The Costa del Sol is one of Spain’s top beach destinations when the weather is nice and it encompasses the entire coastline of the province of Málaga. Fancy a 3-day road trip?
The Málaga coastline stretches for more than 150 kilometres (93 miles) and features whitewashed villages nestled among the mountains, marinas, urban beaches, and other much quieter spots. In fact, this stretch of the Mediterranean never disappoints if you're looking for beaches, sunshine, and good weather.
If you have time, you should ideally set aside at least a week for the trip, between enjoying the beach and sightseeing. But if you're short on time, we have created a three-day road trip through some of the Costa del Sol's must-see stops, featuring the ocean, culture, cuisine, and breathtaking views. Take note!
Day 1: Málaga, Torremolinos, and Benalmádena
The city of Málaga is a good starting point for this route because it also serves as the gateway to the Costa del Sol—whether you're travelling by train, plane, or boat—and is very well connected to the rest of the province. Spend the early hours of the day exploring Málaga’s historic centre, with unmissable stops at La Alcazaba, the area around the Roman Theatre and the harbour area.
Once you've taken in the city's main attractions, head to Torremolinos, about a 20-minute drive away. It's a beach town with lively promenades, beach bars, and incredibly long beaches. We recommend you stop at La Carihuela to try Málaga’s legendary pescaíto (fried fish).
In the afternoon, end the day in Benalmádena, just 10 minutes from Torremolinos. You can spend a good part of the afternoon at the beach, and when night falls, head over to Colmares Castle and Puerto Marina—one of the Costa del Sol’s best-known marinas—for dinner or a drink.
Day 2: Mijas and Marbella
We suggest you spend the second day of your trip along the Costa del Sol exploring two of the area's greatest contrasts. First, visit Mijas Pueblo, with its narrow cobblestone streets, small plazas, viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean, and the charm of the area’s ‘white villages’. And if you're in the mood for a day at the beach, head over to Mijas Costa.
You can have a meal in Mijas and then continue on to Marbella (about 30 minutes away), which is probably the most internationally renowned destination along the entire Costa del Sol. It contrasts beautifully with the landscape of Mijas:
- It's a city of luxury and yachts.
- It also has an old town that has retained its Andalusian charm (narrow streets, white facades, squares with terraces, etc.).
- Visit the Golden Mile and Puerto Banús, where you'll find exclusive boutiques, sports cars, and boats of all shapes, sizes, and colours.
Marbella is the most sophisticated part of the Málaga coastline, which is why it makes so much sense to spend an afternoon there as part of this trip—it stands out in stark contrast to the other towns along the Costa del Sol. Plus, it is one of the best connected areas by road.
Day 3: Estepona and a peaceful farewell to the Costa del Sol
On the last day of this trip along the Costa del Sol, drive to the western part of the province and take it easy. Compared to Marbella, the atmosphere in Estepona (30 minutes away) is more laid-back, and it also has an old town that retains much of its Andalusian charm.
- Walk along the promenade and take a dip at any of its beaches. This is one of the areas along the Costa del Sol that best balances tourist services with authenticity.
- If you still have some time left over, head to Casares or Manila for some incredible views of the sea and mountains.
Most of the places to visit on the Costa del Sol are fairly close to one another, but the best way to make the most of your three days on the coast of Málaga is to rent a car with OK Mobility in Málaga, so you can get around at your own pace. The coastal highway network—especially the A-7 and the AP-7—connects the main towns in just a few minutes, making it possible to visit several towns in a single day.
Plus, you always have complete freedom to choose your own schedule, make stops along the way, reach more secluded coves or take a detour to any inland town.
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