Have you heard about the Costa del Sol being the perfect spot for golf enthusiasts looking to also invest in a property in one of Europe's most sought-after areas? Indeed, golf on the Costa del Sol offers a wonderful blend of sport, luxury, and lifestyle. This Spanish coastal region boasts an ideal climate and stunning beaches that will take your breath away.
Numerous golf courses on the Costa del Sol are conveniently situated near upscale properties with breathtaking views of the sea and mountains, making it an ideal location for those who want to live near their favorite hobby. The options are so diverse that Málaga province has earned the nickname of Costa del Golf, with the local tourist office actively promoting this brand.
Therefore, we are excited to present you with a comprehensive guide to the top golf courses on the Costa del Sol, based on user reviews and the quality of their amenities, along with information on available properties in the vicinity.
Get ready to perfect your swing and start the game! Explore the golf courses on the Costa del Sol.
How many golf courses has the Costa del Sol got?
The Royal Andalusian Golf Federation reports that there are approximately 100 officially registered golf courses on the Costa del Sol, based on the latest information available. These courses are spread out along the coastline, positioning this region as one of the most densely populated areas for golf courses in Europe, as previously noted. It draws golfers from around the globe and provides a range of stunning playing experiences.
Which province in Andalusia has the most golf courses on the Costa del Sol?
The province of Malaga is renowned for having the highest number of golf courses in Andalusia, particularly in municipalities like Marbella, Mijas, Benahavís, and Estepona.
Not only is Malaga known as the Costa del Golf, but it also offers a variety of leisure and outdoor activities. If you're a golf enthusiast who enjoys exploring and sightseeing, be sure to read our previous article on things to do in Malaga city and province.
In addition, Malaga captivates both tourists and locals with its stunning coves and heavenly beaches, creating the perfect setting for golf and other recreational activities in a beautiful Mediterranean backdrop.
How many golf courses has Málaga got?
There are over 70 Costa del Sol golf courses between Torre del Mar and Sotogrande, the largest concentration anywhere in Europe. Since golf first arrived in the area nearly a century ago, its popularity has grown to the extent that the Costa del Sol now ranks as a top golf destination worldwide.
The history of golf on the Costa del Sol
Golf was introduced to Malaga in the 1920s by the British royal family, who enjoyed spending their summer vacations there. Queen Victoria's daughter, Beatriz de Battenberg, and King Felipe's great grandmother, designed a 9-hole course at the location of the present-day Parador del Golf near Malaga Airport.
The first Costa del Sol golf courses
The Real Club de Golf de las Palmas on Gran Canaria was the first Spanish golf course, established in 1891. However, it wasn't until over 30 years later that the Parador del Golf opened on the Costa del Sol. It wasn't until 1946 that this golf course expanded to 18 holes and welcomed more members.
The real boom for Costa del Sol golf courses came with the discovery of the area by European aristocracy and world celebrities at the end of the 1950s and beginning of the 1960s. These first luxury tourists had high purchasing power and therefore the opportunity to play golf.
Guadalmina Club de Golf was the first golf course in Marbella, built in 1959 on the west side of the resort. Rio Real Golf in the east followed shortly afterwards in 1965. As demand grew, so did the number of golf courses in Marbella, with Atalaya Golf in 1968 and Las Brisas in 1969.
Top best golf courses on the Costa del Sol
Have you chosen your best golf clubs yet? Prepare your master stroke, since ILove Andalucia is going to take you on a tour of the best golf courses on the Costa del Sol aboard our buggy.
Remember that the selection of these courses is based on the opinions of users regarding the excellence of their facilities and the surrounding landscape. So, it is possible that some of the courses mentioned below do not appear in the previous list.
Ready for the challenge? We have 10 holes ahead of us!
Club de Golf Finca Cortesín
The Finca Cortesin Golf Club in Casares, Málaga is famous for providing an unforgettable golf experience in Europe. Cabell B. Robinson's beautiful golf course is enhanced by landscape designer Gerald Huggan, who has highlighted the natural beauty of the surroundings. The 18-hole course is distinguished by the incorporation of 20 different types of plants, a Mediterranean forest, and the renowned, well-maintained Bermuda grass.
The Finca Cortesín Golf Club has proudly hosted the Volvo World Match Play Championship several times, marking it as one of the premier professional golf tournaments globally. These prestigious events have played a crucial role in establishing Finca Cortesín as a top-tier destination for professional golf, showcasing its status as one of the most renowned and desirable golf courses on the Costa del Sol.
Additionally, the estate is home to the esteemed Nicklaus Academy Finca Cortesín. This academy delivers an outstanding educational experience in golf, offering top-notch training and lessons tailored for players at every skill level.
Estepona Golf
Nestled in a unique location where the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea blend with the lush greenery of the Sierra Bermeja, Estepona Golf shines as a symbol of Estepona city in Málaga. Golfers can expect a variety of challenges on this 18-hole course that will put their accuracy and strategic skills to the test.
All year round, various competitions and senior tournaments are held at the club, which are eagerly anticipated by local golfers. Moreover, Estepona Golf provides a wide array of extra amenities to elevate the overall gaming experience. The clubhouse features changing facilities, a bar, and a restaurant where players can unwind and mingle. Additionally, there is a fully-equipped golf shop that offers club, course, and buggy rentals for those in need of equipment.
Valle Romano Golf & Resort
Valle Romano Golf & Resort is just a short 13-minute drive from Estepona Golf. Nestled in Estepona (Málaga), this gem of the Costa del Sol has been crafted to meet the high standards set by the United States Golf Association (USGA) by the renowned designer Cabell B. Robinson, inspired by his mentor, Robert Trent Jones. As you play, take in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, North Africa, and Gibraltar, enhancing your golfing experience.
The resort spans across 60 hectares and features a 5 km circuit. With 18 holes, it's known for offering an average of five tees per hole and spacious greens that present players with a variety of flag positions. The practice area boasts a driving range with 20 bays and a 600 square meter putting green, perfect for honing your putting skills.
Valle Romano Golf provides additional amenities such as the gourmet Columela restaurant, a golf shop, changing rooms, sauna, trolley, and buggy rentals, all aimed at ensuring guests have a comfortable stay.
Moreover, the resort houses its own golf school - the Valle Romano Golf Academy. This academy caters to amateur players, offering structured training, private lessons, and improvement courses led by a professional team.
Club de Golf La Zagaleta
The Club de Golf La Zagaleta, situated in Benahavís (Marbella), Málaga, is among the top-notch private golf courses in the Costa del Sol, thanks to its breathtaking landscapes set in the Mediterranean forest surroundings. With its two golf courses, it provides stunning vistas of the Alborán Sea, Africa, and Gibraltar.
The club boasts two amazing golf courses:
Campo Old: Initially crafted in 1991 by Bradford Benz and revamped in 2016 by Marc Westenborg, this 18-hole course beautifully blends with the surrounding wildlife and plant life, which is a fundamental part of its design.
Campo New: Created by Steve Marnoch, this exclusive par 70 course features 18 holes and is renowned for its uniquely challenging greens.
In addition to being a private club that provides a well-rounded experience for its members and guests, the club also includes a restaurant and offers top-notch facilities along with a range of activities, including cycling, hiking, paddle tennis, tennis courts, and an equestrian area for horse riding enthusiasts.
Marbella Club Golf Resort
The Marbella Club Golf Resort, situated in Benahavís, near Marbella, Málaga, was created by Dave Thomas. This exceptional 18-hole golf course on the Costa del Sol features a 6,247-metre course. The course is known for its meticulously designed fairways, stunning waterfalls, and strategically placed bunkers. The well-maintained rolling greens are well-guarded, adding to the game's challenge and beauty.
This golf course features Bermuda grass 419 on fairways and tees, a blend of three grasses on the antegreens, and a new type of American grass on the greens. This careful selection ensures a top-notch golfing experience. Notably, the seven-hole tee, situated at the highest point of the course, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, Gibraltar, and Africa, enhancing the unparalleled playing experience.
Additionally, the Marbella Club Golf Resort offers a range of extra amenities such as a clubhouse and restaurant, a golf shop, changing rooms, golf lessons and driving range, club rental and maintenance, buggies, and an equestrian center.
Los Naranjos Golf Club
Los Naranjos Golf Club stands out as one of Spain's premier golf courses, having been honored as the "Golf Course of the Year" on the Costa del Sol in both 2005 and 2008. Situated in Marbella (Málaga), this club is home to a top-notch golf academy led by Daniel Williams, a respected member of the British PGA.
Los Naranjos Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones, is a renowned golf course in Costa del Sol. With 18 holes and a par of 72, it features wide fairways, bunkers, and water hazards strategically placed to add challenge and enjoyment. The greens are spacious and undulating, while the tees come in four different positions - red, yellow, white, and black - catering to players of all skill levels with course lengths ranging from 5,054 to 6,564 meters. Since its establishment in 1977, the club has been a venue for prestigious tournaments like the Marbella Ladies Open and the APG Professional Championship. Apart from the excellent golf facilities, Los Naranjos Golf Club also offers a clubhouse, golf shop, practice area, chipping area, and exclusive member amenities. Guests can also enjoy various services such as restaurants, changing rooms, hairdressing, physiotherapy, and massages to enhance their overall experience.
Santa María Golf & Country Club
Nestled in the beautiful valley of Marbella (Málaga), you will find the Santa Maria Golf & Country Club. This golf course is renowned for its stunning natural layout and exceptional amenities. The course is surrounded by lush vegetation including pine trees, oak trees, cork oaks, and olive trees. A tranquil stream runs through the course, providing a peaceful and exciting setting for golfers.
The golf course features 18 holes, with the first round posing a tougher challenge due to three par five holes, while the second round is more forgiving with three par three holes, providing more chances for players to recover. The club also holds senior competitions, showing its commitment to promoting golf for all ages and skill levels.
Aside from golf, the club provides various amenities such as a restaurant, tennis court, shop, changing rooms, and sauna, making it a perfect place to unwind and engage in other leisure activities.
Golf Torrequebrada
The Torrequebrada Golf Course in Benalmádena, Málaga, offers a stunning 18-hole golf experience surrounded by lush greenery and a perfect climate. Situated between lakes and bunkers, the course provides breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains.
This golf course on the Costa del Sol has large greens with significant drops, offering an interesting challenge for golfers. The streets are framed by a wide variety of trees, including palm, pine and olive trees, creating a natural and serene environment. The tees, mostly elevated, allow players to appreciate the configuration of each hole and plan their game.
It has a 300-metre-long driving range, which includes 15 positions on the teeline, a putting green, bunker and a short playing area, ideal for warming up before a round or improving different aspects of the game. The club also offers private and group classes, with a golf academy and a club repair service, which facilitates learning and continuous improvement for players of all levels.
It organises competitions for senior players and the club also has a restaurant, shop and changing rooms, offering comfort and convenience to members and visitors.
La Cala Golf Club
Let's head over to Mijas, Málaga, to explore the La Cala Golf Club complex. This resort provides a special experience for golfers at every skill level, with three courses created by Cabell Robinson.
Let's explore the three golf courses at La Cala Golf Club on the Costa del Sol:
American course: Offering 6,009 meters and 18 par 72 holes, this course boasts stunning views of the Sierra de Ojén and the Mediterranean. With a wide layout, minimal bunkers, and a hilly terrain featuring small elevated greens, precision is key. Holes 9 and 16 pose water hazards for an added challenge.
Asian course: Known as the oldest and most demanding course at La Cala Golf Club, this course spans 5,925 meters with 18 par 72 holes. Formerly Campo Sur, it features narrow fairways and four par five holes that require skill, especially in approach shots. Holes 3, 5, 10, 14, and 18 are particularly noteworthy.
European course: Spanning 6,014 meters with 18 par 71 holes, this course is wider and flatter, making it ideal for intermediate golfers. It includes a main bridge, four River Ojén bridges, and buggy tunnels. The 14th hole is a challenging 233-meter par 3, while the longest hole is the 11th at 524 meters.
The La Cala Golf Club provides a variety of services including individual and group lessons at the La Cala Golf Academy. The academy is run by skilled professionals who cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. Lessons take place on the courses as well as at the golf school. The club also boasts a par three training course with six holes, perfect for honing your short game. It is considered one of the top training facilities on the Costa del Sol.
Additionally, the club offers a range of amenities such as club rental, a SPA, restaurant, winery, gym, paddle courts, tennis, and a football field. These services enhance the leisure and wellness options available to visitors.
Flamingos Golf
The Flamingos Golf course presents an intricate landscape, featuring diverse green spaces and breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean Sea. The greens are notably expansive; however, the narrow fairways in the initial half of the course demand exceptional precision from the golfers.
A distinctive aspect of Flamingos Golf is the Arroyo del Taraje stream, which meanders through the course and empties into a small lake adjacent to the 1st and 10th holes. Antonio Garcia Garrido has meticulously designed every inch of the course, ensuring that each hole is adorned with its own unique species of trees. Consequently, players find themselves surrounded by cypresses, chestnuts, pomegranates, oranges, and olive trees throughout the course.
El Paraiso Golf Estepona
El Paraiso is distinguished by the fact that its members, who are dedicated to the continuous enhancement and refinement of their beloved golf course, manage the club. Visitors have remarked that even non-members receive exceptional care and warmth during their time at the facility.
A complete round consists of 9 holes out of a total of 18, allowing players to return to the clubhouse at various intervals. The local greens and fairways are kept in outstanding condition. According to guests at El Paraiso, the most breathtaking views can be enjoyed from the 6th and 8th holes.
While a golf cart is not included in the green fee, it is unnecessary due to the well-designed and comfortable pathways.
Cabopino Golf Marbella
Finally, Cabopino Golf Marbella is a well-known 18-hole golf course situated in a picturesque area of Marbella (Málaga), providing breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The perfect climate all year round makes it an excellent choice for golfers of any skill level.
The Cabopino Golf Academy provides state-of-the-art teaching and training tools, led by expert instructors dedicated to helping golfers of all levels enhance their game. In addition to hosting senior tournaments, the course offers a welcoming and competitive atmosphere for players to enjoy. Take advantage of various amenities including buggy rentals, a caddy master, golf shop, putting green, restaurant, changing rooms, and driving range.
Bonus track: iconic courses by Robert Trent Jones
And as if this weren’t enough, we bring you two of the golf courses in the Autonomous Community of Andalusia recognised in the world golf panorama for holding important tournaments and designed by Robert Trent Jones, one of the most famous golf course designers in history.
Learn all about them.
Real Club de Valderrama
Undoubtedly, the Real Club de Valderrama in Sotogrande (Cádiz) is considered one of the most iconic golf courses on the Costa del Sol (Spain). Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr, this course boasts 18 holes and covers almost 6,500 meters of land that seamlessly blends into the surrounding natural beauty, providing a stunning backdrop that sets it apart as one of the top courses in Europe.
The club has been the venue for many esteemed professional tournaments, including the notable 1997 Ryder Cup, a key event in the golfing world, where Europe claimed victory under the guidance of Severiano Ballesteros. Additionally, the course has continued to host events like the LIV Golf tournament in June 2023, drawing some of the top players from around the globe.
On the premises, the Clubhouse boasts the famous Valderrama restaurant, which is typically reserved for members but occasionally opens its doors for external reservations. There's also the spiker bar, perfect for enjoying a hearty breakfast or brunch before or after a round of golf, along with well-equipped sports changing rooms.
Real Club de Golf Sotogrande
The Real Club de Golf Sotogrande, situated just 150 meters away from the Mediterranean Sea in the upscale area of Sotogrande (Cádiz), is renowned as one of the top golf courses on the Costa del Sol with global recognition. Established in 1964, this esteemed course was the inaugural creation by Robert Trent Jones in Europe. Among the 500+ courses he designed globally, Sotogrande holds a special place as one of his top five favorites, as highlighted in his 1988 publication "Golf magnificent challenge".
The golf course spans 6,492 meters with 18 holes and a par of 72. It boasts unique features like long tees, wide fairways, and elevated, subtly shaped fast greens. Around 69 of the approximately 100 bunkers are strategically placed near the greens, requiring players to exhibit extreme precision.
Real Club de Golf Sotogrande has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, attracting top players like Severiano Ballesteros, José María Olazábal, Roberto de Vicenzo, Sergio García, Padraig Harrington, and Rory McIlroy. These legends are just a few examples of the high level of competition that the club has seen over the years.
