According to forum posts, popular restaurant recommendations in Fuengirola include Chiringuito La Mar Sala for excellent fish dishes and Los Marinos José, known for its seafood menu. Both places are noted for their quality and ambiance.

For those interested in local Spanish cuisine, travelers have called out El Tapeo Andaluz and Mesón la Salina. El Tapeo Andaluz offers a traditional Spanish dining experience, while Mesón la Salina is praised for its meat-oriented dishes and traditional Spanish fare.

Some users mentioned the value of choosing a Menu del Día at local restaurants like Restaurant Oscar, which is known for providing good food at reasonable prices. These types of menus typically offer a full meal at a set price, which often includes a drink.

For a diverse selection, Fuengirola hosts a variety of restaurants along Fish Alley and the area around the Post Office, where one can explore different culinary options from numerous Spanish restaurants.

According to forum posts, Fuengirola celebrates several local festivities. The Feria Internacional de Los Países is held from May 1-5, offering a cultural showcase of different countries. Additionally, nearby Benalmádena hosts a five-day festivity during the same period, which includes various traditional events.

Some travelers mentioned that while Fuengirola does not specifically list Las Cruces de Mayo in its official festivities, it is celebrated in nearby regions like Córdoba and Granada, suggesting a rich cultural tapestry in the surrounding areas. Fuengirola itself hosts a variety of events in the Church Square, including concerts and children's puppet theater shows, indicating an active community engagement in local celebrations.

Travelers have called out that Fuengirola and nearby areas remain vibrant even during the Christmas season, with many bars and restaurants staying open. There’s also mention of Carnival events happening around February/March, further highlighting Fuengirola's participation in traditional Spanish festivities.

According to forum posts, travelers can purchase a 10-trip ticket for the train, with prices varying based on the number of zones traveled: 1-2 zones cost €11.95, 3 zones cost €13.85, 4 zones cost €18.70, and 5 zones cost €25.05. For trips from Fuengirola to Malaga, a 5-zone ticket is necessary.

Some travelers have mentioned the availability of a green card for local bus routes, costing €10 for 10 journeys on routes L1-L5 within the Fuengirola area. For travel beyond local routes, buses operated by the CTMAM consortium can be used, and information on these services can be accessed through the CTMAM app.

Travelers have called out the convenience of using debit or credit cards to tap in and out on trains, eliminating the need for physical tickets and potentially saving time.

According to forum posts, jet ski rentals are available from the Marina in Fuengirola. Although a license is typically required, some rental places might not insist on one. For banana boats, travelers have suggested checking Fuengirola Port where various activities can be arranged.

Some travelers have recommended chartering boats for snorkeling and fishing from Fuengirola Port. Additionally, there are options for joining group fishing charters, which might be preferable for solo travelers looking to avoid the cost of a private charter.

For those interested in specific boat experiences, one user noted that while Fuengirola previously offered trips on a ferry with a glass bottom for viewing marine life, this service is no longer advertised. Regular boat trips for dolphin watching are available from the port.

Stella Maris in Fuengirola offers one-bedroom apartments that are clean, comfortable, and functional. According to forum posts, every room includes a sea view, enhancing the appeal for guests who appreciate scenic vistas.

Travelers have noted that Stella Maris features a pool, restaurant, and bar on-site, providing convenient dining and relaxation options. Additionally, there is a supermarket located just behind the establishment, making it easy for guests who prefer self-catering.

The location of Stella Maris is highlighted as a significant advantage, situated at a quieter end of the resort, close to the beach, bars, and restaurants. It is also well-placed for exploring nearby areas, as it is not far from the central part of Fuengirola and Los Boliches.

Some users have mentioned that the walls between apartments at Stella Maris are thin, which might be a consideration for guests sensitive to noise.

According to forum posts, Fuengirola is suitable for families, offering flat terrain which is great for strolls and a variety of casual entertainment options. Travelers have mentioned that local places are welcoming to well-behaved children, which can enhance the family holiday experience.

Some travelers have recommended specific hotels and apartments such as Hotel Yaramar and Stella Maris, noting their suitability for families due to their location and facilities. However, it has been pointed out that many hotels in Fuengirola cater more to older people or adults rather than families with children.

For many users, the flatness of Fuengirola and its accessibility are major advantages, making it easy to navigate with children. The town has a friendly atmosphere with plenty of dining options, which can be a plus for family vacations.

Some travelers recommended using organized excursions like Rubens Excursions for a day trip to Gibraltar from Fuengirola. These excursions often include direct transportation and additional services like guided tours, making the journey simpler and more informative, especially for first-time visitors.

For those preferring public transportation, it’s possible to take a bus from Fuengirola to La Linea, then walk across the border into Gibraltar. This journey can take around 2 to 2.5 hours. However, managing this route involves catching early buses and may include transfers, as direct buses are not always available.

According to forum posts, using public transport might allow more time in Gibraltar compared to organized tours, as the public buses tend to leave Gibraltar later in the day. Travelers have called out that navigating public transport can be less straightforward than participating in an organized tour, which simplifies border crossing and transportation.

According to forum posts, Globales Gardenia Hotel is located in Torreblanca, a district of Fuengirola. It is about 4 kilometers from the center of Fuengirola, requiring a 45-minute walk or a bus ride, with a bus stop conveniently located outside the hotel.

Travelers have noted that the hotel offers a range of rooms and has been under new management by the Globales group. It features a seafront location with easy access to bars and restaurants along the promenade. Additionally, the L1 local bus service, which is free and runs every 16 minutes, enhances connectivity to other parts of Fuengirola.

Several travelers mentioned nearby dining options, including the Red Dragon for beer and tapas and Bistro Michel, highly rated on TripAdvisor for its three-course menu. Chiringuitos along the seafront offer local fare, enhancing the dining experience close to the hotel.