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[C1114]Costa Del Sol Attractions

by Gaizka Pujana, Gai

It was formerly made up of a series of quiet and small fishing settlements, but the region has now been completely transformed. During the late twentieth century Costa Del Sol changed into a world-renowned tourist destination, with a almost continuous collection of high-rise settlements, skyscrapers and holiday accommodation resorts along the whole coastline.

Today, the area is heavily urbanized, with densely packed buildings running all along most of the coastline. You can expect a mixture of architectural styles, from low-rise, whitewashed villas to grand developments of high-rise apartment blocks that are very concentrated in the tourist holiday rental resorts. While most of the single dwellings and holiday accommodation villas are planned and built in the local Costa Del Sol Andalusian style, the purpose-built multi-dwelling and touristy blocks dont seem to have been built harmony with area.

Historically the Costa Del Sol population lived in the fishing villages, and the "white" villages inland. The area was soon discovered in the fifties and developed to live up to the high demands of international tourism soon afterward. Since then, it has been an extremely popular destination for tourists looking for beach fun and local atmosphere.

If you are looking for a family friendly beach with many hotel accommodation possibilities, Playa Del Cristo is the place to go. It is close to the coastal town of Estepona, and the fact that it faces west means you will benefit from many more hours of sunshine. Playa Del Cristo has 2 beach bars, beach showers, as well as a Red Cross post. You will be able to hire pedal boats at the beach and you can safely leave your car in the accompanied car park. You will be within walking distance of Estepona's town centre and marina, which are also well worth exploring.

The beach Calahonda Beach is also an extremely popular location to book holiday accommodation at, and is ideal for families. It is based near Calahonda, about 10 minutes' drive from the town of Marbella. You can rent a sun bed and parasol to relax in the sun in style. If you are feeling more adventurous, however, you can also try fishing or scuba diving

Mistral Beach is more popular with the younger crowd, sporting several beach clubs and great restaurants for those ready for a little fun after a day at the beach. If you fancy something a little more active, you can also enjoy a range of water sports including jet skiing and water skiing here.

Costa del Sol has an extremely wide offer of hotels and holiday apartments, ranging from rustic to extreme modern design. Make sure that you read up on your area of choice and research hotel or holiday apartment details before booking your room.

ADVENTURE THEME PARKS
Isla Magica is an exciting and modern amusement park located in Seville. It is divided into seven themed areas centred on a lake, each representing a different episode in Spanish 16th century history. The seven areas are Port of the Indies, Amazonia, Pirates Cove, Gate to the Americas, Fountain of Youth, Eldorado and the Fury of the Gods.

Tivoli World in Benalmadena is one of the best amusement parks you will find in Spain. There are a host of attractions including an amusement park, funfair rides, water flume, wild-west theme town, open-air theatre and a mock Spanish plaza offering a host of shows overlooked with cafes and restaurants.

DOLPHIN WATCHING IN GIBRALTAR
Fantastic opportunity for photographing and getting close to up to 3 different species of dolphin, 7 species of whale, turtles and flying fish, while enjoying a cruise around the spectacular bay of Gibraltar. Gibraltar itself is a great place to visit and less than a 2 hour drive from Malaga International Airport.

MINI HOLLYWOOD
The desert hills of Almeria were the location for many of the famous Spaghetti Westerns such as A Fistful of Dollars and A Few Dollars More. It is now where you will find the Mini Hollywood near Tabernas on the A370. A full-blooded Western Theme Park with realistic sets, saloons and staged gunfights throughout the day.

NERJA CAVES
Discovered in 1959, the Caves of Nerja have become one of the most visited attractions in Andalucia and each summer hosts the spectacular Festival of Music and Dance. They are truly worth a visit to see nature's creation of the great hall with magnificent limestone designs, the centrepiece of many theatre productions.

RACE COURSE AT MIJAS HIPODROME
The Mijas Hipodromo on the Costa del Sol was the first racecourse to open in Spain for 25 years. There are two concentric tracks, floodlighting for nighttime racing, a grandstand for 5,000 spectators and trackside seating for a further 5,000 people. Knowing that many horse ridings are also dog lovers, there is a dog hotel available where you can leave your pets.

SCUBA DIVING
There are several scuba diving and PADI dive centres near Nerja on the Costa del Sol and Costa Tropical in southern Spain. There are PADI dive programs for all levels of divers and snorkelling trips from beginners to advanced divers.

WALKING AND HIKING IN ANDALUCIA
Andalucia is one of the best walking regions in Spain because it has everything to offer the seasoned and novice traveller. It has a great climate, one of the highest mountains in Europe, fantastic towns and cities full of history and culture. There are also wild unfrequented areas filled with dramatic scenery and some of the most interesting flora and fauna to be found anywhere in Spain.

WATER-PARKS
There are many water-parks on the Costa del Sol so you shouldn't have much difficulty finding one near your holiday resort. Water-parks are a great place to spend the whole day as a refreshing alternative to the beach.

Aquatropic water-park can be found next to Velilla beach in the town of Almunecar, on the Costa Tropical. The park offers an array of water slides including the firm favourites like the kamikaze & ring-rapids, with a range of swimming pools with wave machine, waterfall, and revolving current with inflatables. There are plenty of green areas to relax and eateries offering snacks, meals and refreshments.

Aqua-Velis water-park can be found opposite the El Ingenio shopping mall in Torre del Mar. It has over 20 different rides for all ages including some super fast slides for the more adventurous. There is an inflatable ring ride and wave machine along with a large sun terrace for sunbathers and cafeteria serving food and drinks.

The water-park at Torremolinos is especially large, offering many water-based attractions including water flumes, huge slides, large pools, and artificial river with wave machine.

CONCLUSION
The Costa del Sol offers a host of holiday attractions and activities to help you make the most of your stay in Spain. As an alternative to a visit to the beach, they are a great opportunity for some fun, adventure and excitement for the whole family. Well worth a day out from a busy schedule of sunbathing and shopping.

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Both Gaizka Pujana & Steve Greenwood are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.

Gaizka Pujana has sinced written about articles on various topics from Barcelona Holidays, Family Travel and Culture and Society. Costa del Sol Accommodation Get Ready Rentals.. Gaizka Pujana's top article generates over 135000 views. to your Favourites.

Steve Greenwood has sinced written about articles on various topics from Vacation, Vacation and Vacation. Steve Greenwood has lived in Nerja on the Costa del Sol for 3 years. You are invited to visit for holiday attractions, activities a. Steve Greenwood's top article generates over 135000 views. to your Favourites.