What to do in Costa del Sol Occidental

La Carihuela started out as a fishing village but, with the growth of Torremolinos as a coastal resort, it has become most popular for its huge, sandy beach. Visit to explore the last remnants of the old village or to simply enjoy swimming in the sheltered natural harbor. The area is also getting increasingly famous for its delicious fresh cuisine.

Join in the fun at one of the best-loved beaches on the Costa del Sol, Los Boliches Beach. This dark-sand stretch of coast is rarely quiet, and its dynamic atmosphere is typical of the lively, youthful spirit of Fuengirola. Enjoy the calm waters and take advantage of the excellent facilities as you spend a day basking in the sun here.

Puerto Banús Marina is where the international jet-set moor their yachts. With berths for more than 900 boats, it is the main harbor for that playground of the rich and famous, Marbella. However, it’s more than just a place for vessels to dock. This luxury harbor is a destination in its own right, with upscale boutiques, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and beaches. Come here to shop, party, sunbathe and gaze at multimillion-dollar yachts.

Once you have found your sandy sanctuary at Fuengirola Beach roll out your towel or rent a sun lounger and umbrella.

Relax amid the attractive charms of the Costa del Sol at Cabopino Beach (Playa Cabopino). Set between the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and rugged sand dunes, the beach lets you connect with nature away from Marbella’s tourism bustle. Visit Cabopino Beach throughout the year to benefit from mild temperatures and some 320 days of sunshine.

Soft, golden sands, calm water, great views and a beautiful boardwalk draw visitors to Puerto Banús Beach. This sandy sanctuary is also known as the Playa de Levante and extends for approximately 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) beneath the shadow of La Concha mountain. Spend a few hours or a whole day relaxing here by the cool waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Splurge on superb cocktails and exquisite cuisine while dancing to live DJs and marveling at breathtaking sunset views at Nikki Beach. Overlooking a gorgeous area of fine sugary sand, Nikki Beach attracts an affluent crowd and those that want to see and be seen. Don’t be surprised to be dancing alongside film and television celebrities.

Relax on the pleasant, sunny Los Alamos Beach, which is also known as El Canuelo. This stretch of shoreline is one of the quieter main beaches in Torremolinos for 361 days of the year. Visit for 4 days in July, however, and see a different side to Los Alamos as the beach hosts an electronic music festival that draws in crowds of partygoers and music enthusiasts.