La Carihuela, El Bajondillo, Playamar and Los Álamos: where to stay in Torremolinos depending on your plan, how to get around by train, and what to eat. An honest guide by the AltaHomes team.
The Atmosphere
Torremolinos was the Costa del Sol's first tourist destination and it shows: the longest seafront promenade, the most urban beach, and a mix of lifelong summer regulars, international travellers and a big LGBT community that gives it an open, unpretentious feel. Unlike Marbella, nobody comes here to see and be seen. You come for the beach, the fish and a good time.
Our verdict: the best base on the Costa del Sol if you want the beach every day with Málaga city and the airport within reach. The C1 suburban train gets you to the airport in about 10 minutes and to central Málaga in about 20, no car needed.
Torremolinos area by area
- La Carihuela: the old fishing quarter and today the nicest place to stay. Pedestrian streets, seafront fish restaurants and the calmest beach in town.
- El Bajondillo: the beach directly below the centre, reached by the Cuesta del Tajo steps or the lift. Ideal if you want to be between the beach and the shops on Calle San Miguel.
- Playamar and Los Álamos: seafront developments to the east, with Los Álamos beach and its beach clubs. Good for longer stays and for anyone wanting more calm.
- The centre: Plaza Costa del Sol and Calle San Miguel. Shops, bars and the train station two minutes away. The most practical option without a car.
What to See and Do
The promenade end to end
From Los Álamos to La Carihuela and, if you keep going, on to Benalmádena Costa. Flat, with a bike lane and a chiringuito every few metres. A sunset walk along La Carihuela is about as Málaga as it gets.
Casa de los Navajas and Parque de la Batería
Casa de los Navajas is a small neo-Mudéjar mansion above El Bajondillo with bay views. Parque de la Batería, above La Carihuela, has a lake, a lookout tower and shade, which you will appreciate in August.
Crocodile Park and Aqualand
The two family plans: the crocodile park close to the centre, and Aqualand water park in the upper part of town.
Food
La Carihuela is the capital of pescaíto frito and sardine espetos on the western Costa del Sol. Order the mixed fry, lemon anchovies and espetos grilled on the sand boat. The centre is full of tapas bars and, in June, Torremolinos Pride is one of the biggest in Andalusia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Torremolinos from Málaga airport? Take the C1 suburban train towards Fuengirola: about 10 minutes to Torremolinos station, with trains every 20 minutes. A taxi takes around 15 minutes.
Which is the best area to stay in Torremolinos? La Carihuela for a calm beach and fish restaurants; the centre if you prioritise the train and bar life; Playamar or Los Álamos for a seafront development and longer stays.
Can I get to Málaga city without a car? Yes. The C1 train reaches Málaga Centro-Alameda in about 20 minutes, which is why Torremolinos works so well as a base for Málaga and the Costa del Sol.
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