Top 5 Things to Do in Costa del Sol Besides Golf

There's more to the Costa del Sol than golf...

Costa del Sol, renowned for its stunning golf courses, offers more than just a golfer’s paradise. Nestled along Spain’s southern coast, the region is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, providing numerous attractions and activities beyond the greens. Whether you're looking to explore ancient towns or relax by the Mediterranean, here are the top 5 things to do in Costa del Sol besides golf.


 1. Explore the Historic City of Málaga

At the heart of Costa del Sol lies Málaga, a city steeped in history and culture. Known as the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Málaga offers a wealth of museums, including the Picasso Museum, which houses some of the artist’s finest works. Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, visit the ancient Alcazaba Fortress, or climb to the top of the Gibralfaro Castle for panoramic views of the coastline. Don't forget to explore the lively local markets and sample authentic Andalusian cuisine.


 
2. Visit the Charming Town of Marbella

Famed for its luxury lifestyle, Marbella is more than just upscale resorts and glamorous beach clubs. Stroll through the historic Old Town, known as Casco Antiguo, and take in the picturesque whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful flowers. The beautiful Plaza de los Naranjos, with its orange trees and quaint cafes, is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the ambiance. If you’re into high-end shopping and celebrity spotting, a trip to Puerto Banús is a must.


 3. Take a Day Trip to Ronda

One of the most breathtaking towns in Spain, Ronda is perched on the edge of a dramatic gorge. The town is known for its stunning Puente Nuevo Bridge, which spans the deep El Tajo Gorge and offers incredible views. Ronda also boasts Spain’s oldest bullring, Plaza de Toros, and is a town rich in Andalusian culture and history. A day trip to Ronda is a perfect way to escape the coastal resorts and immerse yourself in traditional Spain.


 4. Relax on Costa del Sol's Beautiful Beaches

Costa del Sol is home to some of the best beaches in Spain, offering endless opportunities to relax and soak up the Mediterranean sun. From the lively Playa de la Malagueta in Málaga to the tranquil sands of Playa de Cabopino near Marbella, there’s a beach for every type of traveler. Whether you prefer a day filled with water sports or simply lounging with a good book, Costa del Sol’s beaches are an idyllic getaway from the golf course.


 5. Discover the Caves of Nerja

For a unique and awe-inspiring experience, head to the Caves of Nerja, located just outside the town of Nerja. These vast limestone caves stretch for nearly five kilometers and are home to some of the largest stalagmites and stalactites in the world. Visitors can explore the impressive underground chambers and even enjoy concerts in the cave’s natural amphitheater. It’s a remarkable natural wonder that showcases the region’s geological history.


Explore More of Costa del Sol

While Costa del Sol is a haven for golf enthusiasts, its cultural, historical, and natural attractions make it a destination worth exploring beyond the greens. Whether you’re enjoying the history of Málaga, relaxing on the beaches, or taking in the views in Ronda, there’s something for everyone.


For those looking to combine their golfing trip with sightseeing, visit our
Costa del Sol Golf Holidays page for more information on how to plan your perfect holiday.


Ready to book your next Costa del Sol adventure? Explore our
Spain Golf Holiday Packages and start planning today.


by Neil Adams 17 April 2025
Golf enthusiasts often find themselves on a quest for the perfect course. With its rolling hills, lush landscapes, and challenging greens, Wisconsin is home to some of the most captivating golf courses in the USA. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, Wisconsin offers a golfing experience that's hard to match. In this article, we'll explore some of the top golf courses in Wisconsin, diving into what makes each one unique and worth a visit. Why Wisconsin for Golf? Wisconsin might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of premier golf destinations. However, this state is a hidden gem for golfers. With its diverse landscapes, from dense forests to tranquil lakes, Wisconsin's golf courses offer breathtaking views and challenging play. The state's commitment to maintaining and developing world-class courses has put it on the golfing map, attracting players from all over the world. A Rich Golfing History Wisconsin's golfing history dates back over a century. The state has produced and hosted some of the most prestigious tournaments, including the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup. With such a rich history, it's no wonder that Wisconsin is home to some of the best courses you'll find anywhere. Top Wisconsin Golf Courses Whistling Straits Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, Whistling Straits is arguably the crown jewel of Wisconsin golf. Designed by the legendary Pete Dye, this course offers a links-style golfing experience reminiscent of the classic courses in Ireland. It has hosted major events like the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup, solidifying its status as a top-tier course. The course is known for its rugged terrain, with numerous bunkers and challenging winds off the lake. Each hole presents a unique challenge, requiring precise shot-making and strategic thinking. Whether you're playing the Straits Course or the Irish Course, you're in for an unforgettable round. Erin Hills Nestled in the rolling hills of Erin, Wisconsin, Erin Hills is another must-visit for any golf enthusiast. This course gained international acclaim when it hosted the U.S. Open in 2017. Erin Hills is a public course that offers a true test of golf, with its wide fairways, undulating greens, and natural fescue roughs. The course design embraces the natural landscape, making it a beautiful and challenging experience. Erin Hills prides itself on providing an authentic links-style golfing experience with a focus on walking the course. Blackwolf Run Part of the Kohler Company’s golf offerings, Blackwolf Run is another masterpiece by Pete Dye. Located in Kohler, Wisconsin, this course is split into two 18-hole layouts: the River Course and the Meadow Valleys Course. Both courses offer a unique challenge and showcase the natural beauty of the area. Blackwolf Run has been ranked among the top 100 golf courses in the United States and has hosted several high-profile tournaments, including the U.S. Women's Open. Sand Valley Located in central Wisconsin, Sand Valley is a relatively new addition to the state's golf scene but has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best. Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Sand Valley features sand dunes and prairie grasses that offer a unique links-style experience. It’s also home to Mammoth Dunes, which provides a different but equally thrilling round of golf. With stunning scenery and top-tier design, Sand Valley is a must-play. SentryWorld SentryWorld, in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, is known for its beautifully manicured fairways and iconic "Flower Hole." This public course offers a parkland-style layout with tree-lined fairways and strategic water hazards. Following a major renovation in 2013, SentryWorld has become more playable while maintaining its charm, making it ideal for golfers of all skill levels. Golfing Tips for Wisconsin Courses Weather Preparedness: Wisconsin's weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and fall. Dress in layers and bring rain gear if needed. Book in Advance: Tee times at top courses can fill quickly. Reserve early, especially in peak season. Walk the Course: Many courses encourage walking to enjoy the full experience and appreciate the scenery. Explore Local Attractions: Take time to enjoy the food, culture, and hospitality that make Wisconsin a great all-around destination. A Stunning Golf Experience Wisconsin may not be the first destination you think of for world-class golf, but it should be. With its stunning courses, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere, Wisconsin offers a golfing experience that’s hard to beat. From the rugged beauty of Whistling Straits to the serene landscapes of Sand Valley, each course provides a unique challenge and unforgettable experience. Learn more about golf in Wisconsin at Quality Golf Destinations.
Golf course overview
by Neil Adams 3 April 2025
Discover the fascinating origins of golf’s 18-hole standard. From the historic links of St. Andrews to the modern global game, explore how tradition, practicality, and design shaped the course of golf history.
Royal County Down Golf Course
by Neil Adams 24 March 2025
Discover the best golf courses in Ireland, from Royal County Down to Lahinch. Plan your dream Ireland golf holiday with expert tips, travel info, and custom golf packages.
Soi Dao in Thailand Hole 10
by Neil Adams 2 March 2025
Escape the cold and tee off at the best winter golf destinations in 2026. Discover top warm-weather golf courses in the USA, Europe, Asia, and beyond for the perfect winter golf getaway.
monte rei golf course overview
by Neil Adams 10 January 2025
Discover the best Jack Nicklaus golf courses in Europe. From St Mellion to Monte Rei, explore stunning landscapes, strategic designs, and luxury golf experiences with Quality Golf Destinations.
by Neil Adams 25 November 2024
Plan your ultimate golf getaway with our guide to the 10 best golf trips in 2025. Discover world-class courses, stunning destinations, and unforgettable experiences tailored for golf enthusiasts.
by Neil Adams 17 November 2024
Explore why Scotland remains the chosen location for major golf championships. Discover the iconic courses and historic appeal that make it the ultimate golf destination.
Royal Dornoch golf club sea view
by Neil Adams 17 November 2024
Learn about Royal Dornoch Golf Club’s new expansion. Discover what this historic club’s growth means for golf enthusiasts and Scotland’s golfing heritage.
Prestwick golf course in the sunset
by Neil Adams 14 October 2024
Discover the best golf course architects like Old Tom Morris and Alister MacKenzie who shaped iconic courses. Explore golf tours at Quality Golf Destinations
by Neil Adams 14 October 2024
Tiger Woods reveals his latest golf course design, aptly named "The Woods." Discover what this means for golf enthusiasts and the future of golf course architecture.
More posts