Things to do in Costa Tropical
Discover the best attractions and experiences Costa Tropical has to offer
Historic Monuments
Fortresses and ancient walls crown the coast, reflecting the Moorish and medieval history of the Costa Tropical.
Castillo de Salobreña
Impressive Moorish fortress perched over the whitewashed town, with sweeping views of the Mediterranean.
Castillo de San Miguel (Almuñécar)
Medieval fortress guarding the old town and the coastline.
Castillo de Motril
Historic castle overlooking Motril's port, dating back to medieval times.
Museums
Explore archaeology, banana heritage, and local maritime life through three engaging museums.
Museo Arqueológico de Almuñécar (MAC)
Archaeological collection tracing Phoenician, Roman and Islamic eras in the area.
Museo de la Banana (Motril)
Exhibits about the region’s banana cultivation and agricultural heritage.
Centro de Interpretación de la Pesca (Motril)
Insight into local fishing traditions and marine life.
Religious Monuments
Historic churches and coastal hermitages dot the hillside towns and old quarters.
Iglesia de la Encarnación (Almuñécar)
Religious landmark in the old town, blending historical architectural styles.
Iglesia Parroquial de Salobreña
Cozy church in the hillside town with traditional Andalusian features.
Ermita de San Sebastián (La Herradura)
Small coastal hermitage offering a quiet spot with sea views.
National & Theme Parks
The surrounding mountains and protected coastlines offer dramatic day trips and scenic hikes.
Parque Nacional de Sierra Nevada
Snow-capped mountains, alpine landscapes and outdoor activities nearby.
Parque Natural de las Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama
Dramatic gorges and pine forests just inland from the coast.
Parque Natural de la Sierra de Lújar
Protected hillside landscapes ideal for hiking and nature discovery.
Neighborhoods
Wander through the old quarters and seaside promenades that give each town its character.
Casco antiguo de Almuñécar
Narrow lanes, traditional houses and historic plazas in the old town.
Casco antiguo de Salobreña
Whitewashed streets winding up to the hilltop castle with sea views.
Paseo marítimo de Motril
Vibrant waterfront area with palm-lined promenades and shops.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the natural beauty and coastal atmosphere with these budget-friendly activities.
Paseo por la playa y el litoral
Stroll along the coastline and soak up the sun without an entry fee.
Miradores del litoral
Take in sweeping sea views from accessible lookouts along the coast.
Paseos por el casco antiguo
Explore plazas, streets and viewpoints in Almuñécar and Salobreña.
Gastronomy
Flavor plays a lead role here, with fresh seafood and tropical fruits taking center stage.
Pescado fresco de la costa a la plancha
Simple, delicious seafood caught locally and cooked with minimal fuss.
Plátano de Motril
Banana-based desserts and smoothies made from regional fruit.
Tapas de marisco en los chiringuitos
Casual bites of local shellfish and fried favorites by the sea.
Nightlife
Beach bars, terraces and lively plazas light up as the sun goes down along the coast.
Chiringuitos frente al mar en La Herradura
Casual beach bars with music, drinks and sea breeze.
Bares y terrazas en Motril
Casual nightspots and seaside venues for a relaxed evening.
Terrazas en Almuñécar
Open-air spots with views over the old town and sea.
Entertainment
Seasonal festivals, performances and street arts add color to the towns.
Festival de verano en Almuñécar
Open-air concerts and cultural events during warmer months.
Conciertos en la playa de La Herradura
Music by the water with a relaxed coastal vibe.
Espectáculos en las plazas de Salobreña
Local performances and community entertainments in historic squares.
Sports
Outdoor adventures abound, from rugged hikes to water sports along the coast.
Senderismo en la Sierra de Lújar
Rugged trails and panoramic viewpoints for nature lovers.
Kayak y paddle surf en la costa
Water activities along calm coves and sea caves.
Buceo en calas de la Costa Tropical
Explore underwater life in accessible coastal spots.
Off the Track
Discover the offbeat side of this subtropical coast with unique experiences.
Avistamiento de delfines y fauna marina
Boat tours that spot dolphins and other marine life.
Ruta de plantaciones de banana con guía local
Learn how the region grows its famous bananas and taste fresh fruit.
Clases de surf o bodyboard en la playa
Beginner-friendly sessions on gentle Atlantic waves.