Golf in the Costa del Sol: a definitive guide

With over 70 golf courses to choose from, including some of Europe’s most highly-rated layouts, we think that this delectable region of southern Spain could just have easily been named the ‘Costa del Golf’! Boasting more than 300 days of sunshine, and a temperature that rarely dips below the mid-teens, the Costa del Sol has certainly earned it’s nickname.

Overlooking the Mediterranean, we love to kick back on the Costa del Sol’s golden beaches after a morning on the course, before heading into the lively towns that hug the crystal blue waters. It’s no surprise that the restaurants in these towns are filled with an incredible selection of local seafood and wider Spanish cuisines, with the some of the country’s much- acclaimed wines providing the perfect accompaniment to any meal!

So, without any further ado, let’s dive in and explore some of our favourite regions in the Costa del Sol.

• Best time to visit: Costa del Sol is a year-round golf destination, but the best conditions are typically from May to September, with long sunny days, minimal rainfall, and perfect playing weather. Although if you're looking for value, consider months like March & October.
• Booking tee times: With over 70 golf courses to choose from, we recommend booking in advance, especially for popular courses like Golf Torrequebrada, La Cala Golf, and Los Naranjos Golf Club.
• Travel essentials: With over 300 days of sunshine annually, you won't need to worry too much about rain, however don't forget to pack light layers and sun protection for comfort on and off the course.

• Easy access & ideal weather: With a minimum of five direct flights daily from the UK and over 300 days of sunshine each year, getting to Costa del Sol is quick and the conditions are perfect for a sun-soaked golf holiday.
• World-class golf and stunning accommodation: Home to multiple excellent courses, including La Cala Golf Resort, Golf Torrequebrada, and La Hacienda Alcadesia Links Golf Resort, Costa del Sol is a top golfing destination. Stay in luxury hotels or self-catering resorts across the region, all offering easy access to the fairways and local attractions.

Best for world-class golf and vibrant nightlife Pair your rounds with rooftop cocktails, beach clubs, and a historic centre that comes alive after dark.

Airport: Malaga (15 mins) | Our experts recommend: Nov – March | Best value: Feb & Nov

Experience the excitement of a golf break in Malaga, a vibrant city at the heart of Andalusia. As the region’s second-largest city, Malaga offers everything you’d expect from a lively Spanish destination—an extensive selection of bars and restaurants, stunning local architecture, and cultural attractions such as the museum at Picasso’s birthplace.

Where to stay & play in Malaga

NH Málaga – A contemporary city-centre hotel perfect for golfers who want culture, cuisine, and coastal golf in one trip. Located in the heart of Málaga, this stylish hotel puts you within walking distance of the city’s historic old town, tapas bars, and vibrant nightlife. It’s also ideally positioned for access to lesser-known gems like Añoreta Golf and Baviera Golf - two scenic, laid-back courses just a short drive east along the coast.

Lauro Golf Resort – A peaceful countryside resort set around a scenic 27-hole course.
It’s one of our favourites in Spain, and features a 27-hole layout, with guests able to opt for unlimited golf packages to truly make the most of their time here. It has everything you need on-site, including swimming pools, restaurants, shops, and various sports facilities. You’ll find everything you need for a relaxing escape without ever leaving the resort.

Sol Príncipe – A beachfront resort in Torremolinos with easy access to several nearby golf courses. While not a golf resort itself, it’s a popular base for groups who want a lively seafront location and great value. Expect large pools, evening entertainment, and a short drive to courses like Parador de Málaga Golf and Lauro Golf.

Hotel Benalma Costa del Sol – A modern, all-inclusive resort perched above the sea It offers stylish rooms, multiple dining options, and a spa - perfect for winding down after a day on the course. It’s well-located for easy access to nearby clubs like Torrequebrada Golf and others along the coast.

Why visit Malaga?

• A vibrant city with excellent attractions, day or night
• Easy access to Malaga Airport, the gateway to the "Costa del Golf"
• Play unlimited golf at Lauro Golf Resort

Best for coastal golf and laid-back nightlife Mix sun-soaked fairways with chilled beach bars, marina-front dining, and a relaxed after-dark scene.

Airport: Malaga (20 mins) | Our experts recommend: Nov – March | Best value: Feb & Nov

Benalmadena is a fantastic choice for groups looking to play a variety of courses during their golf break. With accommodation overlooking the picturesque marina, you’ll be perfectly placed to access a range of top-quality golf courses just a short drive away - making it easy to create a tailored itinerary that suits your group's preferences.

Where to stay & play In Benalmadena

Hotel Alay Benalmádena – An adults-recommended hotel right by the vibrant marina. This sleek, modern base is ideal for golfers who want to combine play with nightlife, dining, and waterfront strolls. A short drive from top courses like Golf Torrequebrada and Real Guadalhorce, it’s a favourite for golf groups looking to stay close to the action.

Golf Torrequebrada – A scenic, championship course just minutes from Benalmádena’s coastline. Known for its lush fairways, sea views, and challenging layout, it’s one of the Costa del Sol’s classic golf experiences. With wide fairways framed by palm trees and mountain backdrops, it’s both beautiful and rewarding for players of all levels.

Real Guadalhorce Golf Club – A traditional Spanish parkland course just inland from the coast. With a relaxed members’ club feel and a peaceful setting, it’s a great contrast to the busier resort courses. The layout is varied and walkable, with excellent greens and a welcoming clubhouse ideal for post-round tapas.

Why visit Benalmadena?

• Ideal four star hotel options for a golf tour
• Enjoy evenings on the marina full of bars & restaurants
• Choice of championship courses, including Golf Torrequebrada

Best for easy-access golf and a lively local vibe Enjoy nearby courses by day, then dive into Fuengirola’s beachfront bars, tapas spots, and buzzing promenade by night.

Airport: Málaga (25 mins) | Our experts recommend: Nov – March | Best value: Feb & Nov

Fuengirola is all about the three C’s: Chaparral Golf, Cabopino Golf, and Calanova. Together, they create a fantastic value-packed golf package. Each course brings something unique, with Chaparral standing out for its distinctive layout - featuring six par 3s, six par 4s, and six par 5s, it’s the only course in the region with this balanced design.

Fuengirola itself offers a prime waterfront setting, perfect for those wanting to soak up the best of the Costa del Sol’s coastline. The town connects directly to a six-kilometre stretch of boardwalk - part of the Gran Senda coastal path - making it an ideal base for exploring some of the area’s top beachfront bars and attractions.

As well as its outstanding quality, Fuengirola also boasts spectacular value, with many of our trips here featuring some excellent additional extras; from free places, to free buggies and much more!

Where to stay & play in Fuengirola

Hotel Las Palmeras – A centrally located hotel overlooking Fuengirola’s marina and promenade. Right in the heart of the action, this hotel is perfect for golfers who want to combine beachside relaxation with easy access to the region’s top courses. With spacious rooms, sea views, and a lively atmosphere, it’s a convenient base for reaching Chaparral, Cabopino, and Calanova Golf within 15–20 minutes.

Chaparral Golf Club – A beautiful, pine-lined course with a unique 6-par-3, 6-par-4, 6-par-5 layout. Set in a lush Mediterranean forest just outside Fuengirola, it offers technical challenges and coastal views in equal measure. Popular with visiting golfers, the course is known for its excellent conditions and warm clubhouse welcome.

Cabopino Golf – A fun, forgiving course with elevated tees and sweeping sea views. Nestled between Fuengirola and Marbella, Cabopino is ideal for holiday golf - playable, scenic, and quick to reach. It’s a favourite for relaxed rounds followed by a drink at the laid-back clubhouse terrace.

Calanova Golf Club – A modern, well-maintained course in the hills above La Cala de Mijas. Expect wide fairways, rolling terrain, and spectacular mountain and sea views throughout. With a top-class pro shop and a contemporary clubhouse, it’s a polished experience just a short drive from Fuengirola.

Why visit Fuengirola?

• Great value packages available, with buggies included
• Stay within walking distance of restaurants and nightlife
• Excellent local courses, including Chaparral Golf

Best for scenic golf and authentic Andalusian charm Tee off on rolling hillside courses, then unwind in Mijas Pueblo’s whitewashed streets or coastal chiringuitos nearby.

Airport: Malaga (30 mins) | Our experts recommend: Nov – March | Best value: Feb & Nov

With a location that’s just 20-minutes from the bustling town of Marbella, as well as being just a stone’s throw from a wide choice of excursions into the Sierra de Mijas National Park, there’s plenty of places to explore near Mijas. Mijas is home to one of the most popular and well-regarded golf resorts in Spain.

Where to stay & play in Mijas

La Cala Resort – A premier golf and spa resort nestled in the hills of Mijas. Home to three championship 18-hole courses - America, Asia, and Europa - it’s one of the largest and most prestigious golf resorts in Spain. With a luxury spa, fine dining, and panoramic views, it’s the perfect retreat for golfers looking to play, unwind, and stay in style.

Macdonald Leila Playa – A laid-back beachfront resort with apartment-style accommodation. Located near Calahonda on the Mijas coast, it’s ideal for those who want self-catering comfort and proximity to the area’s top courses. Just a short drive from La Cala Resort, Lauro Golf, and other local favourites, it’s a popular base for longer golf getaways.

Lauro Golf Resort – A peaceful, inland resort with a unique 27-hole layout and a rural Andalusian vibe. Set in the countryside between Alhaurín and Mijas, it’s perfect for golfers seeking a quieter base with unlimited golf options. With apartments, on-site dining, and additional sports facilities, it’s a well-rounded destination that offers excellent value year-round.

Why visit Mijas?

• Home to one of Europe's best golf resorts, La Cala
• Play the three stunning & unique La Cala Golf Courses
• Home to Macdonald apartments, a beachfront option

Best for luxury golf and upscale nightlife Play on world-renowned courses by day, then head to Marbella’s glamorous marina, cocktail lounges, and beach clubs after dark.

Airport: Malaga (40 mins) | Our experts recommend: Nov – March | Best value: Feb & Nov

Often considered the crown jewel of the Costa del Sol, Marbella is the perfect base for a golf holiday, with this luxurious coastal town offering everything you could wish for from your break. The town itself is a true touch of trendiness, full of sensational shopping, restaurants, and nightlife. However, away from some of the more modern additions, we’d definitely recommend a visit to the Old Town for a more authentic experience of southern Spain.

Where to stay & play in Marbella

The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa – A luxurious hillside resort just outside Marbella with its own 27-hole golf course. Surrounded by mountains and sea views, this five-star resort blends wellness, fine dining, and championship golf in one elegant package. It’s ideal for golfers who want a premium stay with full resort facilities, including a renowned spa and easy access to the region’s top courses.

Marbella Golf & Country Club – A classic Robert Trent Jones Sr. design just five minutes from the city centre. Known for its rolling fairways, elevated tees, and sweeping sea views, it offers a great mix of challenge and beauty. The elegant clubhouse and excellent restaurant make it a favourite for both golf and post-round dining.

Santa Clara Golf Club – A beautifully maintained course with wide fairways and a welcoming feel. Located just east of Marbella, it’s a playable yet rewarding course with sea breezes and palm-lined greens. With a relaxed pace and scenic setting, it’s perfect for both casual rounds and group outings.

Why visit Marbella?

• Take in traditional Andalucia at Marbella Old Town
• Home to world-class nightlife and beaches
• Play locally at exclusive golf courses, including Santa Clara

Best for elite golf and jet-set nightlife Combine top-tier courses with designer shopping, waterfront dining, and the high-energy nightlife of Puerto Banús’s iconic marina.

Airport: Malaga (45 mins) | Our experts recommend: Nov – March | Best value: Feb & Nov

Much like its nearby sister town of Marbella, Puerto Banus glitters in the Spanish sunshine. Famous for its upscale marina, luxury boutiques, and some of the Costa del Sol’s best nightlife, Puerto Banús attracts more than just golfers—it's a hotspot for travellers seeking top-tier entertainment and vibrant evenings out.

Where to stay & play in Puerto Banus

Los Naranjos Golf Club – One of the Costa del Sol’s most prestigious courses, just minutes from Puerto Banus. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., it features wide, lush fairways, immaculate greens, and a refined clubhouse atmosphere. A staple for serious golfers, it combines playability with a premium feel, making it a must-play in the Marbella area. This championship par-72 parkland course has become a firm favourite with our guests and is considered one of the top courses along the coast. With world-class golf and lively evenings just moments away, Puerto Banus delivers the perfect golf holiday.

The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa – A five-star retreat tucked in the hills just 10 minutes from Puerto Banus. With elegant rooms, a tranquil spa, and panoramic views, it’s the perfect base for golfers seeking a luxurious escape. The resort directly overlooks its own course - La Quinta Golf & Country Club - offering doorstep access to 27 holes of high-quality golf.

La Quinta Golf & Country Club – A scenic 27-hole course designed by Manuel Piñero, offering variety and spectacular mountain views. Split into three 9-hole loops (San Pedro, Ronda, and Guadaiza), it’s known for its immaculate conditioning and strategic layout. Just a short drive from Puerto Banus, it’s a favourite for golfers who want challenging play in a peaceful, natural setting.

Why visit Puerto Banus?

• Experience the glitz & glamour of Puerto Banus Marina
• Hotel options to mix championship golf & lively nightlife
• Stay & play at five-star Westin La Quinta, a leading golf resort

Best for relaxed golf escapes and coastal charm Play scenic courses with sea views, then unwind in Estepona’s old town, stylish beach clubs, and chilled-out marina.

Airport: Malaga (55 mins) | Our experts recommend: Nov – March | Best value: Feb & Nov

Estepona, home to the prestigious 2023 Solheim Cup at Finca Cortesin, offers a more traditional and laid-back alternative to some of the busier spots along the Costa del Sol. With over 21km of golden beaches and a fantastic selection of authentic local restaurants, it’s a charming destination that blends classic Andalusian culture with world-class golf.

Where to stay & play in Estepona

H10 Estepona Palace – A stylish beachfront hotel blending Andalusian charm with modern comfort. With direct beach access, sea-view rooms, and a full-service spa, it’s a popular choice for golfers looking to unwind in relaxed elegance. Located just minutes from several excellent courses, it offers easy access to both Doña Julia Golf and the world-renowned Finca Cortesin.

Finca Cortesin – One of Europe’s most prestigious golf resorts, ranked among the continent’s top courses. Host of multiple Solheim Cups and set against a stunning Mediterranean backdrop, it delivers a five-star golf experience in every sense. Impeccable service, immaculate fairways, and a tranquil, exclusive atmosphere make it a bucket-list destination for serious golfers.

Doña Julia Golf Club – A scenic and accessible course with generous fairways and sea views throughout. Ideal for holiday golf, it offers a relaxed yet enjoyable layout that suits all levels of play. With friendly service and an easygoing vibe, it’s a great complement to the more demanding courses in the area.

Why visit Estepona?

• Home of the 2023 Solheim Cup at Finca Cortesin Golf
• Great golf tour options or stay on site at Ona Valle Romano
• Easy access from both Malaga and Gibraltar Airports

Best for exclusive golf and refined seclusion Tee off at world-famous courses like Valderrama, then retreat to Sotogrande’s elegant marina, quiet beaches, and upscale dining.

Airport: Malaga (1 hr 15 mins) | Our experts recommend: Nov – March | Best value: Feb & Nov

It might seem like a bold claim, but the region of Sotogrande just might have the best selection of top level courses of anywhere in Europe … if not the world. Don’t believe us? Where else could you find layouts with the quality of Real Club Valderrama, Real Club de Golf Sotogrande, and La Reserva de Sotogrande.

Check out our recent 3-night golf tour in Sotogrande.

Where to stay & play in Sotogrande

SO Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort – A chic, five-star resort blending contemporary design with laid-back Andalusian luxury. Overlooking the Mediterranean and the surrounding fairways, SO offers cutting-edge wellness, standout dining, and a calm, exclusive atmosphere. It’s perfectly placed for golfers looking to play the region’s top courses in serious style, with quick access to San Roque Club, La Hacienda, and more.

Hotel Encinar de Sotogrande – A relaxed and elegant hotel surrounded by greenery just minutes from Sotogrande’s golf scene. Popular with golf groups, it offers spacious rooms, a large pool, and a convenient location for reaching San Roque, Valderrama, and La Reserva. It’s a smart choice for those seeking comfort and proximity without the premium price tag.

San Roque Club – Old Course – A revered layout known for its challenging design and championship pedigree. Recently renovated to world-class standards, this classic parkland course is both beautiful and demanding. With a tranquil, pine-studded setting, it remains a must-play for serious golfers visiting the Sotogrande area.

La Hacienda Alcaidesa Links – A dramatic, clifftop links-style course with sweeping sea views and a standout new clubhouse. Recently redesigned by Kurtis Bowman, it's now one of the most exciting golf experiences in southern Europe. Expect ocean panoramas and open coastal winds.

Why visit Sotogrande?

• Home to the best collection of golf courses in Europe
• Tick-off bucket list courses, Valderrama and San Roque
• Unparalleled quality, luxury, and service at SO Sotogrande

With its unbeatable combination of world-class golf, stunning coastal scenery, vibrant towns, and incredible value, the Costa del Sol truly lives up to its nickname as “Costa del Golf.” Whether you’re chasing championship layouts, looking to unwind in luxury resorts, or soaking up the region’s lively culture and cuisine, there’s a golf break to suit every taste and budget. From the glamour of Marbella to the charm of Estepona, and the elite fairways of Sotogrande to the lively marinas of Benalmádena and Puerto Banus - your perfect golf holiday is waiting.

Let us help you build your ideal itinerary and make your next golf break to the Costa del Sol one to remember.