What to do on the Costa del Sol: Complete Guide for Maximum Enjoyment

The Costa del Sol is one of Spain’s most popular and versatile destinations, where visitors can enjoy a wide variety of activities, both on the coast and inland. Whether you are looking for beaches, nature, culture or sport, the Costa del Sol offers a range of possibilities. If you are staying at the Gran Hotel Costa del Sol, located in the privileged La Cala de Mijas you will have access to many of the best attractions in the area. In this complete guide, we give you all the recommendations on what to do in the western Costa del Sol, with a special focus on the activities near our hotel.

Enjoying the Costa del Sol Beaches

The Costa del Sol is known worldwide for its beaches. From long stretches of sand to small coves, this coastline offers options for all types of travelers.

• Butibamba Beach: Located across the street from the Gran Hotel Costa del Sol, this beach is ideal for families and those looking for a relaxing day in the sun. Its easy access and calm waters make it perfect to enjoy a relaxing day.
• San Pedro de Alcántara Beach: An ideal place for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, with beach bars and walking areas.
• Cabopino Beach (Marbella): A beach surrounded by dunes, located a few minutes by car, ideal to enjoy a natural and quieter environment.

Play Golf

The Costa del Sol, also known as the Costa del Golf, is one of the best destinations in the world for golf lovers. Near La Cala de Mijas, where the Gran Hotel Costa del Sol is located, you can enjoy a wide variety of high level golf courses.

• La Cala Golf Resort: One of the most prestigious and extensive golf resorts in Europe, with three 18-hole courses, located just a few minutes drive from the hotel. It is a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a premium golf experience.
• Chaparral Golf Club: Very close to the hotel, this 18-hole course surrounded by nature offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean. Ideal for those looking for a close golf experience without going too far away.

In our blog about golf in Mijas, you can find detailed information about all the nearby golf courses and their characteristics, so you can choose the one that best suits your level and expectations.

Visiting the White Villages

A few kilometers from La Cala de Mijas are some of the most beautiful white villages of the Costa del Sol. These charming towns are perfect for a cultural getaway and to discover the authentic essence of Andalusia.

• Mijas Pueblo: Just a 10-minute drive from the Gran Hotel Costa del Sol, this whitewashed mountain village is one of the most picturesque in the region. Its old town is full of cobblestone streets, craft stores and spectacular viewpoints overlooking the sea.
• Frigiliana: Although a little further away, this village is famous for its Moorish style architecture and its quiet atmosphere. Ideal for a day trip from La Cala.

Visiting Marbella and Puerto Banús

Marbella is one of the most exclusive destinations in Spain, known for its glamour, luxury boutiques and fine dining restaurants.

• Marbella Old Town: Stroll through its narrow cobblestone streets and discover the beauty of its historic buildings, craft stores and the famous Plaza de los Naranjos.
• Puerto Banús: It is one of the most famous marinas in Europe, where you can admire luxurious yachts, enjoy high-end restaurants and shop in the boutiques of international brands. It is also a perfect place to enjoy the nightlife.

Explore Malaga: Culture and Leisure

Malaga, the capital of the province, is only 30 minutes drive from La Cala de Mijas and offers a perfect mix of culture, leisure and gastronomy. It is a must visit if you are staying on the Costa del Sol.

• Museums in Malaga:
  • Picasso Museum: In the heart of the old town, this museum houses one of the most important collections of works by Pablo Picasso, born in Malaga. It is ideal to learn more about the artistic evolution of the Malaga-born genius.
  • Centro Pompidou Malaga: This icon of contemporary art, with its characteristic multicolored cube, offers a home to the famous French museum that presents temporary and permanent exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.
  • Museo Carmen Thyssen: With an extensive collection of 19th century Spanish painting, especially of the Andalusian school, this museum is a must for those who enjoy romantic and costumbrista art.
  • St. Petersburg Russian Museum Collection: The only one of its kind outside of Russia, this museum houses a permanent selection of Russian art, with works ranging from the 15th century to the Soviet avant-garde.
  • Museum of Malaga: Located in the majestic Palacio de la Aduana, this museum combines art and archaeological collections, offering a complete overview of the history of Malaga from its origins to the present.
• Alcazaba and Roman Theater: A jewel of Islamic architecture, with spectacular views of the city. The Roman Theater is another must-see for history lovers.
• Muelle Uno: If you like shopping and strolling by the sea, this revitalized port offers a mix of stores, restaurants and culture on the shores of the Mediterranean.

Water and Nature Activities

The Costa del Sol is also the perfect place for those who enjoy nature and outdoor sports. If you stay at the Gran Hotel Costa del Sol, you will have easy access to various water activities and hiking trails.

• Paddle Surf and Kayak in La Cala de Mijas: Just a few meters from the hotel, you can rent equipment and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea practicing water sports such as paddle surfing or kayaking. It is a fun and relaxing way to explore the coast.
• Hiking in Mijas: If you prefer walking, the hiking trails in Mijas offer you the possibility to enjoy breathtaking landscapes. Some routes, such as the Ruta del Picacho or the Sierra de Mijas, are ideal to enjoy nature and sea views.

Theme Parks and Family Activities

The Western Costa del Sol is ideal for family travelers, with multiple theme parks and activities for children.

• Selwo Aventura (Estepona): A safari park where you can see wild animals in a natural environment. It is an unforgettable experience for the youngest members of the family.
• Tivoli World (Benalmádena): A classic amusement park that combines fun and entertainment for all ages.

Events and Festivals on the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol is also known for its vibrant calendar of events, offering options for all tastes.

• Marenostrum Fuengirola: This music festival is held at the impressive Sohail Castle and is one of the most outstanding summer events on the Costa del Sol. Just a 10-minute drive from the hotel, you can enjoy performances by international artists in a unique setting, facing the sea.
• Starlite Festival: Held in Marbella during the summer, this festival hosts concerts by international artists in an exclusive outdoor setting.
• Malaga Fair: In August, the city of Malaga comes alive with one of the most important festivals in Andalusia. Music, dance, gastronomy and a festive atmosphere that lasts all week.

Accommodation in the Costa del Sol: Gran Hotel Costa del Sol

When looking for accommodation to enjoy all the wonders that the Costa del Sol has to offer, the Gran Hotel Costa del Sol, hotel on the Costa del Sol, is the ideal choice. Its beachfront location, in the heart of La Cala de Mijas in the heart of La Cala de Mijas, makes it the perfect place to both relax and explore the region.

• All InclusiveFor a worry-free experience, our all-inclusive service ensures that you have access to everything you need during your stay.
• Pool and beach: Enjoy our outdoor pool or take a stroll along the nearby Butibamba Beach.
• Nearby activities: In addition to the beach and hiking trails, our hotel puts you in the perfect location to access sporting activities such as golf, and local events such as the Marenostrum.

The Costa del Sol is a destination that has something for everyone: from beaches and water activities to golf, hiking, culture and high-level events. And if you stay at the Gran Hotel Costa del Sol, you can enjoy all this from a privileged environment, with the comfort and luxury that only our hotel can offer. Make your visit to the Costa del Sol unforgettable with us!