Water-Related Activities on the Costa del Sol

Activities, Adventure, Alcaidesa, Areas, Casares, Day Trips, Duquesa, Estepona, Living in Spain, Manilva, Sabinillas, Sotogrande and San Roque, Things to Do, Weekend Escapes

Our Favourite Water-Related Activities on the Costa del Sol

Whether you’re a thrill seeker or are looking for a leisurely water activity to get involved in whilst you’re here – the Costa del Sol and nearby Costa de la Luz is sure to have something for you. This week we have put together a list of some of our favourite water-related activities in the area. So water you waiting for? Read on to discover some of the fun that our coastline has to offer!

Scream Jet Boat Ride – Thrill Ride!

New to Duquesa Port from summer 2020 – this exhilarating experience is one you won’t be forgetting any time soon! Visit Scream Jet located in Duquesa Port, Malaga. Their state-of-the-art jet boat will take you out on a scream-inducing ride which will include top speeds up to 50mph, 360 spins with breathtaking views and even a submarine dive! Check out their website here to view some action shots.

However, if you want a slightly more “gentle” ride… the team at Scream Jet are more than happy to accommodate for everyone’s needs. They offer a ride at a lower speed for little ones (aged 3-14 years-old) or those who just want to take it easier!

Jet scream thrill ride speed boat

My family and I were fortunate enough to take a trip last year and I still smile just thinking about it. I think I laughed for the entire 30 minutes we were out at sea! It was such a fun experience and we will most definitely be going back for more.   I am hoping to return this year – they are planning to operate from July – September.

Price List (for a 30 minute thrill ride)

  • €35 per head for adults
  • €25 per head for kids

OR… book a private thrill ride for up to 12 people for €300 – this is the perfect experience for a birthday or special occasion!

Contact Details:

Address:

  • Scream Jet, Control Tower, Calle Duquesa, 29691 La Duquesa, Málaga, Spain (Located opposite Ocean Cafe, Duquesa)

Google Plus Code:

  • 9Q49+HW Puerto de la Duquesa, Spain

Important Information:

  • Call ahead of time to check opening times as this company is seasonal
  • You must be at least 14-years-old to go on the full speed thrill ride
  • All riders must provide a passport, driving licence or NIE number before riding (the number is enough, no need to bring the physical document)
  • Bring a towel for afterwards (you will get wet!!)

Andrew in Front of Scream Jet Ride Stand

Take a trip to Tarifa!

Tarifa is a municipality located in the province of Cádiz. It is located on the Costa de la Luz across from the Strait of Gibraltar and on a clear day, you will have stunning views of Africa and the rock of Gibraltar. Although it is well-known locally for its beautiful white sands and crystal clear waters, it is better known as one of the WORLD’S most popular destinations for wind sports.

Watersports Available in Tarifa

We recommend you check the weather ahead of time as your visit can alter drastically depending on the winds. Check out the following site for up to date weather and wind conditions:

Click here to check out the wind forecast in Tarifa

If you are wanting to watch the spectacular kite and windsurfers (or even give it a go yourself!), then make sure you visit on a day where the wind speed is high. However, if you want a more relaxing day, to sit on the beach or swim leisurely in the calm waters or even to try stand-up paddle-boarding, you may want to visit on a day when the wind isn’t as strong.

Low winds in Tarifa!

However, if you decide to visit on a windier day, you really won’t regret it!  There are a whole host of fun water activities that you can try. As Tarifa is known as Europe’s capital for wind and water sports, there is really something for everyone. Be that windsurfing, stand up paddle boarding or kite surfing – you can have a go!

Kite Surfing in Tumbao

Along the coastline, there are numerous ‘schools’ which provide lessons for the aforementioned sports. Check out the link below to get an idea of the prices and activities. This particular school was located at the Valdevaqueros beach.

https://www.ion-club.net/tarifa/

Tumbao Beach Bar, Tarifa

We recently took my teenage daughter and her friend to Valdevaqueros beach and they spent the day at the Tumbao beach bar and cafe. This is a really great ‘chillout’ area with music, beanbags and outdoor bars which offer cocktail deals – it is particularly suitable for young people! This really just emphasises how Tarifa is suited for the whole family!

In addition to all the fun water sports, Tarifa boasts (in my opinion) some of Spain’s most beautiful beaches. The white sands and beautiful blue waters make for the perfect beach trip and are a nice change from the coastline of the local beaches. My family’s favourite destination is Bolonia beach. With its breathtaking sand dunes, this beach is truly something else!

Moreover, the quaint town of Tarifa is a short drive from its beaches. This is a lively, traditional white-washed town with a great selection of independent shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is well worth visiting after a day at the beach and will be the perfect end to your day in Tarifa!  Tarifa is a buzzing town with lots of nightlife during the peak season.

If you wish to stay in the area overnight, there are many accommodation options in the area. From campsites to trendy hotels, there will be something that suits you and your family. We highly recommend the Hotel Dos Mares which is located just minutes from the town and offers much quieter (but equally as beautiful) beaches. Read more about it in our blog by clicking here.

Whale-Watching in Tarifa

One of Tarifa’s most unique and exciting features is that you can quite easily see whales (and orcas) in the Strait of Gibraltar. There are numerous whale-watching tour operators on the coast of Tarifa. Check out Wildsea Europe (click here to discover more) – who offer wonderful ecotourism excursions all around Europe. In Tarifa, they offer a 2 hour dolphin and whale watching tour. The experienced tour guides will inform you about all the local marine wildlife and educate you and your family!   Another company that offers a special private service for groups of no more than 10 are Top Tarifa – (click here for more information).  The excitement upon spotting a whale is like no other – we highly recommend you book a trip during your visit to Tarifa.

Killer Whales

Other Whale-Watching Tour Companies:

Click to discover more about these fantastic tour operators

Jet Skiing

If you are an adrenaline junkie then you HAVE to try jet skiing! This experience is guaranteed to leave you beaming. Although a little more expensive than perhaps paddle boarding or kayaking, if you are a thrill-seeker then jet skiing is for you. There are numerous places to rent jet skis all along the coast. Below, we have provided you with a list of jetski/sea-doo rental places from Sotogrande to Marbella. So, what are you waiting for?! Get in touch with a company and book your sea-doo experience today!

Sotojets

Sotojets is a jet ski rental service located in the Port of Sotogrande. With a number of jet skis available to rent, this may be the perfect company for you and your family or a group of friends to head out on a thrill ride whilst also taking in the stunning Sotogrande.

Jet Safari tours

Jet Safari tours are located in the North dock of Duquesa port. Their prices start at €70 per person for 20 minutes and increase incrementally for longer rides. Liability insurance and safety equipment are included in the price. Staying in or around Duquesa? Get in touch today!

South Olé Sails

South Olé Sails are a boat rental company located in Estepona. As well as jet skis, they offer numerous different services including chartered boat rides and paddle board rentals. Keep scrolling down this blog to read more about what they offer.

Marbella Jetski

Further along the coast, Marbella Jetski offers rentals and trips of the following: jet skis, sailboats, banana boats, pedal boats and donut inflatables. Click here to see a price list. After your fun ride, you could head into the beautiful old town of Marbella for a spot of lunch or head to the more modern Puerto Banus for a drink in the evening.

Canyoning

For those who aren’t so familiar – canyoning is another word for gorge walking. It is a sport which satisfies the needs of both the adrenaline junkie and the nature lover. You will trek through gorges, waterfalls and beautiful rock pools and must use a number of different techniques to do so. This really is an experience you won’t forget.

Canyoning Benahavis

This is one of my family’s favourite water activities to do in the summer. Whenever our extended family visits from Gibraltar or Hong Kong, we love to take all the kids out on a fun-filled day at a canyoning site iN Benahavis.  To find out more, read our blog post:

https://blog.hamilton-homes.com/5651-canyoning-in-benahavis.html

There are many professional companies that offer to guide you and  offer different canyoning experiences, check them out some of the companies below:

Canyoning Benahavis

Canyoning Benahavis is located near the town of Marbella. They cater for everyone from family days to corporate team building to stag/hen dos. Give them a call today and get involved. Additionally, for those wanting more of a challenge – they offer a selection of courses which vary in difficulty.

Read more about it in our blog by clicking here.

SurActiva

SurActiva is located in Ronda, Málaga. It is another beautiful yet varied course filled with caves, gorges, rapids and narrow spaces that you must conquer. In Ronda? Get in touch and take a trip to this beautiful canyon.

TUUR Canyoning

Another company offering canyoning experiences in the area is TUUR Canyoning located near Nueva Andalucía, Marbella.

Beautiful Beach Clubs

The Costa del Sol is home to some of the WORLD’s most beautiful and luxurious beach clubs which attract the rich and famous. However, there are many beach clubs in the area which make for a more chilled and relaxed beach day (with easy refreshment access, of course!!). As there are just so many to choose from… we have decided to pick 3 which are more local to our area. Keep reading to discover more about these luxury spots…

Finca Cortesin

Finca Cortesin is a luxurious 6* resort situated in Casares – read more about the resort itself in our blog by clicking here. In addition to the resort, Finca Cortesin has its very own beach club just 0.9 miles away in Bahia de Casares beach. For those staying at the resort, there is a courtesy shuttle bus which will take you directly to the beach club. The beach club boasts beautiful gardens, Balinese beds and sun loungers which overlook a breath-taking 35m infinity pool. The acclaimed restaurant which offers traditional Spanish cuisine looks out directly onto the Mediterranean sea. A stop by the cocktail bar is also a must if you decide to spend a day at the Finca Cortesin beach club!

Finca Cortesin Beach club

*Call ahead of time as opening times may differ due to COVID-19

Trocadero Sotogrande

Sotogrande Trocadero luxury beach playa Andalucia

Trocadero Sotogrande is a stunning beach club and restaurant located in Sotogrande and just a few km’s from Gibraltar. The beautifully designed venue boasts numerous bars and two fabulous restaurants: one offering Mediterranean cuisine and the other offering Asian food including Thai and Japanese. The entire venue is very unique in its design with numerous chillout areas which border the pools. Trocadero boasts pools which overlook the Mediterranean sea, hammocks, beds and fantastic spots to watch the sunset. In addition, there is a ‘living room’ in which you can take a break from the sun and enjoy a nice afternoon coffee. Trocadero Sotogrande is very accommodating and has something for everyone with its family-friendly areas as well as its private adult pool. This venue is also perfect for private events so get in touch today!

*Call ahead of time as opening times may differ due to COVID-19

La Reserva Club Sotogrande

There is a slight twist to this ‘beach club’ in that it isn’t actually located at the beach. This stunning beach club is located in the La Reserva area of Sotogrande Alto.  It has an amazing beach lagoon, a sports lagoon for watersports, an adult’s pool and a restaurant.

Last year, our daughters kindly treated us to a day at the La Reserva ‘The Beach’ for our anniversary. It was SUCH a relaxing day! We had sunbeds right by the water’s edge and enjoyed our champagne under our private ‘Chambao’. You can pop to the restaurant for a delicious meal or order food right to your sunbeds! We really recommend the visit!

  • Call to Reserve: +34 956 791 006
  • [email protected]
  • Address: Avenida La Reserva, La Reserva de Sotogrande, 11310 Sotogrande, Cádiz
  • Plus code: 7MVH+JG Sotogrande
  • Visit the website

Enjoy a Boat Trip on the Costa del Sol

Picture this… it’s a Sunday afternoon, the sun is setting over the water, there are dolphins jumping around you and you are sipping a cold drink surrounded by your loved ones. Well, you can make this happen very easily here on the Costa del Sol. There are a number of boat charter companies in our area which allow you to rent a boat (with or without a skipper!) for the day or even just a couple of hours. Keep reading to find out more…

Top Boats Sotogrande

Top Boats Sotogrande was established in 1997 and are a multilingual company offering a range of nautical services. They offer new and pre-owned boat sales, rentals and maintenance services. Their charter division will organise a special day out for you and your family so get in touch today!

  • Address: Local A-5, Plaza del Canal, Puerto Deportivo Sotogrande, 11310, Sotogrande, San Roque, Cadiz
  • Plus Code: 7PRG+GQ Torreguadiaro, Spain
  • Call on: (+34) 956 790 420
  • Website: www.top-boats.com
  • Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 11am – 5pm and weekends: by appointment only

Jugarnia Nautic

Jugarnia Nautic is located in Sotogrande port. The company allows you to rent a boat for the day (or a couple of hours on an hourly rate) without a license, documentation or a certificate. Simply take your food and drink and enjoy your day at sea! Their boats all allow for a Bluetooth connection so that you can enjoy your favourite music whilst taking in the beautiful views.

Rates

In high season (July 15th – September 15th)

  • 1 hour = €95
  • 2 hours = €140
  • 4 hours = €240
  • 8 hours = €380

In low season

  • 1 hour = €85
  • 2 hours = €120
  • 4 hours = €200
  • 8 hours = €320

Get in touch today:

Norton Charters

Norton Charters in located in Duquesa Port. They specialise in dolphin watching trips and are renowned in the area for knowing exactly where the schools of dolphins are likely to be. They also offer sunset boat trips where they provide drinks and relaxing music and then encourage guests to jump into the water and have a splash about before sailing back to the port. Check out the website or give them a call today to get a quote for your trip.

South Olé Sails

As already mentioned, South Olé Sails are a boat rental company located in Estepona. They offer a range of services including chartered boat rides and paddle board rentals. This well established company offer fun boat tours as well as luxury nautical charters/all inclusive boat rental which includes a captain, drinks, tapas, fishing and snorkelling equipment and much more! If you are wanting to go “all out” then this is the company for you.

Sotoboats

Sotoboats is situated in Estepona and offers boat rental, sales, maintenance and repair services. They pride themselves on offering an honest and personal service with unbeatable prices.

  • Address: Edificio Real Club Náutico s/n, Puerto Deportivo de, 29680 Estepona, Málaga, Spain
  • Plus Code: CR8R+2J Estepona, Spain
  • Call on: (+34) 658 64 58 38
  • Website: http://www.sotoboats.com/
  • Opening hours: 9:30am – 6pm Monday – Friday, closed on weekends
  • Check out their Facebook page here

Ofblue Boat Rental Estepona

Ofblue claims to offer you with a luxury boat that will guarantee to suit your wishes of your experience out at sea – be that seeing marine animals, watching a dreamy sunset or celebrating out on the high seas. In addition to a choice of boats, Ofblue also offers additional activities including:

  • Wakeboarding, waterskiing or donuting –  €50/hour
  • Stopping to snorkel
  • 50% chance of seeing dolphins whilst out at sea
  • Quick cruise option ( €50/hour)
  • Visit Sotogrande and Marbella (with the possibility of booking in restaurants)

Sailing the Strait Estepona

Another charter company where no experience is required. All trips are with an experienced skipper and a light lunch and drinks are provided on all tours. There are many ‘extras’ available such as a BBQ, a water donut or eve catered food. The company is very accommodating and will do all that they can to make your experience as good as it can possibly be!

Although they are based in Estepona, the company offers trips across the Strait of Gibraltar to Ceuta and unique to this company: they will take you on a 3 day cultural trip sailing around Morocco! Get in touch by WhatsApp today to find out more.

Estepona charter

This company offers a range of services in Marbella, Puerto Banus, Estepona and Sotogrande. From pleasure boats to private catamarans to organised parties with on-board Jacuzzis. Additionally, they offer a selection of boats for you to try bottom fishing or trolling in the Strait of Gibraltar.

  • Address: Puerto Deportivo de Estepona pantalan 4, 29680 Estepona, Málaga, Spain
  • Plus Code: CR8R+CX Estepona, Spain
  • Call on: (+34) 606 44 85 20
  • Website: http://www.esteponacharter.com
  • Opening hours: 8am – 11pm Monday to Sunday

Marbella Jet Ski

As already mentioned, Marbella jetski offers rentals and trips including the following: jet skis, sailboats, banana boats, pedal boats and donut inflatables. Click here to see a price list. 

Marbella Boat Charter

Marbella Boat Charter is the leading company in Puerto Banus, Marbella and the Costa del Sol for luxury yachts and boat charters. They offer a range of different options including motor yachts, sailing yachts and fishing. You can book for 2, 4 or 8 hours and all charters include an experience skipper, fuel, drinks and snacks… in other words: everything you need for a perfect day at sea!

Lovit Charter

Based in Puerto Banus (Marbella), this charter company offer fishing trips, relaxing boat rides, party boats and a whole host of nautical activities. Get in touch today to find out more.

Maia Fair Luxury Boat Charter

Maia Fair is a luxury yacht charter also situated in Puerto Banus. Possibly the most glamorous company to be included in this list; Maia Fair offer cruises with fine champagnes, local produce and a selection of watersports. Watch this short video below to get an idea of what you’re signing up for…

Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP)

In the last 5 years or so, stand up paddle boarding (or SUP for short) has really taken off. There are now numerous businesses all along the coastline that offer SUP. Therefore, no matter where you visit on the Costa del Sol – you are almost guaranteed to find a place to try paddle boarding! Additionally, it’s a perfect way to see our beautiful coast. Although there are a number of SUP services along the coast, we have listed below just a handful.

We tried SUP this summer in Tarifa and had a fantastic time. It took us a while to manoeuvre the waves (as it was quite a choppy day there!) but we soon figured it out and had a whale of a time! My daughters and their friends were definitely better than I was!

Where can you go to try SUP?

SoloSUP, San Roque

Caledonia Surf Shop, Estepona

Freedom Kite School, Estepona

Tuga Beach, Marbella

HoeNalu

Waterparks!

Bahia Park

The Costa del Sol is also home to some wonderful waterparks. Our local waterpark Bahia Park is situated in Algeciras, just 20km from Gibraltar and 27km from Sotogrande. Bahia Park is set to re-open again in June 2021.

Bahia Park is a fantastic day out for the whole family as it has something for everyone! There are fabulous slides and other attractions for children including the Great Niagara, Snake Hole, Water Race, Kamikaze, Wild River, Zig-Zag and more. However, for those looking for more of a relaxing experience, Bahia Park is home to the largest Jacuzzi in Andalusia! Additionally, this brilliant waterpark puts on fantastic shows and other entertainment features on the stage at the wave pool! We highly recommend you visit Bahia Park if you are in the area.

Price List

Bahia Park price lis

Aqualand

In the opposite direction, located in Torremolinos, is Aqualand! Much like Bahia Park, this waterpark offers something to everyone. From Kidszworld for the little ones to the adrenaline-rush rides for the older children, Aqualand has it all! Again, for those wanting something a little bit more chilled, there is a beautiful Jacuzzi and sunbathing area. The Surf Beach boasts a 1440 square metre wave pool which is great fun for all the family! For those staying closer to Malaga, this is the perfect waterpark for you as it is located just 7km from Malaga Airport! Check out the website to discover more.

Price List

  • Adult (11-64 years) – Gate price: €30,00 – Online price: €26,00
  • Child (5-10 years) – Gate price: €22,00 – Online price: €18,00
  • Toddler (3-4 years) – Gate price: €12,00 – Online price: €8,00
  • Senior (+65 years old) – Gate price: €22,00 – Online price: €18,00
  • Family Pack (2 Adults + 2 Childs) – Online purchase only: €84,00
  • Friends Pack (4 Adults) – Online purchase only: €100,00

Canoe Rental

As well as SUP, another highly popular water activity along out coastline is canoeing! It is the perfect way to see the coast whilst also enjoying a day out at sea (at an affordable price!). Centro Náutico de Sotogrande Watersports is a wonderful watersports rental company located locally in Sotogrande. Here you can rent a selection of different types of watersport equipment including SUP boards, kayaks and canoes. Get in touch today…

  • Address: Paseo del Río, 11310, Cádiz, Spain
  • Plus code: 7PP9+2G Torreguadiaro, Spain
  • Call: (+34) 629 55 70 57
  • Email: [email protected]

It’s over to you!

Now that you are knowledgeable of the fun water activities available to you… it’s time for you to give them a go! Fun in the water is part and parcel of any holiday or trip to a sunny location but especially here on the Costa del Sol! We hope you take up our recommendations and don’t hesitate to get in touch if there is something you would like to know more about or even if you just want to tell us about YOUR experiences – we’d love to hear it!