Marbella · With kids

Seven traffic-free kilometres from Marbella to Puerto Banús: scooters, playgrounds, ice cream and beach access the whole way. Any age.

A safari-style wildlife park at Estepona, half an hour west, with walk-through enclosures and a chairlift. Ages 3+; quieter in winter.

Central, lifeguarded and gently shelving, lined with chiringuitos that will grill fish and find a high chair without fuss.

An immersive zoo half an hour east, built as dense habitat rather than cages: gorillas, tigers and a nocturnal house. Ages 3+.

July heat peaks around 3pm and the promenade has little shade. Chiringuitos serve from 1pm and take children happily — eat lunch late, dinner early.