 One example of this is the glamorous harbour setting of Puerto Banús, just outside of Marbella. Some argue that Puerto Banús is Spain’s most luxurious coastal resort and given the number of upmarket apartments, expensive sports cars and yachts that dominate surroundings, you can see why. Puerto Banús makes for a great place to simply go on a relaxing stroll by the seafront. Activities in the area include shopping and a casino. There is also the popular Puerto Banús street market, which takes place every Saturday.
Although Marbella is a popular spot for holidaymakers from around Europe, there are still districts reflective of a time before tourism. The Old Town is partially surrounded by the ruins of an old Arab wall that now gives way to old churches, squares and whitewashed walls. In the centre you will find Orange Square, which dates back to the 14th century and is in possession of three historical buildings of that period – the Town Hall, the Chapel of Santiago and the governor’s house.
There are also a handful of fashion boutiques on hand, including Gucci and Prada. However, Marbella’s Old Town offers other ways to relax, such as the tennis courts at Puente Romano and the floodlit golf course at Dama de Noche. To take it even easier; why not let yourself unwind in one of the many spas available in the area?
Just 8 miles east of Marbella is the ‘hidden jewel’ of the Costa del Sol, Cabopino. Compared to the many populated locations on the coast, Cabopino offers a more relaxed alternative to built up resorts such as Torremolinos, with strict controls in operation over construction in the area. The well maintained, clean beaches are all family-friendly, with lifeguards on duty throughout the summer season. Cabopino also boasts a wide range of fine restaurants offering local cuisine, both local and from all over the world, with many lying in view of the beautiful seafront.
 A little further east along the coast you will find Fuengirola and Los Boliches. Again, like Puerto Banús, these small towns offer luxurious hotels and apartments. However there is a little more here for travellers pursuing a more lively setting, as both boast a number of bars and restaurants along the seafront. For sightseers; the recently renovated Sohail Castle overlooks Fuengirola and, in the summer months, hosts opera, rock concerts and local productions.
From Fuengirola, a rewarding detour north off the coastal road will lead you to the beautiful hillside village of Mijas. The village is the very essence of rural Andalucia, with its whitewashed houses and winding cobbled streets offering the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of holidaying on the Costa del Sol. Mijas offers the perfect opportunity to do some shopping, with a number of tourist shops selling locally produced wines, foods and crafts. Mijas becomes even more alluring by night, with the town coming to life thanks to the late opening of the shops and the number of quaint restaurants on hand. Although a relatively small Andalucian settlement, the village hosts a number of excellent Spanish festivals throughout the year (see below).
Rejoining the coastal road, Benalmadena will greet you next and is well worth the visit. The town has more than 8km of well  maintained beaches, which incorporate beautiful hidden coves away from the crowds. From the picturesque setting of the marina, you are able to walk along the promenade as far as the large resort of Torremolinos, which takes you past many bars and restaurants as well as scene setting ancient Moorish watchtowers.
Above the coast sits Benalmadena Pueblo, which offers another side to this versatile settlement. This attractive old Spanish village is characterised by whitewashed houses and cobbled streets and offers even more eating options, with cuisine from around the world available.
Benalmadena is an attractive option if travelling with children too. The Tivoli World amusement park in nearby Arroyo de la Miel has live entertainment and is also close to the Selwo Marina Dolphinarium and Sealife Centre, which boasts Europe’s largest collection of sharks. For those in search of an active holiday, there are also water-sports opportunities at the yacht club and excellent golf courses available in the locality.
Almost neighbouring Benalmadena is the famous package holiday destination of Torremolinos. The town is always bustling with holidaymakers from around Europe and is plentiful of shopping opportunities. However, if crowds and packed beaches aren’t your thing, the quaint village of La Carihuela is just minutes away and is famous locally for its celebrated sea food restaurants that sit along the quiet and tranquil promenade. Join the locals for an evening stroll along the promenade and then take the time to sample some of the freshly caught local seafood - delicious!
 The final destination along this wonderful stretch of Andalucian coastline is the city of Malaga. To honour its most famous son – Pablo Picasso, a museum was opened in his honour in 2003 and is one of many new attractions to be opened in conjunction with the mass restoration and renovation that has taken place in the city in the last few years. The beautiful 15th century Malaga Cathedral, with its carefully crafted ornate carvings is a must see, whilst the main shopping street at Calle Larios is also awash with a number of fine shops and restaurants. The Cervantes Theatre offers the perfect way to unwind by taking in the opera or a play (see listings), or you may prefer to relax in Malaga’s famous Arab Baths, which are in close proximity of the Picasso Museum.
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