Top courses part 2
Part 2 of our guide to a few of the top courses on the Costa del Sol suitable for all handicaps
Welcome to part 2 of our guide to some of the top golf courses on the Costa de Sol.
6. Calanova Golf Club
Offers a visually stunning and strategically challenging experience, with wide fairways, large undulating greens, and panoramic views of the Costa del Sol.
Course Overview
Location: Nestled in the Golf Valley behind La Cala de Mijas, just minutes from the Mediterranean coast
Type: Parkland-style course with some links-like features.
Opened: 2006
Layout: 18 holes, par 72, stretching 5,866 meters from the back tees
Playability Highlights
Wide Fairways: Designed to encourage aggressive play, especially for long hitters, while still offering strategic options for all skill levels
Large Greens: Average size of 500 square meters, with subtle undulations that challenge even experienced putters
Varied Pin Positions: Allows for dynamic setups, ranging from straightforward to highly technical
Strategic Hazards: The opening hole features a lake carry, setting the tone for a round that rewards thoughtful shot placement
Scenic & Structural Features
Sea & Mountain Views: Several holes offer breathtaking vistas, enhancing the overall experience
Modern Infrastructure: Built to USGA specifications for tees, bunkers, drainage, and greens
Clubhouse & Amenities
Spacious clubhouse with a well-reviewed restaurant
Extensive pro shop with competitively priced gear
Fully staffed golf academy and practice area
Strategic Appeal
The course layout encourages players to use a mix of power and precision, with elevation changes and water hazards adding complexity
Ideal for golfers who enjoy tactical play and scenic surroundings
Calanova is known for being well-maintained year-round and includes a buggy with every green fee.
7. El Chaparral Golf Club
Offers a uniquely challenging and scenic experience, with a balanced mix of hole types and a layout that rewards precision over power.
Course Overview
Location: Mijas Golf Valley, Costa del Sol, Spain — just 25 minutes from Málaga Airport
Designer: Pepe Gancedo, known for creative and strategic layouts
Type: Parkland Forest course — nestled in a Mediterranean forest with mountain and sea views
Length: Approximately 6,000 meters (6,560 yards)
Par: 72
Hole Configuration: 6 par 3s, 6 par 4s, and 6 par 5s — a rare and balanced setup that adds variety and rhythm to the round
Playability Highlights
Strategic Layout: The course isn’t especially long, but it demands accuracy and smart club selection. Many tee shots favor fairway woods or long irons over drivers.
Varied Terrain: Expect elevation changes, tree-lined fairways, and protected natural areas that enhance both challenge and beauty.
Shotmaking Required: Experienced players will appreciate the need for precise ball placement and thoughtful course management.
Scenic Appeal: The surrounding forest and coastal backdrop create a tranquil yet stimulating environment for play.
Amenities & Services
Practice Facilities: Driving range, putting green, chipping area, and practice bunker.
Clubhouse: Includes a restaurant, pro shop, locker rooms, and reception hall.
Extras: Buggy and club rentals, caddie hire, and golf lessons available.
What Makes It Unique
Only course in Costa del Sol with a 6-6-6 hole configuration — offering a refreshing change from traditional layouts.
Protected natural setting — combining forest, mountain, and sea views for a memorable round.
Whether you're a seasoned golfer looking for a tactical challenge or a visitor seeking a picturesque round in southern Spain, Chaparral Golf Club delivers a distinctive blend of strategy, scenery, and serenity.
8. Santa María Golf Club in Marbella
Offers a scenic and moderately challenging 18-hole course that caters to golfers of all skill levels. Its layout across two valleys provides both technical variety and stunning Mediterranean views.
Course Overview
Location: East Marbella, near Hotel Don Carlos, Costa del Sol
Design: Originally a 9-hole course by Antonio García Garrido, expanded to 18 holes in 1996 by the club’s technical team
Par & Length: Par 70, stretching 5,613 meters
Terrain: Set in two valleys with native vegetation—pines, cork oaks, olive trees, and a small stream running through much of the course
Playability Highlights
Front Nine: More demanding, featuring three par-5 holes. Requires strategic play and precision.
Back Nine: Wider fairways and more forgiving, with three par-3 holes and better recovery opportunities.
Greens: Generally large, which helps on longer holes but introduces complexity due to sloping surfaces.
Signature Holes:
Hole 7: A 180-meter par-3 with elevated tees—precision is key.
Hole 8: A dogleg par-5 with water hazards.
Hole 11: Elevated tee, lake-side fairway, and a green framed by a waterfall.
Atmosphere & Experience
Scenery: The course blends seamlessly into the Andalusian hills, offering panoramic views and a tranquil setting.
Club Culture: Known for its warm hospitality, professional staff, and continual facility improvements.
Accessibility: Open to both members and the public, with equipment rentals and online booking available.
Whether you're looking for a relaxed round or a strategic challenge, Santa María Golf Club delivers a memorable experience in one of Marbella’s most picturesque settings.
9. Santa Clara Golf Club Marbella
Offers a technically challenging yet forgiving par-71 course with wide fairways, minimal roughs, and stunning coastal views. Designed by Enrique Canales Busquets, it’s ideal for both seasoned and intermediate players.
Course Overview
Location: Just minutes east of Marbella’s city centre, nestled along the Costa del Sol
Designer: Enrique Canales Busquets
Opened: July 2001
Layout: 18 holes, par 71, stretching 5,922 meters
Style: Parkland-style course, harmoniously integrated with native vegetation and local wildlife
Playability Features
Wide Fairways: These allow for strategic play and reduce the risk of errant shots, making the course accessible to mid-handicap golfers.
Minimal Roughs: The limited rough areas contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable round, especially for less experienced players.
Elevation Changes: While the terrain is undulated, it’s not overly punishing. The most challenging hole is the 8th—a long par 5 at 506 meters, starting from the highest tee box on the course.
Hazards: Water features and bunkers are thoughtfully placed, especially around par-3s, which can be tricky for less confident players.
Scenic and Environmental Highlights
Views: Panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean coast and surrounding mountains enhance the experience.
Eco-Friendly Design: The course was built with respect for the natural environment, preserving indigenous flora and fauna.
Experience and Amenities
Service: Known for its friendly and professional staff, from check-in to the final hole.
Atmosphere: Combines tradition with modern sophistication, offering a relaxed yet refined golfing experience.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely round or a strategic challenge, Santa Clara Golf Club delivers a memorable day on the greens.
10. Cerrado del Águila Golf Club
A Great 9 Hole course for a quick round on arrival in the Fuengirola area or to play before a Malaga flight home.
It offers stunning views and excellent facilities and is designed to challenge and delight golfers of all levels. It’s known for its wide fairways, large greens, and strategic layout that makes full use of the terrain and natural features.
Course Overview
Location: Mijas Costa, near Fuengirola, Costa del Sol, Spain
Designer: Francisco Navarro
Opened: 2007
Layout: 9 holes, played twice for a full 18-hole round
Terrain: Flat and wide fairways with significant earthworks to enhance playability
Key Features
Fairways: Broad and forgiving, ideal for players who prefer open driving lines
Greens: Spacious and well-maintained, offering a true roll
Hazards: Includes two large lakes and a variety of bunkers that add strategic depth
Signature Hole: The opening hole is particularly memorable, with a challenging stroke index that tests accuracy and distance
Playability
Skill Level: Suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced players
Challenge: While the fairways are generous, the diversity of hole lengths and water hazards require thoughtful club selection and course management
Pace of Play: Efficient layout with direct transitions between holes helps maintain a steady pace, even when busy
Setting & Ambience
Scenery: Panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding mountains
Atmosphere: Relaxed yet professional, with a strong local and international player
A few of the top courses on the Costa del Sol
Our guide to a few of the top courses on the Costa del Sol suitable for all handicaps
Welcome to part one of our guide to some of our favourite courses on the stunning Costa del Sol.
1. Torrequebrada Golf Club
Offers a lush, challenging 18-hole course with dramatic elevation changes, strategic bunkering, and stunning sea views — ideal for both seasoned players and adventurous newcomers.
Course Overview
Location: Benalmádena, Costa del Sol, Spain
Designer: José “Pepe” Gancedo, known for integrating natural landscapes into his layouts
Opened: 1976
Type: Parkland course nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains
Playability Highlights
18 Holes, Par 72: Offers a mix of reachable par 5s, tricky doglegs, and short but deceptive par 3s
Undulating Terrain - elevation changes throughout the course make club selection and shot placement critical
Lakes and bunkers are thoughtfully placed to challenge every level of golfer
Hole 3 - A standout par 3 at just 80 meters, requiring pinpoint accuracy
Hole 17 - Demands a precise tee shot on a sloping fairway with panoramic views
Hole 18 - A dramatic finish over a valley of olive trees
Natural Beauty
The course is set in a subtropical jungle-like environment, with over 100 tree species lining the fairways
Offers sea views from several holes, enhancing the visual experience
Course Ratings & Tees
Moderate to high difficulty, especially from the Amarillas tees.
Amenities & Experience
Buggies recommended due to the hilly terrain
Clubhouse features a well-reviewed restaurant and friendly staff
Known for its welcoming atmosphere and affordable green fees, making it a favourite among visiting golfers
2. Santana Golf Club
Offers a scenic, walkable, and technically engaging 18-hole Par 72 course nestled between Fuengirola and Marbella. It’s known for its natural beauty, strategic layout, and smooth playability.
Course Overview
Designer: Cabell B. Robinson, renowned for blending natural landscapes with strategic golf design
Layout: 18 holes, Par 72, stretching approximately 6,203 meters (6,785 yards) across 138 acres of former avocado farmland
Terrain: Mostly flat and easily walkable, with wide, well-defined fairways and minimal elevation changes
Natural Setting: Surrounded by the Sierra de Mijas mountains and bordered by the Ojén and Las Pasadas rivers, the course features eucalyptus, fig, and pine trees, along with rich birdlife
Playability Highlights
Strategic Design: Water hazards and bunkers are thoughtfully placed to challenge shot-making without overwhelming casual players
Smooth Gameplay: The course is praised for its fluid transitions between holes and clear sightlines, making it ideal for both amateurs and seasoned golfers
Recent Enhancements: In 2025, Santana Golf underwent a master plan upgrade:
Tees on holes 1, 2, 7, 9, 10, 11, and 16 were rebuilt
Bunkers on 10 different holes were renovated
Fairways received deep-soil treatments and aeration
Nearly 400 trees were planted or relocated to enhance sustainability and aesthetics
Experience
Walkability: Thanks to its level terrain, Santana is one of the more comfortable courses to walk in the Costa del Sol region.
Visual Appeal: With Mediterranean views and lush greenery, the course offers a tranquil yet stimulating environment
Club Amenities: Includes a pro shop, restaurant, putting green, and a welcoming clubhouse
Whether you're seeking a relaxing round or a strategic challenge, Santana Golf Club delivers a balanced experience in a stunning natural setting.
3. Los Lagos Golf Course
Highly playable for golfers of all skill levels, thanks to its wide fairways, gentle terrain, and flexible tee placements.
Course Design & Layout
Length: 6,536 meters, making it the longer of the two courses at Mijas Golf Club
Terrain: Soft slopes and a fairly flat layout make walking the course manageable and less physically demanding
Fairways: Wide and open, ideal for players who prefer a more forgiving setup
Greens: Large, flat, and built to USGA specifications with subtle undulations for added challenge
Hazards & Challenges
Water Hazards: True to its name, Los Lagos features nine lakes that come into play on several holes, especially the 9th and 18th
Bunkers: Strategically placed throughout the course to test shot accuracy
Trees: Few forest obstacles, but some trees are positioned to protect greens and add complexity
Skill Level Suitability
Handicap Range: The course is suitable for all handicap levels. Wide tees allow adjustments to difficulty, making it accessible for beginners while still engaging for advanced players
Swing Style: Best suited for players with a strong, long swing, though concentration is key to navigating hazards
Refurbishment & Quality
Renovation: Fully refurbished in 2012, maintaining the original Robert Trent Jones Sr. design. Improvements include larger greens and expanded tee areas
Consistency: Post-renovation, the course maintains a high standard across all holes
Overall Experience
Commercial Popularity: One of the most well-known courses on the Costa del Sol, often praised for its balance of challenge and accessibility
Clubhouse & Amenities: Informal, medium-sized clubhouse with good food and a shaded terrace. Allow extra time for check-in and walking to the first tee
If you're planning a round, it's a great choice whether you're looking for a relaxed game or a strategic challenge.
4. Lauro Golf Club
Offers a scenic and moderately challenging experience with 27 holes arranged in three loops of nine, all par 72, set amid Andalusian countryside. It's ideal for medium to high handicappers seeking variety and natural beauty.
Course Layout & Environment
Location: Situated 300 meters above sea level near Málaga, Lauro Golf Club enjoys panoramic views and a mild climate year-round
Design: Created by Folco Nardo, the course is laid out on gently undulating terrain with fairways winding through pine, cork, olive, and citrus trees
Structure: The 27 holes are divided into three 9-hole loops, allowing for flexible 18-hole combinations. Each loop ends with a hole featuring prominent water hazards
Playability & Challenges
Skill Level: The course is considered challenging but accessible, especially for medium to high handicappers. Strategic shot placement is often more important than distance.
Hazards: Expect out-of-bounds areas, bunkers, water hazards, and elevation changes that demand thoughtful club selection and precision
Sample Hole Highlights
Hole 1 (Par 4): A manageable opener with out-of-bounds on both sides. Accuracy off the tee is key, and the green is well-guarded.
Hole 3 (Par 4): A downhill hole leading to the smallest green on the course, surrounded by bunkers.
Hole 4 (Par 3): An uphill challenge with wind influence and lateral water hazard on the left. Club selection varies from 3 to 6 iron.
Facilities & Experience
Clubhouse: Offers decent food and friendly service. The pro shop and café are well-reviewed for hospitality.
If you're planning a visit, Lauro Golf Club promises a blend of strategic golf and Andalusian charm.
5. La Cala Golf Club’s America course
Offers a scenic yet challenging experience, with wide fairways and elevated greens that demand precision and strategy.
Course Overview
Name: Campo America (formerly North Course)
Location: La Cala Resort, Mijas Costa, Andalusia, Spain
Designer: Cabell B. Robinson
Par: 72
Length: 6,009 meters (approx. 6,574 yards)
Opened: 1990
Terrain & Layout
Topography: Hilly and dramatic, with stunning views of the Sierra de Ojén and Mediterranean Sea
Fairways: Wide and linked, offering forgiveness off the tee. Fewer bunkers compared to typical championship layouts.
Greens: Small and raised, requiring accurate approach shots and thoughtful club selection
Water Hazards: Present on holes 9 and 16, adding strategic complexity
Playability
Driving: Easier due to generous fairways, but elevation changes and brush-covered slopes challenge shot placement
Approach Play: Demands precision due to elevated, compact greens
Skill Level: Suitable for all levels, but better enjoyed by players with solid iron control and course management