Mijas in the Costa del Sol is the perfect destination for a villa holiday. It’s got everything you could possibly want or need, and has something to offer everyone. However, although there’s nothing wrong with simply enjoying all that Mijas Pueblo has to offer, sometimes it’s good to hire or car and get out and about. The Costa del Sol has some fabulous places to visit, and it would be a shame not to take advantage of this. Here are just some of the places and attractions you might like to consider visiting in and around Mijas.
Fuengirola
Fuengirola is a bustling town and one of the most popular holiday resorts for both tourists and Spanish holidaymakers. There is a great aqua park to keep the kids occupied and entertained during the spring and summer months. Fuengirola’s beaches which stretch from Los Boliches for 8 km are well worth a visit. They’ve been awarded Blue Flag status by the E.U. authorities, and that guarantees clean white sand and crystal clear waters. You can hire a pedalo, a jet ski or a banana boat if you fancy a dip while you’re there. Along the Paseo Maritimo there are lots of places to eat and drink, and you’re guaranteed to find food to suit whatever your tastes may be. There marina is particularly attractive and worth a visit. You could always try your hand a sailing, or take a trip to Benalmadena.
Benalmadena
If you like boats and anything to do with sailing, then you really should Benalmadena’s marina. It has been voted best Marina in the world for its beauty and striking architecture, so you really shouldn’t miss it. There are berths for approximately 1,000 boats. The Sea Life Centre is also located here and would appeal to the kids.
Marbella and Puerto Banus
Marbella and Puerto Banus are the St Tropez of the Costa del Sol. All the rich and famous head here every year. Marbella itself has a fantastic variety of shops, centred round the historic area of Orange Square. Puerto Banus is a cosmopolitan and luxurious resort. If you only have time to visit just one place here, then make it the marina, and feast your eyes on the celebrity yachts that anchor here every summer. There are an enormous variety of bars and restaurants here, but be warned, they can be extremely expensive, so choose carefully.
Estepona
Estepona is located at the ‘quieter’ end of the Costa del Sol, but that doesn’t mean that there’s not much to do or see. The marina is the perfect place to stroll around and admire the boats. If you prefer you can always sit in one of the many bars and just watch the world go by. There is a traditional craft market every Sunday morning. In the ‘old town’ of Estepona you will find all sorts of street cafes, bodegas and tapas bars tucked away down charming narrow cobbled streets.
El Cristo beach, close to the marina, is ideal for children as it’s situated in a lovely sheltered cove, and has lots of water sport activities. Golf in the region is extremely popular as you might expect, and there are several well-known golf courses near-by; Valderamma, San Roque, Duquesa, Estepona, Monte Mayor to name just a few.
