking trail (Sierra Bermeja), or try your hand at a round of golf at one of several courses are located nearby. If you’re seeking authenticity, Estepona is one of the best places to visit in Costa del Sol.
Read More: Best Things to do in Estepona, Spain
Drive to Los Pueblos Blancos (White Towns of Andalusia)
This is the Costa del Sol you see in the tourism brochures, or on a YouTube highlights reel. The White Villages or Los Pueblos Blancos are dotted throughout the lush mountain landscapes, located anything between 10 minutes to 45 minutes from the coast.
Begin your road trip in Manilva, a short drive from Estepona. The charming hilltop town looks over vineyards down towards the sea. Here, you’ll discover bars nestled in antique shops, and roadside stores selling fresh figs, hand-picked citrus fruits, olives, and more.
Continue driving into the mountains, stopping at a local venta en route. These are traditional restaurants serving seasonal cuisine with outdoor seating. Drive past cork trees and pine forests to the hilltop village of Casares a popular destination with locals and expats.
Walk to the perched church and castle ruins for epic views or stop for café con leche on a balcony before exploring the labyrinthine streets of the village below.
If you still want more, drive for another 30 minutes to Gaucin or follow a circular route to Genalguacil through the Sierra Bermeja mountains (for great hiking near Malaga). Both villages are idyllic, with bougainvillaea draped, whitewashed residences, charming squares dotted with bodegas and hand-crafted sculptures. By the way, the views are unbelievable, so don’t forget your camera.
Spend a Fun-Filled Day in Gibraltar
Gibraltar, at the southernmost tip of the Costa del Sol is a fun and unusual place to visit. The queues to enter by car can be long, and in the summer heat, that’s no fun. I’d therefore advise to park in La Linea de la Frontera and walk across the border instead – remember, you’re entering another country, so you’ll need your passport.
The British enclave of Gibraltar is unique. It sits at the crossroads of Europe and Africa on the Straits of Gibraltar and has always been a strategic outpost.
One of the most popular activities to enjoy is a trip to the Rock of Gibraltar. You can take a tour, taxi or cable car to the summit. From here, watch airplanes precariously landing on the tiny runway below or explore St. Michael’s Caves and the World War II Siege Tunnels.
While exploring the rock, keep your belongings safe. The pesky Barbary Apes, although incredibly cute, always have their paws ready to grab snacks, duty-free or even a phone from your bag!
Wander around Casemates Square and walk Gibraltar’s main street with its high-street stores and British pubs. But beware of the tourist traps. Instead, explore the streets leading away from here. They are still home to cute Jewish bakeries, traditional hardware stores and bookshops.
Discover Gibraltar’s picturesque Botanical Gardens, walk the Skywalk for views of Morocco’s Rif Mountains and the Costa de la Luz or head to Europa Point and the Pillars of Hercules for a feeling of being at the edge of the earth. As a side note for historians, the world’s last remaining Neanderthal skeletons were once discovered in a cave nearby.
Fancy an easy way to explore Gibraltar? Jump on this budget-friendly day tour from Malaga or the Costa del Sol.
Take the Kids to “Smurf Town” – Juzcar
If you’re travelling to southern Spain with kids, or if you’re simply a Smurf fan yourself, you should definitely visit the village of Juzcar.
Around an hour’s drive inland from Estepona, this former 18th-century tinplate village is painted all shades of blue. Over the past 10 years, this village known as “Smurf Town” has attracted hundreds of tourists each day. The buildings are painted with toadstools and smurf characters, shops sell movie memorabilia and even the 16th century church is painted blue!
You may be wondering why a former white village is coloured in such a way. Well, it’s because Sony Pictures premiered the Smurf movie here and villagers loved the colour so much that when the filmmakers moved out, they decided to keep the village blue.
The owners of the Smurf trademark have tried to prevent locals from profiting from the name, which is why it’s now simply known as the “Blue Village”.
Kids can have their pictures taken with giant plastic smurfs, see the street murals or even ride the zip wire through the town! Afterwards, simply enjoy the walking and hiking routes in nearby mountains or shop for locally made espadrilles and cork artefacts.
Enjoy the Glitz and Glamour of Puerto Banus
A-list favourite Puerto Banus is often compared to Monte Carlo, and similarly attracts the rich and famous. The marina is home to exclusive yachts, sports cars, and upscale restaurants.
The lively promenade is lined with designer boutiques such as YSL, Louis Vuitton and Dior, and there are ice cream parlours, jewellery and perfume shops, and rooftop cocktail bars galore.
It’s the perfect place for shopping, with Spain’s largest department store El Corte Ingles a couple of blocks behind the marina. The vibrant nightlife keeps you entertained after dark, and if you head across the N-340 to Nueva Andalucia near the live music venue Marbella Arena, the Saturday morning market is legendary.
Enjoy a Relaxed or Activity-Packed Stay in Sotogrande
Many visitors to the Costa del Sol don’t make it to Sotogrande, but if you enjoy the finer things in life, without the garish glitz and glamour of Puerto Banus, you’ll love it here.
Sotogrande is often referred to as the Beverly Hills of Spain, thanks to its exclusive villas, towering palms and championship golf courses including Valderrama and San Roque.
The resort is artfully arranged around a pretty marina with colourful apartments, upscale restaurants and boutiques. You can rent a boat, play tennis, enjoy a round of golf, or even go bird and dolphin watching.
There’s a weekly outdoor market, annual polo tournaments are held here, and it makes a superb base for visiting Gibraltar, Costa de la Luz, Morocco and the White Villages.
Visit Plaza de los Naranjos in Marbella Old Town
Marbella boasts dozens of beautiful beaches and excellent shopping and dining that caters to all budgets. One highlight is the Old Town of Marbella, once an ancient Medina when Andalucia was ruled by the Moors.
The network of narrow cobbled streets leads to picture-postcard Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square). This area boasts quite a few gems ranging from museums to ornate churches and speciality shops selling everything from hand-crafted fans to flamenco dresses and painted ceramics.
One of the best ways to enjoy the Old Town is to find a shady spot in the main square beneath a parasol with freshly squeezed juice and simply soak up the atmosphere.
Take a Ferry to Morocco
See two countries in one stay and hop aboard a ferry to Morocco. Easily accessible from the Costa del Sol, there are two ferry ports (Algeciras and Tarifa) with regular crossings to Tangier.
From the moment you set foot on African shores, the cultural differences are palpable. Leaving behind the glamorous resorts and exclusive marinas of the Costa del Sol, you’re now greeted with spice souks, labyrinthine medinas and camels randomly wandering the streets.
Observe elderly men dressed in djellabas (loose robes) sipping sweet mint tea by the roadside in cafes once frequented by poets, rock stars and literary masters. Sample Moroccan sweet treats and artisan bread from an in-house bakery, visit herbalist shops and try to escape the souk without purchasing a handmade Berber carpet!
The ferry journey across the Straits of Gibraltar takes around one hour, but the memories of a day trip to Morocco last a lifetime.
Family Fun in Fuengirola
Fuengirola was once among the most popular places to go for a package holiday on the Costa del Sol. However, in recent years it has managed to regain some of its original Andalucian charm.
You can visit Roman archaeological sites like Finca del Secretario. See the ornate Castillo de Colomares recently built to commemorate the discovery of the New World and walk to neighbouring resorts, Torremolinos or Benalmadena along the esplanade at La Carihuela.
While in Fuengirola, visit AquaMijas water park, take a trip to charming hilltop Mijas village and explore the impressive Sohail Castle.
Try Tapas in a Rustic Chiringuito
Chiringuitos are synonymous with Spain. They are small, rustic beach shacks located waterside, serving a range of dishes from fresh seafood and salads to pizzas, tapas and jugs of refreshing sangria and beer.
There’s no better way to end a day of exploring than settling down at sunset, listening to chillout music with friends and family, while dining on fine food with exceptional views. If you enjoy seafood, try the gambas pil-pil, grilled sardines and ensalada rusa.
Vegetarians will enjoy the Manchego cheese and Spanish omelette and Vegans can feast on patatas bravas, garbanzos con espinacas (chickpeas with spinach) and fried aubergine with agave. It’s a great way to conclude a holiday on the Costa del Sol.
How to get to the Costa del Sol
The most popular way to get to the Costa del Sol is via Malaga Airport, which has direct flights from cities all over Europe and beyond.
If you’re planning on visiting more than one centre while you’re in Spain, you also have the option of driving, taking the train, or catching a domestic flight within the country.
Keep in mind that the city of Seville is less than 2 hours away by train (via Córdoba), so this can be a good add-on for a twin-city getaway.
How to get around in the Costa del Sol
The best way to explore the Costa del Sol is by car (I can recommend Discover Car Hire to search for the best deals), especially if you wish to travel inland to white villages or natural parks. There are two roads ideal for exploring the Costa del Sol if you plan to rent a car.
The first is the Autopista (a toll road) – the AP-7 which stretches as far north as France. The second road is the A-7 formerly N-340. This is the coastal (free) road. It can get busy, but you do get to see many of the resorts along the Costa del Sol if you travel along this route.
If you intend to rely on public transport, buses operate from Malaga to Torremolinos, Fuengirola, Marbella, Estepona and Algeciras (for the Morocco ferry port). If you fancy exploring the coast by train instead, a local line runs between Fuengirola and Malaga, but doesn’t go any further along the coast.
Where to stay in the Costa del Sol
Now you know what to do in Costa del Sol, the next decision is where to stay.
Families relying on public transport should opt for a stay in Malaga, Torremolinos, Benalmadena or Fuengirola – although, with the exception of Malaga, they are quite touristy. If you’re hiring a car, Nerja, San Pedro de Alcantara and Estepona are wonderful options. These areas cater to families with gorgeous sandy beaches, lively festivals, marina activities and fine international restaurants.
Couples seeking a romantic retreat have unlimited choices. Marbella old town is idyllic, with speciality shops, romantic alfresco dining and private beach clubs galore.
For an upscale stay, there’s also Sotogrande. This laid-back, purpose-built resort is often described as the Beverly Hills of Spain, thanks to its towering palm trees, exclusive marina, championship golf courses and multi-million euro villas. It’s a great choice if you wish to explore the White Villages, Costa de la Luz (Tarifa), Morocco and Gibraltar.
Fancy staying inland? Ronda, the White Villages of Casares and Gaucin and Mijas Pueblo are also great for couples.
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The best of the Costa del Sol is so much more than tourist-driven beach resorts. It’s a mash-up of idyllic mountain landscapes, charming towns and typical Andalucian villages surrounded by pastures, pine forests and wildflowers. It’s a region for all seasons, with the most popular attractions suited to all ages, and definitely worthy of a visit.
