Snowbirds in Spain: Discover Fuengirola, an Authentic Winter Destination in Andalusia

While winter in Quebec can sometimes seem endless, Linda G., 61, and her partner have preferred to fly across the ocean to Spain for the past two years to enjoy the sunshine in Fuengirola. A former fan of Florida, this Canadian snowbird was looking for a quieter, more authentic place to settle down for the winter.

In Spain, she found what she was looking for: an apartment in a great location near the sea, walks along the Paseo at sunset, tasty tapas to enjoy with an aperitif, and a charming local atmosphere.

Find out why Fuengirola, this small town nestled between the sea and the mountains of Andalusia, has become a top winter getaway for Linda, year after year.

As Snowbirds, Why Did You Choose Fuengirola in Spain for a Long Stay?

"We were looking for something a little quieter than the more touristy places. In the Andalusia region, many people go to Torremolinos, but Fuengirola allows you to enjoy the area without the crowds. 

In Fuengirola, the train station is nearby, as are the buses, so it's easy to explore the surrounding area without renting a car. As the city is on the coast, access to the sea is easy.

We go back there every winter for about 40 days, which is just what we were looking for."

How Did You First Discover Fuengirola?

"We had already travelled to Spain, but we discovered this area thanks to friends who had been there twice. They're the kind of travellers we relate to, so we trust them. 

What we also like is that there aren't too many Canadians, so we can better integrate into the local culture."

Before Travelling to Fuengirola, How Did You Do Your Research and Prepare?

“We searched everywhere. Facebook groups for expats and travellers to the region were also a big help, especially for practical information like bus and train maps. 

I also spent quite a bit of time on Instagram looking at neighbourhoods, hotels, and restaurants to get a better idea of the atmosphere. 

Since we often travel to this part of Europe, we already had a paper guidebook on Andalusia at home, so we dug it out."

Where Did You Stay in Fuengirola?

"We chose a rental apartment that we found on Booking.com. The first time, we relied on the photos and comments, which gave a pretty good idea of the type of accommodation. By reading the reviews carefully, it's easier to see if the place suits your needs. In the end, it worked out well because we went back to the same place twice. 

During our last stay, we took the time to walk around the neighbourhoods and even visit an apartment in person, to get a better idea of where we might want to stay next time we go in February. It's easier to imagine yourself there when you see the place in person."

What is the Vibe Like in Fuengirola?

"It's very family-oriented, especially on Sundays. Since almost everything is closed, even grocery stores, people go out. 

The apartments are small, so life happens outside. The Paseo becomes the heart of the city: you see families, grandparents, strollers... everyone is enjoying the sea air. It's lively, but peaceful at the same time."

What Is the Weather Like in Fuengirola During the Winter? Is the Water Warm Enough for Swimming?

"It depends on how well you tolerate the cold! We don't go there to swim, either in the sea or in the pool. It's not Florida, we know that going in. We go to the beach, yes, but more to walk, relax, or sit on a lounge chair (which can easily be rented on site). 

At the seaside resort of Marbella, which is about 30 minutes from Fuengirola, there are normally lots of beach clubs, but in winter, only one in ten remains open. So the atmosphere is quieter, a little less festive.

What we like most is the European pace of life, the short walks, and the beautiful discoveries. The weather is nice and mild, and that's what matters to us."

Did You Feel Safe in Fuengirola? 

“Yes, completely. Whether during the day or in the evening, we felt safe. We went out to restaurants, had drinks in bars, went for walks, and never had any problems.”

What Is Important to Know About Staying Healthy in Fuengirola? 

“There's nothing to worry about! The water is safe to drink everywhere. Out of habit, we sometimes buy bottled water, but it's a matter of taste, not safety."

How’s The Food in Fuengirola? Any Local Dishes or Flavours That Stood Out to You?

"Mediterranean cuisine dominates, with lots of vegetables, fish, and meat. Since we rent an apartment, we often cook for ourselves and do our grocery shopping daily, like the locals, to get the freshest produce. 

It's interesting because there's also a good variety of restaurants in Fuengirola: Thai restaurants, Irish pubs... we don't feel out of place.

If you're looking for seafood, you're well served, which is a real plus. Otherwise, for someone with allergies or restrictions, it's not difficult to find options.

Of course, you have to try the paella, a classic here!”

If You Don’t Speak Spanish, Is It Possible to Travel There?

"I know a few words and phrases in Spanish to get by. Fortunately, the younger generation speaks English, which makes communication easier.

In tourist restaurants, menus are often in four languages. However, in small local restaurants, they are mainly in Spanish.

Sometimes I use a translator on my phone, such as Google Translate, which is very helpful. I also try to memorize key sentences to make myself better understood. 

In general, people are very understanding and patient, which makes communication fairly easy.”

What Did You Enjoy Most About Fuengirola?

“The climate is so pleasant, it's never too hot! In February and March, it can easily reach 20 degrees. Although, early in the morning, it's around 10 degrees, so you will need a light jacket. But at least it never snows!

And then, the sun is very present; we only had 4-5 days of rain during the entire stay.

I also liked how easy it was to live there. Once you arrive and settle in, everything becomes simple. I like the street vendors and the atmosphere in general. "

What Are Some Things That Shook Up Your Routine During the Trip?

"We knew we were leaving our routine behind when we moved to Fuengirola, but it wasn't a shock either, since we've already travelled extensively in Europe. 

What's different is that we don't have a car there, so we get around on foot or by public transportation. That changes the way we organize our days a bit; we have to plan our trips more carefully. But since we're on vacation, we take our time and don't stress about it."

Is the Cost of Living More Expensive in Fuengirola or Less Than in Canada?

"The euro isn't cheap, but Fuengirola is still quite affordable. To compare, we spent a month in Florida in November, then two months in Europe, and we noticed that prices in the United States much higher than those in Europe."

Transportation:

“To get around, when we arrive at the airport, we take the train to Fuengirola. We buy a $10 transportation card, which we get partially refunded at the end of its use if we exceed a certain number of trips. Bus tickets cost about $1 to $2, which we pay directly to the driver.”

Grocery and Restaurants:

"When it comes to grocery stores, it's pretty much the same in Canada as in Spain.

As for restaurants, it depends on where you go, but we avoid places that are too fancy. Local restaurants offer very delicious food that's also quite affordable. For example, a meal with salad, pasta, and a glass of wine costs around €50 for two people.”

Accommodation:

“For accommodation, we stayed in an apartment on the second row from the sea, not directly facing the water, but with a sea view from the balcony. A spacious, modernly renovated two-bedroom apartment costs around $90 per night.”

Did You Find Any Tricks to Save Money During Your Snowbird Stay in Fuengirola?

"Since we're on vacation, we mainly want to enjoy ourselves and visit places, so we don't pay too much attention to our expenses for that. 

However, when it comes to food, it makes a real difference to eat out for lunch instead of for dinner. The “meals of the day” are much more affordable. Also, since there are plenty of restaurants with outdoor seating areas, when the weather is nice, we like to go out and enjoy"

What Day Trips Do You Recommend From Fuengirola?

"There are some beautiful options around Fuengirola, such as the Caminito del Rey: a spectacular hike through a canyon with suspended walkways. It's a bit far, so we decided to book an organized tour that picked us up directly. But once you're there, you can hike at your own pace.

Another favourite: the white villages in the mountains, just a 10-minute bus ride from Fuengirola. Mijas, for example, with its narrow streets, local shops, and breathtaking sea views, is worth a visit.

And if you're willing to go a bit of the beaten path, Nerja is a beautiful discovery. It's called the "Balcony of Europe" because it's a large terrace overlooking the Mediterranean. The view is breathtaking, and it's a place where locals like to gather.”

How Did You Stay in Touch With Family and Friends During Your Extended Stay in Spain?

"It was easy to stay in touch. I have a plan from home with international data, so I can use Google Maps and stay connected when we're visiting. It's handy for finding your way around and communicating at all times. 

That said, there's Wi-Fi almost everywhere, so if you want to avoid paying for extra data, that's also possible."

Did You Have Travel Insurance for This Long Trip to Spain? Did You Ever Need to Use It? 

“Yes, we were covered by travel insurance! We didn't have to use it during our stay, but we always feel more at ease knowing that we are well covered. For such a long trip, travel insurance is essential, especially when you know that healthcare systems abroad don't work at all like they do in Canada.”

Finally, What Would You Say to Someone Who’s Thinking About Becoming a Snowbird but Still Hesitating?

"I think it all depends on your relationship with winter. If the idea is on your mind, I would say start with a shorter stay to test out a place. 

And above all, gather information from people you trust. What delights one person won't necessarily suit another; we don't all have the same criteria. For example, in Fuengirola, everything is simple, the food is excellent, and you feel safe. But you have to experience it to know!"

Discover the Andalusian Way of Life

If you, too, dream of spending a different kind of winter, far from the mass tourism of typical snowbird destinations in the United States, Fuengirola in Spain could well surprise you.

Enjoy the sun and let yourself be charmed by a simple daily life, between local markets, walks along the Mediterranean coast, and relaxed meals at sunset.

Before you leave for southern Spain, get your travel insurance sorted. Get a quick quote with soNomad so you can travel with peace of mind.

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