THINGS TO DO · COSTA DEL SOL

Things to do near your holiday home

The Costa del Sol is much more than beach and pool. We have collected family attractions, nature, caves and day trips that are genuinely worth adding to your holiday.

Experiences & day trips

Fuengirola Adventure Golf
ActivityFuengirola

Fuengirola Adventure Golf

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

A fun adventure mini-golf course in Fuengirola that works well for both children and adults. The course is easy to enjoy but still competitive enough for the whole family. There is also a bar with food and drinks. A very easy activity for a couple of hours when you want a break from the beach.

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BIOPARC Fuengirola
ExperienceFuengirola

BIOPARC Fuengirola

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

A beautifully designed wildlife park in central Fuengirola with a strong focus on nature and biodiversity. You can see animals from several regions of the world and there are daily activities. It is especially good with children, while the landscaping and habitats make it enjoyable for adults too.

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SEA LIFE Benalmádena
ExperiencePuerto Marina · Benalmádena

SEA LIFE Benalmádena

🚗 Approx. 25–30 min drive

An easy-to-visit aquarium right by Puerto Marina in Benalmádena. It includes underwater zones, rays, otters and many different sea creatures. It combines perfectly with a walk around the marina and lunch by the water. A good choice on a very hot day or when the weather is less than perfect.

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Selwo Marina
ExperienceBenalmádena

Selwo Marina

🚗 Approx. 25–30 min drive

A marine park in Benalmádena with penguins, sea lions and other animal experiences. It is not a huge park, so it fits nicely into half a day. There are different presentations and optional special experiences. It can easily be combined with Parque de la Paloma or Benalmádena Marina.

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Benalmádena Cable Car · Monte Calamorro
ExperienceBenalmádena

Benalmádena Cable Car · Monte Calamorro

🚗 Approx. 25–30 min drive

The cable car takes you from Benalmádena up towards Monte Calamorro, with fantastic coastal views on a clear day. At the top there are viewpoints and walking trails, and birds-of-prey presentations are held at selected times. A great mix of scenery, nature and a little adventure without a long drive.

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Mariposario de Benalmádena
ExperienceBenalmádena Pueblo

Mariposario de Benalmádena

🚗 Approx. 25–30 min drive

A tropical butterfly park near Benalmádena Pueblo with hundreds of butterflies flying freely around you. It does not take a full day, making it ideal to combine with the old town, the Stupa or Castillo de Colomares. Especially good with younger children and for a relaxed morning.

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Selwo Aventura
Day tripEstepona

Selwo Aventura

🚗 Approx. 45–55 min drive

A larger wildlife and nature park near Estepona that works well as a full-day trip. It has large areas, many different animals and optional safari-style experiences. Wear comfortable shoes and allow several hours. A good choice when you want a proper day out.

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Cueva del Tesoro
Day tripRincón de la Victoria

Cueva del Tesoro

🚗 Approx. 45–55 min drive

One of the most unusual caves in the area and easy to reach from Mijas. Cueva del Tesoro is near Rincón de la Victoria and is known as a rare marine cave. Inside you walk through impressive chambers and formations, offering a very different experience from the usual coastal attractions. Great for a half-day trip.

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Cueva de Nerja
Day tripNerja

Cueva de Nerja

🚗 Approx. 1 t 05 min drive

The Nerja Caves are among Andalusia’s most impressive caves, with huge chambers, stalactites and stalagmites. You can combine the visit with Nerja town, the Balcón de Europa and the beaches of the eastern Costa del Sol. It makes an excellent full-day trip because both the cave and the town are worth seeing.

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Caminito del Rey
Day tripArdales / El Chorro

Caminito del Rey

🚗 Approx. 1 t 10–20 min drive

One of the most spectacular nature experiences in the region. The route follows the gorge on walkways that in places hang high above the river. Tickets should be booked well in advance and normal good mobility is required. If you enjoy scenery and nature, this is one of the day trips you will remember.

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Ronda
Day tripSerranía de Ronda

Ronda

🚗 Approx. 1 t 20–30 min drive

Ronda is ideal for a full-day trip. The town sits dramatically above the Tajo gorge, with Puente Nuevo as the classic highlight. You will also find Arab baths, old streets, viewpoints and plenty of good lunch spots. Go early and leave time simply to walk through the historic centre.

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Setenil de las Bodegas
Day tripCádiz

Setenil de las Bodegas

🚗 Approx. 1 t 30–40 min drive

The famous white village where many houses and restaurants are built directly into and beneath the rock. Streets such as Calle Cuevas del Sol and Cuevas de la Sombra make it very different from other pueblos blancos. It can be combined with Ronda on the same day if you start early.

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Gibraltar
Day tripGibraltar

Gibraltar

🚗 Approx. 1 t 35–50 min drive

A completely different day trip where you quickly move from Spain into a British atmosphere. Most visitors go up the Rock and visit the Nature Reserve, home to the famous Barbary macaques. There is also Main Street, views towards Africa, caves and historic military tunnels. Remember valid travel identification.

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El Torcal de Antequera
Day tripAntequera

El Torcal de Antequera

🚗 Approx. 1 t 10–20 min drive

An impressive natural area filled with unusual limestone formations that almost look like another landscape. There are several marked walking routes of different lengths, and the trip can be combined with Antequera. Perfect for mountain air, views and an active day without doing Caminito del Rey.

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Mijas Pueblo
ExperienceMijas

Mijas Pueblo

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

The classic white mountain village just above the coast. You will find small streets, viewpoints, shops, restaurants and a lovely atmosphere in the evening. It is easy to visit without planning a full day and works very well for lunch, dinner or a couple of hours walking around.

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AvenTouralia Quad Safari
ActivityMijas · Las Lagunas

AvenTouralia Quad Safari

🚗 Approx. 10–15 min drive

Guided quad tours around Mijas and the hills behind the Costa del Sol. You can choose tours of around 1, 2 or 3 hours, with a safety briefing before departure. A great option for adults and older children who want more adventure and scenery than a normal sightseeing trip.

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Kayak Nerja · Maro
ActivityNerja · Maro

Kayak Nerja · Maro

🚗 Approx. 55–65 min drive

One of the most scenic water activities on the Costa del Sol. Paddle along the Nerja and Maro cliffs past small coves, sea caves and the famous Maro waterfall, which drops directly towards the Mediterranean. Guided tours and self-guided rental options are available depending on provider and sea conditions.

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Restaurante Estilo CampoHighly recommended
RestaurantFuengirola

Restaurante Estilo Campo

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

Argentinian steakhouse in Fuengirola with a strong focus on meat and charcoal grilling. A good choice if you are looking for a proper steak dinner with Argentinian inspiration. It is centrally located in Fuengirola and is one of our suggestions for gæster who enjoy quality cuts and classic grilled food.

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Casa RobertoPersonally visited
RestaurantFuengirola

Casa Roberto

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

A Fuengirola classic since 1968, especially famous for its unique golf atmosphere with thousands of golf clubs hanging from the ceiling. The kitchen mixes Mediterranean and Belgian influences, making it a memorable dinner choice where the surroundings are part of the experience.

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Ferrum
RestaurantFuengirola

Ferrum

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

Modern Mediterranean restaurant in Fuengirola with an excellent reputation. A good recommendation for gæster looking for a slightly more contemporary dinner focused on quality ingredients, presentation and a relaxed but polished atmosphere.

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Alma Fuengirola
RestaurantPuerto Deportivo · Fuengirola

Alma Fuengirola

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

Popular restaurant by Fuengirola marina. It works well for a relaxed lunch or dinner, especially if you also want a walk around the harbour and along the seafront.

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Restaurante Pueblo López
RestaurantFuengirola

Restaurante Pueblo López

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

A more intimate restaurant in the charming Pueblo López area of Fuengirola. A good option for a nicer evening out when you want quality food, calmer surroundings and more restaurant atmosphere than the busiest seafront spots.

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La Puerta Verde
RestaurantFuengirola

La Puerta Verde

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

A smaller and highly regarded restaurant in Fuengirola. A good dinner choice if you prefer somewhere more local and personal rather than a large tourist-oriented restaurant.

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Pampa Tablas y Tapas
RestaurantMijas Pueblo

Pampa Tablas y Tapas

🚗 Approx. 10–15 min drive

Tapas and sharing plates in Mijas Pueblo. An easy recommendation if you want to combine a walk through the old town with lunch or an early dinner in a pleasant setting.

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Koco Bistró
RestaurantMijas Pueblo

Koco Bistró

🚗 Approx. 10–15 min drive

Popular bistro in the heart of Mijas Pueblo serving Mediterranean dishes, tapas and desserts. Good for both lunch and dinner and easy to combine with a walk through the old town.

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Tomillo Limón
RestaurantMijas Pueblo

Tomillo Limón

🚗 Approx. 10–15 min drive

Modern Spanish cooking in Mijas Pueblo using local ingredients and a creative take on traditional dishes. A strong choice for gæster who want something a little more gastronomic without a formal atmosphere.

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AquaMijas
ActivityMijas Costa

AquaMijas

🚗 Approx. 10–15 min drive

Vand park between Mijas and Fuengirola with slides and areas for different ages. An easy family day out when it is hot. Check the season and tickets before visiting.

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Karting Experience Fuengirola
ActivityFuengirola · Miramar

Karting Experience Fuengirola

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

Try go-karting near Miramar in Fuengirola. A fun competitive outing for friends and families who want an activity without a long drive. Check age and height rules and opening hours before going.

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Fuengirola Sea Trips · bådtur
ActivityPuerto Deportivo · Fuengirola

Fuengirola Sea Trips · bådtur

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

Take a boat trip from Fuengirola harbour and see the coast from the water. The operator offers trips with a chance to spot dolphins, although wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. Check sea conditions and departure times and book ahead in high season.

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Aventura Amazonia Marbella
ActivityElviria · Marbella

Aventura Amazonia Marbella

🚗 Approx. 25–35 min drive

Treetop adventure park in Elviria with climbing courses and zip lines at different levels. Ideal for families and friends looking for a couple of active hours. Choose a course for your age and height and check opening times and reservations.

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Jungle FamilyGreat for families
ActivityVed Plaza Mayor · Málaga

Jungle Family

🚗 Approx. 25–35 min drive

Family adventure park between Plaza Mayor and IKEA in Málaga, with climbing and play activities, trampolines, mini-golf and areas for different heights. A good choice when children need to burn off energy and the family wants to be active together. Check height rules, opening times and tickets on the park website before going.

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Karting Mijas
ActivityArroyo Pajares · Los Pacos, Mijas

Karting Mijas

🚗 Approx. 10–15 min drive

Outdoor go-kart track at Arroyo Pajares near Los Pacos in Mijas, with a longer circuit than Miramar. A good choice for adults and older children who want more laps on a proper track. Check current age and height requirements, opening hours and junior or two-seater options before visiting.

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Club de Pádel Cerrado del ÁguilaHighly recommended
SportsCerrado del Águila · Mijas Costa

Club de Pádel Cerrado del Águila

🚗 Approx. 3 min drive

Padel club in Mijas Costa with covered and outdoor courts. A convenient choice for a match or coaching session near the holiday homes. Check court availability and equipment rental with the club.

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Higuerón Padel Center
SportsEl Higuerón · Fuengirola

Higuerón Padel Center

🚗 Approx. 20–25 min drive

Padel centre at Higuerón Sport Club. Book courts and explore coaching or other sports facilities. A good choice if you enjoy playing in a larger sports complex. Check current access and booking conditions online.

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Max Fitness Gym
SportsRiviera del Sol · Mijas Costa

Max Fitness Gym

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

Gym at Max Beach in Riviera del Sol with sea views. Useful if you want to keep training during your holiday. Ask the gym about current short-term access or membership before visiting.

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Gymhouse Fuengirola
SportsFuengirola

Gymhouse Fuengirola

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

Fuengirola gym offering day and weekly passes. A flexible option if you only want a few workouts while on holiday. Check current prices, opening times and classes on its website.

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Playa de La Cala
BeachLa Cala de Mijas

Playa de La Cala

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

Wide sandy beach by the centre of La Cala de Mijas, with easy access, a coastal promenade and restaurants nearby. A good choice for a classic beach day with lunch and a stroll through town. Check swimming conditions and lifeguard hours on the day.

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Playa El Bombo
BeachLa Cala de Mijas

Playa El Bombo

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

Sandy beach near La Cala de Mijas that pairs well with a walk along the coastal path. A useful alternative when you want the sea and nearby beach restaurants. Check weather and swimming conditions before setting off.

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Playa de Calahonda · La Luna
BeachCalahonda · Mijas Costa

Playa de Calahonda · La Luna

🚗 Approx. 20–25 min drive

Beach area at La Luna in Calahonda on the western side of the Mijas coast. Combine beach time with a walk along the coastal path and check conditions before swimming.

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Cerrado del Águila Golf
GolfCerrado del Águila · Mijas Costa

Cerrado del Águila Golf

🚗 Approx. 5–10 min drive

This local nine-hole course in Cerrado del Águila is close to the holiday homes. It mixes wide fairways with holes that demand greater accuracy, including two long par fives. A convenient round without a long drive. Check current tee times and prices with the club.

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Chaparral Golf Club
GolfEl Chaparral · Mijas Costa

Chaparral Golf Club

🚗 Approx. 10–15 min drive

Chaparral is an 18-hole course in Mijas Costa. Its unusual layout has six par threes, six par fours and six par fives, making accuracy important. Easy to reach from the coastal road. Book a tee time and check green fees with the club.

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Mijas Golf Club
GolfMijas Golf · Las Lagunas

Mijas Golf Club

🚗 Approx. 10–15 min drive

Mijas Golf Club has two distinct 18-hole courses: Los Lagos and Los Olivos. Los Lagos is longer, with wide fairways and lakes; Los Olivos is shorter and puts more emphasis on accuracy around smaller greens. Choose the course that suits your game and check tee times, green fees and any course work before booking.

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GolfBenalmádena

Benalmádena Golf

🚗 Approx. 25–30 min drive

A short nine-hole pitch-and-putt course in Benalmádena that tests your short game, with practice facilities as well. Golfamore features the course among its Spanish clubs; check the card’s current conditions when booking.

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GolfEstepona

Estepona Golf

🚗 Approx. 45–55 min drive

An 18-hole course west of Estepona with views of the sea and Sierra Bermeja. A choice for a longer golf day combined with a visit to Estepona. The course appears on Golfamore’s list; check availability and card conditions before booking.

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Miguel Ángel Jiménez Golf Academy
GolfTorremolinos

Miguel Ángel Jiménez Golf Academy

🚗 Approx. 30–35 min drive

Torremolinos golf academy with a short par-three course and coaching for different levels. Good for practicing your short game, taking a lesson or playing a quicker round. Check tee times and current coaching options with the academy.

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Alhaurín Golf
GolfAlhaurín el Grande

Alhaurín Golf

🚗 Approx. 25–35 min drive

Alhaurín Golf sits in the hills by the Sierra de Mijas, with an 18-hole course and a shorter nine-hole par-three course. A change from the courses right by the coast. Choose the layout that suits your time and level and check tee times before setting out.

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Club de Golf La Siesta
GolfCalahonda · Mijas Costa

Club de Golf La Siesta

🚗 Approx. 15–20 min drive

A nine-hole par-three course in the heart of Calahonda. It suits both beginners and experienced golfers who want to work on their short game without using a full day. Check opening times and book with the club.

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Higuerón Marbella Golf Resort
GolfMarbella Este

Higuerón Marbella Golf Resort

🚗 Approx. 30–35 min drive

Formerly Marbella Golf Country Club, this 18-hole Robert Trent Jones Sr. course is now Higuerón Marbella Golf Resort. It lies in hilly countryside east of Marbella and offers a longer round with views. Check current tee times and course conditions with the club.

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Santa Clara Golf Marbella
GolfMarbella Este

Santa Clara Golf Marbella

🚗 Approx. 30–35 min drive

An 18-hole par-71 course in Marbella that can be played on foot or with a buggy. Practice facilities and views of the coast and mountains. Santa Clara appears in Golfamore’s course listings; check current eligible days and card conditions before booking.

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PG by Magna Marbella Golf
GolfNueva Andalucía · Marbella

PG by Magna Marbella Golf

🚗 Approx. 35–45 min drive

Nine-hole course in Nueva Andalucía’s Golf Valley, also playable as 18 holes. Vand hazards, bunkers and valley views, plus a Toptracer range and academy. A good choice for combining a round with practice. Book on the club’s site.

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Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club
GolfBenahavís

Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club

🚗 Approx. 40–45 min drive

Seve Ballesteros designed this 18-hole par-71 course in the hills near Benahavís. Elevation changes and varied holes make for a challenging golf day. The club also has other sports facilities. Check tee times and course conditions before visiting.

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Golfamore course
GolfAtalaya · Estepona

Atalaya Golf · New Course

🚗 Approx. 40–45 min drive
Buy Golfamore →

Atalaya Golf has two different 18-hole courses. This suggestion is for the New Course, so choose that layout when booking. It offers an alternative to the club’s historic Old Course. Check the club’s site for course details, tee times and current conditions.

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Golfamore course
GolfBenahavís · Estepona

Villa Padierna Golf Club

🚗 Approx. 40–45 min drive
Buy Golfamore →

Villa Padierna offers three 18-hole courses: Flamingos, Alferini and Tramores. Flamingos is the central resort course; Alferini is longer and more demanding; Tramores is a shorter executive layout. Choose by ability and time available and check tee times and prices with the club.

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Local street markets

A morning market is a Costa del Sol classic. Most run around 09:00–14:00 and are ideal for a relaxed morning browsing local produce, clothes, fruit and small finds.

MondayMarbella · Las AlbarizasMap
TuesdayFuengirola · Recinto FerialMap
WednesdayLa Cala de Mijas · Recinto FerialMap
WednesdayBenalmádena / Arroyo de la Miel · RastroMap
ThursdayCalypso · Mijas CostaMap
SaturdayLas Lagunas · Mijas CostaMap
SaturdayLa Cala de Mijas · Recinto FerialMap
SaturdayPuerto Banús / Nueva AndalucíaMap
SundayEstepona · Puerto DeportivoMap
Our tip

Plan one main activity per day and combine it with the beach, lunch or a walk through one of the old towns. It keeps the holiday relaxed.