Torremolinos: where the Costa del Sol story began
More than half a century after bursting onto the tourism scene, Torremolinos still defines innovative travel. This vibrant coastal town continually reinvents itself while remaining true to its Andalusian roots.
Torremolinos is where the Costa del Sol began. The first hotels appeared here, and fishing families opened simple beach bars serving their daily catch. From those humble beginnings, the town became the tourism capital of Andalucía and one of Spain’s favourite resorts.
Today, Torremolinos seamlessly blends old and new. Modern hotels and lively promenades stand beside whitewashed houses and traditional tapas bars. It is a place that respects its heritage yet always looks ahead.
In the 1950s and 60s, Torremolinos attracted stars like Grace Kelly, Brigitte Bardot and Frank Sinatra. They came for the sunshine, the freedom and the glamour of the Mediterranean. That same spirit still defines Torremolinos — the true heart of the Costa del Sol.
LGBTQ+ scene and nightlife in Torremolinos
Torremolinos has always been a haven for progressives. During the 1960s, the LGBTQ+ community found a home here during the dark days of the Franco dictatorship, the authoritarian regime that ruled Spain from 1939 to 1975.
The town is famous for its vibrant and liberal nightlife, offering a vast selection of bars, nightclubs and tablaos, venues for flamenco performances. In recent years, Torremolinos has strengthened its position as an LGBTQ+ tourism destination thanks to the success of its Pride celebration.
The labyrinth of bar-filled lanes surrounding Plaza La Nogalera forms the focal point of the gay scene. This colourful part of town boasts cabaret bars, fetish clubs and saunas, plus exclusively LGBTQ+ hotels and beach bars.
The Los Álamos and Playamar areas feature lounge bars, while La Nogalera remains one of the busiest squares in town. Concerts featuring famous pop and rock groups, food tastings and an enormous Halloween party take place throughout the year in this legendary square.
Exploring the beaches of Torremolinos
In Torremolinos, nearly eight kilometres of sand stretch from Los Álamos to La Carihuela. These well-equipped beaches offer all facilities and are ideal for water sports and outdoor activities.
The picturesque promenade links Torremolinos to neighbouring Benalmádena Costa and its Puerto Marina. You can walk the entire seafront, connecting the town centre with El Bajondillo and Playamar districts.
La Carihuela deserves special mention as a paradise for pescaíto frito, the local fried fish speciality. This fishing district features traditional chiringuitos, casual beachside restaurants where families once cooked their daily catch. Today, these establishments serve authentic Andalusian seafood in a relaxed seaside setting.
Historic sites and cultural attractions in Torremolinos
Torremolinos blends culture, history and local charm. At its heart lies Calle San Miguel, one of Europe’s busiest pedestrian shopping streets. This lively avenue of artisan shops, tapas bars and cafés forms the town’s social hub, as new traffic-free areas and green spaces reshape the urban core.
The 14th-century Pimentel Tower, also known as the “Tower of the Mills”, remains a symbol of Torremolinos, from which the town derives its name.
Nearby, the neo-Mudéjar Casa de los Navajas, a restored early 20th-century mansion, reflects both Islamic and Christian influences.
Elsewhere in the town, other highlights include the statue of Picasso, the churches of San Miguel and the Virgen del Carmen, and the iconic Pez Espada Hotel, once a 1960s celebrity haunt.
In El Calvario, narrow whitewashed streets and welcoming taverns offer classic Andalusian charm.
Nature lovers can visit Los Manantiales–Jardín Botánico Molino de Inca, a lush garden situated around a 15th-century mill, featuring viewing points and springs.
Likewise, La Batería Park in Montemar offers a peaceful outdoor escape, featuring walking paths, a lake, and remnants of the old coastal defences — a poignant reminder of the town’s rich and layered past.
Family attractions in Torremolinos
Beyond the beaches and nightlife, Torremolinos offers a range of family-friendly attractions. The town boasts the largest water park on the Costa del Sol, Aqualand, featuring 14 different attractions and a mini-golf course.
Next to the water park sits the Crocodile Park, home to 260 of these reptiles.
Elsewhere, a bullring and municipal auditorium provide venues for cultural events throughout the year.
Getting to Torremolinos from Malaga
Torremolinos sits just 14 kilometres from Malaga city and eight kilometres from the city’s airport. You can reach the resort by Cercanías train, the local commuter rail service, in a little over 20 minutes from Malaga.
This convenient location has made Torremolinos the third most popular tourist destination in Spain, according to TripAdvisor.
The Malaga Guru team comprises individuals of diverse ages and backgrounds who share a common bond – a deep affection for the city of Malaga, its rich culture, and its warm-hearted inhabitants!