La Cala in Spanish means 'bay' and the town of La Cala de Mijas is set in a sweeping bay that was, like many Costa del Sol resorts, a tiny fishing village. Nowadays, ideally located between the two bustling resorts of Fuengirola and Marbella the town has managed to keep its traditions while welcoming tourism and many foreign residents.
La Cala de Mijas is Stylish yet Traditional
La Cala de Mijas belongs to the municipality of Mijas, an area including Mijas Pueblo, Mijas Costa and La Cala de Mijas. All three are important and flourishing tourist areas that have respected the wishes and feelings of residents as well as visitors.
Naturally the population has increased steadily over the past 30 years but the heart of the town remains typically Andalucian. Its wide attractive boulevard is lined with a mix of modern and traditional bars, shops and restaurants. The recently refurbished paved areas have seats and shady areas, just perfect for sitting and watching the world go by with the locals.
The beach area has been improved recently too, with a paved paseo and pavement cafes and bars that are always lively and packed with visitors in the summer time.
Sunbleached fishing boats are still hauled-up onto the wide clean beach although the fishing industry here is not as vibrant as it used to be. However, there is no shortage of locally caught fresh juicy sardines for the many beach restaurants and chiringuitos to cook on their charcoal fires. These delicious sardines cooked on a single wooden scewer are known as ‘espetos’.
Down on the paseo is one of the impressive Moorish watchtowers now used as a tourist office. The staff are very helpful and give-out plenty of information on local events and things to do in the local area.
Accommodation in La Cala de Mijas
The seaside resort of La Cala de Mijas has just one hotel the central 4 star Gran Hotel with spacious gardens located right by the sea. There are several small hostals in the area but most holiday makers staying in the area use local rental apartments or villas.
Mijas Costa is also a big time share area and La Cala de Mijas has several estate agents with rental properties available.
Things to do in La Cala de Mijas
Most people enjoy a street market and La Cala has a wonderful open market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 10-14. It is on the large feria site on the corner of the road leading up to La Cala Golf and has such a wide variety of stalls where bargains can be found!
The usual wide variety of colourful stalls include clothing, jewellery, ceramics, sunglasses leatherwear and plants. Fresh fruit and vegetable stalls are popular and for the sweet toothed there are a couple of stalls selling a tempting variety of dried and glace fruits, nuts and sweets.
During the summer months of July and August La Cala presents some wonderful musical events known as Noches de Luna y Playa. These open air concerts are held on the promenade and beach close to the 16th century Torre Vieja, the old watchtower area and are well advertised beforehand.
Buses pass through the central boulevard with connections to both Marbella and Fuengirola, from where other destinations can be easily reached.
Sports Facilities in La Cala de Mijas and Mijas Costa
La Cala has several top golf courses within easy driving distance including the La Cala Golf complex set amidst glorious countryside about 20 minutes north.
For visitors wanting a game of tennis then the Club del Sol in Calahonda on Mijas Costa is the perfect venue. Equipment can be hired and lessons are available.
In the gorgeous countryside outside La Cala de Mijas horseriding is a popular pastime and the Finca Alegria just outside town offers rides and lessons.
Horse racing takes place at the Costa del Sol Hipódromo a short drive inland where regular races are held throughout the year.
La Cala de Mijas beach is clean and child friendly with pedalos available for hire. More water sports are available at the larger busier resort of Fuengirola where just 20 minutes away is a water park, zoo and marina with regular boat trips and dolphin spotting cruises too.
La Cala de Mijas Fiestas and Ferias
This traditional village celebrates many typical festivals including La Cala de Mijas Carnaval varying dates during January/February; The Sardine Festival lst May; Eve of San Juan with bonfires on the beach June 23; Dia del Carmen, patron saint of Fisherman Juy 16th; Annual Feria usually held during last two weeks of July with a rich variety of celebrations arranged by the Town Hall.
The Traditional Resort of La Cala de Mijas has Something for Everyone
Enjoying the sunshine, good dining, relaxing on the beach and soaking up the atmosphere are essential for a good holiday and all can be found at La Cala de Mijas.
Vivien Pelmore - I love travelling, exploring new places and finding out as much as I can. Andalucia in Spain is my home and has been since 1997 although I ...
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