A few of the top courses on the Costa del Sol

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