Costa del Sol Holidays

Spain's Costa del Sol is 150 kilometres of sunshine, sangria, and seriously good package holiday territory, from the glamour of Marbella to the family-friendly beaches of Fuengirola and the cultural clout of Malaga.

Highlights of your Holidays to the Costa del Sol 2026

• Over 300 days of sunshine a year - The Costa del Sol earns its name. Whether you're booking a Costa del Sol holiday in August, or even in May or October, you're almost guaranteed warm weather and blue skies.

• 150 kilometres of coastline - From the buzzing resort beaches of Torremolinos and Benalmadena to hidden coves near Nerja, the Costa del Sol delivers beaches for every mood.

• Proper culture beyond the beach - Picasso was born in Malaga, the Alcazaba fortress dates back to the 11th century, and the white villages of the Andalusian hills look like they've been pulled straight from a painting.

• Food that ruins you for home - Espetos (sardines grilled on sticks over open flames on the beach), fresh seafood from chiringuitos, and tapas bars where you could happily eat your way through a fortnight.

• A nightlife scene for every vibe - Marbella and Puerto Banus do glamour and bottle service, Torremolinos does unpretentious fun and one of the best LGBT+ scenes in Spain, and Malaga does proper late-night Spanish city nightlife where nobody eats dinner before 10pm.

• Golf courses everywhere you look - Over 70 courses along the coast (they don't call it the Costa del Golf for nothing), playable year-round while courses back home are waterlogged from November to March.

Good to Know - Costa del Sol Holidays

• ☀️ Weather - Summers hit 30°C and above from June to September with barely a cloud. Spring and autumn sit at a gorgeous 20-25°C, and even winter rarely dips below 12°C.

• 💶 Money - A sit-down lunch runs €12-€18, a beer is €3-€4, and a coffee is around €2. Chiringuito espetos on the beach cost €8-€12 for a generous portion.

• 🌞 Fun fact - The Costa del Sol gets more sunshine hours per year than almost anywhere else in mainland Europe, but here's the lesser-known bit: the coast also has its own microclimate, which is why you'll find subtropical gardens in Malaga growing everything from jacarandas to avocados, making it the only place in Europe that commercially farms tropical fruit.

If you're ALL-IN on the Costa del Sol - check out our All-inclusive holidays in Costa del Sol.

🏖️ Best Beaches on the Costa del Sol

With over 150 kilometres of coastline, the Costa del Sol serves up beaches for every mood. Here are the highlights:

• Playa de la Malagueta (Malaga) is the capital's flagship beach, 1.2 kilometres of dark sand with a palm-lined promenade, views of Gibralfaro Castle, and some of the best chiringuitos on the coast. Brilliant for combining city sightseeing with beach time.

• Playa de la Carihuela (Torremolinos) is a former fishing village beach that's kept its charm, stretching two kilometres with Blue Flag status, shallow waters, and the famous espeto restaurants grilling sardines on bamboo skewers right on the sand.

• Playa de Burriana (Nerja) is nearly a kilometre of golden sand backed by dramatic mountains, with kayak hire, volleyball courts, and a restaurant that's been serving wood-fired paella since the 1970s. One of the most popular beaches on the eastern Costa del Sol.

• Playa Los Boliches (Fuengirola) is Blue Flag certified with lifeguards, play areas, and a brilliant promenade. Shallow waters and gentle waves make it a go-to for families with little ones.

• Playa de la Rada (Estepona) is over a kilometre of golden sand close to Estepona's flower-filled old town. All the facilities you need, plus easy access to the town centre for tapas afterwards.

• Playa de Venus (Marbella) sits near the old town with upmarket beach clubs, catamaran rides, and dolphin-watching trips. The place to see and be seen while still enjoying proper golden sand.

• Playa de Cabopino (Marbella) is one of the Costa del Sol's most unspoiled beaches, tucked within the Artola Dunes nature reserve. Golden sand, calm shallow waters, and a pretty marina nearby. A section is clothing-optional if that's your thing.

• Playa de Maro (Nerja) is part of the Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Park, a crystal-clear cove surrounded by dramatic cliffs that feels properly wild. Brilliant for snorkelling and kayaking to caves that you'll have to yourself.

• Playa del Cristo (Estepona) is a sheltered horseshoe cove with calm, shallow waters and barely any waves, perfect for families with young children. Feels like a secret even in high season.

🎭 Top Things to Do in Costa del Sol - More than just Beaches

The Costa del Sol serves up activities like a proper Spanish feast – there's something for everyone, and you'll probably end up doing way more than you planned.

Historical & Cultural Gems

• Málaga's Alcazaba and Cathedral – This Moorish fortress complex is absolutely mind-blowing, offering epic views over the city and a proper dose of history. The cathedral's nicknamed "La Manquita" (the one-armed lady) because they only finished one tower of the two they'd originally planned, one of those accidents that's made

• Picasso Museum, Málaga – Pay homage to the master in his actual birthplace. The museum's got an incredible collection spanning his entire career, from blue period blues to cubist masterpieces that'll do your head in (in a good way).

Mountain Adventures

• Caminito del Rey – Once dubbed the world's most dangerous walk, this elevated pathway's been made safe but still offers heart-stopping views 100 metres above the gorge. Not one for the faint-hearted, but absolutely epic if you fancy an adrenaline rush.

• White Villages (Pueblos Blancos) – Ronda's bridge will have you questioning if you're actually in a fairy tale, while villages like Frigiliana and Casares offer narrow cobbled streets, flower-filled balconies, and views that'll make you never want to leave.

Beach & Water Activities

• Kitesurfing at Tarifa – Where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, creating perfect wind conditions for some seriously impressive water sports. Even if you can't tell a kite from a board, watching the pros is entertainment enough.

• Dolphin watching from Benalmádena – Spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat on a catamaran cruise that's become one of the coast's most popular activities.

🏨 Where to Stay on your Costa del Sol Holidays

The Costa Del Sol has got such a range of brilliant holiday hotspots that whether you want something lively, something intimate, or something luxurious, there's a place for you and yours.

Major Resort Destinations

• Málaga – The cultural capital. Proper city vibes with incredible museums, buzzing tapas bars, and Playa de la Malagueta right on your doorstep. It's perfect if you want to mix sightseeing with beachy sun-soaking, plus the airport's practically next door for those last-minute shopping sprees.

• Torremolinos – Don't believe the haters – this resort town's had a massive glow-up and now offers cracking beaches like La Carihuela, brilliant nightlife, and some of the best value accommodation on the coast. It's lively, it's fun, and it's perfect for those who like their holidays with a proper unpretentious social scene.

• Marbella – The playground of the rich and famous, but don't let that put you off. The old town's absolutely charming with its orange tree-lined streets and traditional tapas bars, while the Golden Mile and Puerto Banús deliver the glitz. Proper sophisticated vibes.

• Benalmádena – Three parts to this gem: the traditional pueblo up in the hills, the modern resort area with theme parks and marinas, and the coastal bit with lovely beaches. You can literally choose your own adventure – mountain views, marina glamour, or beachfront bliss. Also cracking for a night out.

• Fuengirola – The family-friendly favourite. Wide sandy beaches, the excellent Bioparc zoo, and enough restaurants to keep even the pickiest eaters happy. Plus, it's brilliantly connected by train, so you can easily explore the whole coast.

• Nerja – Picture-perfect doesn't even begin to cover it. The famous Balcón de Europa offers stunning sea views, the beaches are some of the best on the coast, and the nearby caves are properly spectacular. It's got that authentic Spanish charm that makes you feel like you've discovered a secret.

Mid-Size Gems Worth Knowing

• Estepona – The flower-filled town that's kept its Spanish soul while embracing modern amenities. Beautiful beaches and a charming old town make it perfect for those wanting authentic vibes without sacrificing comfort.

• Almuñécar – A proper hidden gem on the Costa Tropical with ancient history, beautiful beaches, and fewer crowds than its famous neighbours.

• Mijas & La Cala de Mijas – The whitewashed village in the hills offers stunning views and traditional charm, while La Cala delivers excellent beaches and golf courses.

Other Coastal Spots

For those who prefer to venture off the beaten trail, you've also got Puerto Banus, Algeciras, Sotogrande and Torrox Costa – each with their own special character.

All Inclusive Holidays to Costa Del Sol

Spain's got its arms wide open, and the Costa del Sol is yelling "come over!". Fancy an all inclusive fiesta where your toughest decision is pool or beach? From grub to grooves, it's all sorted. Estepona to Torremolinos, this sun-kissed strip is your ticket to top-notch beachy bliss, buzzing nights, and cheeky fun for the whole fam. Ready to check out the best cheap holidays around? Let's dive into our fave all-inclusive hotspots along the Sunshine Coast. What a nickname.

Local Lingo

Spanish is the language of the Costa del Sol, and while English is widely spoken in the resort towns, having a few phrases in your back pocket goes down brilliantly with locals, especially in the tapas bars and markets away from the tourist strip.

• Hola, OH-lah, Hello

• Gracias, GRAH-thee-as, Thank you

• Una cerveza, por favor, OO-nah thehr-BEH-thah, por fah-BOR, A beer, please

• La cuenta, por favor, lah KWEN-tah, por fah-BOR, The bill, please

• Que aproveche, keh ah-pro-BEH-cheh, Enjoy your meal (said by everyone from waiters to the people at the next table)

What are the top Hotels in the Costa Del Sol?

Whether you're looking for a cheap holiday on a budget, an all inclusive holiday that dreams are made of or something totally last-minute, Costa Del Sol has got the goods when it comes to finding the perfect hotel to bunk down in, here's some of our top picks:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families

• AluaSun Costa Park (Torremolinos) is the family workhorse of the Costa del Sol, with two pools, a children's splash zone, a packed entertainment programme, and a Torremolinos location that puts the beach and the train station within easy walking distance.

• Gran Hotel Costa Del Sol (La Cala de Mijas) overlooks the beach with an all-inclusive programme that takes the stress out of family budgeting. The kids' activities include a Nintendo Wii lounge, which earns it bonus points with the under-12s.

• Benalmadena Palace (Benalmadena) is a big, facility-heavy resort right on the beach with two pools, kids' play areas, pool tables, football, archery, and the kind of "something for everyone in the family" setup that means you never hear "I'm bored."

💑 Couples

• Amare Marbella Beach Hotel (Marbella) is adults-recommended, stylish, and perfectly positioned for exploring Marbella's old town and beachfront. The rooftop terrace at sunset is the definition of holiday goals.

• Hotel Fenix Torremolinos (Torremolinos) is another adults-recommended pick with a more relaxed vibe, well-kept pools, and a La Carihuela location that puts you close to seafood restaurants and calm beach stretches.

• Vincci Seleccion Posada Del Patio (Malaga) is a boutique gem right inside Malaga's old town, with the remains of a Moorish wall in the basement and a rooftop pool looking out over the city. Culture on tap and the beach ten minutes away.

🎉 Groups

• Hard Rock Hotel Marbella (Puerto Banus) brings the party energy with music-themed rooms, a beach club, multiple restaurants, and a Puerto Banus location that puts you right where the Costa del Sol nightlife happens. The kind of hotel where the group chat goes quiet because everyone's having too much fun.

• Sol Principe (Torremolinos) has a massive lagoon-style pool that becomes the social hub, a beach location, and the kind of buzzy atmosphere where you'll make friends at the pool bar before lunch.

• Puente Real (Torremolinos) sits right on the beachfront with two large pools and a Torremolinos location that gives groups easy access to the nightlife strip and the coastal train for day trips.

✨ Luxury

• Ikos Andalusia (Estepona) is the standout luxury arrival on the Costa del Sol. Nine restaurants (some with Michelin-starred menus), nine pools, suites bigger than most London flats, and the Dine Out programme that lets you eat at local restaurants at no extra cost. The Deluxe Collection villas come with private pools.

• Elba Estepona Gran Hotel & Thalasso Spa (Estepona) is a beachfront resort with a full thalassotherapy spa, elegant rooms, and the kind of "nothing to do but relax in beautiful surroundings" energy that proper luxury holidays are made of.

• Higueron Hotel Malaga, Curio Collection by Hilton (Fuengirola) is adults-recommended with panoramic coast views, a design-led interior, and a hilltop setting that feels exclusive without being stuffy. The infinity pool is worth the trip alone.

💰 Value

• BLUESEA Al-Andalus (Torremolinos) delivers proper value with lush tropical gardens, a kids' club, and a short walk to the beach. Torremolinos is the best-value resort town on the Costa del Sol, and this hotel is one of the reasons why.

• Flatotel Internacional (Benalmadena) is a no-frills option in a great location near the Benalmadena marina. Clean, comfortable, and leaves plenty of budget for eating out and exploring.

• Nuriasol Apartments (Fuengirola) is an apartment-style stay that works brilliantly for budget-conscious families or groups who want to self-cater some meals and keep costs down. Good Fuengirola location near the beach and restaurants.

👉 All hotels in Costa del Sol  | All-inclusive holidays in Costa del Sol

Travel Guide - More things to do on your Costa del Sol Holiday

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families

• Bioparc Fuengirola - This animal park in Fuengirola challenges the traditional zoo format, with rescued animals living in habitats that replicate their natural environments. The immersive walk-through enclosures mean kids (and adults) get genuinely close to the animals.

• Nerja Caves - Stretching over four kilometres with towering stalactites and underground chambers, the Nerja Caves near Nerja are a jaw-dropping day out. Cave paintings inside are believed to be over 40,000 years old, which should keep the "but it's boring" complaints at bay.

• Tivoli World, Benalmadena - The Costa del Sol's theme park in Benalmadena with rides, live shows, and a Wild West section that's been entertaining families for decades. Close enough to your hotel that you can pop back for a siesta.

• Sea Life Benalmadena - An aquarium in Benalmadena with underwater tunnels, shark tanks, and interactive rockpool zones. A solid rainy-day option (not that you'll need it often on the Costa del Sol).

• Selwo Marina, Benalmadena - Dolphins, penguins, and sea lions in a compact marine park in Benalmadena. The dolphin shows are the headline, and it pairs well with a morning at the nearby beach.

💑 Couples

• Malaga's Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle - The Moorish fortress complex above Malaga offers epic views over the city and the port. Walk up through the gardens, explore the 11th-century palace rooms, and finish at the viewpoint where the whole Costa del Sol stretches out below you.

• Picasso Museum, Malaga - Pay homage to the master in his birthplace. The museum in Malaga has works spanning his entire career, and the building itself (a 16th-century palace) is gorgeous.

• Ronda day trip - The town of Ronda is perched above a dramatic gorge with one of the most photographed bridges in Spain. Have lunch overlooking the Tajo canyon and wander the old town. An easy day trip from anywhere on the Costa del Sol.

• Marbella Old Town - The orange tree-lined Plaza de los Naranjos in Marbella is where couples gravitate for evening tapas, boutique shopping in narrow streets, and that romantic Andalusian atmosphere that photographs beautifully.

• Frigiliana - This whitewashed village in the hills above Nerja regularly features in "prettiest villages in Spain" lists. Mosaic-covered streets, Moorish quarter ruins, and local honey and wine from the village shops.

🎉 Groups

• Caminito del Rey - Once dubbed the world's most dangerous walk, this elevated pathway hangs 100 metres above a gorge near the inland edge of the Costa del Sol. It's been fully restored and is completely safe, but the photos you'll get will make everyone back home think you're much braver than you are.

• Dolphin watching from Benalmadena - Catamaran cruises from Benalmadena marina head out to spot dolphins in their natural habitat. Bring snacks, bring sunscreen, and bring a competitive spirit for who spots the first one.

• Puerto Banus marina - A wander around Puerto Banus is free entertainment for any group. Superyachts the size of houses, sports cars parked along the front, and people-watching that could fill an entire afternoon before you've even ordered a drink.

• Mijas Pueblo - The whitewashed hilltop village above Mijas is worth the trip for the views alone, but the artisan shops, the donkey taxis (yes, really), and the miniature bullring add charm by the bucketload. An easy group day trip.

• El Corte Ingles, Malaga - The department store in Malaga is a shopping destination in its own right, with over 1,000 brands. The rooftop has a restaurant with views over the city, making it a strong lunch-and-shop combo for groups who want to come home with more than a tan.

More Destinations

• Spain - Mainland Spain goes far beyond the Costa del Sol, from the party beaches of the Costa Blanca and the family resorts of the Costa Dorada to city breaks in Barcelona and Madrid. One of the most popular holiday countries in the world, and for good reason.

• Costa Blanca - Home to Benidorm and some of the best-value beach holidays in Spain. Long sandy beaches, warm shallow waters, and a nightlife scene that keeps going well past sensible o'clock.

• Costa Brava - Rugged cliffs, pine-fringed coves, and the surrealist legacy of Salvador Dali. A different flavour of Spanish coast with a proper Catalan identity and some spectacular scenery.

• Costa Dorada - Golden-sand beaches (the name translates to "golden coast"), PortAventura World theme park, and the Roman ruins of Tarragona. One of the strongest family holiday destinations in Spain.

• Granada - The Alhambra palace is one of the most visited monuments in Europe, and the city's tapas scene (free tapas with every drink in most bars) is legendary. A popular day trip from the Costa del Sol but well worth its own holiday.