Almunecar, Costa Tropical

Pass up the resorts on the crowded Costa del Sol and head to the next part of the coastline, the Costa Tropical. There's a much better mix of development and the preservation of natural beauty. The primary resort is Almunecar, which feels like a seaside town in the South of France. There's a long, curving beach, fronted by a street lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels. There is also a row of mainly restaurants along the beach itself. The beach has soft, white sand and the water, especially in the summer, is quite warm. There are many places to rent beach chairs and umbrellas. Swimming areas are roped off, and lifeguards are on duty during the summer months. Attractions in the area include historic Spanish cities like Seville and Granada. The Playacalida Spa Hotel has a huge, rooftop infinity pool and an overall design like a Moorish castle. The resort is on a hill with beautiful views of the blue water below, a bit outside the tourist zone.