THE 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN TORREMOLINOS SPAIN: GUIDE 2025!
THE 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN TORREMOLINOS SPAIN: GUIDE 2025!
THE 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN TORREMOLINOS
What are the 10 best things to do in Torremolinos: Are you planning a trip to the Mediterranean Coast and you want to pick that perfect destination? Then look no further. This post will outline some of the reasons that have convinced millions to visit Torremolinos, Spain, each year. This town on the Costa del Sol has been the choice of Hollywood stars and sports celebrities for years and for good reason. In this post, we will outline the best things to do in Torremolinos and help you plan the best vacation ever.
(To find out more about this regions see our related posts: Costa Del Sol and Guide to the Coast of Spain)
WHAT ARE THE 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN TORREMOLINOS SPAIN?
Soak Up the Sun on La Carihuela Beach
When the tourist industry exploded in the 1950s and 1960s, La Carihuela Beach was one of the most famous beaches on the Costa Del Sol, attracting world superstars of the day such as Frank Sinatra, Grace Kelly, and Ava Gardner. Half of Hollywood made its way to this town during the 50s and 60s to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and soft golden sand in Torremolinos. The beach is still as popular today as it was back then and is a great place to try water sports like jet-skiing or paddleboarding or just relax at one of the beachfront chirinquitos (beach bars).
Stroll Down Calle San Miguel
One of the main things to visit in Torremolinos is the shopping district and in particular the Calle San Miguel (or San Miguel Street). This is the epicenter for shopping in this small town and for many tourists, the main item to check off on their “To Do” list. This narrow street is lined with various shops ranging from high-end world-famous brands down to tiny boutique shops specializing in handmade goods.
The best time to hit this street is in the morning or early afternoon before the masses arrive later in the day (keep in mind that many places close for siesta sometime in the afternoon). And don’t worry, you won’t go hungry. Along this same street, you will find all kinds of cafes, bistros, and restaurants serving up local delicacies and Spanish treats (like the churros con chocolate).
While you are walking around take the time to look up and admire the architecture of the buildings themselves. Calle San Miguel is located in the “Old Town” and many of the buildings are centuries old. Tip: Don’t be afraid to venture off of San Miguel Street to explore some of the side streets, where you’ll find even more shops and cafes and maybe find that perfect gift or handmade pair of sandals or jewelry you were looking for.
Visit the Crocodile Park
Ok, you don’t normally come to the Costa del Sol to look at crocodiles but hear me out. If you’ve never seen one of these 15-foot predators up close, you owe it to yourself to check this out. The Park has over 300 crocodiles (so no waiting) and if you are looking for a good photo op this is it. Especially at feeding time or when the crocodiles are lying in the sun with their mouths wide open. You might have trouble convincing the kids to spend an afternoon birdwatching but let’s see how quickly they load up in the car when you mention the crocodile park.
The park provides a safe environment to observe the crocodiles and to learn about these impressive creatures and their environment. Visiting the crocodile park is a perfect family-friendly outing.
Nightlife at Plaza Costa del Sol
If you are looking to experience the nightlife in Torremolinos then head to Plaza Costa del Sol. In this one spot, close to Calle San Miguel, there are several nightclubs, dance clubs, and bars where you can enjoy some great live music, dance, or have drinks or sip cocktails at some of the coolest rooftop bars around. My Tip: Try the “Skyline Lounge” rooftop bar and try their signature drink, the “Costa Breeze”, a blend of tropical fruits with a hint of mint. If you’re not sure where to go, just wander around the plaza, and you’re sure to find something you like whether it’s jazz, blues, or rock. And if all you want to do is sit back and have a drink, the Plaza Costa Del Sol is a great place for people-watching and to soak in the Costa Del Sol vibe.
Take a Day Trip to Málaga
Malaga is an excellent day trip destination and Torremolinos is only about 10km away. My recommendation is to take a cab or a bus into Malaga and head for the “Old Town”. (check online or with your local hotel to find bus schedules and pick-up points). There are several historical sites, an excellent shopping district (Calle Larios), and museums all within this small part of the city. Here you can check out the Picasso Museum and Picasso’s birthplace (yes, he was born here).
You can also check out the Alcazaba fortress built by the Moors in the 11th century. You will have to climb to the top of the hill where it is located, but from here you get an excellent panoramic view of the city and of the Mediterranean Sea (Make sure to bring your camera). If you get hungry, make your way to the Atarazanas Market which is a food market where you can find a wide assortment of Spanish delicacies.
Tip: try some of the Spanish ham or “jamon iberico” to get an authentic Spanish treat.
(See our related post on Malaga for more information)
Ride the Waves at Aqualand Torremolinos
Aqualand is the largest waterpark in the Costa Del Sol with waterslides, wavepools, and water rides. If you are looking for an adrenalin rush, you may want to try the “Kamikaze” slide with a nearly vertical drop. Or you can take it down a notch and take a leisurely ride down the lazy river. There is even a smaller “Children’s Paradise” or mini-aqualand designed specifically for kids.
Tip: If ever there was a time to have sunscreen with you, this is it. Make sure to bring something that is waterproof, with a high protection rating, and bring enough to last the whole day.
Relax at Parque La Batería
The Parque La Bateria is a beautifully landscaped park right in Torremolinos which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. It was built on the grounds of a former coastal battery where you can still find some artillery guns and 2 underground bunkers. With thousands of trees and an artificial lake, it is a great spot in the middle of town to just relax. You can even rent a boat to go rowing out onto the lake. At the south edge of the park, there is a 15m high watch tower that gives you a great view of the coast and part of the town. There are also several paths and trails that wind through the park where you can go jogging, cycling, or just walking.
Flamenco at Pepe Lopez
Flamenco dancing is one of the most recognizable artistic forms of Spanish culture. In Torremolinos, you can experience authentic gypsy flamenco dancing at Taberna Pepe Lopez, with live performances. These are quite popular so I recommend that you reserve tickets in advance. The 2-hour shows are preceded by a brief introduction to the origin of Flamenco dancing. The shows themselves are performed by a team of 10 dancers who move with such intensity and grace that it’s impossible not to be captivated.
Golf
Torremolinos is a great place to go golfing, with about 19 golf courses in the immediate area of Torremolinos and over 70 in the Costa Del Sol in total. There is a wide range of courses available to suit both amateurs and pros, and with year-round nice weather, you can golf here anytime.
Many of the golf clubs in the area feature excellent facilities, including pro shops, driving ranges, and restaurants where you can unwind after a round.
Water Sports
With beautiful sand beaches and crystal clear calm waters, this is a great place for various water sports or activities. This is a good place for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, windsurfing, kite surfing, parasailing, jet skiing, and sailing. You can rent most equipment (kayaks, paddleboards, etc..), at some of the local shops along the beach and at the marina.
Boat Tours
A great way to spend a few hours is to take a boat tour of the Mediterranean. There are various tours available ranging from less than an hour to the whole day. You can even go Dolphin watching. Check with the local tour operators online or at the marina for prices and schedules.
Many tours also offer opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying a meal or refreshments on board.
Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips
Peak Tourist Season
July and August are the peak travel months in Torremolinos when most regions of Europe have their school breaks. This of course is when the weather is at its hottest and when the Costa Del Sol is at its busiest. The end result is that millions of Europeans end up heading to the coast all at the same time so make sure to plan ahead.
Tip: If you are looking for a less hectic experience, you might want to consider traveling in May/June or in Sept/October. The weather is still exceptionally nice and you can escape the large crowds.
Transportation options
Flying:
The Malaga airport is only 7km away making Torremolinos a convenient place to travel since it’s only a short taxi ride away from the airport.
Driving:
You can reach Torremolinos by using the AP-7 and the A-7 highway.
Train:
There are 5 train stations in Torremolinos.
Accommodations
The main industry in this city is tourism so there is no shortage of hotel accommodations in the area. However, as mentioned above, summer is the busiest time in the area so I recommend that you book well in advance. Your best bet is to check online for available places and book as soon as you can. Check out the link below for places available right now.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Torremolinos is an excellent vacation destination on the Mediterranean coast of Spain. It is the destination of choice for millions of people each year and for good reason. With beautiful golden sand beaches, world-class facilities, a wide selection of entertainment and recreation activities, the Mediterranean climate, and 320 sunny days a year, this town on the Costa Del Sol has it all, making this an excellent vacation destination.
“Don’t Just Dream It! Do it!”
How about experiencing the Mediterranean first hand? Use the map below to inspire you and plan your next Mediterranean vacation right now!
Reg Auge
Reg holds an MBA, is a former Captain in the Canadian military and has worked as a consultant in industry for over 20 years. From his home in Spain, he has spent the last 10 years traveling throughout the Mediterranean, exploring the various countries and regions. He also regularly runs, windsurfs, and kite surfs, maintaining a healthy and active way of life. Captivated by this Mediterranean lifestyle, he began a Blog last year to inspire like-minded souls to learn about and discover this unique region for themselves.
