FUENGIROLA
INFO & HISTORY
The origins of Fuengirola date back to Mediterranean civilizations such as Phoenician and Roman, which were established on the slopes of the hill where today stands the Arab castle “Sohail".Possessing a long tourist tradition, this town in the province of Málaga has a wide range of services and infrastructure, which includes golf courses, riding centres, leisure parks, hotel complexes and restaurants, not forgetting a significant calendar of cultural events. Along with it, Fuengirola has managed to preserve a great many remains left behind by the peoples who inhabited the city in ancient times, such as the Roman baths and villa or the Arab castle of Sohail. Any one of its many restaurants and pavement cafés provides the opportunity to sample the local cuisine, whose star product is fish.
Fuengirola sits on a narrow strip of coastline covering 8 kilometres which has a succession of some of the best beaches on the Costa del Sol and well-cared for stretches of sand backed by a long and busy promenade where you'll find residential complexes, hotels, restaurants and other services so you can enjoy the sun and sea in comfort.Fuengirola is best known for being a bustling and lively town, particularly in the summer months when the blend of extra tourists and second homeowners leave the area bursting at the seams. Before it attracted tourists, Fuengirola was a quiet fishing village and it still retains much of this original charm. The main square, Plaza de la Constitución, has been re-designed but has a traditional Andalusian feel.
Fuengirola, located on the western side of Costa del Sol, enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters. Summers are characterized by long, sunny days with temperatures often reaching 30-35°C (86-95°F), perfect for enjoying the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. Winters are mild with average temperatures ranging from 10-18°C (50-64°F), making it a pleasant time to explore the region.
Fuengirola and the entire Costa del Sol are serviced by modern highways, both toll and public, like the AP-7 and the scenic N-340 that follows the coastline. These will take you anywhere you want to go, surrounded by stunning mountains and Mediterranean scenery. Málaga-Costa del Sol International Airport (AGP) is less than 25 kilometers (just over 15 miles) east of Benalmadena, about 20 minutes by car. The Gibraltar International Airport (GIB) is around 105 kilometers (65 miles) west of Fuengirola, about 1 hour and 10 minutes by car. Each airport is convenient for travel to and from the US, UK, and Europe, as well as for local hops within Spain.
Here are some fun things to do when you are in Fuengirola:
1. Enjoy a day at the beach: Relax on the beautiful shores of Fuengirola and soak up the sun, swim in the clear waters, and indulge in beach activities.
2. Visit Sohail Castle: Explore this medieval fortress that offers breathtaking views of the coastline and hosts various cultural events throughout the year.
3. Stroll along the Paseo Maritimo: Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, offering scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
4. Shop at the Fuengirola Market: Discover local produce, crafts, and souvenirs at the weekly market, held every Tuesday at the fairground.
5. Discover the Roman Ruins of Finca del Secretario: Visit this archaeological site to see ancient Roman remains, including a bathhouse, villa, and fish salting factory.
6. Take a boat trip: Enjoy a relaxing boat tour along the coast, offering beautiful views, the chance to spot dolphins, and snorkeling opportunities.
7. Enjoy local cuisine: Indulge in traditional Spanish and Andalusian dishes at the many restaurants and tapas bars scattered throughout Fuengirola.These activities offer a diverse range of experiences, allowing you to explore the town's history, nature, entertainment, and cuisine.
8. Tee off at Santana Golf: Play a round of golf at Santana Golf, a renowned course in Fuengirola. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside, the well-maintained fairways, and challenging holes that cater to golfers of all skill levels.
9. Take a leisurely bike ride along the Fuengirola Promenade: Rent a bicycle and cruise along the picturesque Paseo Maritimo. Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze, soak in the beautiful coastal views, and stop by beachside cafes or bars for a quick break or refreshments.These activities offer a chance to delve into history, enjoy outdoor activities, and appreciate the stunning coastal scenery that Fuengirola has to offer.
10. Enjoy a dinner with a view at Restaurante Sollo: Treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at Restaurante Sollo, located in Fuengirola. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative cuisine crafted by acclaimed chef Diego Gallegos, known for his focus on sustainable seafood. Enjoy delicious dishes while taking in panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, creating a perfect setting for a romantic or special evening.This dinner with a view will not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide a stunning backdrop, making it a memorable culinary experience in Fuengirola.FOR KIDS
Fuengirola is a good town for families and it offers a diverse selection of child-friendly attractions, and not all of them have to cost a lot of money. Here are our top 10 picks for you and your kids:
See the Animals at Bioparc Fuengirola
One of the great kid friendly things to do is to stop by the Bioparc Fuengirola which is a small but pleasant zoo not too far away from the city center in coastal Fuengirola. Kids of all ages and animal lovers will have a great time here so make some time to pay a visit if you can. Some of the animals that live here include several species of birds, reptiles like kimono dragons and mammals including red pandas, monkeys and pygmy hippopotamus. It can get busy here; if you want to make sure the whole family can tickets you should try to book in advance.
Cooking Classes!
Cooking Workshops for kids and adults can be found at Obrador Dulce & Salado Catering Cati Schiff - the Sweet & Savory Kitchen and Catering Company of Cati Schiff. You'll love their amazing gourmet boutique in Fuengirola.Summer camp for children and adolescents "Tour of World Cuisines", perfect for children from 6 years of age and up. Adolescents from 11 years and up.
Playground over water!
CostaWaterPark offers aquatic waterparks with the latest in design and technology. Afloat on the sea a few yards from the best beaches on the Costa del Sol you will find CostaWaterPark, with a great variety of attractions for the whole family. Guaranteed FUN for all ages! You can pay for 1 hour or buy a ticket for the whole day.
Sould Amusement Park
Sould Park is located by the entrance to the Fuengirola Marina, and you can’t miss it – they have a big flashy sign towering over it and usually fairly loud music coming from there. Don’t expect anything big, it’s a small park in the middle of the city but offers plenty of entertainment for kids of all ages – they have rides for smaller and bigger kids, trampolines, a section with games and pinball machines and plenty more.
A Trip to Sohail Castle
Plan an adventure and take the kids to see the Sohail Castle!The castle was built as part of the city defense system in AD 956. While much of it is long gone, the core structure with the large courtyard still remains and since the year 2000, it serves its duty as one of the main attractions in the city.
Family Bike Ride
How about exploring the city on a bike? Fuengirola has a decent network of biking routes that go along the full length of the main coastal road (Paseo Maritimo) and also alongside the train tracks in the city.You can easily get as far as Benalmadena without much of a physical effort (apart from one hill climb just after Fuengirola). There are a few places in Fuengirola where you can rent a bike for a ride around the city – these usually also offer bikes with seats for kids.
Go Karting in Miramar Shopping Center
On top of the Miramar Shopping Center, you will find a small Go Karting place. It’s the perfect escape for older kids and adults alike – still on my list of places to visit in person!They have a small outdoor seating area with a cafe and a bar.
Get wet at AquaMijas
AquaMijas is a must visit and one of the most thrilling activities in Fuengirola. With multiple water slides, pools, wave pools, and jacuzzis for all ages, you will not get bored. A favorite among the young ones is Lizard Island which is filled with fun and water games.This is a great break from the beach and they have several food stalls with different kinds of food and snack so you won’t go hungry!
Water Sports with Jet Water Sports
They offer the most fun for those looking for an adrenaline rush; parasailing, jet ski, fly board hoverboard, jobe waterski, waterboard, kneeboard, bladefish… You can find them at Puerto Deportivo Fuengirola, where their operations center is located.
Holiday World Resort’s Day Pass
Never have the leisure options on the Costa del Sol included a place as versatile and complete as Holiday Beach Club. This is much more than a water park, solarium or beach club. Here, everything has been carefully considered for all kinds of guests. Whatever your age or preferences, you'll always find the most suitable option for a perfect holiday here.A Beach Club with 9 pools, slides with rubber rings, a wave pool, entertainment... to make every moment an adventure. More than 30,000 square metres where children can have fun with their parents. A good place to chill for the day.
Fuengirola is facing the Mediterranean with its 8 km of beaches that are integrated into the town centre. It has the distinction of Blue Flags and Q of Spanish Tourist Quality (ICTE) in all the beaches, for the magnificent maintenance and quality of its waters and sands.Its exceptional seafront opens up to the sea like an immense balcony, with a wide range of hotels with 12,000 beds. Located between Málaga and Marbella, Fuengirola is a key destination within the ‘Costa del Golf’ – the Costa del Sol – because of the abundance of beautiful courses around the area. In Fuengirola the practice of all types of sports is guaranteed, with the two covered heated pools, one of them olympic sized, the three football pitches, two sports resorts, equestrian tennis and padlle-tennis centres, as also the numerous gyms in town. Water sports are strongly featured in this coastal resort. Where better to get to grips with speed boats, jet skis, parasailing than at the cool Marina.
Fuengirola and Benalmadena are popular destinations for expats looking to move to Spain, and both of the resort towns are very similar, which is why so many people struggle to choose between the two. When pitting Fuengirola versus Benalmadena, therefore, it’s important to keep your own preferences in mind. If being close to a beach is important to you, for example, then Fuengirola might be the better option thanks to its vast expanse of well-serviced sand and the amenities that surround it. Whilst Benalmadena also boasts a stunning coastline, this isn’t the focus of life in the resort in the same way. Both are pretty crowded cities, specially during the summer so if tranquility is more your style, then look into Estepona which is a clear contender right at the beach. Of the 82,800 people who live year-round or most of the year in Fuengirola, a total of 30,621, or 37.44%, are non-Spanish. At least 142 different nationalities live together harmoniously, blending together and mixing with the local community.
Here are the main reasons why you should retire in Spain:
- Spain is a very safe place to live in. The crime rate is low and you can walk through the streets safely any time of the day or night.
- The Spanish are known for being very healthy, thanks to their Mediterranean diet and outdoor lifestyle. Spain is ranked the healthiest country in the World. Spain also has one of the highest life expectancy in the World.
- Spain has great healthcare and you’re rarely more than 15 minutes away from a hospital or clinic. The healthcare system is in the top 10 around the World, above the healthcare systems of Italy, France, Greece, Germany, the UK and Portugal.
- Living up to its name, Costa del Sol is actually the sunniest area in Spain, with shining rays beating down on the region for almost the entire year. South of Spain has the warmest winters in Europe and over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and up to 15 hours of light in a day.
- Spanish culture is very relaxed and hassle-free.
- Spain has a secure banking system and dependable infrastructure. With 3,100km of rail track the Spanish high-speed AVE trains operate on the longest high-speed network in Europe.
- Spain has a large expat community in Costa Del Sol.
- Once you've the visa to live in Spain or your permanent residency, you can easily travel within the Schengen area.Spain is located on the west side of Europe, making traveling to the American continent fast and efficiant. A flight from Spain to New York is barely 8 hours.
- Fuengirola is an awesome spot to retire, offering a laid-back beach paradise with plenty of perks. Picture yourself strolling along pristine sandy beaches, chilling on palm-lined promenades, and soaking up the sun in a vibrant harbor. The town has top-notch healthcare facilities, so you can relax knowing you're taken care of. Fuengirola's got it all - cool art galleries, music festivals, and lively Spanish fiestas to keep you entertained. Hungry? You'll find a smorgasbord of delicious dining options serving up local and international flavors. And with excellent transportation links, you can easily explore the rest of the Costa del Sol. The expat community is tight-knit, making it easy to meet like-minded folks and join fun clubs and activities. Fuengirola has that perfect mix of beachy bliss, lively vibes, and friendly faces, making it an awesome place to retire and enjoy the good life.
Fuengirola has plenty to offer shoppers both in the old town and outside.In the old town centre, around the main square Plaza de la Constitucion, there are many designer clothes shops, interesting small boutiques. Choose from one of the many high street shops such as Zara, Benetton, Pull & Bear. There are also more exclusive Spanish boutiques, such as the up-market Don Miguel opposite the church in the square.
The larger hypermarkets and shopping centres are Euromarket and Hyper Andalucia or Dunnes Stores. These have now been dwarfed by the massive indoor shopping centre called the Miramar Centre (Centro Comercial Miramar). The main supermarkets are Cayetano (Euromarket) and Supersol and Mercadona are both near the train station and the main municipal fruit, vegetable, meat and fish market is right opposite the train station. There are other supermarkets and mini-markets also as well as the more economical chain, Lidl. There are OpenCor food stores, some of which are open until 23:00.
The weekly market is at the Fuengirola fair grounds on Tuesdays and Saturdays and are hard to miss. It covers most of the huge fair ground area and is one of the biggest markets of its kind in Spain. It is quite an Aladdin's cave for bargains and is well worth a look around. From new and second-hand clothes, furniture, antiques, novelties, to leather goods, souvenirs and bric-a-brac and much more, this market has it all. There is another market on Sundays around the landmark Piramides Hotel. This is a fun market, selling all the usual things, including pottery, handbags, clothes, gadgets and much more. It used to be held at the port area of Fuengirola, but has been moved to allow for more space and freedom of movement. There are bars and restaurants open nearby.
The average cost of living per person in Estepona is $1238 per person. That is 14% cheaper than Madrid, 17% cheaper than Barcelona, 41% cheaper than Paris, 43% cheaper than Amsterdam, 45% cheaper than Dallas, 55% cheaper than Miami, 57% cheaper than Los Angeles, 55% cheaper than London and a whopping 65% cheaper than New York. It 6% cheaper than its more expensive neighbor Marbella and 10% more expensive than the capital, Malaga and 13% more expensive than the popular Estepona.
TOP BEACHES
PLAYA LOS boliches
Playa Los Boliches is a stunning beach located with golden sands and clear blue waters, the beach offers a picturesque setting to relax the day away. The beach is well-maintained and equipped with various amenities, including sun loungers, parasols, and beachside restaurants. Visitors can engage in a range of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports. Playa Los Boliches also enjoys a lively atmosphere with a promenade lined with shops, cafes, and bars, ensuring a delightful beach experience for both locals and tourists in Fuengirola.
PLAYA torreblanca
Playa Torreblanca is another beautiful beach in the charming coastal town of Fuengirola. Known for its pristine sandy shore and crystal-clear waters, it offers a serene and inviting setting for beach lovers. The beach has amenities like sun loungers, umbrellas, and beachside cafes, providing convenience and comfort to visitors. With its calm atmosphere and stunning views, Playa Torreblanca is a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely walks along the shoreline. This beach in Fuengirola is a delightful destination for a day by the sea.
PLAYA el ejido
Playa El Ejido is a tranquil beach with soft golden sands and clear waters, it provides a serene escape for beachgoers seeking a peaceful atmosphere. The beach is well-maintained and offers amenities such as sun loungers and parasols. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the shore, sunbathe, or take a refreshing dip in the sea. Playa El Ejido's laid-back ambiance and scenic beauty make it an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet and relaxing beach experience in Fuengirola.
TOP RESTAURANTS
el higueron
Restaurante El Higuerón is a renowned dining establishment, revered for its culinary excellence that offers a sophisticated dining experience, with a focus on Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine. Guests can indulge in a wide variety of dishes prepared with fresh and high-quality ingredients. With its elegant decor, attentive service, and panoramic views of the surroundings, Restaurante El Higuerón creates a memorable dining atmosphere. Whether for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, this restaurant is a popular choice for those seeking a refined culinary experience in Fuengirola.
teppanyaki kazuki
Teppanyaki Kazuki is a renowned Japanese restaurant where they specialize in the art of teppanyaki- a style of Japanese cuisine that involves cooking on an iron griddle right in front of guests. At Teppanyaki Kazuki, skilled chefs perform captivating culinary displays while preparing dishes like grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables. The restaurant offers an immersive dining experience where guests can enjoy delicious food, interactive cooking, and a lively atmosphere. With its authentic flavors and entertaining cooking techniques, Teppanyaki Kazuki is a popular destination for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts.
arte y cocina
Arte y Cocina is a unique concept, not to be missed, in Fuengirola. Combining art and cuisine, the restaurant offers a captivating experience for visitors. It showcases an artistic ambiance with rotating exhibitions of local artwork, creating a visually stimulating setting. The culinary offerings at Arte y Cocina focus on innovative and creative dishes, blending flavors and presentation. With its fusion of art and gastronomy, this restaurant provides a memorable and culturally enriching dining experience for those seeking a unique culinary journey in Fuengirola.
TOP BEACH CLUBS
beach club higueron
The Club at the Beach Club Higueron is a luxury resort to enjoy a beachfront experience with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The Club provides access to a range of world-class amenities, including swimming pools, a spa, fitness facilities, and gourmet dining options. Guests can indulge in relaxation and leisure activities while enjoying the vibrant coastal surroundings. With its exceptional services and elegant atmosphere, The Club at the Beach Club Higueron offers a memorable retreat for those seeking a sophisticated beach getaway.
unico beach club
Created with a vision for an intimate Beach Club, Único Beach Club opened its doors in 2019 in the nearby town of Mijas. This beach club quickly gained popularity for its stylish and trendy design, chic ambiance, elegant sunbeds, and vibrant atmosphere, where you can enjoy a carefully crafted, cool cocktail at poolside. They offer a top notch gastronomy experience at its restaurant, where they serve delicious food and refreshing cocktails. It is also a hot spot for private events such as birthdays, parties, and weddings.
LA FAMILIA BEACH CLUB
Familia Beach Club is a popular beachfront destination in Mijas Costa that offers a vibrant and family-friendly atmosphere with a range of amenities. Visitors can enjoy direct access to the beach, sun loungers, and umbrellas for relaxation. The club also features a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, providing a delightful dining experience with a diverse menu. Familia Beach Club is known for its friendly staff, lively ambiance, and beautiful coastal views, making it a favored spot for locals and tourists alike.
TOP CHIRINGUITOS
chiringuito otola
Chiringuito Otola is a charming beachfront chiringuito with a relaxed and casual setting for visitors to enjoy a traditional beach bar experience. Guests can savor delicious seafood, tapas, and refreshing drinks while soaking up the sun and enjoying the panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. With its laid-back atmosphere, friendly service, and beachfront location, Chiringuito Otola is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of authentic coastal cuisine in Fuengirola.
la cubana
Another chiringuito to experience in town is Chiringuito La Cubana, where you can sip on a cocktail while you snack and relax in the vibrant and festive atmosphere. Guests can savor a diverse range of Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine, including fresh seafood and grilled meats. With its open-air terrace and beach loungers, visitors can relax while relishing their meals and taking in the scenic views of the sea. It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its energetic ambiance, delectable food, and prime beachfront location in Fuengirola.
chiringuito oasis
Another crowd favorite is Chiringuito Oasis, with it relaxed and inviting vibe, visitors flock here for a memorable beachside dining experience. The chiringuito serves a delectable array of traditional Spanish dishes, including fresh seafood, paella, and tapas, accompanied by refreshing drinks. Guests can unwind in the laid-back ambiance while enjoying picturesque views of the beach and sea. With its friendly service, delicious cuisine, and beachfront location, Chiringuito Oasis is a popular choice for locals and tourists alike in Fuengirola.
TOP COFFEE SHOPS
mascabo coffee
Mascabo Coffee is a beloved coffee shop nestled in Fuengirola. Known for its exceptional coffee, Mascabo offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere for caffeine lovers. Their coffee beans are sourced from around the world and carefully roasted to perfection, resulting in rich and aromatic brews. From classic espresso-based drinks to specialty creations, Mascabo provides a delightful range of options to satisfy different preferences. The friendly staff and charming setting make Mascabo Coffee a go-to spot for coffee enthusiasts seeking a quality and enjoyable coffee experience in Fuengirola
mola coffee
Mola Coffee is a popular café with a vibrant and cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. The café is known for its high-quality, aromatic coffee beans sourced from various regions. They also serve a variety of pastries and light snacks to accompany your beverage. With its friendly staff and inviting ambiance, Mola Coffee has become a go-to destination for coffee lovers in Fuengirola.
HĒ CHÁ BUBBLE TEA
Hē Chá Bubble Tea is a well-known bubble tea shop, where they specialize in serving a wide range of delicious and refreshing bubble tea flavors. Their menu offers a variety of tea-based drinks, including both classic and innovative options, accompanied by chewy tapioca pearls. Hē Chá Bubble Tea has gained popularity for its quality beverages, attentive customer service, and cozy atmosphere. It has become a favorite destination for bubble tea enthusiasts and a must-visit spot for those seeking a delightful and unique beverage experience.
TOP HEALTHY / VEGAN
PASAPALO
Pasapalo is a health-conscious and vegan restaurant situated in Fuengirola. With a focus on nourishing and plant-based cuisine, it offers a diverse menu of delicious and wholesome dishes. Pasapalo caters to individuals seeking healthy dining options, with a variety of vegan, gluten-free, and organic choices. The restaurant is dedicated to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create flavorful meals that are both satisfying and nutritionally balanced. Whether you're a vegan or simply looking for a nutritious meal, Pasapalo provides a welcoming environment for enjoying wholesome food in Fuengirola.
MELLIS
With an upbeat and welcoming atmosphere, Mellis is a popular vegan restaurant located in Fuengirola, known for its healthy and delicious plant-based cuisine.The menu is diverse and filled with nutritious and flavorful options. From fresh salads and nourishing bowls to creatively prepared vegan burgers and desserts, their dishes cater to a variety of dietary preferences. Mellis focuses on using locally sourced, organic ingredients, ensuring high-quality meals. Whether you're a vegan or simply looking for a healthy dining experience, Mellis in Fuengirola is a fantastic choice.
LA libelula
La Libélula is a renowned vegan restaurant that specializes in healthy, plant-based cuisine, catering to both vegans and health-conscious individuals. La Libélula offers a diverse menu featuring a wide range of flavorful dishes made from locally sourced and organic ingredients. From nourishing salads and hearty bowls to innovative vegan creations, their menu is designed to delight the taste buds while promoting a healthy lifestyle. With its warm ambiance and dedication to sustainable dining, La Libélula is a must-visit destination for vegan food enthusiasts in Fuengirola.
TOP BARS
panda cocktails
Panda Bar is a relatively new bar located in the old town of Fuengirola. It is a chic bar that serves amazing cocktail and has quickly come to be known for its creative and expertly crafted cocktails, served in a vibrant and energetic atmosphere for cocktail enthusiasts. The bar has a beautifully designed courtyard lined with palm trees, which adds to its stylish ambiance. This bar is a hidden gem and is worth a visit, given the unique experience and diverse range of libations, you will enjoy a night out here.
Utopia lounge
Utopia Lounge & Bar in Fuengirola is a cozy lounge bar with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, where you will enjoy a wide selection of drinks, including craft beers, wines, and classic cocktails, accompanied by live music and a friendly ambiance. The menu includes tapas and other small plates, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to wine and dine all evening long.
speakeasy jazz club
This is a live music venue in Fuengirola that offers a unique experience reminiscent of the prohibition era in the United States. This hidden gem is known for its live jazz music and cocktails, making it a great spot for a night out, especially if you love jazz music. The club features local musicians, songwriters, folklorists, and experimentalists who come together to create beautiful music and art forms. The club is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it has been well received for its diverse crowd, superb food, and cocktail menu.
WAIKOOL HOMES