Everything you could need for an easy, happy vacation is here in this oceanfront downtown area, from bars and restaurants to entertainment options.

Fuengirola City Centre consists of a network of streets and plazas running parallel to the long stretch of beaches that has made the city such a popular vacation destination. Book a hotel or apartment in this area and you will have no need to travel further afield during your vacation unless you want to. The centre is easily walkable and restaurants, bars, beaches and entertainment are all reachable within just a few minutes.

Start your explorations of the city centre at Plaza de la Constitución. This is the area’s main square, and it is surrounded by eating, drinking and shopping options. It is also home to the Iglesia Fuengirola Centro, a pretty white church that dates from the mid-20th century.

Close by you will find the Salon Varietés Theatre, the only English-language theatre in the South of Spain. Come here to watch a show in the evening after enjoying a drink or two at one of the many bars in the area.

Places to eat and drink are everywhere in the Fuengirola City Centre. Head to the Paseo Marítimo Rey de España and you will really be spoiled for choice. This is the main promenade, which runs parallel to the ocean. Many bars and restaurants here offer lovely sea views from their outdoor seating areas. British-style pubs are popular.

Stock up on supplies or pick up some beach essentials at one of the malls in the area. The Miramar Shopping Centre is located just to the southwest of the downtown area. Reach it on foot in around 20 minutes. Take in a movie here at its Multiplex Cinema Centre.

Of course, most of your time is likely to be spent at the beach. Choose from 4 miles (7 kilometres) of sand, with the black-sand Las Gaviotas Beach being the most centrally located option.

Arrive in Fuengirola City Centre by train and you will be right in the heart of the action. Alternatively, drive from Málaga and you will get there within around 40 minutes.