Located on Spain’s Costa del Sol, Torremolinos is a vibrant and sunny destination known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. Once a small fishing village, it has become a buzzing holiday spot and a prime LGBTQI+ destination. Famous for its nightlife and scenic coastline, Torremolinos offers fun by the sea, only 14 kilometers (9 mi) from the provincial capital, Málaga. If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Torremolinos, you’ve come to the right place.
Historically, Torremolinos rose to popularity in the 1950s and 1960s when tourism started booming in Spain. The city’s main attractions include La Carihuela, known for its golden sandy beach and exquisite seafood restaurants, and the iconic Pimentel Tower, which dates back to the 14th century. Given Costa del Sol’s huge tourist industry, Torremolinos has many accommodation options, ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels.
Beyond the beaches and historical sites, Torremolinos offers other great attractions. The Crocodile Park is home to many large reptiles and provides an adventurous outing for families. Aqualand Torremolinos is a popular water park ideal for hot summer days. For a cultural experience, visit Casa de los Navajas, a beautifully restored mansion showcasing Moorish architecture. Lastly, don’t miss the Molino de Inca Botanical Garden, home to many tropical plants and flowers.
Torremolinos perfectly captures the essence of Spanish coastal life. While it is undeniably touristy during peak seasons, it appeals to young travelers looking for nightlife and older visitors seeking relaxation by the sea. Its mix of bars, nightclubs, shops, and waterfront cafes is one of its main attractions.
So why wait? Keep reading this guide to uncover more about this fantastic town and find the best area to stay in Torremolinos.
Accommodation Options in Torremolinos
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Torremolinos?
The best area to stay in Torremolinos is the City Center. It offers convenient access to shops, restaurants, and the beach. The area is lively and bustling, providing a great atmosphere for a vacation. It’s well-known for being welcoming towards the LGBT community, with several queer bars and events. The excellent public transport connections make exploring other parts of the town and nearby attractions easy.
Find available accommodation in Torremolinos City Center.
Best Hotels in Torremolinos Center
- Best four-star hotel: Fénix Torremolinos
- Best three-star hotel: Hotel Ritual Torremolinos- Adults Only
- Best budget hotel: Nch Hotel Torremolinos
- Best B&B: Hostal La Palmera
Where to Stay in Torremolinos for Sightseeing, Nightlife & Beaches
- Torremolinos City Center is perfect for those who enjoy being in the heart of the action, with a lively atmosphere filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
- Carihuela offers a more relaxed vibe with its charming old fishing village ambiance and popular beach.
- Visitors will find it incredibly convenient for day trips and excursions around the Torremolinos Renfe Station. The area features a good mix of modern conveniences and traditional Andalusian flair.
- Los Álamos is another excellent area known for its quieter beaches and trendy beach clubs. This area attracts a younger crowd.
- Bajondillo is favored by those who want direct access to the beach and proximity to Torremolinos’ city center.
The Best Areas to Stay in Torremolinos
1. Torremolinos City Center: Best Location for Nightlife and Sightseeing
Torremolinos City Center is the perfect spot for those who want to experience the vibrant queer nightlife scene and immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of this bustling town.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Torremolinos:
- Vibrant nightlife with LGBTQ-friendly bars
- Central location
- Close to the beach
- Wide variety of restaurants
- Easy access to public transportation
- Calle San Miguel shopping street
- Proximity to cultural landmarks
- Bustling local markets
- Torremolinos train station nearby
Torremolinos Centro is a vibrant area in the heart of Torremolinos. Known for its busy commercial streets and energetic nightlife, the central district is the best area to stay in the Andalusian town.
For those interested in historical architecture, Casa de los Navajas offers a well-preserved example of early 20th-century neo-mudéjar architecture. Built in 1925, the house showcases opulent interiors and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Calle de San Miguel is particularly appealing to shoppers. This bustling, pedestrian-friendly street is known for its many stores and boutiques, which offer products ranging from local crafts to high-end fashion.
La Nogalera is the central hub for the LGBTQ+ community in Torremolinos. This area has been historically significant as one of the earliest LGBTQ+ neighborhoods in Spain. In fact, the area was home to Tony’s Bar, Spain’s first openly gay bar, opened in the 1960s. Today, it remains an important queer nightlife area featuring numerous venues and clubs.
The railway station in Torremolinos Centro offers efficient transportation options. Málaga’s Cercanías C-1 line connects the area to major destinations, including Málaga, Costa del Sol Airport, Fuengirola, and Benalmádena.
Regarding accommodation, Torremolinos Centro offers a variety of hotel options ranging from luxury establishments to more budget-friendly choices.
Best Hotels in Torremolinos City Center
Fénix Torremolinos – Adults Only Recommended
Fénix Torremolinos is located in Torremolinos center. The adults-oriented hotel offers a jacuzzi & solarium roof terrace with sea views, a wellness center, and an outdoor swimming pool.
Hotel Ritual Torremolinos- Adults Only
Located in La Nogalera LGBT area in Torremolinos, known for its lively gay scene, this central and stylish hotel offers a spa and 2 outdoor pools. Hotel Ritual – Adults Only has direct access to Bajondillo Beach.
Nch Hotel Torremolinos
Nch Hotel Torremolinos is located in the charming historic center of Torremolinos. It offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi.
2. La Carihuela: Best Location for Beach Lovers
La Carihuela is famous for its charming old-town atmosphere and superb seafood restaurants. Located west of the city center, it offers a more relaxed vibe with easy access to stunning beaches.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Torremolinos:
- Beautiful sandy beaches
- Renowned seafood restaurants
- Lively promenade
- Charming historic fishing village vibes
- Variety of water sports activities
La Carihuela is one of the most frequented areas in Torremolinos, particularly during the summer months. Located southwest of the town center, this former fishing district is easily accessible on foot from central Torremolinos.
This coastal neighborhood is renowned for its promenade, lined with beach bars offering typical Andalusian fried fish, a local delicacy often paired with cold beer. These chiringuitos (beach bars) create a lively atmosphere that attracts tourists and backpackers from all over Europe.
Historically a fishing village, La Carihuela has retained much of its original charm despite modern developments. Today, it has evolved into a popular destination for those sun, sand, and tapas.
Several key attractions can be found around La Carihuela. Its proximity to the beach makes it ideal for water-related activities. Visitors can also explore Parque La Batería, which features lush gardens, a boating lake, and playgrounds.
Nightlife in La Carihuela includes bars and cafes along the beachfront. Transportation options are convenient around La Carihuela. Bus services connect this neighborhood to other parts of Torremolinos and neighboring Malaga. The nearby train station at Montemar Alto provides direct access to Málaga and the airport.
Best Hotels in La Carihuela
Hotel Ocean House Costa del Sol, Affiliated by Meliá
Facing the beachfront, Hotel Ocean House Costa del Sol, Affiliated with Meliá, offers 4-star accommodations in Torremolinos and has free bikes, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center.
Hotel Mediterraneo Carihuela
This pleasant hotel is set in front of La Carihuela Beach, a 5-minute drive from the center of Torremolinos. It offers air-conditioned rooms with balconies, a sun terrace, and a free Wi-Fi zone.
Hotel Cabello
Hotel Cabello is set on the beachfront in Torremolinos. Featuring a bar, the 1-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom.
Apartamentos Palm Beach Club Carihuela
These apartments are a minute’s walk from the beaches of Carihuela. The Palm Beach complex features outdoor swimming pools, a sunny terrace, and free Wi-Fi in public areas.
3. Bajondillo: A Central Beach Area in Torremolinos
Bajondillo is situated directly along the coast, offering immediate beach access and scenic ocean views. It’s particularly popular due to its proximity to Torremolinos City Center.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Torremolinos:
- Beautiful beaches
- Vibrant nightlife
- Charming old town
- Diverse dining options
- Family-friendly activities
- Proximity to the airport
Located adjacent to the city center, El Bajondillo is a coastal district that stretches along a sandy beach, making it a prime location for beach lovers.
The beach is the primary attraction, with soft golden sands and calm waters ideal for swimming. A well-maintained promenade runs parallel to the beach, lined with cafés, bars, and shops.
In terms of nightlife, El Bajondillo offers many options, particularly along the promenade. Several bars and small clubs keep the area vibrant throughout the evening.
Transportation in El Bajondillo is convenient with frequent bus services connecting to other parts of Torremolinos. The Torremolinos Train Station is a short distance away, providing regular connections to Málaga and Fuengirola via the Cercanías C-1 line.
Accommodation options in El Bajondillo range from mid-tier hotels to more luxurious beachfront properties.
Best Hotels in El Bajondillo
Essence Hotel Boutique by Don Paquito
The Essence Hotel Boutique by Don Paquito is located in Torremolinos, steps away from Playamar and Bajondillo beaches and the seaside promenade. It features a swimming pool, hot tub, and free hammam.
Hotel Tarik
Hotel Tarik is located on Torremolinos’ Playamar Beach, just a 15-minute drive from Málaga Airport. It is a traditional Andalusian building with an outdoor pool and rooms with satellite TV.
Hotel Perla del Sur
Featuring a terrace, Hotel Perla del Sur has certain rooms that include a balcony and city view, and rooms are fitted with a private bathroom and a wardrobe. At the accommodations every room is fitted with air conditioning and a flat-screen TV.
Hotel Apartamentos Bajondillo
The beachfront Hotel Apartamentos Bajondillo in Torremolinos has an outdoor pool and free Wi-Fi. They offer a wide range of entertainment and a free airport shuttle.
4. Los Álamos: Best Area for a Luxury Holiday in Torremolinos
Los Álamos is home to Torremolinos’ best-rated luxury resorts.
Los Álamos, Torremolinos, is a coastal suburb in the city’s eastern part. Known for its tranquil beach atmosphere and proximity to Málaga, Los Álamos is a great spot for relaxation and convenience.
The development of Los Álamos began in earnest during the tourism boom of the 1960s and 1970s. Before that time, it was largely rural. Over the years, it has become one of the favorite areas for seasonal tourists.
The beach at Los Álamos is one of its biggest attractions. It features wide sandy shores stretching over a kilometer and a palm-lined promenade.
In terms of entertainment and nightlife, Los Álamos often hosts summer beach parties and music festivals. The area offers bars and clubs that stay open until late in the summer months.
Transportation in Los Álamos is well-developed, making it easy to visit nearby attractions. The suburb has its own train station on the C1 line of the Cercanías commuter network, connecting Torremolinos with Málaga to the north and Fuengirola to the south. This train line also stops at Málaga Airport.
Accommodation options in Los Álamos range from serviced apartments to upscale resorts. The area’s peaceful environment makes it particularly appealing to families and couples looking to unwind near the sea.
Best Hotels in Los Álamos
Hotel Riu Costa del Sol – All Inclusive
Facing the beachfront, Hotel Riu Costa del Sol—All Inclusive offers 4-star accommodations in Torremolinos and features an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and terrace. This property also has a restaurant, a kids’ club, a 24-hour front desk, and free Wi-Fi throughout.
Where to Stay in Torremolinos: A Personal Take
I have been to Torremolinos twice. The first time, it was just a day trip from Málaga. I spent the day exploring the local shops and tasting the delicious food in the restaurants there. There are beautiful beaches where you can relax and have a peaceful time. The streets are lively, with many shops selling souvenirs and local goods. This first visit made me curious to explore more, so I decided to return soon.
On my second visit, I stayed longer in Torremolinos. I chose the Hotel Ocean House Costa del Sol. The hotel is comfortable and clean, offering great views of the sea from the balcony. The staff is friendly and helpful, making my stay even more enjoyable. The pool area is well-maintained and a nice place to relax after a day of exploring.
During my stay, I found that staying near the city center or Bajondillo Beach is very convenient. It’s easy to walk around and discover new places. Many good restaurants and cafes are nearby, where you can try traditional Spanish dishes. If you like shopping, there are plenty of stores to browse through. Torremolinos is a charming town with plenty of things to do and see, making it a great place for a relaxing holiday.
Staying in Torremolinos: Useful Information for Your Visit
Torremolinos, a beautiful town on Spain’s Costa del Sol, is easy to reach, especially from Málaga. You can take a short train ride from Málaga Airport’s terminal station and arrive in less than 30 minutes.
The town is compact and spread along the coast, making it ideal for walking. Public transportation includes reliable bus services and trains. The main station you’ll use as a tourist is Torremolinos station, located near the central area.
Don’t miss trying local dishes like pescaíto frito, a variety of fried fish, and tapas at the beachside chiringuitos (beach bars). For dessert, enjoy some local churros with hot chocolate.
The climate in Torremolinos is mild year-round. Winter temperatures average around 15°C, while summer can reach up to 30°C. Spring and fall are pleasant, with temperatures between 18-25°C. The best time to visit might be late spring or early fall when the weather is warm but not too hot.
Be sure to visit La Carihuela, the former fishing district now known for its excellent seafood restaurants and beautiful beaches.
Other attractions include Aqualand Torremolinos for a family-friendly water park experience, the Crocodile Park to see various crocodiles up close, and the scenic Battery Park with its beautiful gardens and playgrounds.
For accommodations, staying in La Carihuela offers easy beach access and lots of dining options. The town center is great if you want to be near shops and nightlife. Los Alamos provides a quieter environment but is still accessible to main attractions.
If you’re on a budget, consider staying in hostels or budget hotels a bit further from the beach. These are often just a short walk or bus ride away from major spots.
Always check reviews before booking accommodations to ensure they meet your quality expectations and have all amenities.
