Costa-del-Sol beaches

When the water temperature in summer exceeds +18℃, tourists from all over Europe flock to the Costa del Sol. At first, it can be quite difficult to sort out the large number of cities, towns and villages to decide where to stay on the Costa del Sol. Because the coast is really very large.

Here I will tell you from my own experience about vacationing in five different and in their own way wonderful coastal cities on the Costa del Sol. Regardless of whether you are planning a family trip, a seaside holiday or a budget vacation, this post will help you decide on a place to stay on the Andalusian coast.

I advise you to read: Andalusia by car – Costa del Sol route

Coast and beaches on the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol is a region in southern Spain, known as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Since the 1950s, this stretch of coast has transformed from small fishing villages into large tourist resorts with hotels dotting the coastline.

The beaches are sandy with grey-yellow sand. The beaches on the Costa del Sol are mostly very long, and the entrance to the water is mostly gentle and gradual. The exceptions are the small coves in the town of Nerja, which have shallow pebbles and a sharp entrance to the water. But the water here is more blue because of the pebbles, and in places where the rocks enter the water you can even go snorkeling and see small fish.

The sunny climate and easy access to beaches attract tourists. There are golf courses, water parks, and plenty of nightlife, making it a tourist mecca.

However, it can be difficult to feel the authenticity of the region. Everything seems to revolve around tourism, although the further south you go, the more authentic things you will encounter on your way. Especially if you combine the beaches with visits to ancient villages and natural parks.

Recommend you to read: Setenil de las Bodegas, Spain – the most beautiful white village in Andalusia

Weather and when is the best time to rest

Seaside holidays on the Costa del Sol start in the summer and end at the end of September. This is the time when the sea is warm and you can swim. And if you are interested not only in beaches, but also in walks along the sea and trips around Andalusia, then you can do this here all year round.

Spring

In spring, everything is in bloom here, the sea is still cold, but it is pleasant to walk, especially in the morning and evening. March is a wonderful time without heat, but in the evening you will need a sweater and maybe a jacket. During the day, even in April, it can be hot – go to museums or sunbathe on the beach (be careful, the sun is strong here, you can get burned even in spring). The sea is still cold even in May – the reason: proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which is never warm.

Autumn

Autumn here is beautiful and warm: September can be considered a pleasant bonus to summer, although at the end of the month there are no large crowds of tourists, and the sea is still warm enough to swim. October is a good time for walking around the city – warm and pleasant. In early November, the daytime temperature reaches +22 ℃, and the water temperature is 16–18 ℃. If the sun is scorching, the air can warm up to +28 degrees. The main thing is that there is no wind, then it is not a sin to even go to the beach.

Summer

Summer is a scorching heat and high season, many tourists, crowded beaches, where even at +40 ℃ it is easier to breathe than in the cities. Only in summer do you begin to understand the meaning of a siesta, when during the day you need to hide somewhere under the air conditioner and not move until late evening.

The best places to stay on the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol, which stretches along the Andalusian coast, is one of the most visited destinations in Europe. There are a few misconceptions about the area that make people think it’s all about tourists, but in reality it’s a surprisingly diverse place.

Many of the hidden gems can be found in Malaga. As the largest city in the region, it’s the main gateway to Spain’s sunniest coastline. It’s rich in history and culture, and has regular connections to other destinations along the coast, making it a great choice for first-time visitors.

Estepona is one of the best-preserved villages on the Costa del Sol. There’s a lot of tourism here, but it hasn’t had as much of an impact on the local culture as in other areas. As a result, it’s here that you’ll find the most affordable accommodation and food options..

South of Malaga is Fuengirola. With its pedestrianised promenade and vast beaches, it’s a popular destination for families.

Marbella is home to the world’s rich and famous, who have built their own villas here and keep their yachts in the town’s marina. Although it’s quite crowded, there are plenty of hotels and activities to keep you entertained away from the crowds.

Nerja is a lovely town set on picturesque cliffs, between which lie some of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa del Sol. Visit the Balcony of Europe and enjoy swimming and snorkelling in the azure waters.

Below, I’ve given you more details about each of these places to give you a better idea of what they are all about. I’ve also added places to stay and activities so you can start planning your itinerary quickly.

1. Malaga – a combination of beach and cultural holidays

As the largest city on the Costa del Sol, Malaga has undergone a major redevelopment in recent years. Many of the beaches around the city have been significantly developed, with hotels and holiday apartments overlooking the Mediterranean. For first-time visitors to Malaga, it is the easiest beach destination to get to, and has the best connections to the rest of the region.

Despite the huge changes, central Malaga has retained an authentic atmosphere. The historic architecture is still intact, and many of Malaga’s landmarks offer a window into the city’s past. It is still very much a working-class and port city, so you will find an atmosphere that blends the vibes of both travellers and locals. From the old buildings and restaurants and bars in the centre, to modern apartments with all the amenities on the coast.

La Malagueta Beach

Between the port of Malaga and the beaches of La Caleta is the famous and well-known beach of La Malagueta, very popular in the city, so it is usually very crowded. Its name is written in capital letters as an address for tourists, as this place is very photographed by everyone who bathes in its waters. In addition, you can enjoy beautiful views of the mountains and the recently renovated and renovated marina.

The wide variety of beach bars, excellent lifeguard service, cleanliness, beach umbrella and sunbed rental, and youthful atmosphere make La Malagueta one of the most popular beaches in Malaga. Its waters have recently been awarded the Blue Flag quality certificate.

Pedregalejo Beach

Located on the east coast of Malaga, between Baños del Carmen and Playa del Palo. A sandy beach, 1,200 meters long and 20 meters wide. Next to the beach is the old fishing district of Pedregalejo and a promenade with terraces of bars and restaurants specializing in fish and seafood. On this beach, the protagonists are espetos – traditional sardine skewers. The sunset that this beach offers is a unique charm that you cannot miss when visiting the Costa del Sol.

What to see and do in Malaga:

Picasso Museum: You can’t visit Malaga without stopping at this museum that celebrates the work and life of this famous Spanish artist.
Nuestra Señora de la Encarnacion Cathedral: Construction began in 1528, but it took centuries and the church is still not finished!
The harbor and port: This is the heart of the city’s nightlife, and a great place to relax during the day thanks to recent renovations that have made it elegant and modern.
The Alcazaba is a Moorish castle in the city center, overlooking the historic center and winding cobblestone streets.
Hiking and mountain walks are very popular activities in this region. Head to the El Chorro Gorge, where you can walk the Caminito del Rey, the King’s Path (read my own experience on how to get there and what to see here), for an adrenaline rush.

More information: Malaga – a guide of the capital the Costa del Sol

Where to stay in Malaga:

alagueta Beach Studio≫ – Comfortable and clean apartment, located close to the beach and restaurants, and it’s not noisy at night, which is a big plus.
Living4Malaga Centro Histórico y Playa≫ – Central location, just a short walk to the city center. Hard Rock Cafe and other restaurants are very accessible within a short walk from the pier.
alagueta Beach Studio≫ – Comfortable and clean apartment, located close to the beach and restaurants, and it’s not noisy at night, which is a big plus.
Living4Malaga Centro Histórico y Playa≫ –Central location, just a short walk to the city center. Hard Rock Cafe and other restaurants are very accessible within a short walk from the pier.

More information: Where to stay in Malaga – 5 best areas for tourists

2. Estepona – budget vacation on the beaches of the Costa del Sol

As Estepona is a bit off the beaten track, it is a very affordable destination for those travelling to Spain on a budget. Accommodation is quite affordable and you can find good deals in the off-season.

Estepona has a great mix of tourist infrastructure and the real charm of Andalusia. Estepona has its own unique atmosphere that will really impress you during your stay.

El Paron Beach

This beach is located just 2 kilometers from the city of Estepona, it is one of the best beach areas in Malaga. In the El Parón area there is a shopping center where you can enjoy typical bars and restaurants, a variety of shops and various other services. This beach has warm water and fine sand, which makes it a great beach if we visit it with children, since they can also enjoy some mats that are available during the summer months.

What to see and do in Estepona:

Take a walk along the promenade for stunning views of the Mediterranean, especially at dawn or sunset. You can also play street chess here.
Torres Almenaras are an important historical landmark. Built by the Moors and early Castilians, they can be visited in a day.
Estepona is the main culinary center of the Costa del Sol. This is where we tried sardines on a stick – espeto, a delicious simple fish that is cooked here over an open fire.
Visit the botanical orchid park.
Stroll through the streets of Estepona and look at its street murals.
Visiting the historic center of Estepona – we somehow got here by car and it was an adventure to ride through the narrow streets between flower pots. I will never forget how the navigator drove us around in circles )))
Of course, we do not forget why we came to the sea – it is swimming and relaxing on the beaches of Estepona.
Watch the sunset from the promenade.

Where to stay in Estepona:

Senator Banus≫ – This is a beautiful and very stylish hotel. The rooms are large and spacious, with everything you need. The balcony is great to sit on and sunbathe. The breakfast is exceptional – a wide selection of dishes and fruits. The hotel has its own outdoor pool.
Apartamentos Turísticos Casa de La Borrega≫ – The apartment is cozy and in a great building. It has very comfortable beds, strong water pressure in the shower. The location is perfect – just 1 minute walk from Plaza de las Flores and all the streets with restaurants.

3. Fuengirola is the best area of the Costa del Sol for families

Fuengirola is only 30 minutes by car from Malaga, but it has a completely different atmosphere. Once a small fishing village, it has been much more heavily affected by the growth of tourism. While this may put off some travellers, families will really benefit from the variety of facilities and activities on offer.

The town’s long promenade is the main entertainment strip for walkers, holidaymakers and sports enthusiasts. Many of the beaches offer water activities that young children can enjoy. This is a safe area of Spain, so you can relax and unwind during your holiday.

Carvajal Beach

This beach, located in the city of Fuengirola, is right at the end of the city promenade and is one of the beaches that you cannot forget to visit during your vacation. This beach is completely urbanized and for this reason you can combine swimming with beach bars where you can enjoy a cool beer on hot days.

This beach is ideal if you visit it with children, since you can walk and walk along the coast for kilometers. Pay attention to this beach if you want to spend your vacation in complete isolation and close to the service sector.

What to see in Fuengirola:

There are several theme parks and water parks in the area – I recommend Aqualand for families with young children.
If you are here to relax and soak up the sun, why not start your day off with an easy jog along the very long beaches.
Visit the Roman archaeological site and the Fuengirola History Museum.
Have a drink in one of the bars in Fuengirola’s port.
Visit the Miramar shopping center.
A walk along the Fuengirola promenade is a great daily routine that is available to anyone who has stopped here for a holiday.

Where to stay in Fuengirola:

Holiday wanda≫ – A wonderful apartment on the seashore, where we stayed for three days of rest. The owner, Wanda, is incredibly attentive to guests and details, creating comfort and coziness for her guests. Clean is not the right word: perfect cleanliness! Very comfortable bed. We felt like we were visiting and staying at a hotel at the same time. Wanda gave us a parking remote, so there was always a place to park the car. There is an elevator in the house.
Terrace Costa Hotel≫ – Great boutique hotel close to the train station, shops and restaurants. Very easy self check in. Room has a fully functioning kitchen (microwave, water heater etc), good breakfast on the rooftop, 5 minutes from the beach, lots of restaurants around.

4. Marbella

The chic city of Marbella is one of the most famous cities in Andalusia, mainly because it is considered the southern Spanish answer to Italy’s Saint-Tropez. This hotspot on the Costa del Sol is home to a range of stylish hotels, high-end restaurants, trendy boutiques and buzzing beach clubs that host the best DJs from around the world. While it may not be for everyone, it is definitely a place to see and be seen.

Although Marbella has a slightly less glamorous side, which includes the picturesque casco antiguo (old town) with its whitewashed winding streets, houses with balconies and lively terraces that bring a bit of local culture, it’s fun to watch both sides of the city spend one evening in an extravagant megaclub and the next sitting in the square watching passionate flamenco dancers show off their moves!

What to see in Marbella:

Marbella’s Golden Mile – here you will find a chic selection of Marbella’s best restaurants, exclusive boutiques and shops such as Gucci, Dior, Cartier, etc.
Marbella Castle Walls: which date back to the 11th-30th centuries and allow you to see the most important traces of the passage of civilization through the city of Marbella.
Pantaleon Street: it is such a narrow street that you can touch its sides just by spreading your arms.
Plaza de los Naranjos in Marbella: Here you can see the Marbella Town Hall, the Santiago Chapel and the Casa del Correjidor.
Avenida del Mar Marbella: located between the center and the promenade and is a kind of street museum where you can see sculptures by the artist Salvador Dali.
Alameda Park is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature and the coolness of the huge trees inside.
Marbella has one of the best promenades in the province of Malaga. It is a place for walking, eating in restaurants and cycling.

Where to stay in Marbella:

Casa Postigos≫ – very comfortable rooms, nice design, extremely clean, everything new. Located in the old town and at a great price. Coffee and tea making facilities, charming white house, close to the bus station.
Senator Marbella≫ – The rooms are very clean and spacious, the beds are comfortable. There is a nice rooftop bar with great views. The hotel is in a good location, about a 5 minute walk to the seafront promenade and about 15 minutes to the old town.

5. Nerja

The coastal town of Nerja, located about 50km east of Malaga. It has managed to protect the natural beauty of its coves, keeping the buildings low so you can appreciate both the beach and the mountainous landscape beyond. This old fishing village is now a popular tourist destination, but thanks to its location at the very end of the Costa del Sol, it is not as unspoilt as some of the other big resorts.

Nerja is best explored in the off-season/ For example – April-June and late September. So you can really enjoy the nature and beaches without the crowds.

Read more: Nerja – the most beautiful beaches of Andalusia

Beaches in Nerja

Very different from the beaches of the entire coast south of Malaga. There are huge cliffs and small bays with cozy beaches. The water is bluer and clearer here, but the sunset is a little steeper. But I liked the beaches of Nerja more because of the picturesque landscape that surrounds them.

What to see in Nerja:

From the famous Balcony of Europe, you can enjoy magnificent views of the sea and the nearby steep coasts.
Cueva de Nerja: The Nerja Caves, which will definitely impress you. I was stunned by the scale of the underground cathedrals of stalagmites and stalactites. The Nerja Caves are declared a Monument of Cultural Interest and the fourth most visited natural monument in Spain.
Nerja and its beaches: Beaches in small coves with crystal clear water surrounded by wildlife. There you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Some beaches, such as Cala Barranco de Maro or La Caleta de Maro, are difficult to access. But because of this, there are fewer people here.

Де зупинитися в Нерха:

Hostal Tres Soles≫ – Extremely clean hostel near the historic part of Nerja. It has free parking under the hostel where we parked our car. Perfect for a short stay, well equipped kitchen to just make breakfast and tea or coffee, nothing more.
La Puerta de Nerja BOUTIQUE ≫ – Great hotel – very clean, great location, great staff and very welcoming. Rooms are smaller as everywhere in Spain but have everything you need including air conditioning, wifi, clean toilets, TV, balcony etc. There is also a jacuzzi on the roof.

Useful articles and links:

Travel medical insurance with discounts can be purchased from HotlineFinance
Hotel and apartment bookings – Booking.com
Timetable and train tickets in Europe – Trainline

TOP 5 places for a beach holiday on the Costa del Sol, Spain

Coast and beaches on the Costa del Sol