Stayed at the Vincci Posado, an affordable 5 star in a great location.
El Vincci Selección Posada del Patio 5* es un hotel 5 estrellas en Málaga. Reserva en la Web Oficial del Vincci Selección Posada del Patio 5*. Mejor precio garantizado.
www.vincciposadadelpatio.com
The marina and beach nearby is great. The castle is worth a visit for the views. There is an English (protestant) graveyard on the way up. Before the British Consulate got permission for the graveyard the Spanish would prop up the bodies of the English Protestants on the beach and let the tide take them away because they weren't Catholic!
A bit of Spanish is definitely handy, like most non touristy places most don't speak English.
In the old town there is a cathedral, La Manquita, with just one tower, the locals still share their frustrations as to why it was never finished.