The quickest and most honest answer is: why wouldn’t you?
If southern Spain is on your travel wish list, the Costa del Sol should be at the very top. With year-round sunshine, golden beaches, incredible food, and endless activities, this stretch of Mediterranean coastline is perfect for families, couples, and friends alike.
Here are the top 3 reasons to visit the Costa del Sol in 2026.
1. Golden Beaches and Sparkling Seas
“Don’t worry – beach happy.” With over 120 beaches along 161 km of coastline, the Costa del Sol is truly a beach lover’s paradise.
Relaxing on the sand does more than help you unwind — it’s also proven to benefit both body and mind. Moreover, with so many options to choose from, every type of traveller will find a favourite spot.
Here are three of the best beaches on the Costa del Sol, chosen by our team:
Carvajal Beach (Fuengirola)
Located at the end of Fuengirola’s promenade, Carvajal is a lively urban beach. You’ll find plenty of chiringuitos (beach bars) serving cold drinks and snacks. It’s also ideal for families, as the shallow waters stretch far before getting deep.
El Faro Beach (La Cala de Mijas)
El Faro is a hidden gem near La Cala. Loved by locals, it’s far less crowded than the main tourist beaches. Here you can enjoy crystal-clear waters and panoramic views of the Costa del Sol.
La Malagueta Beach (Málaga City)
One of the most famous beaches in Málaga, La Malagueta is always buzzing with life. It offers excellent facilities such as lifeguards, sunbed rentals, and Blue Flag quality waters. With beach bars and a youthful vibe, it’s a must-visit when in Málaga.
2. Food, Glorious Food
“Tapas” the time away — because food is one of the greatest joys of life in the Costa del Sol.
Here, outdoor dining is possible almost all year round. From pescaito frito (fried fish) and salty gambas to gazpacho and juicy steaks, the food is as fresh as it gets. Most restaurants serve traditional Spanish dishes, while others add a modern twist.
Here are two restaurants that come highly recommended by our team:
Ponchos Steakhouse (Fuengirola)
Meat lovers won’t want to miss Ponchos. Known for perfectly cooked steaks, excellent service, and a lively atmosphere, this restaurant is a favourite for locals and tourists alike.
💡 Top tip: Book in advance as it fills up quickly.
El Olivo (La Cala de Mijas)
El Olivo offers a cozy fireplace in winter and a large terrace for summer dining. The menu ranges from fresh seafood to modern creations, always cooked to perfection.
💡 Top tip: Pair a bottle of Chinchilla Cloe Chardonnay with any of their white fish dishes.
3. Fun in the Sun – Activities for Everyone
The Costa del Sol isn’t only about beaches and food. Thanks to the sunshine, there’s no shortage of things to do all year round. From hiking and golf to water sports, the choices are endless.
Here are some family-friendly activities our team loves:
Aqualand Torremolinos
The biggest water park on the Costa del Sol, Aqualand has rides, pools, restaurants, and even an 18-hole mini golf course. Popular attractions include the wave pool, kids’ playground, and the thrilling “Boomerang” ride.
Bioparc Fuengirola
This zoo is designed to recreate natural habitats for its animals. With over 200 species, including endangered ones, it’s both educational and entertaining. Families can watch feeding times, explore themed zones like Madagascar, and even shop or dine on site.
Dolphin Cruise – The Bombay Sapphire (Fuengirola Port)
Sail the Mediterranean aboard the Bombay Sapphire, a 13m yacht offering dolphin-watching trips and sunset cruises. With unlimited food and drinks included, it’s a truly unique experience.
👉 See reviews on TripAdvisor.
Plan Your Costa del Sol Holiday 2026
Whether you come for the beaches, the food, or the activities, the Costa del Sol has something for everyone. With over 100 miles of coastline, charming towns, and endless sunshine, it’s one of the world’s top holiday destinations.
👉 Discover our collection of holiday villas in the Costa del Sol and start planning your perfect getaway. Book today and make your 2026 holiday one to remember!
