Malagueta, Málaga

Málaga’s stunning coastline – or the “Costa del Sol” (Coast of the Sun) as it has become known – is one of the most famous stretches of sea and sand in the world. Its countless beaches offer everything – from the bling and glitz of Marbella, where renting a sunlounger can cost you hundreds of euros, to the charming fishing villages of Nerja and La Carihuela.
A package-holiday haven to rival the notorious Benidorm, Torremolinos wouldn’t be sought out by a traveler looking to experience authentic Andalusia. But for beaches it’s one of the best spots in Málaga province. Its six main beaches are now all connected by a recently-reonovated four-and-a-half mile promenade, lined with palm trees and boasting exceptional views of the coast and the rugged landscape inland. Playa de Bajondillo is closest to Torremolinos itself and can become very busy, but heading westwards along the promendae brings you to more tranquil areas close to the charming old fishing village of La Carihuela.
Some of the Coasta del Sol’s best swimming and sunbathing is to be had on the beautiful beaches in the municipality of Mijas, named after one of Málaga’s most iconic whitewashed towns. The longest and most popular of these is Calahonda, a two-and-a-half mile stretch of perfect yellow sand and deep blue sea that ends up close to the infamous Nikki beach in Marbella (see above). The urbanization of Calahonda itself is a popular destination for expats, who are drawn to its beaches and its superb location almost exactly halfway between Marbella and Fuengirola – a party town known among Mijas locals as “Fuengi.”