Things to do in Costa del Sol Occidental

Mijas · 3.3 km from downtown

20 reviews

Costa del Sol is a stretch of resort coastline along the Mediterranean in Malaga Province, extending from Nerja in the east to the Manilva area in the west, spanning over 100 km. The coast gets its name from its climate, which is sunny most days of the year. Vacations here can be very slow-paced: take a walk along the seaside promenade or go for a swim during the day, and at noon, head into a beachside eatery to order a skewer of charcoal-grilled sardines—locals thread the sardines onto thin skewers and grill them over a wood fire. Many eateries even use old fishing boats filled with sand as grills right on the beach. Paired with an iced drink, this is a quintessential dining experience on this coast. In the evening, you can explore the old town of Marbella and wander through the white-walled alleys around the Plaza de los Naranjos. Golf is another highlight here, with a high density of courses along the coast.

Mijas · 46m from downtown

Mijas Pueblo

4.6

Mijas Pueblo is a typical white village located in the Province of Malaga, Andalusia, Spain. It is nestled on the slopes of the Sierra de Mijas, overlooking the Costa del Sol Occidental and the Mediterranean coastline. It belongs to the mountainous core of the Mijas municipality, forming a dual "mountain + coast" spatial structure with the coastal Mijas Costa. The town retains its traditional Andalusian character, with narrow, winding streets and a visual identity defined by white walls and blue flowerpots, while its overall layout bears clear traces of Moorish urban design. The town center features small plazas, craft shops, and cafes. Among these, the burro taxi is a unique local cultural symbol, reflecting the continuation of early mountain agricultural lifestyles.

Puerto Marina Benalmadena

4.5

Benalmadena · 3.7 km from downtown

Puerto Marina in Benalmádena, Spain, is one of the most iconic tourist destinations on the Costa del Sol. Since its opening in 1979, the port has attracted a large number of tourists with its unique architectural style, rich entertainment activities and charming seaside atmosphere. With more than 1,100 berths, Puerto Marina can accommodate yachts and sailboats of various sizes, making it a paradise for sailing enthusiasts. There are many restaurants, bars and shops around the port, offering a variety of food and shopping options. There are also family-friendly attractions such as aquariums and theme parks near the port. In addition, tourists can also take a cruise out to sea, enjoy sunset cruises or watch dolphins and other activities. Puerto Marina is open all year round, suitable for family leisure during the day and full of vitality at night, making it an ideal place to enjoy the Mediterranean style.

No. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Fuengirola

Bioparc Fuengirola

4.4

Fuengirola · 850m from downtown

7 reviews

Bioparc Fuengirola is one of Europe's zoos. Located in the heart of the Costa del Sol, it recreates a logical journey through the world's breathtaking tropical rainforests. Starting from Madagascar, the experience traverses equatorial Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Indo-Pacific. Visitors can discover the rich biodiversity of Central and South America's coral reefs, rivers, and jungles, enhancing awareness and appreciation for their conservation. The design meticulously replicates natural habitats, offering an immersive educational experience that connects the history of New World natural discoveries. Explore coral reefs, navigation rooms, cabinets of curiosities, the Amazon aquarium, and a large aviary. By crossing a collapsed cenote, you'll reach the Mayan pyramid.

No. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Benalmadena

Parque de la Paloma

4.4

Parque de la Paloma is a beautiful park and recreational area that offers a place for people to relax, enjoy nature, and engage in leisure activities, where visitors can explore scenic trails and gardens, admire historical monuments, and observe the various wildlife living in and around the park, such as pigeons, kingfishers, herons, and owls.

Benalmadena · 2.2 km from downtown

Benalmadena · 1.9 km from downtown

Colomares Castle

4.3

3.5/5

2 reviews

Colomares Castle is a castle that blends various architectural styles. It features several exhibition rooms inside, a beautiful garden outside, and high points that offer spectacular views of the coastline.

Mijas · 700m from downtown

Mijas-Bullring

4.2

Mijas-Bullringis located in Spain and is a historic local performance venue. Here, in addition to watching exciting bullfighting performances, visitors can also admire the exquisite ancient architecture.

Butterfly Park of Benalmadena

4.2

Benalmadena · 2.7 km from downtown

Mariposario de Benalmádena-Butterfly Park is located in the heart of the Costa del Sol and only 20 minutes from Malaga. In this spectacular Thai temple, you can walk amongst more than 1,500 exotic butterflies from around the world, flying freely in a tropical paradise between waterfalls and flowers. You will be able to observe how they are born, how they reproduce and enjoy learning many things about these wonderful insects.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Mijas

Church of the Immaculate Conception

4.2

4.3/5

4 reviews

The Church of the Immaculate Conception is famous in the town of Mijas, and the Virgin Mary enshrined there is the local patron saint. The circular walkway surrounding the chapel is known as the "Compass" and is a well-known attraction in the mountain village of Mijas. In front of the chapel is a lush park with an observation deck that offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Mijas · 691m from downtown

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Serrania de Ronda

Bullring of the Royal Cavalry of Ronda

7.2

4.5/5

139 reviews

Ronda Bullring is an ancient bullring in Spain and a place of pilgrimage for bullfighters. It is in this bullring that the modern bullfighting method in Spain was born. This circular building can accommodate 5,000 spectators and is juxtaposed with 136 thick Tuscan-style stone columns, which is deeply historically heavy. The famous bullfighters in the history of Spanish bullfighting, such as PedroRomero, Antonio Ordonez, etc., have all fought with bulls here. In the past, bullfighting was the exclusive activity of the nobles, and the nobles who participated in the activities rode horses to fight the bulls. Until a nobleman was not skilled and was rammed by the bull, he turned his head on his back. At the moment when his life was dying, a commoner rushed into the field and waved his hat to lead the bull away. His move not only relieved the nobles, but also helped the nobles. It opened a new era of bullfighters dismounting and fighting bulls for the Ronda Bullring. In the museum attached to the bullring, people can also see artifacts such as the bullfighting clothes worn by the famous bullfighter Antonio Ordonez, who was admired by Hemingway. In order to maintain this "heritage", bullfights are held here only on special festivals, but tourists can buy tickets to visit.

Ronda · 26.7 km from Costa del Sol Occidental

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Costa del Sol Occidental Today's weatherMostly clear 14-21℃

Costa del Sol Occidental weather for the next 2 days11/15: 15-22℃, 11/16: 13-22℃

Free things to do in Costa del Sol Occidental

Costa del Sol

6.3

Mijas · 3.3 km from downtown

20 reviews

Puerto Marina Benalmadena

4.5

Benalmadena · 3.7 km from downtown

El Tajo de Ronda

6.1

4.5/5

37 reviews

Ronda · 26.5 km from Costa del Sol Occidental

Cabopino Beach

3.4