Information
Language
Spanish
Currency
Euro (€)
Time difference
+1hr
Local beer
£2.50
Meal for two
£42.70
Average flight time
3hrs
Beach paradise
There’s 160km of coastline to play around with here. That means beaches of every shape and size, from spacious stretches to quieter coves. And if you want to get active, you’ve got all kinds of wild water sports, from parasailing to wakeboarding and waterskiing. Get ready to make a splash!
Resorts to suit your taste
Benalmadena, Torremolinos and Fuengirola offer everything from shimmering marinas linked with canals to epic water parks. Scenic backgrounds tick all the boxes for nature-seekers, while there are club-filled squares ready to steal the night. Whisking the kids away? There are family-friendly spots aplenty too. Don’t miss the Old Town or fascinating exhibitions in Malaga, like the ones at the Picasso Museum.
Inland treats
It’s worth heading right into the middle of the Costa to fully explore. Discover towns high up in the mountains split by huge gorges and bridges, as well as pretty, whitewashed old towns to wander around. You’ll get some magnificent views from all around these divine resorts.
What is the best time of year to visit the Costa del Sol?
The Costa del Sol is renowned for its "Costa del Golf" climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm (averaging 20°C–25°C), the crowds are thinner than in peak summer, and the sea is warm enough for swimming. July and August are ideal for sun-seekers but can be intensely hot and busy.
What local dishes should I try in Costa del Sol?
Andalusian cuisine is fresh and Mediterranean. The region’s signature dish is gazpacho, a cold tomato soup. You must also try espetos (sardines skewered and grilled over an open wood fire on the beach), fried fish (pescaíto frito), and gambas pil pil (garlic prawns). For a hearty meal, order rabo de toro (oxtail stew). Pair these with a glass of local wine from the Montes de Málaga denomination.
Is the Costa del Sol suitable for families?
Yes, the Costa del Sol is one of Europe’s top family-friendly destinations. Resorts like Fuengirola and Torremolinos offer safe, shallow beaches and promenades. Major attractions include Tivoli World in Benalmádena, Bioparc Fuengirola, and Aqualand Torremolinos. Many hotels offer kids’ clubs and family suites, and the Spanish culture is generally very welcoming to children.
What are the best cultural attractions on the Costa del Sol?
Beyond the beaches, the region is steeped in history. The Alcazaba in Málaga is a well-preserved Moorish fortress offering panoramic views. In Antequera, the Alcazaba and prehistoric burial mounds (dolmens) are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Art lovers should visit the Pompidou Centre in Málaga or the Ginger Contemporary Art Gallery in Marbella. For history buffs, the Roman ruins in the capital are also essential viewing.
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