Town · Costa del Sol · Málaga province

Fuengirola

A lively, family-friendly Costa del Sol town with a long promenade, a Moorish castle and one of Spain's best zoos.

Why visit Fuengirola

Fuengirola is a busy seaside town with a long promenade, sandy beaches and an international community that keeps it lively all year. It is easy to get around, with the coastal train running straight to Málaga airport, and it has plenty for families. Fuengirola suits families, couples and longer-stay visitors who want convenience and beaches, with Mijas Pueblo just up the hill.

What to see and do in Fuengirola

Bioparc Fuengirola is a zoo designed around natural habitats, with animals from tropical forests in Africa, Asia and Madagascar. At the western end of the promenade, Sohail Castle, a restored Moorish fortress, hosts concerts and festivals in summer. The beaches stretch for several kilometres, with Playa de Fuengirola and Las Gaviotas among the most popular, and there is adventure golf for children. The town's markets and the port area are good for an evening stroll. Mijas Pueblo is 15 minutes away by bus.

A day in Fuengirola

Spend the morning at Bioparc Fuengirola, arriving early when the animals are most active. Have lunch on the seafront, then walk the promenade west to Sohail Castle, where the river meets the sea. Spend the late afternoon on Playa de Fuengirola or Las Gaviotas, then catch the bus up to Mijas Pueblo for dinner with views over the coast, or stay in town for tapas around the Plaza de la Constitución.

Food and local life

Fried fish and espetos dominate the beach restaurants, and the town has plenty of tapas bars and international restaurants. The October Feria del Rosario is a highlight of the year.

Around Fuengirola

Fuengirola is in the Costa del Sol comarca. Mijas Pueblo and the Sierra de Mijas are 15 minutes inland, Benalmádena and Torremolinos are a short train ride east, and Marbella is 25 minutes west along the coast. Málaga city and its museums are about 40 minutes away by the coastal train, so a car is optional for a stay here. Fuengirola's Thursday flea market and the large Tuesday market by the fairground are popular with visitors and residents alike. The town is also a good base for golf, with several courses within 20 minutes. Los Boliches, the old fishing quarter, has its own beach and a relaxed promenade.

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Getting there and around

Fuengirola is in the Costa del Sol comarca, about 25 minutes from Málaga airport by the coastal train, which runs to Málaga city. Buses connect with Marbella and Mijas. The climate is mild year round.