The sunny coast of Andalusia

This year we went back to Spain, this time to Andalusia — the Costa del Sol, the Sunshine Coast. A beachfront hotel promised nice views and easy beach access, but we miscalculated a little. In what ways?

Water temperature

It doesn't seem obvious, but even when rocks are in full sun all day they don't warm up that much. Which means? The water doesn't heat up quickly, so it stays cold. How cold? When we visited the median was around 18°C. That might sound like a deep freeze, but it's perfectly swimmable. Though when it's over 30°C outside it's harder, since your body has to cope with a bigger temperature difference.

Pebble vs. sandy beach

The beaches are mostly sandy, but the entry into the sea is rocky and that's not very pleasant — especially when waves are pushing against you. Plenty of tourists ended up in the water when they just went to dip their toes in and a wave "surprised" them. Nothing that proper water shoes won't fix.

Málaga

We didn't just lie on the beach — we explored the surroundings too. The train to the city centre (from Benalmádena) takes 30 minutes, and a trip into the heart of Andalusia was an obvious choice. The tree-lined boulevard full of palms and other greenery was lovely — a welcome escape from the heat. As were the sun shade sails strung across the streets. The heat felt far more bearable. The harbour also made an impression, with its sun shading inspired by the shape of a fish or boat. Simply gorgeous.

Sun

No rain, constant sunshine. Even when it clouded over for a few minutes in the morning, the sun was back and shining properly. That alone lifts your mood.

Andalusia is beautiful, and we barely scratched the surface. Seville, Gibraltar, and so many other places worth seeing.