The beaches on the Costa del Sol

Ask anyone to name a stretch of coast in Spain and there is a good chance that the answer will be the Costa del Sol in Andalusia. The coast and its beaches have made their name as a pulsating holiday paradise where couples and families from all parts of Europe come to enjoy life to the full. Málaga, Torremolinos, Fuengirola and Marbella are all well-known cities on this 160 km stretch of coast. Marbella in particular is linked to a sense of splendour, with a casino and a harbour lined with jet-setters' boats.

However, the Costa del Sol has much more to offer than tourist spots and nightlife. There are numerous well-preserved beaches along the coast, and many of them have been awarded the EU Blue Flag for the quality of their sand and water. On most of the popular beaches you can rent sunbeds and parasols, and when it is time to eat or drink, you really should visit one of the "chiringuitos". These are small bars right on the beach front, which serve cold drinks and grilled treats from the sea.
Some of the beaches on the Costa del Sol:

Estepona
Located close to Gibraltar. On clear days, you can see all the way to North Africa and the Atlas Mountains near Morocco!

Guadalmina
This is actually the name of three beaches that run together. They are all child-friendly and well looked-after. If you tire of swimming and sunbathing, there are all kinds of other activities to enjoy, such as kite and wind-surfing, riding water scooters and sailing.

San Pedro
The beach promenade at San Pedro is lined with charming "chiringuitos", where you can sit by the sea and enjoy lunch or dinner to the full. The beaches are broad and kept very clean.

Puerto Banus
The shoreline and promenade are the highlights of Puerto Banus, which boasts a fine, long sandy beach. The whole stretch of coast from Marbella to Puerto Banus is linked together by a wonderful beach promenade that many people use for walking and jogging.

Marbella
Marbella represents the finer, more luxurious part of the Costa del Sol. Here you will find a delightful car-free promenade bordering the wonderful beach.

Cabopino
Cabopino is a hidden gem in the heart of the Costa del Sol. The beach at Cabopino is very well looked after, beautiful and child-friendly. Life guards are on duty here throughout the summer.

Fuengirola
With its 8 km of sandy beach, Fuengirola is simply perfect for sun-bathing and swimming.