Welcoming millions of tourists every year, the “Coast of the Sun” promises at least 325 sunny days per year, as well as great beaches, amazing food, fun nights, and pretty towns. Home to a coastline that stretches along 161 kilometers and more than 125 beaches, this destination makes it hard for travelers to choose their base. However, each popular beach resort has its own appeal and charm, so you can’t go wrong regardless where you’re deciding to stay.
Benalmadena
Attracting sun worshippers with glittering golden sand-beaches and an impressive number of beach bars and restaurants, Benalmadena is one of the most popular destinations on Costa del Sol. Benalmadena Costa, one of the three main urban areas of the city, is the place where tourists gather to enjoy the sun on Playa Malaspequera, a Blue Flag beach, and discover the superb gardens of La Paloma Park. The Benalmadena Auditorium is often the stage of events like the Summer Music and Theatre and Dance Festival while nightlife happens at the Benalmadena Marina, where you’ll discover an abundance of bars and nightclubs.
Marbella
Popular and glamorous, Marbella is a posh destination where the rich and famous come to see and be seen. However, there are plenty of options for the mere mortals too, Marbella welcoming them with a variety of accommodation and reasonably-priced dining venues, as well as with a plethora of fun activities for the entire family. Playa de Cabopino is a favorite of families due to its fine golden sand and calm waters. The beach stretches between Marbella and Fuengirola and impresses its audience with undulating sand dunes and crystal clear water. Nearby, you’ll find the sandy beaches of Las Chapas and Calahonda, while the grey-beige sandy beaches of Playa de la Venus and Playa del Faro await closer to the town center. As expected, the most beautiful beaches, such as Ferarris, Puerto Banus, and Elviria can be found in locations more remote.
Torremolinos
Adorned with seven kilometers of coastline, the cosmopolitan Torremolinos charms visitors with groomed dark grey beaches and a vibrant nightlife. The seafront promenades are ideal for long walks along the sea while Aqualand and the Crocodile Park keep the little ones entertained and happy. Playa de la Carihuela, the largest beach in town, is also the most popular. With crystalline and shallow water, the beach is ideal for families and couples who want to enjoy fun days in the sun and long swimming sessions. Party animals are often found at La Carihuela, where an abundance of beach bars keep them dancing till late.
Estepona
Home to superb beaches that stretch along 21 kilometers of coastline, Estepona is a pretty coastal town. Although it’s touristy and popular, the town has kept a certain village charm and a laid back ambiance. Many come here for the fabulous La Rada Beach, a 1.5 km-long strip of soft sand backed by a promenade dotted with restaurants and bars. The town is small and quiet, although its slow-paced rhythm might sometimes be interrupted by the crowds gathering downtown, especially in the summer. Only a few minutes away, curious travelers will discover the enchanting cove of Cristo Beach, where beach cafes and bars create an exotic retreat away from tourist crowds.
Fuengirola
Once a small fishing village, Fuengirola is now a cosmopolitan town. Home to great beaches, fancy boutiques, and plenty of tapas bar to visit one every day, Fuengirola is exactly what you imagine a Spanish summer beach town looks like. It has seven kilometers of amazing beach dressed in sand from head to toe, flanked by Torreblanca and Sohail Castle. Playa Torreblanca is a popular beach in Fuengirola but, despite its fame, it’s never too crowded. It is perfect for practicing a variety of water sports, especially since the town has several diving schools, but also for trying various culinary specialties at the numerous restaurants around.
Nerja
Tranquil and shy, Nerja awaits with some of the most beautiful beaches on Costa del Sol. Burriana Beach is the superstar of the town, a golden sand-beach dotted with chiringuitos (beach bars), restaurants, and water sports centers. Tourists come here not only to relax on the beach and enjoy the tapas but also to try their hand at sea kayaking, an experience that will lead them to the lovely Maro Beach. Playa de Maro is a real gem, a superb beach blessed with crystalline waters and fascinating marine life. Framed by idyllic scenery, this is the perfect beach to hide away from the crowds and daydream.
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