A lively Costa del Sol town with sandy beaches and a vibrant nightlife. The old quarter has narrow streets, tapas bars, and traditional whitewashed houses.
Torremolinos, a resort town on Spain's Costa del Sol, has grown from a fishing village into a popular holiday spot. You can sunbathe on La Carihuela beach, taste fresh seafood at El Bajondillo, or ride water slides at Aqualand park. Visit the 14th-century Torre de Pimentel watchtower or dance the night away at Plaza La Nogalera. With its mix of beaches, activities, and nightlife, Torremolinos caters to various interests.
Exploring Torremolinos' Beaches
Torremolinos has six main beaches, each with its own character. La Carihuela, the longest beach in town, stretches for over 2 kilometers. As you walk along its wide promenade, you'll see numerous chiringuitos (beach bars) serving cold drinks and fresh seafood. For a calmer atmosphere, visit El Bajondillo beach. Its gentle waters suit swimming and water sports well. A 7-kilometer seafront promenade connects Torremolinos to neighboring Benalmádena, offering a scenic route for walking or jogging.
Cooling Off at Aqualand Water Park
Aqualand, the largest water park on the Costa del Sol, appeals to visitors of all ages. You can slide down twisting tubes, float on lazy rivers, or watch children play in dedicated areas. The park opens from May to October, providing relief from summer heat. For a different experience, you can visit the nearby Crocodile Park to see hundreds of crocodiles and other reptiles.
Tasting Torremolinos' Seafood Specialties
Torremolinos' cuisine reflects its fishing roots. In the old fishing district of El Bajondillo, many restaurants serve the town's signature dish: "pescaíto frito" (fried fish). For an authentic meal, try one of the many chiringuitos along the beach. These open-air restaurants often grill fresh sardines on spits over open fires. Don't miss espeto de sardinas, a local specialty of skewered and grilled sardines. Many restaurants also serve paella, gazpacho, and other Spanish dishes.
Experiencing Torremolinos' Nightlife
When evening comes, Torremolinos' entertainment venues come to life. The town has options for various tastes, from relaxed beach bars to lively nightclubs. Many venues are in Plaza La Nogalera and Calle San Miguel in the town center. For a quieter evening, go to La Carihuela. This former fishing village now has many bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a drink with sea views. Some venues host live music or flamenco shows, adding local culture to your night out.
Discovering Torremolinos' Past
While known for its beaches and nightlife, Torremolinos also has several older structures. The Torre de Pimentel, a 14th-century watchtower, is one of the oldest buildings in town. You can visit Casa de los Navajas to see early 20th-century architecture. This Moorish-style mansion, built in 1925, has detailed tilework and decorated interiors. The Museo de la Ciudad de Torremolinos shows exhibits on local history and culture, covering periods from prehistoric times to the tourism growth of the 1960s. These sites provide context to Torremolinos' long history and quick development.
Shopping in Torremolinos
Calle San Miguel, the main shopping street in Torremolinos, has many stores. You'll find international brands next to local boutiques selling beachwear, souvenirs, and more. The street is car-free, making for easy shopping. For a more traditional experience, visit the weekly market held every Thursday morning. At the market, you can look through stalls selling fresh produce, clothing, and local crafts. It's a good place to find unique souvenirs or try local products.
Day Trips from Torremolinos
Torremolinos' location on the Costa del Sol makes it a good starting point for exploring the region. Málaga, just 12 kilometers away, has several museums including the Picasso Museum and the Centre Pompidou Málaga. To see a traditional Andalusian village, take a day trip to Mijas. This white-washed town in the mountains has views of the coast and offers donkey taxi rides. Other nearby places to visit include the Benalmádena Marina, known for its unusual design, and the Butterfly Park in Benalmádena.
Transportation in and around Torremolinos
Getting around Torremolinos and the surrounding area is relatively easy. The town has a train station with regular connections to Málaga and other coastal towns. Buses run often along the coast and to nearby sites. If you're arriving by air, you can reach Málaga Airport in about 10 minutes by train. Within Torremolinos itself, you can walk to most places. However, if you plan to explore more of the Costa del Sol, you might want to rent a car. Many car rental agencies have offices in Torremolinos and at Málaga Airport.
