Stretching along the south coast of Spain’s beautiful Andalucia region, the sun-soaked Costa del Sol boasts a delightful combination of pristine sandy shores and majestic mountains. The name “Costa del Sol” translates to “Coast of the Sun,” and it’s easy to see why once you witness the year-round sunshine that graces this destination.
From the cosmopolitan city of Malaga to the charming coastal towns of Marbella and Nerja, the Costa del Sol offers a diverse array of attractions and activities that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re seeking a beach retreat, a thrilling water sports adventure, or a relaxing family holiday, this region has something for everyone. Browse our luxury villas on the Costa del Sol below.
Why stay with us?
Discover the Oliver’s Travels way, where style and character define every handpicked villa in the Costa del Sol. Our destination experts curate unique homes in beautiful locations that are perfect for families and guaranteed to ‘wow’.
Once you book a holiday, the service doesn’t stop there. Our Concierge Service means you’ll be in good hands to arrange in-house chefs, fridge stocking, housekeeping, and so much more, to make your stay truly extraordinary.
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Why visit Costa del Sol?
This world-renowned coastline is home to stunning beaches with golden sands and clear waters. Whether you prefer bustling urban beaches with lively promenades or secluded coves tucked away along the coast, there is a choice of 125 beaches to suit every preference.
The Costa del Sol is steeped in history and offers a wealth of cultural treasures – vibrant cities like Malaga, the birthplace of the renowned artist Pablo Picasso, where you can visit his birth house-turned-museum and explore the vibrant art scene.
Take a break from the beaches and head inland. Nature enthusiasts can venture into the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park or El Torcal de Antequera, both offering breathtaking hiking trails through rugged mountains and unique geological formations.
The Costa del Sol truly is a year-round destination.Taking place in August, the Feria de Malaga is one of the biggest summer festivals on the Costa del Sol. The city transforms into a lively fairground, with decorated streets, vibrant costumes, flamenco music, and dancing. Enjoy traditional food and drink, ride amusement park attractions, and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.
Film enthusiasts should mark their calendars for the Marbella International Film Festival, usually held in October. This prestigious event showcases independent films from around the world and attracts international filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals. Enjoy film screenings, red-carpet events, and glamorous parties in the beautiful setting of Marbella.
The Nerja Caves Festival is an annual summer music and dance event held in the stunning natural caves of Nerja. This extraordinary venue sets the stage for captivating performances ranging from classical music concerts to flamenco shows. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the caves and the power of the performances.
The natural caves of Nerja
Food and drink
This is the perfect place to experience the flavours of Andalusia at its finest! The region’s gastronomy is heavily influenced by its proximity to the sea, resulting in an abundance of fresh seafood dishes. From succulent grilled sardines to mouthwatering fried fish, you’ll find an array of traditional pescaíto frito (fried fish) that are a true delight for seafood enthusiasts.
The Costa del Sol is also known for its tapas culture, where you can indulge in small plates of local specialities like gazpacho (a cold tomato soup that is the perfect antidote to the heat), boquerones en vinagre (marinated anchovies), and albóndigas (meatballs in a sauce with almonds that is typical of Andalusia). Don’t miss the opportunity to savour the rich and aromatic flavours of gambas al pil-pil (spicy and zesty prawns in white wine) and of course, you can find fantastic paella here too.
To complement your meals, sample the region’s excellent wines, including the sweet Malaga wine and the refreshing vintages produced in the nearby Axarquía region. Finish off your gastronomic adventure with a taste of a refreshing glass of tinto de verano (red wine with lemon soda) as you soak up the lively atmosphere of the Costa del Sol’s charming bars and restaurants.
Grilled sardines on La Malagueta beach
Top tips
The Costa del Sol is well-located for day trips to other destinations in Andalusia. Consider visiting Granada to see the Alhambra, Seville for its vibrant culture, and Gibraltar to explore the famous rock and meet the Barbary macaques.
The Costa del Sol is steeped in a fascinating cultural heritage that reflects its history of diverse influences. The region showcases a blend of Moorish, Roman, and Andalucian traditions, from the impressive Alcazaba fortress in Malaga to the historic Alhaurín de la Torre and the Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia near Tarifa, there are countless historical and cultural sites to explore.
What Oliver Loves
With 300 days of sunshine, the Costa del Sol can be enjoyed at any time of the year. The pleasant climate also allows for a wide array of outdoor activities beyond the beach. You can explore scenic hiking trails in the nearby mountains, go golfing on world-class courses, and explore historic sites too.
Towns and villages in Costa del Sol
Costa del Sol is home to several charming towns that offer a mix of history, culture, and picturesque beauty. Each town and village has its own unique character and allure, offering visitors a diverse range of experiences. From the vibrant city of Malaga with its bustling atmosphere, historic landmarks, and lively nightlife to the glamorous resort town of Marbella with its luxurious yachts, high-end boutiques, and beautiful promenade, there is no shortage of excitement and sophistication.
Here’s our pick of some of the best towns to explore in the region.
Malaga
This enchanting city is the region’s capital and seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity, offering a myriad of experiences for every traveller. Nestled along the Mediterranean coast, Malaga is renowned as the birthplace of legendary artist Pablo Picasso, and its artistic legacy can be felt throughout the city.
Marbella
Known for its glamorous vibe and luxury resorts, Marbella is a popular destination on the Costa del Sol. Its old town, Casco Antiguo, boasts narrow cobblestone streets, colourful buildings adorned with flowers, and delightful squares filled with cafés and boutiques. Don’t miss a visit to Puerto Banus, a prestigious marina filled with high-end shops and restaurants.
Nerja
With its stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs, Nerja has a unique charm. Visit the Balcony of Europe, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean, and explore the famous Nerja Caves, a natural wonder with impressive stalactite formations. The town also boasts a lively atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Top tips
The summer months, particularly July and August, can be quite crowded and prices tend to be higher. If possible, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are smaller.
While the beaches are undoubtedly a major draw, don’t limit yourself to just coastal areas. Venture inland and explore the charming white-washed villages (pueblos blancos) nestled in the mountains. It feels like a world away from the glitz of the coast, but it absolutely worth it.
Costa del Sol: Getting there and around
There are direct flights from various airports in the UK to Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport. Flight duration varies depending on the departure airport but typically range from 2 to 3 hours.
By car
Renting a car provides flexibility and convenience. Costa del Sol has an expansive road network, making it easy to navigate between towns with the added benefit of scenic coastal views. With a car, you have the freedom to discover hidden gems and venture off the beaten path at your own pace.
By public transport
The Costa del Sol has a reliable and cost-effective public transport system. Buses connect major towns and attractions, making it easy to get around and train services, including the Cercanias trains, provide access to principal destinations within the region.
By bike
The Costa del Sol offers an extensive network of bike paths and scenic routes. You can rent a bike in various towns along the coast and then set off cycling along the coastline, taking in the stunning views and refreshing sea breeze.
Grilled sardines on La Malagueta beach
