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