Torremolinos is one of the best known resorts in Spain with thousands of holidaymakers flocking here every year for its beaches and nightlife. The town had been popular among the rich and famous during the late 1950's and early 60's when the likes of Frank Sinatra and John Lennon both stayed here, but it would later become known as a major package holiday destination. In recent years the authorities have invested a lot of money into the town which has resulted in major improvements to the beach and seafront. Hundreds of palm trees have also been planted to help bring some greenery to this built-up resort.

In the centre of Torremolinos is the main shopping street of calle San Miguel which leads towards the former fishing district of El Bajondillo. This area is always popular with tourists who come here for the many restaurants and souvenir shops. A flight of steps known as Cuesta del Tajo zigzags its way through El Bajondillo to the beach. Torremolinos has a long seafront promenade which runs past the old fishing village of La Carihuela all the way to the neighbouring resort of Benalmadena. La Carihuela has retained much of its original character and is renowned for its fine seafood restaurants.

One of the biggest family tourist attractions in Torremolinos is the Crocodile Park next to the bypass. The park is home to the largest crocodile in Europe, Big Daddy, who is around 4.5 meters long and weighs over 500 kilos. Children will particularly enjoy their visit as they have the opportunity to hold a live baby crocodile. The park also offers informative guided tours around the crocodile enclosures, as well as a petting zoo, souvenir shop and cafeteria. Another family attraction on the outskirts of Torremolinos is the Aqualand water park with rides such as the Boomerang, Twister and Black Hole. The highlight of Aqualand is the Kamikaze which is one of the highest water slides in Europe.

Torremolinos has a reputation for being a nightlife hotspot, especially amongst young people. El Palladium is one of the most popular nightclubs with several dance floors, bars and even a swimming pool in which to cool off if things get a bit too hot. For a more traditional type of entertainment, the Taberna Pepe Lopez in the Plaza de Gambre Alegre puts on regular flamenco shows. Torremolinos has several gay bars, many of them situated around the Plaza de la Nogalera. The most popular gay disco in town is Passion on the Avenida Palma de Mallorca.

There are several fiestas which take place throughout the year, including the International Tourist Day (September) which is marked by processions, musical entertainment, and free servings of fried fish and paella. More free samples of fish are handed out to the public during the Dia del Pescaito in early June.

Torremolinos is situated just 7 miles (12km) west of Malaga. The resort has a railway station in Plaza de la Nogalera and there are trains from here to Malaga city centre, Malaga airport and Fuengirola. Portillo operate regular bus services from the coach station in calle Hoya to Malaga, Benalmadena, Mijas Pueblo and Marbella. There are also long-distance services to Granada, Jerez and Cordoba.