28+ Best Things to Do in Costa del Sol By A Local
There’s so much to do and explore in Costa del Sol.
It’s well-known for its beaches, but as a local, I want to prove that there are many things to do in Costa del Sol that don’t involve sunbathing or swimming in the sea.
My favourite activities in Costa del Sol are wandering the old towns of Marbella and Estepona, visiting the Alcazaba and eating sardines at my local chiringuito (beach bar).
But wait… There are more!
In this ultimate guide, I’ve included over 25 attractions and locations you want to check out before planning your itinerary.
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1. Learn about Malaga’s history at the Alcazaba Fortress Palace
Whether you’re visiting Malaga for a day or three, there’s one place you shouldn’t miss in my hometown: the Alcazaba de Málaga. It’s the perfect location to learn about the invasion of the Moors in the city and admire stunning views of Malaga town hall, port and sea.
My advice is not to rush the visit; take your time walking around the fortress palace, including the walls for city views.
Walking in the Alcazaba is a lovely experience (when it isn’t crowded!) – you can smell jasmine flowers, hear the water from the small fountains, and see beautiful architecture.
Although it’s far smaller than the Alhambra, the buildings share some similarities.
Visiting it in the summer? Stop by their little cafe and cool down by ordering a lemonade (it’s so good!)
Local Tip
Uncover the beauty of the Costa del Sol at your own pace by renting a car. A car offers flexibility, comfort and the opportunity to stop at hidden gem locations. Check out Discover Cars for the best rental car deals!
2. Eat at an emblematic restaurant (El Pimpi)
Food is part of travelling and is super important for many of us. If you’re researching where to eat before heading to any new destination, I can relate to this.
While Malaga has many incredible places to eat, less popular than El Pimpi, it’s still worth eating here.
El Pimpi has a history, and celebrities from around the world have come to enjoy a meal here. Where’s the proof? On the restaurant wall. You can see photos of Antonio Banderas and other famous people in El Pimpi.
The restaurant is beautiful, but the food is also great. Most meals are made with local and seasonal ingredients, so it’s a good place to try some typical Malaga dishes. I love the fritura malagueña (fried fish platter) here.
It’s very popular, so I recommend booking a table in advance via their website.
3. Soak up the sun at La Malagueta Beach
If you stay in Malaga city centre, you don’t need to travel far to the beach. Luckily, the beach is pretty close to the old town. It’s about 20 minute walk.
La Malagueta Beach is the busiest beach in the summer because of its good facilities and closeness to the city centre. This means you’re more likely to find more travellers than locals, but it’s a lovely beach.
Restaurants and bars surround the beach, and it has public toilets, showers and a playground for kids.
Coming off-season? There are opportunities to sunbathe, too. Malaga enjoys plenty of warm and sunny days outside during the summer months.
Regardless of the month you come to Malaga, don’t forget to take a photo next to the La Malagueta sign.
4. Immerse yourself in the museums of Malaga
Are museums usually on your itinerary? You’ll be glad to know that Malaga has over 40 museums and art galleries.
Everyone knows about the Picasso Museum, but you’ll be amazed by the themed museums in the city.
Whether you like music, video games or cars, there’s a museum.
The Picasso Museum is definitely a must-see, but one of my favourite museums in Malaga is the wine museum.
It’s great to learn about the wine production in the city, and the entry ticket includes a small wine tasting. I didn’t know about the latter until I recently visited it with a friend.
5. Attend a flamenco show
Looking for a way to immerse yourself in the Andalusian culture? You want to check out flamenco shows.
Flamenco dance and music originated in Seville, the capital of Andalucia; however, they’re widely popular throughout the whole region, so whether you’re visiting Cadiz or Malaga, you can watch a good show.
If you’re in Malaga, I recommend Alegria, where you can enjoy a live flamenco show while having dinner. If you’re in Marbella, check out Tablao Flamenco Marbella.
But you’ll likely find many places to watch flamenco across the Costa del Sol.
6. Eat sardines at a chiringuito
No visit to Costa del Sol is complete without eating espetos at the beach.
As a born and raised Malagueña, I love eating espetos, and if you’re “Wait, what are they? They are sardine skewers slowly roasted in the barbecue made in small unused boats.
They are seasoned with salt, and that’s it! But I highly recommend adding a splash of lemon.
You can find espetos at the chiringuitos (aka beach restaurants). My favourite is Los Cuñaos in the Pedregalejo neighbourhood in Malaga.
7. Go to Malaga’s Botanical Garden
Located on the outskirts of Malaga, La Concepcion Botanical Garden is the place to immerse yourself in nature.
The first time I visited, I was impressed by its size and variety of plants and flowers. You can see plants from all around the world, beautiful fountains and city views.
Schedule a few hours to explore all the different areas and have a drink at the cafe. However, you could definitely bring a picnic. There’s plenty of seating.
8. Hike the famous Caminito del Rey trail
Caminito del Rey is the most popular hiking trail in the province of Malaga. Located approximately 1-hour drive from the city, it’s the perfect day trip for adventure-seekers.
This isn’t the type of hiking trail you can just turn up and do; you have to book tickets for it. I actually recommend booking your tickets well in advance. I had wanted to visit it for a while, but it wasn’t until last year that I finally got tickets.
Personally, I think it’s an easy hike, but it isn’t for everyone because of the heights. You’ll be walking on a wooden path next to cliffs so you can see what’s underneath you. I was completely fine with this, but I must admit that I was a bit scared of the hanging bridge. It really moves.
Although it’s possible to hike it at your own pace if this is your first time visiting Caminito del Rey, I’d suggest booking a guided tour because it’s the best way to learn about the history, including why it’s named the King’s Pathway), fauna and flora.
I took this guided tour from Malaga. The guide was super knowledgeable and funny, so my partner and I had a good time.
9. Enjoy the spectacular views from Balcon de Europa
Malaga has many beautiful viewpoints, but one of my favourites is in Nerja, a coastal town 50 minutes from Malaga City.
Nerja is charming and a fantastic place for a beach holiday. In fact, Nerja has some of the best beaches in Costa del Sol, from Burriana Beach to Maro Beach.
However, returning to the viewpoint, Balcón de Europa is right in the historic centre of Nerja, and if you wonder why the views are so special, they look straight out of a postcard.
You get the views of the coastline and mountains at the same time. If you go to Nerja in winter, you might even see snow-covered peaks. The contrast between the sea and the mountains is just breathtaking.
10. Kayak at Maro Beach
Playa de Maro is a short drive from Nerja town centre, and it’s an excellent beach for anyone who loves water activities.
It’s a small beach next to the Maro Natural Park, so it feels more like a virgin beach surrounded by nature.
The best activity at Maro Beach is kayaking. Guided tours like this one will take you to the beautiful caves and the waterfall.
11. Discover the impressive Castillo de Colomares monument
Castillo de Colomares, also known as Colomares Castle in English, is among the most beautiful monuments on the Costa del Sol.
You might ask…wait, why do you refer to it as a monument? Doesn’t the name say castle? It’s a monument in the shape of a castle to commemorate Christopher Columbus’s adventures.
It’s a small place, but the detailed architecture is stunning. You’ll be given a small leaflet to follow to learn more about the history behind Colomares Castle. However, the reality is that many people only come for photos and videos.
You don’t want to miss this monument in Benalmadena Pueblo!
12. Contemplate the coastal views from the Benalmadena Cable Car
Another attraction to check out in Benalmadena is the cable car. It’s a great activity to do with kids or without kids if you aren’t scared of heights.
The views are amazing, but the ride up to Mount Colomorro is quite steep. I must admit that I get a bit scared every time I take it.
However, once you reach the top, you’re always rewarded with stunning views of the Benalmadena coastline.
You can book tickets for the cable car here.
13. Experience an authentic Spanish village by visiting Mijas Pueblo
Mijas Pueblo is a charming traditional Spanish village which is nestled in the mountains between Mijas Costa and Fuengirola.
The reality is that it has become a popular day trip from Malaga and Fuengirola, so more and more tourists are visiting Mijas Pueblo.
Despite the increase in tourists, the village keeps its charm and authenticity and has everything you would expect in a whitewashed town.
You don’t need a full day to explore Mijas Pueblo, but a couple of hours, and you can visit two places in one day, for example, Mijas Pueblo and Fuengirola.
During your time in Mijas Pueblo, I recommend exploring its centre, home to art galleries, independent shops selling gorgeous and traditional ceramics, and a historical museum.
Other unique and fun activities include visiting the chocolate factory (Mayan Monkey Mijas) and its Museum of Miniatures inside a wagon.
Staying in Mijas for sunset? Go to Mirador del Compás, one of my favourite viewpoints on the west side of Costa del Sol.
14. Explore Marbella’s old town
I have a soft spot for Marbella Old Town. It’s one of my favourite spots in my hometown because of its ambience, architecture and history.
It isn’t as big as the old town in Estepona, but it’s worth getting lost in its alleyways, browsing its indie shops with boho dresses, drinking a coffee or juice at Plaza de los Naranjos, and, of course, taking photos of its streets (Carmen Street is, by the way, one of the prettiest)
There aren’t many monuments, but you can’t miss Marbella Castle and Encarnacion Church.
I highly recommend booking a walking tour of the old town if you’re into history. My partner and I did it as I’m always curious to learn more about my hometown and its surroundings. It was really good, and it positively impressed me. I didn’t know there was so much history to the town.
15. Spend the day at an exclusive beach club in Marbella
One of the things Marbella is famous for is its exclusive beach clubs. Are they worth the hype? Hundred per cent!
Nikki Beach Marbella, Ocean Club, La Sala by the Sea, and La Cabane are top choices. You can’t go wrong by spending the day at one of these beach clubs.
You can hire a sunbed, have a delicious meal and cocktails, watch live performances and cool down in the pool.
Most beach clubs open from May to late September for the season. If you happen to be there for the opening or closing party, it’s even better. These parties are epic.
16. Take a cruise in Puerto Banus
Puerto Banus is one of the most exclusive areas of Marbella. This port is home to luxury shops and impressive yachts. However, it doesn’t have to be all about the lavish atmosphere.
You can book a cruise to enjoy the mountain and sea views at sunset with a loved one. Or if you prefer a different vibe, you can hire a boat to celebrate someone’s birthday, or hen do, or simply book a regular dolphin-watching cruise.
The more private, the more expensive. However, you can find affordable boat trips with Get Your Guide.
17. Wander the picturesque old town of Estepona
Estepona, known as the Garden of the Costa del Sol, is a town worth visiting. It isn’t as popular as Marbella, but it has a lot to offer.
My favourite thing about Estepona is its historic centre. It’s big compared to other old towns and very picturesque. There are photo opportunities around every corner.
I would encourage you to get lost in it – take in the laid-back atmosphere, relax at its plazas (squares) and wander its cobblestone streets with white-painted buildings adorned with bright flowers.
But if you’re more of a planner and have less time in Estepona, go to the town’s official website and download one of its walking routes. You can take a route to discover the most picturesque streets in the old town, a route to see street art or sculptures.
Another attraction not to miss in Estepona is the Orchidarium, which is where you’ll find a wide variety of orchid species.
18. See the animals at Selwo Aventura
If you love seeing animals but not in constrained places, you should check out Selwo Aventura in Estepona. It’s more like a safari, so the animals live in semi-captive conditions.
You can find many animal species on this safari, from elephants and lions to meerkats and parrots.
I love Selwo Aventura and prefer it over Bioparc Zoo in Fuengirola. The park is quite big, so you can make a full day out of it, and if you wish, you can stay in their on-site accommodation: Hotel Selwo Lodge.
My favourite activity is the Serengeti Safari, a guided tour by an off-road truck. You get to see the animals pretty close.
They also give educational talks and have animal encounters.
19. Visit Fuengirola Castle
I’ve already mentioned that the Alcazaba is my favourite fortress in Malaga, but another castle to add to your list is Castillo de Sohail in Fuengirola.
Situated on the top of a hill, this castle offers stunning coastline views. Besides the views, you can learn about its Moorish origins.
What I also love about this castle is that it hosts many events, especially in the summer, from concerts to the Medieval Market of Fuengirola and Oktoberfest.
20. Discover the mountainside town of Ronda
Drive to the picturesque town of Ronda for a fun day packed with history, food, and gorgeous mountainside views.
The highlight of Ronda is its bridge, which I’m pretty sure you’ve seen on social media or even on TV. It actually appeared in Gordon, Gino & Fred: Road Trip Around Andalucia.
The Puente Nuevo was built to connect the new with the old town of Ronda, and its architecture is quite impressive.
If you plan to spend a day in Ronda, you can’t miss wandering its historic centre. There, you’ll find the archaeological museum, which has objects dating back to the Neolithic. I love this museum’s Moorish architecture and small garden with incredible views.
Another must-see is Casa Museo Don Bosco, a historical house and museum.
Ronda is the birthplace of bullfighting, so you can also visit it. I’m against bullfighting, so I haven’t been inside, but if you want to see what it’s like without entering, go to the rooftop of Hotel Catalonia Ronda.
Last but not least, you can’t leave Ronda without eating tapas. It’s one of my favourite towns for tapa crawling. El Lechuguita is my go-to. It’s cheap and cosy.
If you want to explore beyond Ronda, you can actually visit Setenil de las Bodegas, a small town known for its houses built under cliffs.
21. Book a wine-tasting experience
Serranía de Ronda and La Axarquía regions in Malaga are well-known for their high-quality wineries.
They produce different varieties of wines – from sweet to white and rosé. Each has a distinctive taste.
The best way to taste these wines is to book a wine tasting or visit one of the wineries.
If you stay in Malaga, have a look at this day trip to a vineyard with transport included. It’s the one I did once.
22. Visit Cuevas del Tesoro in Rincón de la Victoria
There are a couple of caves in Malaga. You’re more likely to hear about Nerja Caves, which, of course, are worth visiting, but not many people talk about the ones in Rincon de la Victoria.
Cuevas del Tesoro are incredibly impressive and bigger than I expected. There are three caves of marine origin, which you won’t find in many places around the world. You can also learn about the Palaeolithic times in El Rincón and the legends behind the caves.
If you have the time, I would recommend visiting these caves.
23. Take the kids to Aqualand
I said kids, but if you don’t have kids but are a kid at heart like me, why not spend the day at one of the best waterparks in Costa del Sol?
I remember going to Aqualand with my family every summer. We used to have such a good time!
Despite being opened over 20 years ago, the waterpark is well-maintained, and I love that they open new attractions every couple of years.
If you’re brave, go to the Kamikaze, a 22-metre high slide! I’ve never dared to go down that slide. However, there are quieter but fun attractions for all ages, including the wave pool.
My only downside about Aqualand is that the price has increased over the years and has become expensive for families, especially big families.
24. Adventure yourself on a hike to La Concha
If you’re up for an adventure besides hiking Caminito del Rey, you want to check out La Concha.
This isn’t a hike for beginners; the trail is medium to high difficulty, and I always recommend doing some research, so you’re aware of what to expect, even if you’re an experienced hiker.
This hike lasts four to six hours, so be prepared by wearing the right footwear and taking enough water and snacks.
Despite this hiking trail’s difficulty, you’ll enjoy the views from the top. You can see the beautiful coastline, including the Strait of Gibraltar and the Moroccan coast.
25. Spend half a day in the charming town of Frigiliana
Frigiliana is one of the trendiest villages in the east of Malaga, the least explored side of the province. It’s now popular because it was recognised as one of the prettiest villages in Spain.
It might now feel more touristy, but you still find the essence of a pueblo blanco. I love strolling its historic centre and checking out its independent shops, where they sell delicious sugar cane honey: the village’s top ingredient.
You definitely don’t need a full day in Frigiliana, so if I were you, I would make a full day out by visiting Frigiliana and Nerja.
26. Shop at Plaza Mayor
Do you love shopping? If so, there’s one place you must visit during your Costa del Sol holiday, and that’s Plaza Mayor, located a short drive from Torremolinos and the airport.
There are many shopping centres in Costa del Sol, but this one ticks off all the boxes.
It has over 50 shops with popular brands like Zara, Adidas and Pull and Bear. Not only will you find clothes, but also a supermarket and home decor.
Next to Plaza Mayor, they opened a Mc Arthur’s outlet with even more shops.
And if you get hungry, there are restaurants too, from McDonald’s and kebabs to tapas.
Personally, I think Plaza Mayor is the best shopping centre in Malaga. Here is where I like buying my clothes and presents.
27. Hike in El Bosque Encantado
I’ve already mentioned two beautiful hiking trails in Costa del Sol. Both are very famous among travellers, but I recommend hiking El Bosque Encantado if you want a lesser-known walking route.
It’s located in the charming small village of Parauta, not far from Ronda.
This hiking trail is perfect for visiting in autumn as the foliage changes, and you can enjoy the beautiful brown and yellow leaves.
It’s great for all ages, but you’ll mostly find families because there are wooden sculptures across the trail – from fairies to dwarfs and other creatures.
I visited it in November, and it was lovely to walk, but I must admit it was a bit crowded. Bear in mind I went on a Sunday (rookie mistake!) I would definitely suggest going on a weekday.
28. Play golf on some of the best golf courses in Spain
Golf is one of the most famous activities in the Costa del Sol. The sunny and warm weather all year round and fantastic golf courses make it perfect for a golf holiday.
Many people refer to Costa del Sol as Costa del Golf. You’ll find the best golf courses in the Fuengirola to Estepona area. However, the ones in Torremolinos and Alhaurín de la Torre are good, too.
You’re spoiled for choice in Costa del Sol.
29. Go on a day trip to Gibraltar
There are many amazing day trips from Costa del Sol, and yes, it isn’t easy to pick only one. However, a day out in Gibraltar is always a good choice.
This British Territory is a melting pot of cultures, and this is unsurprising because it is next to Spain and the African continent.
Gibraltar is relatively small, so you can see the main attractions in one day. Go to the Top of the Rock, where you’ll be welcomed (or not) by the barbary macaques, visit St Michael’s Cave and admire the views of Morocco.
It’s also worth wandering the centre. If you love shopping, you’ll certainly like Gibraltar. Not only are there many shops, but you’ll get many items cheaper than other destinations because they’re tax-free.
Although many guides don’t mention the beaches, spending the day in Catalan Bay is lovely.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to travel around the Costa del Sol?
Although you can explore some areas by public transport (bus or train), it’s much easier to travel by car. You won’t be restricted to timetables and will have more freedom to travel off the beaten path.
Where is the best place to stay in the Costa del Sol?
It depends on your preferences. Personally, I would stay on the west side of Costa del Sol. Coastal towns like Torremolinos and Benalmadena are well-connected to the airport, Malaga City and other beach towns.
When is the best time to visit Costa del Sol?
Spring and autumn are best for sightseeing. There are fewer crowds and lower accommodation and flight prices.
Conclusion on what to do in Costa del Sol
I hope this list has inspired you to visit my hometown and its surroundings!
As you’ve read below, there are many amazing places to visit in Costa del Sol, from castles and palaces to beaches and wineries.
If you have any questions, drop them below or join my Facebook community to connect with other travellers and me.
Enjoy your holiday!
Cristina xx
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