The Costa del Sol is widely regarded as a golfing paradise, offering some of the most stunning and challenging courses in Europe. With over 70 courses to choose from, it can be hard to decide which ones are worth playing. To make things easier for you, we’ve put together a list of our top 15 golf courses in Costa Del Sol for 2023.
Los Naranjos Golf Club
Los Naranjos Golf Club is a Robert Trent Jones Sr-designed course that offers great aesthetic pleasure to golfers.
The 9th is an enchanting sight to behold, with stunning views of La Concha after successfully navigating a right to left dogleg. It is worth noting that Los Naranjos Golf Club provides a test for players as it is not an easy round. Accuracy and long hits are indispensable to make your par. There is a significant contrast between the front 9 holes and back 9 holes, making it feel like playing on two different courses. The course is flatter on the second stretch, with plenty of orange trees (“naranjos” in Spanish), which lends meaning to the club’s name.
Although this is a championship course, it sits firmly in the mid-range end of the spectrum. For higher handicappers, it could be a less daunting experience compared to some of the championship courses on this list.
Address: Pl. de Cibeles, S/N, 29660 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
Chaparral Golf Club
The Chaparral Golf Club is a true gem located in the Mijas Golf Valley, at the heart of Andalucía. This 18-hole “Parkland Forest” course measures 5649 meters and offers a distinct Mediterranean forest vibe that enhances the beauty of the region where the mountains meet the sea. As a result of the protected natural area, the golf course features a unique character and style that resonates with the local environment.
Notably, the Chaparral Golf Club is designed by Pepe Gancedo, the “Picasso of Golf”, who has earned a reputation for designing unique and visually appealing golf courses. His layout on this course integrates seamlessly into the natural terrain and landscape. This coupled with the proximity to the sea offers players magnificent panoramic views from various holes across the course. For golfers from Europe, a visit to Chaparral Golf Club is a must-do, given its serenity, unique character, and stunning views.
Address: Urbanización el Chaparral, N-340, km 203, 29649 Las Lagunas de Mijas, Málaga, Spain
Aloha Golf Club
Aloha Golf is a picturesque course, boasting rolling parkland fairways that wind between tranquil water features and towering eucalyptus and jacaranda trees. With stunning views of La Concha, it’s easy to get lost in the beauty of the surroundings. But don’t be fooled – this course is a challenge for even the most experienced golfer.
At over 6,200m in length, it’s certainly on the long side, and there are several par 3s that require some serious distance. Doglegs abound, and a good fade or draw is essential for anyone hoping to make par. The towering bunkers that circle most greens and the occasional two-tiered green make putting a true test of skill. It’s a course that rewards accuracy, with strategically placed trees and hazards that will keep golfers on their toes. When playing Aloha Golf, be sure to bring your A-game – anything less will show up on your scorecard.
Address: Urb. Aloha Golf, s/n, 29660 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
La Quinta Golf & Country Club
La Quinta Golf & Country Club is a noteworthy course that has a lot to offer to golfers of mid-handicap level and above. With a total of 27 holes, divided into three nine-hole loops – San Pedro, Ronda, and Guadaiza – players have the flexibility to mix and match as they please. Designed by Spanish professionals Antonio Garrido and Manuel Piñero, this course boasts a mature and well-maintained landscape, making it a solid warm-up round at the start of your golf holiday.
The club’s location in the Golf Valley of Marbella, situated between the sea and the mountains, is an area of incredible natural beauty, and the exclusive club offers members and guests breathtaking views throughout their round. Although it may play a little easier than some of the other courses on this list, La Quinta Golf is a top-quality course with some genuinely challenging elements, including tricky fairways and deep bunkers, that will challenge even the most skilled players.
Address: Av. Tomás Pascual, 22, 29678 Benahavís, Málaga, Spain
Marbella Golf Country Club
The Marbella Golf & Country Club is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts exploring the Costa del Sol. Founded in 1954, this course is the epitome of old-fashioned glamour.
Besides its stunning setting, the course is a challenging masterpiece that never fails to impress. The unpredictable elevation of the tees provides even the most skilled players with enough challenge to keep them guessing and engaged. With a generous minimum gap of 12 minutes between tee times, players can relax, enjoy the breathtaking surroundings, and take their time anticipating their next shot without the pressure of waiting crowds.
Designed by Dave Thomas, this 18 hole golf course located within the Marbella Club Golf resort is set amidst the hills of Benahavis, offering golfers spectacular views of Gibraltar, the African coastline, the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding mountains. The Marbella Golf & Country Club certainly does not disappoint.
Address: N-340, Km.188, 29604 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
Santa Maria Golf Club Marbella
Santa Maria Golf and Country Club is a stunning parkland course situated just outside Marbella on the beautiful Costa del Sol. Originally constructed as a 9-hole layout in 1991, the course was later extended to 18 holes and boasts a unique feature where golfers must use a tunnel to cross the Malaga-Cadiz motorway to play holes 7 through 13 on the other side. With the announcement of an additional 18-hole course currently in construction, the Santa Maria club looks set to cement its status amongst the big boys of Costa del Sol golfing.
This out-and-back formation course measures 6,144 yards and the abundance of water features throughout the holes provide golfers with a challenging round. The five par threes on the course are considered the best holes and with four of them on the back nine, it provides a unique experience for golfers as the yardage becomes significantly shorter on the inward half.
Address: Urbanización Elviria, N-340, km 192, 29604 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club
Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club is a beautiful course that provides plenty of challenges for even the most experienced golfers. While it’s unfortunate that housing has encroached on the layout, the fairways still compete with the real estate for the available space. However, with a little concentration, golfers will be able to focus on the job in hand rather than worrying about their surroundings.
The course offers a range of exciting obstacles, including water hazards, doglegged fairways, out of bounds, and multi-tiered greens. In particular, the par three holes on the front nine, which include the downhill 2nd hole and the two-tiered green on the 5th hole, are incredibly well-designed. Meanwhile, the signature hole on the course is the par five 13th, where golfers will start from an elevated tee before navigating a narrow fairway that veers right to the green, which falls away steeply on that side. Those who take on the pin with their second shot are advised to play a fade down the left in order to avoid a lost ball on the other side of the fairway, just like Ballesteros would have done.
Address: Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club, Planta 1, 101, 29678 Benahavís, Málaga, Spain
El Paraíso Golf
The club at El Paraiso boasts an impressive Gary Player-designed course that stretches over just over 6,600 yards with a par of 71. The course is divided into two circuits of nine holes, each leading back to a cozy rustic clubhouse that adds to the intimate-feel of the course that’s not often found at other courses.
The club’s signature hole is the par five, doglegged 6th which demands golfers skilled enough to avoid a lake resting on the right of the fairway while also aiming for a tricky, two-tiered putting surface. Yet, a hole that rivals the 6th in terms of sheer beauty is the downhill, par four 8th. This hole charms players with its visually-pleasing fairway, as well as the greenside bunkers that add a unique challenge. All in all, the semi-private club at El Paraiso offers a picturesque and engaging golf experience for golfers seeking a unique golfing environment.
Address: Urb. El Paraiso, Ctra de Cádiz, km 167, 29680 Estepona, Málaga, Spain
La Cala Golf Club
La Cala Golf offers the perfect solution for golf enthusiasts who crave variety. With 54 holes spanning across the three courses, there is never a dull moment while playing here. Each course presents a unique set of challenges that cater to different skill levels.
Campo Asia, the oldest of the three, is reserved for those with exceptional accuracy skills. Campo America, on the other hand, is perfect if you want to test your views. The breath-taking Sierra de Ojen is a sight for sore eyes while playing here, and the slightly more forgiving fairways are perfect for the less experienced. Meanwhile, humble Campo Europa offers a leisurely round with wider fairways and bigger greens.
For those who need to get their game in order, there’s even a six-hole par three to help you warm up before you hit the main courts. There’s never a dull moment at La Cala Golf.
Address: C. Mirador del Golf, 1, 29649 La Cala de Mijas, Málaga, Spain
Golf Torrequebrada
Torrequebrada golf is a renowned semi-private course that boasts 18 impressive holes, a par of 72, and an overall length of 5852 meters. Designed by the famous Pepe Gancedo in 1976, this course has been widely recognized as one of the most magnificent golf destinations on the illustrious Costa del Golf. In fact, the venue went on to host the Spanish Open in 1977.
When playing Torrequebrada, players must carry out strategic tee shots that avoid possible rough and hazards, as they are very much present on this course. The third hole, in particular, serves as a test of short-game skills as it presents a narrow, contoured green located just 80 meters from the tee. With over 100 types of trees interspersed throughout the course, Torrequebrada golf offers not only a challenging and highly entertaining game, but also a splendid and visually stunning experience.
Address: C. Club de Golf, 1, 29630 Benalmádena, Málaga, Spain
Cabopino Golf Marbella
Cabopino Golf Marbella is a striking 18-hole public course designed by Madrid architect Juan Ligués. Built in 2001, it showcases stunning views of the sea and pristine natural surroundings with an abundance of majestic pine trees. The course features three par-3’s, two par-5’s, and thirteen par-4’s, presenting a challenge for both high and low handicappers.
The length of the course is 5194 meters, with the 14th hole being the longest at 456 meters and the 13th hole being the shortest at 134 meters from the yellow tee. One of the most impressive holes is the 3rd, a par-4 boasting a raised tee and a green surrounded by bunkers, situated about 200 meters above sea level. Additionally, the aquatic themed 13th, 14th, and 15th holes are exceptionally beautiful with their lakeside locations. For golf enthusiasts, it is worth noting that Cabopino Golf Marbella is an authorised official centre for making made-to-measure clubs of the Titleist and Cobra brands.
Address: Urb. Artola Baja, s/n, 29604 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
Santana Golf
Santana Golf & Country Club is a Cabell B. Robinson designed course located inland from the Mediterranean coast between Mijas and Fuengirola. Opened for play at the beginning of 2004, it has earned a reputation as one of the Costa del Sol’s leading courses. Measuring just over 6,200 meters, it may not be the longest course, but it’s an intelligent layout that can be deceptively dangerous.
Stymied behind one of the many avocado pear trees that line the fairways gives a golfer a serious challenge. The bunkering is magnificent with brilliant white crushed marble-like sand, and the greens are devilishly tricky and unusually shaped. Factor in the odd water carry and stunning tee to green conditioning, and it’s clear that excellence is the hallmark of Santana Golf and Country Club.
Address: Ctra. de la Cala a Entrerrios, s/n, 29649 Mijas, Málaga, Spain
Finca Cortesin Golf Club
Finca Cortesin Golf Club, located in a privileged area of the Costa del Sol, has quickly become a reference in the world of golf. Designed by Cabell Robinson, the 18-hole course boasts a length of 6800 meters and over 100 bunkers, making it a challenge for even the most skilled golfers. What sets this course apart is its mature fairways, lined with old cork and olive trees, and the breathtaking scenery that provides glimpses of the Mediterranean sea and mountains.
Despite being built in 2006, the course is already considered one of the best in Spain. With its luxurious amenities and top-notch design, Finca Cortesin is an experience that golf enthusiasts should not miss. It’s not for the weak drivers, but if you’re up for the challenge, you won’t be disappointed.
Address: Club de Golf Finca Cortesin, Ctra. Casares s/n, km. 2, 29690 Casares, Málaga, Spain
Estepona Golf
Designed by David Leader in 1989, the Estepona golf course is a popular, family-run facility located just outside of the charming resort town of the same name. With a backdrop of the Sierra Bermeja Mountains and stunning views of the sea from nearly every hole, players of all abilities will appreciate the wide fairways, lush palm, eucalyptus, and wild olive tree-lined greens, reasonably penal bunkering, and gently contoured greens.
The downhill, par four, 3rd hole, named “Ski Slope,” is a signature feature of the course, measuring 380 meters from the back tees. The tenth hole is similarly challenging, and golfers should beware of the ponds and greenside bunkers that lie in wait for errant shots. Estepona is a warm and welcoming club that’s sure to provide an enjoyable round for golfers of any level.
Address: Autovía del Mediterráneo, Km 150, 29680 Estepona, Málaga, Spain
Dona Julia Golf Club
Doña Julia Golf is undoubtedly one of the top golf courses on the enchanting Costa del Sol. Located in the Municipality of Casares, and surrounded by stunning mountains and the vast sea, the course provides an exceptional experience to both seasoned and novice golfers.
The spectacular views of the Sierra Bermeja Mountains and Ronda range, combined with the strategic design of the course, crafted by the renowned architect Antonio Garcia Garrido in 2005, make for an unforgettable gaming experience. The championship course comprises 18 holes, has a par of 71, and spans across an impressive 5,976 meters in length. Being part of a resort, Doña Julia Golf also offers exceptional amenities such as excellent dining options, making it an ideal destination for golf lovers and vacation enthusiasts.
Address: Autovía A-7, km 146, 29690 Casares, Málaga, Spain
Final Thoughts
Regardless of your skill level, Málaga’s Costa del Sol has something to offer all golfers. From the championship courses at Finca Cortesin and Doña Julia Golf Club to the more technical challenges presented by Cabopino Golf Marbella and Torrequebrada, there is a course for everyone. It’s no surprise that this region is considered one of the best spots for golf in Europe. So, if you’re looking to have a truly unforgettable golfing experience, a trip to the Costa del Sol should be at the top of your list!
