Spain has long been a popular summer holiday destination for families and it is hardly surprising when you consider the perfect combination of fabulous weather, wonderful beaches and family-friendly restaurants. One of my favourite destinations to take my kids is Calahonda in Andalucía. Not only are the beaches amazing, but also there is a whole host of activities that suit youngsters and adults alike.
Beach Days
Gran Calahonda
Just a few minutes walk from Calahonda Beach, this pretty part of the coast is perfect for anyone who loves a relaxing dip in the sea. This spot is ideal for sunbathing and sandcastle building too.
Cabopino
If you have older children who need a little more action when they are by the seaside, this beach is winner. Not only is this the place where Eldorado was filmed, but it is also one of the most picturesque spots in the area.
With plenty of water sport options, the beach is a hive of activity. You can of course take a picnic but I can recommend Andy’s beach bar for lunch.
Day Trips to Torremolinos
Crocodile Park
Kids will love meeting the incredible reptiles at this park and watching the informative demonstrations. Almost prehistoric, these big crocs are one of the world’s most dangerous predators. The little ones will be in awe of the handlers who deal with these dinosaur-like reptiles every day. You can even meet ‘Big Daddy’, reputed to be one of Europe’s largest crocs!
Can you imagine seeing your little ones hold a baby crocodile? For a small fee, your kids can enjoy this truly special and unique activity.
Aqualand
Exhausted the fun of the beach? Bring the children to this fun-filled water theme park. Perfect for youngsters of all ages, the park is a family haven. There are plenty of exciting areas to choose from including a surf beach featuring a wave machine, the Kid’s Zone that includes an aquatic mushroom, and the Paradise Zone that has slides, rides and obstacles built for smaller children.
Good to Know: Lifeguards are on hand so you can relax and enjoy knowing the kids are in safe hands.
Sports
Golf
Golf is a big business in Spain, with a good number of courses within a stone’s throw of popular resorts. If mums and dads fancy a round, why not try La Siesta, which is only a short hop from Calahonda?
Water sports
Cabopino is the water sports hub and a great place to go if you want to try a pedalo, jet-ski or even a banana-boat. Even if your children are too little, you parents might fancy a go!
Where to Stay
OYO Hotel El Ancla – An easy stroll to the gorgeous Calahonda Beach, this charming family-friendly hotel is simple, clean and functional. Boasting excellent facilities such as air-conditioning and Wi-Fi, this spot lends itself perfectly to families with children of all ages.
While the restaurant serves very good local food, the café and snack bar is a welcome addition when the kids get hungry before you do in the evening. The barbeque facilities can also be used, which makes for a comfortable, informal dining option.
2 Calle Galán – Another practical family option is this beachfront apartment. Ideal if you like to keep the kids separate from you at night, this apartment has two bedrooms. The washing machine here is a big bonus when travelling with youngsters who seem to have the ability to go through several outfit changes per day!
Simple self-catering is also a possibility here as the apartment has a microwave and fridge. This means you can stock up on snacks and keep plenty of water cold, especially for the little ones. Free Wi-Fi is useful too when you need to give the little ones some downtime.
How to Get There
You can get some really good deals on flights from the UK to Malaga (AGP), the most convenient airport for Calahonda. There are several airlines offering the 2 hour 45 minute service and therefore plenty of regular weekly flights.
When travelling with kids, you are going to want the journey to be as hassle free as possible, so on arrival, I would suggest taking a pre-booked Shuttle Direct transfer to your hotel. Shuttle Direct is a reliable and professional transfer company providing drivers who will meet you on arrival, whisk you to your accommodation and get your holiday off to an easy start. In just half an hour you can be checking into your hotel. Children’s car seats can be booked when you make your initial booking in the UK.
Overview
- UK to AGP Flight Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- AGP to Calahonda Distance: 36 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 30 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
We provide a reputable transfer service from airports throughout Europe and North Africa, and our Shuttle Direct drivers are reliable, friendly and very professional. The pre-book option means that you can look forward to stress-free onward travel and a great start to your holiday.
