This Costa del Sol resort is one of the most vibrant and energetic in all of Spain, bursting with fun family activities and attractions.
There’s plenty to take in on the coastline, but even though Fuengirola‘s become a bit of a hot-ticket, it still holds plenty of traditional Spanish charm, with narrow cobblestone streets and a medieval Moorish fortress.
If you’re thinking of taking the whole family on a Fuengirola getaway you might have a few questions, like where to stay, what to do and when’s the best time to go. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Take a look through our ultimate travel guide to get those cogs turning and start planning your next family trip to this Spanish resort.
When to travel
With an average summer temperature of 30°C and 300 days of sunshine a year, there’s always a good time to visit Fuengirola.
If you want to cash in on the hot weather and long sunny days, the best time to visit is during their high season, namely July and August. But if the summer holidays don’t dictate your travelling dates then spring and autumn are ideal, as you’ll still get hot weather but less of the crowds.
Things to do
Kids will be in their element here, with a huge array of fun day trips and adrenaline-fuelled attractions.
If you have any animal lovers with you they’ll have a fab time at BioParc Zoo. This park is located in the heart of Fuengirola and is a breeding centre for endangered animals. Kids can watch zookeepers train the world’s largest lizard, the komodo dragon, or visit baby animal enclosures.
For more up-close animal adventures you can take to the seas on a dolphin-spotting boat. Dolphins are native to Fuengirola waters and you can enjoy watching them playfully swim beside the boat in their own natural habitat.
Waterparks are a big hit with the kids, and an excellent way to cool down from the Spanish heat. A change from the norm, Costa Water Park is an inflatable obstacle course right on the ocean and is open during the summer from June to September.
This course of slides, trampolines and climbing sections will definitely earn you points with your teens, although younger kids can also go on, as long as you accompany those under six.
One of the best kid-friendly ways to explore the city is by mini train tour. These bright red miniature trains are a hop-on, hop-off style so you can choose which stop is yours. It will take you to all of Fuengirola’s main attractions including Parque Miramar Shopping Centre and the Plaza Teresa Zabell.
A one-day ticket means you can use it as many times as you like – ideal for little legs that get tired easily.
Beach days
Fuengirola’s seven kilometres of beaches welcome you with sun-kissed sand and instagram-worthy blue water. A family holiday favourite, its shores don’t disappoint, with exceptional views, a popular resort backdrop, shade from palm trees and a whole ton of watersports.
The promenade along this coast is called Paseo Maritimo Rey de Espana and is full of cafes, bars and restaurants, so you won’t need to wander far if you get peckish. Los Boliches is the best family-friendly beach, as it holds a European Blue Flag status for cleanliness and has its own children’s play area.
Places to stay
The Yaramar Hotel is situated right across from the beach and is surrounded by restaurants and cafes, making it the ideal spot to stay with the family.
The main attraction of this hotel is the large outdoor pool that looks out over the Mediterranean Sea. It also has a fantastic evening entertainment line-up, with game shows, cabaret and live music.
Angela Hotel makes for a great family base while staying in Fuengirola. This budget-friendly spot is right in the centre of it all, with restaurants and shops on your doorstep and Los Boliches beach just a stone’s throw away.
If you want to eat in at the hotel there are plenty of options, from the international buffet to the Marina Bay Cafe serving up pizzas and toasted sandwiches.
Overlooking the harbour is the Florida Hotel. This family holiday hotspot is just a minute’s walk from the beach and you’ll even get sea views from your hotel balcony. After a busy day of sightseeing with the kids you can relax in the Florida Hotel spa and enjoy one of their signature chocolate body wraps.
Top tips
- Make sure to spend a day wandering along the seafront promenade. This stretches the entire length of Fuengirola from Sohail Castle to Torreblanca and will give you a great feel of the area.
- For busy days on the beach you won’t need to wander far to buy a cold drink or ice cream. Beach sellers walk up and down daily selling all sorts of sweet treats.
- If you’re looking to save a little money when eating out look for the Menu del dia. This three course meal is the menu of the day and will usually include a starter, main and dessert for less than 15 euros.
Are you taking a family holiday to Fuengirola? Let us know what sights you’re most excited about in the comments below.
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