Riviera del Sol area guide: the Coast's vibrant suburbia
As with much of the Costa del Sol, the area that makes up Riviera del Sol is considered by many to be expat heaven. Covering a small area west of La Cala and near Marbella, this peaceful and attractive area of the coast has plenty of appeal but lacks the charm and reputation of many of its larger neighbours
There's a beach, easy road access to Marbella and Fuengirola, sports facilities, exceptional golf courses close by, a nice selection of bars and restaurants and some of the best swathes of suburbia found anywhere on the coast, all right in the heart of the Riviera del Sol.
For the prospective expat, this charming stretch of land has everything they are going to need. The proximity to Marbella is handy, although your own car will be handier still – the coastal bus is slow and unreliable, and taxis are not exactly cheap. With a car you can discover all the delights of the Costa del Sol and beyond, but Riviera del Sol is small enough to be easily traversed on foot.
And a pleasure it is to walk around too; the beach, the tree-lined avenues and the perfectly manicured architecture make for a pretty combination that is easy on the eye. As for atmosphere, think suburbia in the sun and you won't go too far wrong.
In the heart of the town is the new Riviera Plaza Commercial Centre, which forms its social and commercial hub with its many excellent cafes, restaurants, bars, shops and offices. Breakfast enjoyed on the terrace at any one of the eateries here is a great way to start one's day.
The beach boasts plenty of space, soft sands and safe surf, making it an excellent option for a lazy day in the sunshine, and one that all ages can enjoy. Also located in Riviera del Sol is the charming Princess Diana Park and Gardens, where potential property buyers will be very interested in the opportunities that exist in and around this location.
For anything more exciting or diverse, the neighbouring towns are the place to head to – Fuengirola's Aqua Park has water-based fun, dining facilities and impressively lengthy queues; Marbella has the La Cañada mall and the beautiful old town; and Calahonda has yet more Brit-style bars in which to get slowly inebriated in the sunshine.
The Riviera Plaza Commercial Centre by night comes alive. Shimmering candlelight illuminates the happy faces of the al fresco diners as the heat of another day cools to a mild warmth. The cuisine served up here is your typical international fare – you won't have to look far for a Chinese dish, a curry, a pizza or a burger. Satisfyingly late in the day for kids, socially vibrant for the females and impressively affordable for the billpayer, all bases are covered. As for teens, well, give them a drink and they shouldn't complain too much.
Livelier nightlife is found in Puerto Banús, Marbella and Fuengirola but, this being Spain, most local bars stay open until quite late and generally attract plenty of punters throughout the summer months.