7 Costa del Sol Hidden Gems

The south coast of Spain offers visitors and residents year-round sunny weather, a luxurious lifestyle, and a relaxed vibe. Whether you’re a nature lover, someone who enjoys hours walking along golden beaches, hiking trails, or a vibrant nightlife, the Costa del Sol has so much to offer.

There are towns and cities dotted along the south coast that offer beautiful narrow streets filled with traditional Andalusian culture, while the surrounding mountains provide stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Whether you’re about to visit the Costa del Sol or you’re a resident, we’ve compiled a list of the best spots you should visit to experience the finest aspects of this fabulous area of Spain.

Must-visit spots in southern Spain

Málaga

When flying into the Costa del Sol, you’ll likely land at Málaga airport. As this is your first location on the southern coast of Spain, you may as well stay around for a day and experience everything this beautiful city has to offer.

Visit the Picasso Museum to find out more about the famous artist, who originated in this lovely city. There’s an extensive collection of his most famous art pieces here, too, so if you’re a lover of art and local culture, this place is ideal to spend a couple of hours.

Another great thing about Málaga is its transport connections to the rest of the Costa del Sol. So, once you’ve visited the museum and had a bite to eat at one of the many beautiful restaurants and cafes, you can easily hop in a car, train, or bus to reach your next destination.

Plaza de las Flores

Plaza de las Flores is a picturesque square in the old town of Marbella. It’s filled with flower-draped balconies, beautiful cafes, and stunning Andalusian architecture.

If you’re keen to soak up some local, traditional charm, Plaza de las Flores is the perfect place to do it – and it’s a tad quieter than Plaza de los Naranjos, so you can take in the surrounding area a little easier.

Mijas

Mijas is at the centre of Andalusia’s countryside and is famous for showcasing Spain’s famous White Villages.

The hilltop town features beautiful whitewashed houses with rugged slopes, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the area.

The cobblestone streets that fill Mijas are adorned with colourful flowers and stunning views of the Mediterranean.

To sample some local culture, you can watch one of the many Flamenco shows in Mijas’ taverns.

Estepona

If you love traditional Spanish streets filled with flower pots and a sweet smell of blossom in the air, then you’ll adore Estepona. While places like Marbella can offer the high life with 5-star restaurants and hotel resorts, places like Estepona are what make the Costa del Sol so beautiful, with its rich heritage still on display.

If you’re an art lover, you’ll enjoy the unique murals displayed around the town.

Fuengirola

Less than an hour’s drive from Estepona, Fuengirola is situated right on the coast, offering visitors beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and a fabulous promenade.

After you’ve taken in panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, you can explore the town, where you’ll find famous landmarks like Sohail Castle, which details the rich history of Fuengirola.

Once you’re done, head to one of the main beachfront bars and restaurants for a slice of traditional Andalusian food.

Dunas de Artola

Also known as Cabopino Dunes, Dunas de Artola is a protected natural reserve with wooden walkways, untouched coastline, and rolling dunes – perfect for nature lovers.

If you’re trying to fit it into a busy day, it’s best to head here at sunset to catch the moment the light from the setting sun hits the dunes and the sea. It is truly spectacular.

Parque de la Constitución

The final spot on our list of hidden gems is the Parque de la Constitución in Marbella. This beautiful park features lush gardens with fountains, colourful plants and flowers, and even features a gorgeous open-air auditorium which often hosts summer events and concerts – something to keep an eye out for!

Head here for an evening stroll when the weather is a little cooler. Best of all, you could combine this with a walk down the Marbella promenade, which is just a few short minutes away, and take in the sea breeze.

Speak to Bromley Estates today

If you’re keen to purchase property in the Costa del Sol and experience more of these hidden gems in everyday life, we can help you with your search.

At Bromley Estates Marbella, we have years of experience helping people find their dream homes in southern Spain. Whether you’re seeking some traditional Andalusian architecture, a home close to sun-drenched beaches, or you’d prefer to be somewhere quiet up in the hills, we’ll help you find your dream property.All you have to do is get in touch with the expert team at Bromley Estates by calling +34 952 939 460.