Would you rather spend your summer at the beach or in the mountains? Why choose, when you can have both? If you’re planning your next vacation to Costa del Sol with kids, you’re in luck: we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to enjoy quiet beaches, charming villages, Malaga mountain views and dreamy landscapes all in one. Read below and start planning your family trip!
Nerja: the perfect summer destination
With its paradisiacal beaches, stunning cliffs and mountains, cosy streets and charming squares, Nerja is one destination we absolutely love. While Nerja as a destination is pretty large, its historic centre is quaint enough to explore on foot. Get lost in its narrow streets lined with white houses, see the famous Nerja Cave, admire the views from Balcón de Europa and spend time on some of the best beaches in Costa del Sol (like Maro Beach, Burriana Beach and more). If you’re passionate about nature, you’ll definitely want to visit Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park, where the mountains almost touch the sea.
Mijas: total Andalusian charm
Wander down steep streets lined with white houses and pots overflowing with colourful geraniums. See incredible, panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea and mountains. Find the perfect combination of traditional activities, charming beaches and hiking.
In Mijas, you can explore its most charming corners, like the Santana neighbourhood or Plaza de los Siete Caños, on one of its famous donkey-taxis or in the world’s first electric Tuk Tuk. You can visit the Mayan Monkey Mijas chocolate factory and do a chocolate-making workshop. Want to stay outdoors? Its coastline is filled with idyllic beaches, and there are plenty of hiking trails for all ages and skill levels in the Sierra de Mijas mountains. (Try one and you’ll get those magical views we mentioned.)
Benahavís: a destination with plenty to do
Benahavís strikes the perfect balance between a charming mountain village and a top tourist destination. Hotels and resorts come with all the modern comforts, there’s a huge variety of restaurants (Benahavís is nicknamed “the dining room of Costa del Sol!”), plenty of adventure tourism companies, many different activities for kids and excellent beaches just a few kilometres away. Is there any better combination? Benahavís is a top destination for families vacationing in Costa del Sol.
Estepona: a destination that has it all
If your idea of the perfect holiday is one that combines the sea, the mountains and a range of leisure and entertainment activities, then the charming town of Estepona is just what you need. Its safe, easy beaches create the perfect setting for kids to play and parents to relax, and there are plenty of companies and camps nearby with adventure activities for children. All around Estepona, there are activities for the whole family! Visit Selwo Aventura park, where nature lovers can see 2000+ species of animals from across the globe, or drive the 15 minutes to Reales de Sierra Bermeja Natural Park, which has lots of hiking trails and spectacular mountain and sea views.
Casares: history, sea and mountains
It’s impossible not to be astounded by the Historic-Artistic Complex of Casares, which is next to beautiful Serranía de Ronda. Casares preserves the best of any civilization that has ever lived in this destination. Along with an Arab-style castle, there are impressive landscapes that spread from Campo de Gibraltar to Serranía de Ronda. Walk down its narrow streets as a family and take in the traditional, historic vibes. As if that weren’t enough, Casares also has four beaches with all the amenities modern families need.
So, which of these Malaga municipalities are calling you this summer? Pick one or more (it’s up to you!), find accommodations that suit your family and start making memories in the Mediterranean. If you’re looking for suggestions for hotels in Costa del Sol that are great for kids, click here.
