The Costa del Sol in southern Spain has been a popular holiday destination for many years, boasting over 320 days of sunshine each year. The mild climate on the Costa del Sol makes it possible to enjoy the long stretches of sandy beaches, and partake in a wide variety of outdoor activities, all year round. The world renowned resorts of Marbella and Puerto Banus are nearby, with their famous nightlife and impressive harbours. Other popular local destinations within Andalucia include Mijas and Ronda, which are traditional Spanish towns in the surrounding mountainside. The pretty harbours of Estepona and Duquesa are well worth a visit. To the east is Fuengirola, with its superb beach, water park, zoo, and the Myramar shopping mall, and Benalmadena, which has its own marina, sea-life centre, and the Tivoli World theme park. Gibraltar is great for duty-free shoppping (don't forget to take your passports!), and a visit to the historic Alhambra Palace in Granada is a must - well worth the two hour drive. Some excellent skiing is available in the Sierra Nevada resort (near Granada) in the winter months. The area is also known as the "Costa de Golf" and, for golfers, there is an abundance of courses and facilities nearby to choose from. Many superb courses are within around a 15 - 20 minute drive away, including the world-famous championship course of Valderrama. Extensive sea sports and activities are also available locally, including water skiing, windsurfing, and of course, dolphin watching! Other attractions include the Parque Aquatico Mijas, a superb water park for adults and children of all ages; Fuengirola Zoo; Tivoli World, the largest amusement park on the Costa del Sol with over 40 rides plus musical shows, exhibitions and restaurants, and Selwo Safari Park i. An excellent Saturday night out can be had in the summer months at Mijas Race Course. You can watch the racing, have a bet on the tote, and dine under the stars whilst waiting to collect your winnings! Only a 15 minute drive. All in all, the Costa del Sol has something for everyone - all year round!