Costa Tropical holidays

Get away from it all in Costa Tropical

East of the busy Costa del Sol, holidays to Costa Tropical offer fewer crowds and more charm. With no high rises in sight, this quiet coastline is your ticket to unspoiled beaches, whitewashed villages and authentic Spanish culture. 

Unlike other Spanish holidays, the Costa Tropical is mostly unaffected by mass commercialisation. So you can enjoy lazy lunches of genuine tapas at lower prices. 

It’s also home to a unique microclimate, hence the name. Which is why you’ll see acres of papaya, mango, and avocado. 

Best Things to Do in Costa Tropical

Discover the top attractions and activities on Costa Tropical holidays. This lesser-known Costa retains loads of its heritage and is peppered with archaeological sites, from Roman baths to cave paintings.

With its scenic coastal cliffs, mild weather, and reliable winds, Costa Tropical is also a popular destination for paragliding, sailing, windsurfing, golf and hiking. Whilst its secluded coves are perfect for paddle boarding and scuba diving. 

Cultural and Historical Attractions

• Almuñécar Old Town: Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, explore the ancient San Miguel Castle, and visit the Roman Aqueduct. 
• Salobreña Castle: Atop a whitewashed town, this Moorish fortress offers 360 views over sugar cane fields and the Mediterranean. 
• Nerja Caves: Just outside the Costa Tropical border, these awe-inspiring caves are home to prehistoric paintings and incredible stalactites.

Natural Attractions

• Hiking: Check out Las Alpujarras for mountain trails, whitewashed villages, and epic views from Sierra Nevada’s slopes. Or head to Maro-Cerro Gordo for coastal cliffs and secret coves.
• Parque Botanico El Majuelo: Stroll through tropical plants, Roman ruins, and scenic paths. Plus, catch cool cultural events year-round.
• Scuba diving: La Herradura is a must-visit for divers - swim through sea caves and under dramatic overhangs.

Best beaches in Costa Tropical

• Calahonda Beach: Arguably one of the best in Granada, with an intimate, old-world charm, small fishing boats, rugged cliffs and a great selection of local tapas bars.
• Playa de La Herradura: A serene, crescent-shaped bay, ideal for families and watersports enthusiasts. You can snorkel, kayak and windsurf, or stroll along the promenade.
• Walk from Playa del Cañuelo to Cantarriján and you’ll come across many secluded coves and wild beaches. You can also hop on a bus back from either spot. Also note: The hip and trendy Cantarriján is a nudist beach.

Shopping in Costa Tropical
Markets are an integral part of Spanish culture. In Costa Tropical, you’ll find hand-woven rugs, handmade guitars, pottery, and fine silks.

• Frigiliana Market: Every Thursday from 8am to 2pm, this local market in Plaza de las Tres Culturas, buzzes with life. Shop for tasty local cheeses, honey, and handmade crafts.
• Nerja Flea Market: A great place to find vintage treasures, artisan goods, and locally made ceramics.
• Craft Market of Salobreña: Open Thursday to Saturday during the summer, next to El Peñón de Salobreña.

What & Where to Eat and Drink in Costa Tropical

Costa Tropical’s food scene might not be Michelin-starred, but it makes up for it with authentic, local eateries, serving up fresh Mediterranean seafood.

• Fried fish: Fried squid and cuttlefish are a coastal classic at the tapas bars here. 
• Tropical Fruits: Known for its subtropical climate, Costa Tropical is also famous for its mangoes, avocados, and papayas.

Top Dining Spots

• Chiringuitos: No trip to Costa Tropical is complete without a meal at a beachside chiringuito. Enjoy fresh fish and seafood with a view.
• El Peñon, Salobreña: This beachfront restaurant pairs local seafood dishes with stunning views of Salobreña Castle.

Nightlife in Costa Tropical

Costa Tropical’s nightlife scene is laid-back but lively, offering a mix of beachfront bars, local taverns, and cultural events.

• Plaza Kelibia: This square in Alumunecar’s old town is lined with bars staying open until the early hours.
• La Herradura Bars: Sip cocktails at one of the local beach bars, with some venues offering live music and DJ sets in the summer.
• Cultural Events: Throughout the summer, Costa Tropical hosts open-air concerts, and festivals celebrating local music and dance. Don’t miss the Flamenco Festival in La Herradura. 

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations including: Benalmadena | Fuengirola | Marbella | Nerja | Torremolinos