The area known as the Costa del Sol in Spain is set along the Andalusian shore and runs from the Costa Tropical down through Tarifa.

Also known as the Sunshine Coast, the 43 mile long section of the coast is jam packed with beaches, golf courses, nightclubs, and vacation homes – all spread out amongst more than two dozen smaller towns and neighborhoods. So where will you begin to explore?

10. Parque de Ardales

The astounding Parque de Ardales can be found in The Guadalhorce Valley, just north of the gorge. This particular area is home to a series of reservoirs, all scenic in their own right. The park is filled with open-air restaurants, spectacular overlooks, lakes, picnic groves, and a number of scenic places to relax.

9. Museo Municipal

The Museo Municipal can be found in Antequera, an area that once served as a stronghold for the Moors. The Moors were eventually defeated by the Christians in the early 1400’s and abandoned their fortress. Inside the Museo Municipal you’ll find a statue of Efebo, a bronze boy standing 5 feet high and dating back to the Roman era.

8. Cuevas de Nerja

Within the village of Nerja you’ll find a series of caves known as Cuevas de Nerja (or, as translated, Nerja Caves). The gorgeous caves are filled with tower spires, gorgeous turrets, and at least one 200-foot long pinnacle considered the largest stalactite in the world. Many concerts and festivals are held in the caves each year.

7. Playa Los Genoveses

In San Jose, visitors to The Costa del Sol will find the gorgeous beaches at Playa Los Genoveses. San Jose is one of the largest villages in the Cabo de Gata Nature Reserve area and you’ll enjoy spending the way touring the village or relaxing on the beaches.

6. Casares

The entire village of Cesares, set in the Sierra Bermeja mountains, is worth visiting if you have the chance. The dated streets are littered with gorgeous houses, all situated snugly beneath what was once a castle claimed by the Moors. The mountainous hills provide stunning views of the olive groves, orchards, and even the Mediterranean.

5. Ronda

Ronda is not just a spectacular Costa del Sol attraction but is also considered one of the oldest towns in all of Spain. Set high in the mountains overlooking the River Guadalevin, the town once served as a stronghold for a group of Andalusian bandits – a group that held the area for almost two centuries. Ronda is constantly buzzing with tourists from international destinations as well as other areas of Spain. It’s considered a spectacular destination for those seeking a second home.

4. Salobrena

After you leave the mountains in Granada you’ll continue west until you reach Salobrena. Yet another old Moorish fortress, Salobrena is an incredible site to see. The perpendicular streets are set in a near-perfect pattern and the old houses are kept in immaculate condition. Salobreno is an amazing destination for those who want to relax on the beach by day and enjoy the bar and restaurant nightlife in the evening.

3. Estepona

Estepona is a spectacular destination for anyone looking to relax in a resort atmosphere. The beaches at Estepona have some of the best sands along the coast and the astounding gardens provide a soothing atmosphere rivaled by no other. You’ll enjoy bathing the day away in the sun before an evening of eating and dancing in some of the area’s hottest restaurants and bars.

2. Mijas

The Mijas area was discovered by a bunch of foreign tourists and rests in the foothills surrounding the Sierra. It takes about 20 minutes to reach Mijas from the Fuengirola area and the roads are slightly treacherous but once you reach your destination you’ll be glad you made the trip. Enjoy a round of golf or simply spend the afternoon enjoying a nice lunch.

1. Torremolinos

True lovers of adventure will head towards Torremolinos for a party atmosphere in the sun. The area isn’t as crazy as it was in the 60’s and 70’s but still packs a pretty decent punch when it comes to partying. The beaches, bars, and shopping districts are all crowded here during the summer months but you’re bound to enjoy yourself and you might even make a few friends.

Book a Costa del Sol hotel anywhere along the coast and you’ll be within reasonable driving distance of any of these locations or sites. You’ll love all you’re able to see and experience in the Costa del Sol area – guaranteed.