Guide to Costa del Sol

One of the most popular destinations on the Costa del Sol. Everyone who has seen this buzzing and modern cosmopolitan town knows why.


Previously a tiny fishing village, Fuengirola has become a vibrant town with so much character.

The opening of many up-market tapas bars, sunny cafes and beach restaurant makes it the perfect place for a day trip.


The main square, Plaza de la Constitución, has been re-designed but still retains its unique charm, and is known for its fantastic Christmas Markets.


During the summer, the whole town partakes in the annual Fuengirola summer feria. Don't miss out.

Benalmadena has grown rapidly over the last 20 years, becoming increasingly popular with British tourists. Benalmadena is popular throughout the year, however the population triples during the summer months (common on The Costa del Sol).


This area of the coast prompts an easy lifestyle with a comfortable climate; minimum temperatures of 10 Cº and maximum of 37 Cº.


Many thousands of overseas families have bought holiday homes and a large number of them have settled down permanently to live the life of their dreams.


Benalmadena also has a very beautiful Old Town known as Benalmadena Pueblo.

Gibraltar is only 6.7km2 in size, but can practically be seen from almost everywhere on The Costa del Sol.


The rock of Gibraltar is British territory, and is famous for the monkeys that live at the top of the rock. However, some prefer a day trip to Gibraltar for its tax-free cigarettes and alcohol!


The Strait of Gibraltar remains a strategically important trading point, with half the world's seaborne trade passing through it.


Gibraltar maintains close economic and cultural links with Spain, with many Gibraltarians speaking Spanish as well as a local dialect known as Llanito.

More-so known as just "La Cala", this charming coastal village is approximately 25 minutes drive west from Malaga International Airport.


La Cala’s beaches go on for miles, are well maintained, and have soft golden sand.


There is something very international about La Cala. You will find many English, and other language speaking doctors, lawyers, and dentists.



This has helped make the area a first choice for many wishing to retire away from the harsher climate of Northern Europe.


Medical care is first class - the new Costa del Sol Hospital is 15 minutes along the coast.

La Alcaidesa is known for its wonderful golf courses. The community has two golf courses, the original is Links style, said to be the only one in Spain. The second is a more traditional heathland course.


La Alcaidesa is a gated community with two gated access points and mobile security patrols - making it extremely private.


The natural topography allows the area to enjoy an incredible view across the Mediterranean. It is a close distance to both Gibraltar and Marbella.


The popular beach, Playa de La Alcaidesa, makes it the perfect place for golfers and those who love the sea, too.

San Pedro de Alcántara is perfectly located right in the middle of all The Costa del Sol has to offer.


San Pedro has undergone huge infrastructural changes over the past 10 years, thanks to heavy Government investment in the town.


Property prices in the area have since surged, and continue to increase.


The town is a 10 minute walk from the beach, and is home to many different nationalities making it very multicultural.


Some of the best and most affordable restaurants are here in San Pedro. One of our favourites: Brünnings Restaurant.

Sotogrande is where Madrid’s wealthiest families come to enjoy their holidays. It has the largest privately owned residential development in Southern Spain, with over 3000 private villas.


Originally a gated community, it is located along a 25km stretch of Mediterranean Sea and goes all the way back into the foothills of Sierra Almenara, providing great views and locations across sea, hill, and cork forests.


Sotogrande has a wide variety of sports facilities, including Valderrama Golf, a rugby club, a sailing club, and horse riding.


El Puerto de Sotogrande ( Sotogrande Marina) has a laidback quality to it. Perfect for an evening stroll.

La Duquesa is where you go to enjoy the unspoilt natural scenery of The Costa del Sol.


This is primarily due to a limited and well managed development guidelines which allow for an ideal balance of natural surroundings and easy access to all amenities.


In other words, a great quality of life.


The beautiful port of La Duquesa offers full Marina services for boating enthusiasts, as well as a myriad of attractions for those with no aspirations to take to the water.


For those that do, a number of companies offer boat trips, paddle-boarding, and scuba diving.

Estepona is well known for its beautiful 20km stretch of golden beaches, with little coves dotted along it. The beautiful main beach, Playa Rada, has shallow waters great for young children.


The charming port and harbour are located only a short walk from the town.


Estepona is home to many top rated restaurants and lively bars, all at fantastic prices. The history and culture of the town remains unspoiled, thanks to Estepona’s friendly locals who preserve the town with pride.


Estepona Old Town’s has narrow, cobbled streets and quaint little shops that all add to the charm of the beachside town.

Finca Cortesin resort is the #1 resort in Spain & Portugal, and #11 hotel in the World. The hotel and golf resort is favoured by celebrities and the ultra wealthy.


Angelina Jolie & Brad Pitt were regular clients. They, and many others, are drawn to the resort for its 5-star facilities, but more-so by the uncompromised level of privacy it offers.


Finca Cortesin is located between Estepona and Sotogrande. The resort includes an 18 hole golf course, tennis courts, and luxurious swimming pools & spa.


Its golf course is globally renowned, with The Solheim Cup coming to Finca Cortesin in 2023.

Puerto Banús is a luxurious and exclusive port, with chic beach clubs and buzzing nightlife.


Puerto Banús is located only 6km to the west of Marbella’s Old Town. The port was designed and built in 1970 by local property developer José Banús as a luxury marina. Princess Grace of Monaco was a guest at the opening.


Puerto Banús is where the rich dock their yachts, and spend the day browsing the many designer stores.


If you enjoy people-watching, this is the place for you.

Marbella, meaning "the beautiful sea", is a luxurious beach town and resort, well known as the playground for the rich and famous.

However, Marbella caters to everyone. From beach clubs that cost the price of your mortgage, to fabulous chiringuitos serving €2 tapas.

Marbella Old Town is full of history and beautiful little side streets. La Plaza de Los Naranjos, or in English: ‘Orange Square’, is the heart of The Old Town. Full of statues, landscapes gardens, and gorgeous restaurants.

Our top tip: visit Victor’s Beach bar & restaurant on the Golden Mile if you want to live like a local.