Marbella has long been a favorite destination for vacationers and expatriates looking for a sunny, mild climate most of the year round.
With over 28 km of golden sandy beaches, Marbella’s coastline, also known as the Costa del Sol, is undoubtedly one of its main assets. Whether you’re looking for a quiet beach to relax on with your family or loved ones, or a festive atmosphere with a beach bar and chiringuito where you can enjoy a cocktail with the sunset, Marbella is bound to have a beach for you.
Cabopino, Puerto Banus, Bounty Beach…The playa as we like it!
Marbella’s beaches are obviously very popular in summer for all the services they have to offer, the fine golden sand, but they’re also a popular place to stroll and relax during the mild winter months.
Marbella is the town on the Costa del Sol with the highest number of blue flags – 7. So you can be sure that the water here is clean and clear, that it’s well managed and that facilities are in place to offer you a more-than-pleasant experience, from showers and sun loungers to lifeguards who ensure the supervision and safety of bathers.
The majority of these beaches are located in the center of Marbella and in what is known as the “Golden Mile”, the chic district.
Here are 8 of the best beaches in Marbella that you absolutely must see during your stay in southern Spain.
1. Playa del Faro
One of Marbella’s most central beaches, El Faro takes its name from the lighthouse that can be seen from this sandy coastline. El Faro may not be the longest beach in the region, but it is one of the most spectacular. It’s just a few minutes from fashion boutiques, terraces and bars, as well as gourmet restaurants.
This Blue Flag beach is also close to the Parque de la Constitución, which boasts magnificent gardens and hosts cultural activities and events throughout the year.
2. Las Chapas Beach and Club Nikki Beach
This is one of marbella’s most popular beaches. It’s also the most glamorous on the entire Costa del Sol. Here you’ll find many popular restaurants and prestigious beach clubs, including the famous Nikki Beach. Get ready for a great time with the best music and the best views.
Las Chapas is a cosmopolitan center to the east of Marbella and one of the most popular neighborhoods for those looking to relocate to the area. So it makes sense that this beach is one of the most coveted.
3. El Alicate” beach
Stretching over 1,900 meters of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, El Alicate beach can get crowded in summer, but it offers a pleasant atmosphere and numerous vendors selling fresh sangria and Spanish tapas.
Situated close to the beaches of Costa Bella and Pinomar, this sandy beach is one of the most beautiful and charming spots on the Costa del Sol, with 850 meters of breathtaking coastline, surrounded by pines, meadows and garrigue. It’s one of the most secluded beaches on this list, but that doesn’t stop it from being considered one of the best in the region and in Marbella in general.
This beach is on the edge of an exclusive estate that is also home to famous names such as Antonio Banderas, who owns a house with direct access to the beach.
4. Playa Fontanilla
It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in downtown Marbella. Playa Fontanilla is just a few minutes’ walk from the heart of Marbella, and if you want to soak up the Spanish sun, few places can rival this magnificent beach.
Playa Fontanilla offers practically everything you could wish for at your feet: bars, restaurants, activities, showers. You’ll find even more restaurants nearby, on the Paseo Maritimo promenade.
This beach has a relaxed atmosphere yet is right in the heart of the action. It’s a great option if you want to temporarily get away from the hustle and bustle.
5. Los Monteros, one of Marbella’s most beautiful beaches
Los Monteros is a white sand beach located in the Bahia district of Marbella. It extends for over 2 km and comprises three distinct sections: Rio Real, Realejo and La Adelfa. The names of these sections are derived from the streams that flow into the sea.
If you’re looking for a beach to relax, sunbathe and swim, this beach is perfect. It’s a beach with character that, with its lush greenery and myriad plant species, stands out from Marbella’s other beaches.
6. Marbella’s best beaches: Cabopino Beach
Cabopino beach is a popular beach in the eastern part of Marbella. It lies in the area known as Cabopino, which takes its name from the nearby marina.
Cabopino beach is a long sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, and is one of the best beaches in Marbella. It is surrounded by sand dunes and pine forests, giving it a magnificent natural setting. It’s an ideal spot for swimming and water sports such as windsurfing and jet skiing.
The beach is also home to several bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a drink or a meal while taking in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. In addition, several beach clubs and bars offer sun loungers and parasols.
All in all, Cabopino beach is a beautiful and relaxing place to spend a day in Marbella, with plenty of activities and amenities to keep you entertained.
7 & 8. Discover the Nueva Andalucía area with Puerto Banus beach and San Pedro beach.
Nueva Andalucía is a residential area to the west of Marbella. Nearby are the famous beaches of Puerto Banus and San Pedro.
Puerto Banus beach is a long, wide beach in the heart of the luxury Puerto Banus marina, just a few minutes’ drive from Nueva Andalucía. Here you’ll find sun loungers in the shade of umbrellas, showers and beach bars.
San Pedro beach is another popular beach to the east of Puerto Banus. It is easily accessible from Nueva Andalucía. It’s a long, wide beach with golden sand and calm waters, where you can enjoy a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, windsurfing and parasailing.
On the whole, although there are no beaches in Nueva Andalucía itself, there are plenty of beautiful beaches nearby that are well worth a visit, offering a range of facilities and services that will make your day at the beach enjoyable and relaxing.
