Sun-soaked sands, relaxing resorts and an array of attractions – you’ll find it all on the Costa del Sol. Whether you’re after a restful family retreat or an action-packed adventure with the kids, Spain’s sunshine coast has heaps to offer when it comes to entertaining the little ones. Check out our family guide to this remarkable region, and you can jet off on your jollies without a care in the world!

Baby-friendly Benalmadena

Heading to the Costa del Sol with an infant? Say hello to Benalmadena! This palm-lined paradise offers gloriously golden sands and a bunch of activities to keep the tiny ones entertained.

If you’re looking for a day of firsts, the Sea Life Centre is a great place to start! We’re talking transparent tunnels, an underwater park and thousands of sea creatures. Imagine gazing at giant turtles for the first time – exciting stuff! You’ll even get the chance to hold a crab, touch a starfish and watch shark feeding demonstrations too.

Tick off even more firsts with a trip out to sea to spot dolphins and whales, or catch a cable car to the top of Mount Calamorro for breathtaking views of the coastline. Fancy getting up close to thousands of butterflies? Surround yourself with vivid colours and every species imaginable at the Butterfly Park – a tropical paradise and absolute must-visit with the little ones!

From toddlers to teens – it’s Torremolinos

Torremolinos is a vibrant Spanish hotspot, packed with attractions for all ages. From dazzling beaches to botanical gardens, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to entertaining the family. Take the youngsters to the Crocodile Park for education and fun all in one – they’ll encounter more than 300 reptiles and even get the chance to hold a baby crocodile, if they’re brave enough!

For slightly older kids, Aqualand should be top of the list. Home to the highest waterslide in Europe, this epic waterpark is the largest on the Costa del Sol and promises a fun-filled day out with nerve-testing slides, thrilling rapids and a relaxing whirlpool for those wanting to chill.

If you’re after a more laidback getaway with the gang, it’s champagne sands galore in Torremolinos! Stretching along 7km of Costa del Sol coastline, sandy toes and ocean dips are guaranteed. For even more peace and tranquillity, the Jardin Botanico Molino de Inca awaits. Wander round pristine Japanese gardens, sparkling water fountains and a charming flour mill – make sure you visit the owls in the aviary too.

Nearly adults? Take them to Nerja

The jewel of the Costa del Sol, this quaint coastal town boasts beautiful beaches, riverside walking routes and spectacular sights. With an idyllic climate and a stunning mountainous backdrop, Nerja is definitely one for the Insta grid, so you won’t need to convince the kids that this Spanish stay is not to be missed!

First stop? Cueva de Nerja – a magnificent collection of underground caverns, where you’ll find the world’s oldest Neanderthal cave paintings. Not only that, Cueva de Nerja is also home to the largest column in the world at an impressive 32m – no wonder it’s one of the area’s main attractions. Take a guided tour and prepare to be stunned, but don’t forget the camera!

When you’re not busy exploring the enchanting old town or admiring the view at Balcon de Europa, a peaceful cove awaits. Capistrano Playa is perfect for sunbathing or paddling in the crystal waters, and the best part? You can only access it via a set of stone steps, meaning it’s relatively quiet. A little adventure and an incredible, Insta-worthy backdrop? We can’t think of a better combo!

When the sun goes down, the streets of Nerja come alive with musicians and street performers – so grab a drink at one of the nearby cafés, sit back and enjoy the atmosphere with your family.

Fuengirola for family fun

Seeking a stay to suit all ages? Look no further than Fuengirola! An amazing all-rounder with brilliant beaches and promenade perfection, there’s heaps of fun to be had at this family-friendly resort.

If shopping and feasting are high on the agenda, make a beeline for Centro Comercial Miramar. You’ll find 160 stores, eateries and a cinema, all under one roof – there’s even a kids’ club stuffed with activities, so you’ll have time to indulge in retail therapy while the little ones play.

Blissful beach days on the to-do list? You won’t be short on those – Fuengirola is bursting with sumptuous sands to laze on. Santa Amalia and San Francisco are ideally located, with restaurants, bars and shops nearby, and the bustling Los Boliches is fab for those wanting a splash of excitement – hire a pedalo, canoe or banana boat for a wonderful time on the waves!

For the culture vultures in your crew, Sohail Castle offers sweeping views of the coastline. Plus, Seville, Grenada and Gibraltar are within reach too, if you’re partial to a day trip!

So, are you ready to whisk the family away for a slice of Spanish sunshine? The Costa del Sol is waiting...