Costa del Sol offers less "organised entertainment" opportunities than many other parts of Europe. However, the region provides its own entertainment: 600 kilometres of sandy beaches, huge, unspoiled natural areas and the simple pleasures of eating and drinking on sidewalk cafés or on the beach, or just watching the world go by.

Throughout the Costa del Sol, there are some great venues for a night out, ranging from a classy restaurant with views of the Med to a boisterous karaoke bar. Casinos, clubs, 'chiringuitos', English pubs, Spanish bars, discos, flamenco shows and more... The following list is obviously far from comprehensive but comprises a few of our personal favourite 'hot spots'! Málaga is the Costa del Sol capital, where you can appreciate life lived on the streets with more bars per square metre than anywhere else in Europe. Torremolinos and Benalmádena as tourist centres have a thriving nightlife...

For swankier surrounds head for Marbella's Golden Mile, illuminated with a glittering tiara of star-studded restaurants, discos and night clubs, frequented by local boy Banderas whenever he's in town. Estepona remains less influenced by tourists, and its Puerto Deportivo makes a great night out.

The sunbathing on beaches generally becomes popular from late May until late September. This is when the Chiringuitos (beach bars) start to open. The sun beds are set out and the paddle rafts and jet skis are prepared for the season. There is a noticeable increase in beach popularity during the school holidays and especially in July and August when many residents from Madrid and other cities in Spain arrive on the coast for their annual holiday.

During the winter season the beaches are enjoyed mainly by walkers, joggers and fishermen. Sunbathing is sometimes possible in the winter months as well. On one of the frequent blue sky and non-windy days it will be warm enough to sunbathe and you will have the beach to yourself. Of course, in the most popular resorts like Torremolinos you won't be alone.

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