Stretching from La Axarquía in eastern Málaga to Sotogrande in Cádiz, the Costa del Sol has rightfully earned its nickname: the Costa del Golf. With over 70 golf courses, it boasts the highest concentration of courses in Continental Europe, attracting enthusiasts and professionals alike. More than 320 days of sunshine and an average temperature of 20°C make it a year-round destination for the sport, offering courses that blend seamlessly into a landscape framed by the Mediterranean Sea and the Andalusian mountains.
A century of golfing excellence
The region’s golf legacy began in 1925 with the Real Club de Campo, the first course in Andalucía. However, it was in the 1960s that golf truly flourished, with internationally renowned architects designing some of Europe’s finest courses. Today, Málaga province is the leading golf destination in Spain, holding 67% of Andalucía’s golf courses and ranking third in golf licenses nationwide, behind only Madrid and Barcelona.
World-class golf courses
The Costa del Golf is home to some of the world’s most prestigious courses, including three ranked among the Top 5 in Spain by Top 100 Golf Courses:
- Real Club Valderrama – The highest-ranked course in Spain and Europe, consistently listed among the Top 100 courses worldwide. This legendary club hosted the 1997 Ryder Cup, the first held outside the UK. It remains a benchmark for elite golf.
- Real Club de Golf Sotogrande – Considered Spain’s second-best course, this Robert Trent Jones masterpiece set new standards when it opened in 1964.
- Real Club de Golf Las Brisas – Ranking fifth in Spain, this Marbella-based course is known for its challenging layout and stunning design, making it a must-play for seasoned golfers.
Other outstanding courses include La Reserva Club, Finca Cortesin, Villa Padierna Golf Club, Los Naranjos Golf Club, Aloha Golf Club and Río Real.
Major tournaments on the Costa del Golf
As a premier golfing destination, the Costa del Sol hosts some of the most prestigious tournaments in Europe, attracting top players and golf legends:
- LIV Golf Andalucía at Real Club Valderrama – One of the most anticipated tournaments, bringing the world’s best players to Sotogrande.
- Staysure Marbella Legends at Aloha Golf Club – The Legends Tour kick-off event, where 60 former champions compete in Marbella.
- Andalusian Professional Circuit – A key tournament that allows regional professional players to compete on Andalucía’s most iconic courses.
- Spanish Open – One of Europe’s oldest national championships, frequently held on the Costa del Sol’s most celebrated courses.
A lifestyle beyond golf
Golf is only part of the experience. The Costa del Sol also boasts 10 Michelin-starred restaurants, an exclusive coastal lifestyle, and top-tier beach clubs and five-star resorts. With an unbeatable climate, a rich golfing heritage, and world-class facilities, the Costa del Golf remains the ultimate destination for players seeking the perfect blend of sport, luxury, and Mediterranean living.
