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
