There are now more than 60 golf courses on the Costa del Sol stretching from Sotogrande in the west to the lesser known Velez Malaga in the east and they all have one thing in common – the fantastic sunny and dry climate allowing golfers to play all year round. For those who are used to playing golf in the cold and wet of a northern European winter it will be a real luxury to play on a Costa del Sol winter’s day.
There are Costa del Sol golf courses to suit all levels of players and they are set in some beautiful surroundings, many with views of the sea and mountains. Here we have tried to list all of the courses in the area with some details about each one. We have given the par and length of each of them according to competition play so these will vary depending on which tee each golfer uses.
Top 10 Golf Courses on the Costa del Sol
Real Club Valderrama
Real Club Valderrama, located in Sotogrande, is one of Europe’s most prestigious golf clubs and a world-renowned championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. Known for its pristine conditions and challenging layout, the 18-hole course is famous for narrow fairways, fast greens and strategically placed cork trees. It has hosted numerous international tournaments, including the 1997 Ryder Cup and the annual Andalucia Masters. Valderrama offers a highly exclusive experience with top-tier facilities, a clubhouse and a focus on exceptional service, making it a premier destination for serious golfers worldwide.
Finca Cortesin Golf Club
Finca Cortesin Golf Club, located near Casares, is a prestigious 18-hole championship course designed by Cabell B. Robinson. Known for its immaculate course conditions and challenging layout, it features wide fairways, large greens and numerous water hazards set against a backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding mountains. Host of the 2023 Solheim Cup, Finca Cortesin offers a world-class golf experience with excellent practice facilities and a luxurious clubhouse. Part of the Finca Cortesin Resort, the club provides additional amenities, including fine dining, a spa and elegant accommodations, ideal for a refined golf getaway.
La Reserva Club Sotogrande
La Reserva Club de Golf, located in Sotogrande, is an exclusive 18-hole championship course designed by Cabell B. Robinson. Known for its impeccable conditioning and scenic layout, the course features rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers and lakes which challenge golfers of all skill levels. Set in the foothills of the Sierra Almenara, La Reserva offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding countryside. The club includes luxury facilities such as a modern clubhouse, fine dining, a beach club and extensive practice areas, providing a sophisticated and relaxing golf experience.
Alcaidesa Links Golf Resort
Alcaidesa Links Golf Resort, located near Sotogrande, is a popular golf destination featuring the only true links-style courses on the Costa del Sol. With two 18-hole courses – Alcaidesa Links and Alcaidesa Heathland – it offers a unique golfing experience with stunning Mediterranean views, including glimpses of the Rock of Gibraltar and, on clear days, the coast of Africa. The Links course follows the natural coastal landscape, while the Heathland course offers varied terrain with inland views. The resort includes a clubhouse, practice facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, appealing to golfers seeking a distinctive setting along the Spanish coastline.
Los Naranjos Golf Club
Los Naranjos Golf Club, located in Marbella, is a renowned 18-hole golf course designed by the famous architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. Opened in 1977, the course is known for its strategic layout, wide fairways and large, undulating greens, making it both challenging and enjoyable for players of all levels. Surrounded by lush greenery, water features and views of the nearby mountains, it offers a picturesque golfing experience. The club also boasts a driving range, professional golf academy, well-equipped clubhouse with dining options and a terrace with scenic views, providing a complete, high-quality golfing and leisure experience.
The San Roque Club
The San Roque Club, situated in Sotogrande, is a distinguished golf venue featuring two 18-hole championship courses: the Old Course and the New Course. The Old Course, designed by Dave Thomas and updated by Seve Ballesteros, is known for its mature cork oak-lined fairways and strategic layout, offering a challenging experience for golfers of all levels. The New Course, designed by Perry Dye, presents a more modern challenge with open fairways and varied elevations. The club also provides high-quality practice facilities, a welcoming clubhouse, dining options and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, making it a popular choice along the Costa del Sol.
Marbella Club Golf Resort
Marbella Club Golf Resort, located in the hills of Benahavís near Marbella, is an exclusive 18-hole golf course designed by Dave Thomas. Known for its scenic setting and well-maintained layout, the course offers a unique challenge with varied elevations, wide fairways and views of the Mediterranean Sea and African coastline. Part of the prestigious Marbella Club Hotel, the resort includes top-tier amenities, such as a refined clubhouse, equestrian center and luxury dining options. The tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking landscape make it a popular destination for golfers seeking a secluded, high-quality experience on the Costa del Sol.
Atalaya Golf & Country Club
Atalaya Golf & Country Club’s Old Course, located between Marbella and Estepona on Spain’s Costa del Sol, is a classic 18-hole parkland course designed by Bernhard von Limburger in 1968. Known for its wide, forgiving fairways and strategically placed bunkers, the course is accessible for golfers of all levels while offering enough challenge for experienced players. Set against a scenic backdrop of the Sierra Blanca mountains, it features beautiful mature trees and well-maintained greens. The club includes comprehensive practice facilities, a clubhouse with dining options and a welcoming environment, making it a popular choice for golfers in the region.
Santa Clara Golf Marbella
Santa Clara Golf Marbella, located just east of Marbella on Spain’s Costa del Sol, is an 18-hole course designed by Enrique Canales Busquets. Known for its open layout and minimal rough, the course is both challenging and enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels. Key features include wide fairways, strategic bunkering and the “Santa Clara Corner,” a trio of holes (12th to 14th) designed to test accuracy and skill. The course offers beautiful Mediterranean views and the club provides amenities like a welcoming clubhouse, pro shop and dining facilities, making it a well-rounded golfing destination in Marbella.
Río Real Golf & Hotel
Río Real Golf & Hotel, located just minutes from Marbella, is a prestigious 18-hole golf course designed by Javier Arana in 1965. Following the natural contours of the land, the course runs alongside the Río Real River, offering a mix of parkland and coastal views. Known for its tree-lined fairways, well-maintained greens and scenic beauty, it provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels. The boutique hotel on-site features luxurious accommodations, a spa and fine dining, making Río Real a top choice for a golf getaway on the Costa del Sol.
Top 11-20 Costa del Sol Golf Courses
El Paraíso Golf Club
El Paraíso Golf Club, located near Estepona on the Costa del Sol, is an 18-hole course designed by Gary Player in 1973. Renowned for its picturesque setting, the course features wide fairways, gently undulating terrain and strategically placed water hazards, offering an enjoyable challenge for golfers of all abilities. Surrounded by lush vegetation and with views of the Mediterranean Sea and nearby mountains, it provides a tranquil atmosphere. The club boasts a friendly, welcoming environment, excellent practice facilities and a clubhouse with dining options, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Estepona Golf
Estepona Golf, located on the Costa del Sol, is a scenic 18-hole course designed by José Luis López. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and great value, the course offers wide fairways, well-maintained greens and a fair challenge for golfers of all levels. Set amidst beautiful natural surroundings, it provides stunning views of the Mediterranean and nearby mountains. The club features a friendly clubhouse, practice facilities and a welcoming environment, making it a favourite for both locals and visitors.
Guadalmina Golf
Guadalmina Golf, located near Marbella on the Costa del Sol, features two 18-hole courses: the South Course, designed by Javier Arana, is renowned for its challenging, tree-lined fairways and strategic layout, while the North Course, designed by Folco Nardi, is more forgiving with wider fairways and water hazards. Established in 1959, it is one of the region’s oldest clubs, offering a rich history, excellent facilities and a prime coastal setting. The club also includes a welcoming clubhouse, practice areas and beautiful Mediterranean views, making it a top choice for golfers of all levels.
La Cala Golf Resort
La Cala Golf Resort, nestled in the hills of Mijas on the Costa del Sol, is a premier destination featuring three 18-hole championship courses – Asia, America and Europa – designed by Cabell B. Robinson. Each course offers unique challenges with scenic landscapes, undulating fairways and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The resort boasts world-class facilities, including a golf academy, luxurious spa, fine dining and upscale accommodations, making it a perfect getaway for golf enthusiasts and leisure travelers alike.
Calanova Golf Club
Calanova Golf Club, located in La Cala de Mijas on the Costa del Sol, is an 18-hole course offering a challenging and enjoyable layout with sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea and nearby mountains. Designed by Manuel Pinero, the course features undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers and elevated greens. Known for its friendly atmosphere and excellent facilities, the club includes a modern clubhouse, pro shop and a restaurant with panoramic terraces, making it a popular choice for golfers of all levels.
Alferini Golf
Situated within the luxurious Villa Padierna Resort in Benahavís, Alferini Golf is an 18-hole, par-73 championship course designed by Antonio García Garrido. Known for its long fairways and technical challenges, the course is ideal for advanced golfers seeking a strategic test. Surrounded by pristine natural landscapes, Alferini offers a tranquil setting with minimal development, creating a sense of seclusion. The course features large greens, strategically placed bunkers and elevation changes, demanding precision and skill. On-site, the resort provides top-notch amenities, including a high-end clubhouse, practice facilities and luxurious accommodations.
Sotogrande Golf Club (Old Course)
The Real Club de Golf Sotogrande, commonly referred to as the Old Course, is a masterpiece by Robert Trent Jones Sr., designed in 1964. Revered for its timeless design and meticulous upkeep, the par-72 course, with wide fairways, fast greens and strategically placed bunkers and water hazards. Located near the Mediterranean coastline, it offers scenic views and a perfect balance of challenge and playability. The club’s rich history includes hosting prestigious tournaments and its exclusive, sophisticated ambiance appeals to serious golfers. Facilities include a stately clubhouse, fine dining and excellent practice areas, including a renowned short-game facility.
La Duquesa Golf & Country Club
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., La Duquesa Golf & Country Club in Manilva offers an 18-hole, par-72 course with varied terrain and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, Gibraltar and North Africa. The layout combines technical holes requiring precision with open, forgiving sections, catering to golfers of all skill levels. Its signature holes include challenging doglegs and several with dramatic elevation changes, adding excitement to the round. The club’s facilities include a charming Andalucían-style clubhouse, a well-stocked pro shop and a restaurant with panoramic terraces, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
El Chaparral Golf Club
Nestled in Mijas, El Chaparral Golf Club is a unique 18-hole, par-72 course designed by Pepe Gancedo, known as the “Picasso of Golf.” The layout is characterized by tight, tree-lined fairways, elevation changes and a mix of hole designs which test accuracy and strategy. The course isn’t long but demands precise shot placement, making it enjoyable and challenging for all levels of golfers. Set against a backdrop of Mediterranean pine forests and offering sea views on many holes, the course provides a visually stunning experience. The modern clubhouse features a lively restaurant, a pro shop and top-notch practice facilities, including a driving range and putting green, making it a favourite among locals and visitors.
Flamingos Golf
Flamingos Golf, part of the Villa Padierna Resort in Benahavís, is an elegant 18-hole, par-71 course designed by Antonio García Garrido. The course features well-manicured fairways, large greens and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The layout incorporates lakes and strategically placed bunkers, offering challenges for all skill levels. Its signature hole, the 10th, provides breathtaking vistas and a unique test of accuracy. Complemented by luxury facilities, including a high-end clubhouse and nearby resort amenities, Flamingos Golf delivers a memorable and upscale golfing experience.
Top 21-30 Costa del Sol Golf Courses
Atalaya Golf & Country Club (New Course)
The New Course at Atalaya Golf & Country Club, designed by Paul Krings, offers an 18-hole, par-71 layout set in the hills of Estepona. Opened in 1990, it features wide fairways, elevated greens and fewer trees than the Old Course, making it more forgiving for mid- to high-handicap players. The course emphasizes precision over distance, with stunning views of the Mediterranean and surrounding mountains. The club’s practice facilities and welcoming clubhouse complete the experience for golfers of all levels.
Cabopino Golf Marbella
Cabopino Golf Marbella, located near the charming Cabopino Marina, is an 18-hole, par-71 course designed by Juan Ligués Creus. Known for its dramatic elevation changes, it provides a fun and visually stunning challenge with sweeping views of the Mediterranean. The course features several short but technical holes, with the 3rd hole – a downhill par 4 – standing out as a fan favourite. The welcoming clubhouse, complete with a terrace and restaurant, enhances the experience, making it a must-play for those seeking a scenic and enjoyable round.
Doña Julia Golf
Doña Julia Golf, located in Casares, is an 18-hole, par-71 course designed by Antonio García Garrido. The course blends gently rolling terrain with more technical, narrow fairways, creating a versatile challenge. The course offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding mountains, with standout holes like the par-3 7th, which features an elevated tee. The clubhouse provides a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by practice facilities and a restaurant, making it a popular destination for golfers along the Costa del Sol.
Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club
Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club, designed by Seve Ballesteros, is a challenging 18-hole, par-71 course nestled in the hills of Benahavís. The course is known for its tight fairways, undulating terrain and strategic layout, which demands accuracy and thoughtful club selection. Its elevated tees offer spectacular views of the Mediterranean and surrounding mountains. The club features a modern clubhouse, a restaurant and excellent practice facilities, providing a top-notch experience for serious golfers.
Magna Marbella Golf
Magna Marbella Golf, located in Nueva Andalucía, is a compact 9-hole, par-29 course designed by José María Elguezábal. Ideal for beginners and short-game practice, the course offers a mix of straightforward and challenging holes, including water hazards and bunkers. The picturesque setting provides views of the Mediterranean and La Concha mountain. The stylish clubhouse features a fine-dining restaurant, a terrace with panoramic vistas and a welcoming ambiance, making it a favourite for both casual and experienced golfers.
Mijas Golf (Los Olivos)
Los Olivos, part of Mijas Golf Club, is an 18-hole, par-70 course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. Compact and technical, the layout features smaller greens, tree-lined fairways and fewer water hazards compared to its sister course, Los Lagos. It emphasizes accuracy and precision, making it ideal for strategic players. Set amidst a picturesque landscape of olive trees, the course offers a serene yet challenging experience, complemented by the club’s excellent facilities, including a pro shop and a welcoming clubhouse.
Mijas Golf (La Cala)
La Cala Golf, part of the larger La Cala Resort in Mijas, boasts three 18-hole championship courses – Asia, America and Europa – all designed by Cabell B. Robinson. Each course offers distinct challenges: Asia is technical with narrow fairways, America features wide fairways and elevation changes and Europa balances playability with scenic river crossings. The resort is renowned for its top-tier facilities, including a golf academy, luxury accommodations, a spa and dining options, making it a comprehensive destination for golfers.
Paraíso Golf Club
El Paraíso Golf Club, located near Estepona, is an 18-hole, par-71 course designed by Gary Player in 1973. Known for its lush fairways, large greens and picturesque layout, the course is suitable for golfers of all abilities. Set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea and Sierra Bermeja mountains, it offers a tranquil and enjoyable experience. The friendly clubhouse, practice areas and welcoming atmosphere make it a favourite among locals and visitors.
Santa María Golf & Country Club
Santa María Golf & Country Club, located in Elviria near Marbella, is a semi-private 18-hole, par-70 course designed by Antonio García Garrido. The front nine winds through a picturesque valley with streams and mature trees, while the back nine opens up to offer panoramic views of the Mediterranean. The course provides a mix of technical and enjoyable holes for all skill levels. The elegant clubhouse, set in a restored 19th-century farmhouse, offers fine dining, a pro shop and a warm atmosphere.
Selwo Hills Golf
Selwo Hills Golf, located near Estepona, is a lesser-known yet scenic 18-hole course offering a blend of natural beauty and playability. Surrounded by rolling hills and close to the Selwo Aventura wildlife park, the course provides a tranquil setting with Mediterranean views. Its layout includes varied elevations, challenging greens and a mix of technical and forgiving holes, making it suitable for all levels. Though more modest in scale, the club’s facilities provide a welcoming and relaxed environment for golfers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
