With more than 320 days of sunshine a year, an increasingly diverse offer and an excellent international perception, the Costa del Sol is establishing itself as one of the favourite destinations for travellers looking for their holidays on the beach.
Panoramic views of the mountain seen from Marbella, La Concha, and the beach with umbrellas and sunbeds, Costa del Sol (Credits: Shutterstock)
Malaga, 29 may, 2025.- With the arrival of good weather, the Costa del Sol reaffirms its place for another season as one of the top sun and beach destinations for international travellers drawn by its exceptional climate and its wide array of attractions. Coastal tourism continues to be the main attraction in this area, with a rising demand thanks to the combination of quality services, accessible coastline and unique experiences by the sea.
With around 325 days of sunshine a year, the Costa del Sol is easy to fall in love with. Life here revolves around the beach, where vibrant chiringuitos (beach bars) sit right on the sand, serving up freshly fried fish, sardine skewers, and seafood paella—all accompanied by stunning views of the Mediterranean. In summer, the coast comes alive: bonfires light up the shore during the magical Night of San Juan, and open-air festivals fill the warm, sea-scented evenings with music, colour, and celebration.
This summer, there's a choice of 45 beaches along the Costa del Sol that have been awarded the Blue Flag, an international certification that recognises high standards in water quality, safety, and environmental management. Spanning from secluded coves to busy urban shores, the coastline of Málaga province offers a broad spectrum of beach experiences, all meeting rigorous criteria set by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) awards those beaches that meet certain standards of environmental quality, safety, accessibility and services. The Costa del Sol has 45 beaches as of 2025. (Credits: Shutterstock)
Water activities are also gaining prominence. Paddle surfing, kayaking, surfing and boat trips are just some of the plans to enjoy the sea. In addition to these, there are jet ski excursions, catamaran rides, sport fishing, diving, snorkelling and pedal boat rental. Many beaches also have water play areas and water sports schools for all levels. An offer designed for all audiences, which makes every day at the beach different and unforgettable.
Beyond relaxation, the Costa del Sol promotes experience tourism. The Senda Litoral project, which continues to add kilometres of pedestrian and cycling paths, allows the coastline to be travelled actively and responsibly with the environment. In addition to this, Senda Azul is an initiative that promotes contact with the sea and the care of the seabed through nautical and cultural activities, such as visits to the Cueva del Tesoro, the traditional shipyards or the nautical clubs along the coast.
In the current tourism landscape, coastal tourism continues to show a remarkable ability to adapt, driven by trends such as wellness travel, local gastronomy, active and sustainable experiences, and a growing preference for authentic, less crowded destinations. The shift toward responsible accommodation, greater use of technology, and renewed interest in maritime culture and heritage is further shaping this evolution. The Costa del Sol is responding to these demands with sustainable initiatives, immersive experiences, and a clear focus on innovation, strengthening its position as a modern and competitive destination.
Activities to complement sun and beach holidays
Beyond its undeniable appeal as a sun-and-sea destination, the Costa del Sol offers a world-class range of experiences. Golf continues to be a cornerstone of the region’s diverse tourism landscape, boasting one of the highest concentrations of golf courses in Europe—many of them internationally acclaimed for their quality and design. This makes the area a year-round magnet for golf enthusiasts, earning it the well-deserved nickname of the “Golf coast”.
For those willing to trade their flip-flops for hiking shoes, the inland region of Málaga offers a rich variety of sites, from charming, whitewashed villages like Mijas and Frigiliana, to the natural wonders such as the Caminito del Rey or the Sierra de las Nieves, now a designated National Park. Rich in culture, flavourful local cuisine, and warm hospitality, this lesser-known side of the Costa del Sol promises a deeper, more authentic journey for curious travellers.
The Costa del Sol thus reinforces its position as an essential destination for those looking for a complete, sustainable and quality holiday. With an increasingly diverse offer adapted to the new demands of the traveller, the Malaga coast is consolidating itself as a safe bet to enjoy an unforgettable summer.