Why we love Fuengirola
One of the most popular travel destinations on the Costa del Sol, you’ll find Fuengirola half way between Marbella and Malaga – just 25kms from the airport – and a short drive from Mijas Costa, Mijas pueblo and Benalmadena.
Without a doubt, tourism is the life blood of Fuengirola’s economy. On the surface it is a typical coastal holiday town with around 6kms of superb golden sandy beaches, a paseo and a range of attractions. Yet behind the seafront, you will see a very busy working town with a real Spanish flavour, with a busy working fishing port.
There’s also a lot of history to be seen in the area, such as the famous Sohail Castle dating back to the Moors, the beautiful Nuestra Señora del Rosario Coronada’ church located in the Plaza de la Constitución and the history museum.
What’s it like?
Even though it’s not the most sophisticated destination, Fuengirola is one of the most popular towns on the Costa del Sol for families and children, it has great beaches stretching from Torreblanca to Sohail Castle and good transport links to the rest of the coast. There are almost too many facilities to mention, there are hundreds of restaurants, bars and nightclubs and a choice of accommodation, from budget to 4-stars.
Fuengirola’s busy port offers a range of leisure services including fishing and dolphin charters and a ferry service to the neighbouring town of Benalmadena. Attractions include also a Bioparc (previously known as the zoo) where animals are housed in natural surroundings rather than cages, there are numerous waterparks and a myriad of water sports options. If you fancy seeing a film there is a multiplex in the Miramar centre showing the latest blockbuster in English.
Attractions
Eating and drinking
You may be surprised at the choice of restaurants in Fuengirola catering for all tastes and pockets. If you like a taste of authentic traditional Spanish cooking you’ll be in luck as there are lots of restaurants and tapas bars in the town centre and on the beach front offering typical Spanish food. Or if you fancy something different there are plenty of British, Scandinavian, German, Asian, Italian and North African restaurants to choose from, plus the ubiquitous fast food and burger bars.
Nightlife
Fuengirola is also the place to go if you’re looking for lively nightlife most of which is located around the Puerto Deportivo and promenade. Of course, as this is Spain, most venues don’t start to get busy until after midnight.
Shopping
Shopping opportunities are abundant with a good mix of fashion chains (i.e. Zara and Mango), independent boutiques and designer clothes stores. There is also a branch of the popular Irish department store ‘Dunnes’ where you can pick up typically British home wares, clothes and food items. Many of the shops are located around Plaza de la Constitucion and by the beach. If you want all your shops under one roof, you should head to the Miramar Centre or El Corte Ingles with its enormous food hall.
Sports and outdoor activities
Outdoor activities and keeping fit are a way of life on the Costa del Sol, so you can always find a good gym, whether it’s private or a local authority facility. Golf is also a big deal in Fuengirola, as you are at the heart of what is often referred to as the Costa del Golf, due to the number of courses running the length of the coast. There’s also the option of horse riding at the Rancho el Rengo and of course with so many beaches, there are virtually unlimited opportunities for water sports, jet skiing, speed boating and fishing.
Golf courses in Estepona
- Cerrado del Aguila –18-holes, golf academy, restaurant, 6000 metres
- Mijas Golf International – Robert Trent Jones courses, los lagos & los olivos,
- Golf el Chaparral – Golf academy, restaurant, hair & beauty salon!
- Santana Golf – 18-holes, 138 acres of parkland, clubhouse, bodega, pro shop
- La Noria Golf – 9-holes, clubhouse, practice bunker, putting green
- La Siesta Golf – 9-holes, technical yet fun course, chipping and putting
- Cala Nova Golf – 18-holes, practice course, regular tournaments
- Miraflores Golf – 18-holes, driving range, restaurant, bar,
Beaches
Fuengirola is known for its long stretch of beach which begins at Sohail Castle and runs all the way to Torreblanca, flanked by the elegant Paseo Maritimo Rey de España (promenade). It’s a popular attraction for families, swimmers and water sports enthusiasts alike. You have everything you need for a great day out with a choice of ‘chiringitos’, restaurants, bars and fast food and shops. During the high season you can rent hammocks, sunbeds and parasols.
Facts & Figures
International schools near Fuengirola
St. Anthony’s College – British international – foundation / primary / secondary / sixth
The British College of Benalmadena – British International – kindergarten / nursery / primary / secondary
Transport links
Fuengirola is just 25kms from the city of Malaga. Public transport provides regular bus and rail routes linking the towns and villages on the Costa del Sol.
