La Cala de Mijas holidays

How to reach La Cala de Mijas

• Flight time: Flights to La Cala de Mijas from London and other UK airports land at Malaga Airport on the Costa del Sol. Direct flights to Malaga usually take about 2 hours 45 minutes and operate on a daily basis.

• Transfer time: La Cala de Mijas is just a 30-minute drive from Malaga Airport, and there are several transport options at your disposal, including taxis and car rentals. There are no direct public buses to La Cala de Mijas, but pre-booked shuttle buses offer a more economical transfer and a scenic ride along the coast to your destination.

• Price: The cost of a taxi from Malaga Airport to La Cala de Mijas will vary from €60 to €80. Alternatively, shuttle buses will only set you back around €16 to €18 per person.

Best time to visit La Cala de Mijas

Although a year-round destination, visiting La Cala de Mijas is particularly delightful from April to June and September to October, when the weather is pleasantly warm and the crowds are thinner.

• April to June marks the beginning of the tourist season, when you can enjoy relatively quiet surroundings and comfortable temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C.

• July to August temperatures soar to above 30°C, which is ideal for beach enthusiasts; but be aware that this is the peak tourist season, so it's much busier and prices tend to be higher. The local and coastal roads can also be quite congested at this time of year.

• September to October is a very nice time, when the sea remains warm enough for swimming and the atmosphere in the town is relaxed. Temperatures tend to sit between 20°C and 25°C, with occasional rain showers in October.

• November to March is the low season, ideal for those looking for a quiet escape with fewer tourists but still wanting to enjoy mild temperatures (around 16°C to 20°C). November is the wettest period with around 115mm of rain falling throughout the month.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Although Spanish is the official language in the region, English is widely spoken in touristy spots, making communication easy.

• Local habits and customs: La Cala de Mijas has a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. Afternoon siestas are prevalent, and dining late (around 9 pm) in the evening is a popular social occasion.

• Currency: The Euro is the currency used in Spain. ATMs are readily available and credit cards are accepted in most places.

• Getting around: The town itself is compact and can be easily explored on foot, but public buses and taxis are available for travelling further afield.

• Time zone: The Costa del Sol operates on Central European Time, 1 hour ahead of the UK.

Best things to do in La Cala de Mijas

Despite modern expansion to include leisure activities along its bustling beachside promenade, La Cala de Mijas has an Andalusian laid-back village atmosphere. Add to that spectacular coastal vistas and a backdrop of mountain peaks.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Calahonda Lookout: Perched above the coast, this spot offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and is perfect for sunset photo opportunities.

• Torreón de La Cala Watchtower: Aside from learning about the area’s past, another incentive to visit this historic watchtower is to enjoy stunning views of the neighbouring beaches.

The best districts

• La Cala de Mijas Centre: The heart of the town boasts quaint streets lined with shops, eateries and bars, all exuding an authentic Spanish vibe.

• El Chaparral: Ideal if you’re seeking tranquillity, this peaceful residential area is known for its golf club and proximity to natural landscapes.

Parks and gardens

• La Butibamba Park: Spend time at La Butibamba Park, where you can go for leisurely walks and family picnics, let the kids play in the playground, or participate in sports like basketball and football.

Historical monuments

• San Sebastián Church: A perfect example of traditional Spanish architecture, this charming church is located in the centre of town.

• Las Torretas: Old guard towers dot the coastline, which historically used to spot pirates; but these days serve as fascinating relics of the area's defensive past.

Day trips in the area

• Mijas Pueblo: A short drive up into the mountains, Mijas is a traditional whitewashed village that offers a step back in time with its narrow cobblestone streets, artisan shops and donkey taxis.

• Marbella and Puerto Banús: The upmarket streets of Marbella and the luxurious marina of Puerto Banús, both renowned for their exclusive shops and vibrant nightlife, are only a 30- minute journey away. Check out our cheap holidays to Marbella and enjoy this fantastic city on a budget.

• Ronda: Renowned for its dramatic escarpments and deep gorges, the mountaintop town of Ronda is unmissable.

Activities for families in La Cala de Mijas

Due to its welcoming atmosphere, safe beaches and diverse activities suitable for children of all ages, holidays to La Cala de Mijas are ideal for families.

• Beach days: The pristine stretch of sand at La Cala de Mijas Beach offers good facilities and is suitable for youngsters to play while parents rest knowing their children are happy and safe. In summer, there’s a lifeguard service and plenty of water sports.

• Animal encounters: Just a short drive away, Bioparc Fuengirola is an immersive animal attraction that offers a chance to see exotic animals in replica natural habitats. The Donkey Dreamland Rescue Centre, five minutes’ walk from La Cala de Mijas Beach, welcomes the entire family to help care for the donkeys and go for a walk with these friendly animals.

• Water parks: Water parks are a welcome place to cool down when the heat gets too much. AquaMijas, located between Mijas and Fuengirola, and Aqualand in Torremolinos both feature a plethora of thrilling slides, various pools and attractions for tiny tots.

Free things to do in La Cala de Mijas

Exploring La Cala de Mijas doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. The town offers a variety of free activities that allow you to immerse yourself in your holiday without spending a Euro.

• Free walking tours: Discover the town's charming squares and streets adorned with traditional Andalusian architecture by taking a self-guided tour; maps of walking tours are available for free at local tourist offices.

• Cultural festivals: Try to time your holiday during one of the town’s annual festivals, such as the La Cala de Mijas Fair, which features music, dance and traditional costumes, all for free.

• Free art exhibitions: Check out local art exhibits often held in public spaces and community centres, showcasing the works of local artists without an entrance fee.

Wellness in La Cala de Mijas

• Spas and wellness centres: Several local hotels and resorts in the area offer day passes to non-guests for access to spa facilities, where you can enjoy massages, saunas and pool access.

• Yoga classes: A popular pastime in La Cala de Mijas, beachfront yoga classes accompanied by the soothing sounds of the Mediterranean Sea are a great way to revitalise your body and mind.

Nature and outdoor activities in La Cala de Mijas

• Hiking: If you’re feeling energetic, put on your hiking boots and take to the Sierra de Mijas trails, which reveal stunning views across the Costa del Sol.

• Golf: With numerous highly regarded courses in the vicinity, golfers of all ability levels can enjoy a day on the greens under the sunny Spanish skies.

Local dishes in La Cala de Mijas

One of the highlights of La Cala de Mijas holidays is sampling the rich variety of cuisine. During your stay you'll be treated to a variety of dishes inspired by traditional Andalusian recipes and fresh seafood.

Some typical dishes

• Gazpacho: This chilled, refreshing soup is made with ripe tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, garlic and olive oil – perfect for the warm climate.

• Pimientos Rellenos: Popular in the region, peppers are stuffed with meat or seafood to produce this hearty dish.

Tapas dishes

• Boquerones en Vinagre: Also enjoyed as a starter, fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar and garlic, served cold, are a firm tapas favourite.

• Jamón Iberico: A must-try, this dry-cured ham is savoured on its own or as part of a tapas selection.

Meat dishes

• Chorizo al Vino: Chorizo sausage cooked in wine is a simple yet flavourful dish that showcases the local sausage.

• Pollo al Ajillo: Chicken cooked with plenty of garlic, olive oil and herbs is a staple dish in local cuisine.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Espeto de Sardinas: Typically found at beachside chiringuitos (refreshment stands), these sardines are skewered and grilled over an open fire.

• Gambas Pil-Pil: A fiery favourite among locals and visitors alike, where prawns are cooked in spicy garlic oil and brought to the table while still sizzling.

Sweets and desserts

• Tarta de Almendra: This moist and flavourful almond cake is often enjoyed during festive celebrations and is a testament to the region's love for almonds.

• Churros con Chocolate: While technically a dessert, churros are often enjoyed as a street food during festivals or for a late breakfast, dipped in thick hot chocolate.

Local drinks

• Sangria: This classic Spanish drink, made with red wine, soda water, fruit and sometimes brandy, is a refreshing choice on hot days.

• Horchata: Especially popular in the summer months, horchata is a sweet, milky drink made from tiger nuts, water and sugar.