Costa del Sol

🏛️ Why Visit Costa del Sol, Spain?

The Coast of the Sun - Well, thanks to our amazing deals the sun costs less than ever (our holidays are better than our jokes - we promise). This legendary stretch of Spanish coastline is what proper jollies are made of – 320 days of sunshine a year (yes, really!), beaches that'll make your Instagram feed pop off, and enough chiringuitos to keep you in sangria for a lifetime. From the cultural buzz of Málaga to the glitzy glamour of Marbella, this sun-soaked slice of Andalusia delivers everything you could want from a Spanish getaway and then some.

The Costa del Sol isn't just about flopping on a beach (though the beaches are absolutely lush, obviously). You've got medieval white villages perched dramatically in the mountains, world-class golf courses that'll test even the cockiest players, and some of the most spectacular hiking trails in Europe. Plus, with Picasso's birthplace right here in Málaga and the legendary Alhambra just a day trip away in Granada, you're basically swimming in culture – when you're not actually swimming in the Med, that is.

Top reasons to visit Costa del Sol:

🏖️ Beaches that actually live up to the hype – Over 150 kilometres of coastline with everything from buzzing beach clubs to hidden coves where you can properly switch off

🎉 Year-round sunshine that puts the UK to shame – 320 sunny days annually means you can bin the umbrella (unless it’s a tiny one for your drink) and pack the factor 50 instead

🏰 Culture that goes way beyond just beach bars – Picasso Museum, ancient Moorish castles, and those jaw-dropping white villages that look like they're straight off a postcard

🌊 Water sports paradise for the adventurous types – From kitesurfing at Tarifa to diving in crystal-clear coves, there's proper excitement beyond the sunbed

☀️ Nightlife that doesn't quit – Whether you're after sophisticated cocktails in Puerto Banús or dancing till dawn in Torremolinos, the party scene here is absolutely mental (in the best way)

🎭 Top Things to Do in Costa del Sol

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. Whether you're here for culture, adventure, or just want to perfect your tan, this region's got your back.

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 never finished the second tower – classic Spanish priorities!

🎨 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

Right, let's talk location. 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 something for you.

Major Resort Destinations

🏖️ Málaga – The cultural capital that's got it all sussed. You're talking 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 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 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.

🎾 Fuengirola – The family-friendly favourite that's got everything sorted. 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.

Great Value 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:

🏨 Hotel Gran Cervantes by BLUESEA - This 4-star gem in Torremolinos is absolutely brilliant for families and couples who want excellent facilities without breaking the bank. You're talking indoor and outdoor pools, a rooftop Sky Bar with cracking views, and you're just 500 metres from the beach.

🏨 AluaSun Costa Park - A family-focused favourite that delivers exactly what it says on the tin – fun, sun, and excellent facilities. The kids' club is top-notch, and the location gives you easy access to all the Costa del Sol highlights.

🏨 Sandos Greco - Ok, so this one might be slightly pricier than the others in this category, but it’s ALL INCLUSIVE. So for the price, you get all your food, and your drink, and your entertainment. When you think about it that way, this four star resort in Torremelinos with abundant facilities, offers incredible value.

🏨 Ilunion Málaga - Perfectly positioned for exploring Spain's cultural gem, offering modern comfort with easy access to the city's museums, beaches, and that incredible food scene that makes Málaga such a winner.

Mid-Range Marvels

🏨 Benalmadena Palace - Fantastic for families, this large four star resort has all the facilities you could ever want, two swimming pools, a gym, kids play areas, kids pools, pool tables, football, archery and more. It’s on the beach and it’s not going to break the bank. What more could you want?

🏨 H10 Estepona Palace - Sophisticated vibes in one of the coast's most charming towns. You're getting quality accommodation with easy access to both stunning beaches and the flower-filled old town.

🏨 NH Marbella - Bang on the Golden Mile between Marbella centre and Puerto Banús, this 4-star beauty gives you stylish rooms with balconies (some with sea views!), a lovely outdoor pool, and that perfect location that puts you 10 minutes from the beach and 5 minutes from the Congress Centre. The Greenhouse restaurant's glass-covered terrace is absolutely lush.

🏨 Sunset Beach Club - The name says it all really – prime position for those Instagram-worthy sunset shots, plus facilities that'll keep you happy all day long.

🏨 Amare Marbella Beach Hotel - Adults Recommended - For grown-ups who want to holiday in peace without dodging beach balls. Sophisticated, stylish, and perfectly positioned for exploring Marbella's delights.

Luxury Escapes

🏨 Vincci Selección Pasada Del Patio - Boutique elegance that oozes Spanish charm. Every detail's been thought through to create an absolutely stunning base for your Costa del Sol adventure.

🏨 El Fuerte Marbella - A proper institution that's been welcoming guests in style for decades. Right on the beach with that classic Spanish elegance that never goes out of fashion.

🏨 La Zambra - Intimate luxury that feels more like staying at an exclusive member's club. Perfect for those special occasions when only the best will do.

🏨 Ikos Andalusia - The new kid on the block taking the coast by storm. This 5-star stunner in Estepona brings Ikos's legendary 'Infinite Lifestyle' concept to Spain with 9 restaurants (some with Michelin-starred menus!) 9 pools, and suites that are bigger than most London flats. The Deluxe Collection villas come with private pools, and the Dine Out programme lets you explore local restaurants at no extra cost. It's luxury that actually makes sense.

💰 How to Have a Very Cheap Costa del Sol Holiday (that's still brilliant)

Listen, the Costa del Sol doesn't have to cost a fortune – and cheap definitely doesn't mean cheerless here. This coast's been perfecting the art of brilliant budget holidays for decades.

🗓️ When to Go

Skip July and August when prices go mental and the beaches are rammed. May, June, September, and October offer gorgeous weather, lower prices, and the locals actually have time to chat. Spring's particularly lovely when the almond trees are in bloom.

💡 Smart Savings

🏨 Stay outside the glamour - Hotels in towns like Fuengirola or Torremolinos cost way less than beachfront Marbella but you're still minutes from the sand, and it's still an easy day trip to Marbella if you fancy it.

🚂 Use the train - The coastal train's dead cheap and connects most major resorts. Day passes are brilliant value.

🥘 Market meals - Hit the local markets for fresh produce and have picnics on the beach. The food's incredible and costs next to nothing.

🎉 Free Fun

The best things really are free here. 🏖️ Beach time costs nothing, 🥾 hiking in the mountains is spectacular and won't cost a penny, and 🏘️ wandering through those gorgeous white villages is like stepping into a postcard.

🚌 Getting About

The local bus network's brilliant and cheap. 🚴 Rent bikes for coastal exploring, or just 🚶 walk – most resorts are completely walkable and you'll discover hidden gems you'd miss from a car.

☀️ The Costa del Sol proves that you don't need to spend a fortune to have the time of your life. Sun, sea, sangria, and smiles – what more do you need? 🍹

Other Places to visit in Costa Del Sol:

• Malaga

• Marbella

• Benalmadena

• Torremolinos