I have lived in Malaga 10 years. Looks like Sala Gold has changed a lot since the last review in 2011. Four or five years ago it was known as one of the more exciting and perhaps "exclusive" clubs in Malaga - you could sometimes see Spanish celebrities as well as a mixture of foreign Erasmus students. It was quite exciting and diverse. It had style and was very vibrant. You could see live shows.
It's not like that today. The 6 bars are closed; usually only one is actually open, maybe two. There are two halls, but one is always closed (see: literally always). In fact, the floor is often cordoned off to keep people bunched together. A club tactic to make it appear busier than it is. You don't get in free often anymore - even if you are a lady. Expect to pay 10 Euros.
However, it would be incorrect to say it is "snobbish," because the class of patrons has really declined. Essentially, you have young female tourists and the male friends of the doormen/bouncers. Dress code is not heavily enforced in Sala Gold now, although if you're one of us girls it is still easy to get in regardless of how you dress. You may still have to pay.
Unfortunately, since the doormen favor letting in their friends (who also tend to be 30+ year old men) it makes for an awkward, meat-market setting. This is even worse even if you like older men - when you realize they are the blue-collar crowd making 1000 € a month (mileuristas) still living at home with their parents. Imagine meeting a cute older Spanish guy and getting taken home to his mother's house? Ick. That's Sala Gold.
The diversity of Sala Gold 5-10 years ago with all types of foreign students, tourists, celebrities, and various age groups is over. It seems to be surviving on its old reputation and outdated guides saying it is the place to be. Every time my girlfriends come to Spain they demand to go to Sala Gold once, stay 10 minutes and then decide never to go back. Music-wise? Spanish pop 24/7 with little diversity (same as you'll find in Wanga or Anden).
Definitely a negative review, but 100% accurate. Unfortunately that is the state Sala Gold is in now. For a more authentic Spanish experience with a bit more class, there is an open plaza (Plaza Mitjana) directly to the right of Sala Gold. You buy your drinks at one of the bars and enjoy it in the plaza. This is where the young professional crowd (20-35 yrs) hangs out. If you're looking to socialize, meet people, or enjoy a more social and authentic Spanish experience that is the best option. But if you're looking for a club that is still diverse and alive Malaga has no shortage (Wanga, Anden, White, Velvet, etc) all literally two minutes away walking distance. read more