Hoping to stay in Malaga for February

Well, that rather depends on a few things.
What do you like to do to occupy yourselves? Are you outdoor people? Or prefer arts & culture? Do you like like to eat out, or to explore local ingredients and cook at home? Do you have a car? Do you want to cycle - if so, where? How long are you staying? How is your Spanish, are you confident in using it or prefer somewhere that doesn't demand immersion in it?
There's such a range of experiences and places around Malaga, it'll be easy to find something that perfectly suits your needs and wants. At the same time, it's also easy to find yourself somewhere that really doesn't work for you at all.

You did not mention if plan to hire a car, if not lots of good places along the coastal rail line which runs south from the airport via Plaza Mayor Malaga City and terminates in Fuengirola. If you want to be close to the sea Los Boliches & Torreblanca are on the Paseo Maritimo which offers a 7 kilometre sea walk,. This is a link to the rail stops. https://www.malagaairportcarhire.com/information/malaga_airport_train.htm

You mentioned 'safe area' I do not really know of any unsafe areas it's more about what nuances you seek.  

Hi Fiona,

We own a 2 bedroom on the beach in Riveria Del Sol with panoramic sea views that's available to rent. Email me or call me on WhatsApp for details no is. 805 705 9002. maggiewordell@gmail.com.

Thanks! Maggie