Guide to Marbella’s Beaches

Amongst Marbella’s many other charms, this attractive Southern Spanish town is renowned for long, sweeping beaches fringing the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Located on the Costa del Sol, the town and its neighbours boast a diverse and vibrant beach scene. Stretching from Cabopino in the east to Estepona in the west, each playa, or beach, provides a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences, from families, to groups of friends seeking peace and quiet or fun and entertainment.

Marbella’s Blue Flag Beaches

Marbella’s beaches have been awarded several Blue Flags for 2024.

The Blue Flag is a prestigious international award granted to beaches and marinas meeting high environmental and quality standards. To be awarded a Blue Flag, strict criteria must be met, including levels of water quality, safety, environmental education, and accessibility.

Playa de Cabopino

Description: Cabopino is one of the prettiest beaches in the Marbella area. Around 20 mins from the town centre, it is in a picturesque setting near Cabopino Marina to add to its charm. The beach begins with a wide, shallow bay that is perfect for small children. It is known for its soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters and is family-friendly with calm, warm waters ideal for swimming.

Facilities: There are several bars and chiringuitos – as well as the bars, restaurants and shops in Cabopino Marina – that are clustered around the western end of the beach. There’s a kiosk selling beach toys, as well as sunbeds, parasols, showers, restrooms, and water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding. Parking is also available, with a few spots offering shade – but you have to get there early for a spot as it gets busy in high season. Blue Flag beach.

Playa Artola

Description: Adjacent to Cabopino, this beach is part of the protected Dunas de Artola Natural Monument. It's a much quieter beach, popular among naturists, with rolling dunes covered with indigenous vegetation. The Paseo Marítimo has been constructed as an attractive wooden boardwalk through the dunes, so they are not disturbed along with the protected flora and fauna. The Torre de los Ladrones, constructed in 1497 by Catholic Monarchs during a period of Arab domination of Spain, overlooks the beach, and at 15m high, is the tallest watchtower on Málaga’s coast.

Facilities: Basic amenities such as restrooms and lifeguard services during summer months. The beach does not have sunbeds or parasols for hire, encouraging visitors to bring their own gear.

Playa de las Chapas

Description: Playa de las Chapas is a long, relatively narrow stretch of beach, peaceful and less frequented to the eastern end and dotted with chiringuitos boasting fresh fish and beautiful views over the Mediterranean. The beach is of fine, golden sand with clear waters and is very family-friendly. Parking is generally on the roads leading down to the beach, although there are some smaller car parks.

Facilities: Sunbeds, parasols, showers, restrooms, and beach clubs. The beach also has several dining options with local and international cuisine.

Playa de Elviria

Description: Elviria Beach is renowned for its expansive stretch of fine golden sand and clear, inviting waters. It offers a lively yet laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both families and groups looking for a relaxing beach day. The beach's scenic beauty is complemented by the surrounding greenery and luxurious beachfront properties as well as the most famous beach club in the Marbella area, Nikki Beach.

Facilities: Elviria Beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, parasols, showers, and restrooms. The area is famous for the Nikki Beach Club in the Don Carlos Hotel, known for its upscale dining, extravagant parties, and exclusive VIP areas. Other amenities include various water sports options such as windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Several beachside bars and restaurants offer a range of local and international cuisine, ensuring visitors have a wide array of dining choices. The beach is also accessible and has ample parking facilities, making it convenient for tourists.

Playa Real de Zaragoza

Description: A less crowded beach with a long stretch of golden sand, it is relatively unspoilt and ideal for those seeking tranquillity. It's perfect for peaceful walks and enjoying the natural surroundings, ideal if you are looking to escape the busy sunbeds and beach clubs found on other beaches.

Facilities: Sunbeds, parasols, restrooms, and several chiringuitos offering fresh seafood and refreshing drinks.

Playa de la Fontanilla

Description: La Fontanilla Beach is one of Marbella's most popular urban beaches, located just a short walk from the town centre. The beach stretches over 1,000m, featuring fine golden sand and calm, clear waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Its central location makes it easily accessible and a favourite among both locals and tourists.

Facilities: The beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, parasols, showers, restrooms, and changing rooms. Numerous restaurants line the promenade adjacent to the beach, while on the beach itself is a row of chiringuitos offering excellent paella as well as steak and international dishes. La Fontanilla also boasts several ice cream parlours, perfect for a refreshing treat on a hot day.

Visitors can engage in various water sports, including paddleboarding, jet skiing, and sailing. The beach's proximity to Marbella's marina offers additional recreational activities such as boat rentals and fishing trips. For those who prefer to stay on land, the wide promenade is ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling, with stunning views of the Mediterranean.

Playa de Venus

Description: Venus Beach, centrally located in Marbella, features a statue entitled Marbella Venus. This emblematic statue, created by Granada sculptor Francisco López Burgos, represents a female water-skier and was a significant symbol of Marbella in the 1970s. The beach stretches over 400m and is characterised by fine golden sand and calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for families and swimmers. The beach offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Marbella Marina, contributing to its picturesque and inviting nature.

Facilities: Equipped with sunbeds, parasols, showers, and restrooms, Venus Beach ensures a comfortable visit. The beach is accessible for people with disabilities, featuring ramps and adapted facilities. The nearby marina provides additional dining options, restaurants, and cafes. Water sports like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and banana boat rides are available, along with activities like beach volleyball and promenade walks. Venus Beach also boasts a Blue Flag award for its high environmental and quality standards, ensuring clean and safe conditions for all visitors.

Playa de la Bajadilla

Description: Located to the west of Marbella’s Fishing Port, La Bajadilla Beach is a popular spot characterised by its wide expanse, especially where it meets the breakwaters of the port. The beach spans 700m in length and averages 40m in width. It is bordered by the Paseo Marítimo, which provides easy access to various front-line hotels and accommodations. Its proximity to Marbella's Old Town makes it a convenient choice for visitors looking to explore both the beach and the historic area. The beach's unique setting near the fishing port adds a charming blend of marina activity and beach relaxation.

Facilities: La Bajadilla Beach is favoured for its calm waters and extensive amenities, making it a bustling location, particularly in the summer. The beach is monitored by lifeguards and has a Red Cross point to ensure visitor safety. Facilities include public telephones, parasols, sun loungers, restrooms, and showers. Although there is some parking available, it tends to fill up quickly during peak times. The beach also boasts several beach bars, restaurants, and shops, adding to its appeal. Recognised for its high standards of cleanliness and excellent facilities, La Bajadilla Beach frequently earns the Blue Flag award, indicating its adherence to stringent environmental and safety standards.

Playa del Faro

Description: El Faro Beach, also known as Playa del Faro, is a charming urban beach located in the heart of Marbella, near the iconic Marbella Lighthouse (Faro). This small but popular beach stretches 200 meters in length and 30 meters in width, offering a cosy and intimate setting for visitors. The beach is bordered by the picturesque Paseo Marítimo, providing easy access to the surrounding hotels and accommodations, and is just a short walk from Marbella's bustling Old Town and the Marina. Its name and the presence of the elegant 1864 lighthouse add a historical and picturesque touch to the beach.

Facilities: Despite its compact size, El Faro Beach is packed with amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. These include sunbeds, parasols, showers, restrooms, and boardwalks leading directly to the beach. The beach is also equipped with facilities for disabled access, making it accessible to everyone. For families, there is a children's play area, and for sports enthusiasts, a designated sports area is available. The beach is lined with chiringuitos (beach bars) and restaurants, offering a variety of local and international cuisines. The proximity to Marbella's exclusive luxury shops, terraces, and additional dining options ensures that visitors have plenty to explore and enjoy.

The beach's cleanliness and excellent facilities have earned it the prestigious Blue Flag award, a mark of high environmental and quality standards.

Playa de Nagüeles

Description: Located in the prestigious Golden Mile area, Nagüeles Beach is known for its clean sand and upscale ambience, attracting a sophisticated, occasionally celebrity crowd. Thanks to the proximity of Marbella’s most exclusive area of real estate, the five star hotels Marbella Club and Puente Romano, it is one of the most sought-after beaches in Marbella. The beach offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Sierra Blanca mountains, creating a picturesque backdrop to the golden beach.

Facilities: Nagüeles Beach is well-equipped with amenities such as sunbeds, parasols, showers, and restrooms. It also offers watercraft rentals, including jet skis and kayaks. The beach is accessible for people with disabilities and features several chic beach clubs and gourmet restaurants like La Milla and El Chiringuito Puente Romano. These establishments provide exquisite dining options and stylish lounging areas. The beach's location on the Golden Mile also makes it an excellent spot for leisurely strolls and jogging along the picturesque coastline​. It is also a Blue Flag beach.

Playa Puerto Banús

Description: Puerto Banús Beach, is also known as Playa de Río Verde. This semi-urban beach stretches 1,500m in length and averages 40m in width, featuring fine golden sand and a crescent-shaped shoreline. Positioned between the Puerto Banús Marina and the mouth of the Río Verde, the beach offers stunning views of luxury yachts and a lively marina atmosphere. The beach's exclusive setting attracts a sophisticated crowd, including celebrities and tourists who enjoy the vibrant nightlife and upscale amenities nearby​.

Facilities: Puerto Banús Beach is equipped with numerous amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. It offers sunbeds, parasols, showers, restrooms, and water sports facilities, including jet skiing, paddleboarding, and sailing. The beachfront promenade is lined with high-end restaurants, bars, and cafes, including renowned beach clubs like Ocean Club and Buddha Beach, which provide gourmet dining, exclusive services, and vibrant nightlife. The beach has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag for its high environmental standards and quality services. Additionally, the area is accessible for people with disabilities and provides ample parking, though it tends to fill up quickly during peak times​.

Playa Canina Ventura del Mar

Description: Playa Canina Ventura del Mar, often referred to as Ventura del Mar Dog Beach, is a dog-friendly beach located in the Nueva Andalucía zone, close to Puerto Banús. This semi-urban beach stretches over 1 km and offers a variety of services tailored to both dogs and their owners. It features dark-coloured sand and shingle, providing a tranquil environment for beachgoers and their canine companions. The beach is nestled among residential developments, making it an ideal spot for locals and visitors who wish to enjoy some quality time with their pets.

Facilities: Playa Canina Ventura del Mar is well-equipped with amenities designed to cater to both dogs and their owners. Facilities include waste disposal stations, freshwater showers for rinsing off sand, and designated play areas for dogs. There are also shaded areas and benches where owners can relax while keeping an eye on their pets. The beach is maintained regularly to ensure cleanliness and safety. Additionally, the proximity to Puerto Banús means that visitors have easy access to a range of dining options, shops, and other services within a short walking distance. Parking is available nearby, although it can get busy during peak times.

Estepona's Beaches

Estepona’s beaches at the western end of the Costa del Sol stretch over 21km and are generally of fine, golden sand. The town's coastline features a variety of beach environments, from bustling urban settings to quiet, natural retreats.

The municipality’s beaches are well-maintained and cater to a wide range of preferences, whether you're seeking family-friendly shores, fun water sports activities, or quiet spots to relax. Many of the beaches are equipped with excellent facilities, as you would expect from one of Spain’s most popular holiday resorts. Estepona also boasts several Blue Flag beaches, recognised for their high environmental and quality standards. With its blend of entertaining beach life and tranquil natural beauty, Estepona provides a perfect coastal escape for both locals and visitors.

Playa del Saladillo

Description: El Saladillo Beach is one of Estepona’s longest beaches, extending approximately 3kms along the Costa del Sol. It is a popular destination for both relaxation and water sports. The beach is situated a few kilometres east of Estepona's centre and is bordered by the Guadalmina River to the north and the residential areas of El Paraiso Barronal and Benamara to the south. This location offers a relaxing escape, with the surrounding upscale villas and gardens adding to its calm atmosphere. The beach's expansive width, about 35 meters, ensures ample space for visitors to spread out and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.

Facilities: El Saladillo Beach is well-equipped with a variety of amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience. These include sunbed and parasol rentals, showers, restrooms, and foot showers. Water sports enthusiasts can rent equipment for activities such as diving, kiting, surfing, and windsurfing.

Families will appreciate the children's play area, and lifeguards patrol the area in peak season to ensure safety. The beach also features litter bins and a regular cleaning service to maintain its pristine condition. Several chiringuitos (beach bars) and restaurants dot the shoreline, offering local cuisine and refreshing beverages, perfect for enjoying a meal with a view of the sea. Additionally, there are parking areas nearby, although they can fill up quickly during the busier summer season.

Playa de Guadalmansa/Bella

Description: Playa de Guadalmansa, also known as PlayaBella, is located about 10 kms east of Estepona. It is known for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for those looking to avoid the summer crowds. The beach is characterised by its mixture of sand and pebbles, and moderate waves and laid-back environment. The surrounding area includes upscale residential complexes and lush gardens, enhancing the beach's peaceful and picturesque setting.

Facilities: Despite its quiet nature, Playa de Guadalmansa is well-equipped with various amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. The beach is mostly natural, with showers and foot washing areas at the entrance to the beach. It’s a popular spot for activities such as kitesurfing and fishing and there are a few chiringuitos and restaurants nearby offering a range of local dishes and refreshments. Additionally, the beach is accessible by foot and car, with some parking nearby​.

Playa del Padrón

Description: Playa del Padrón, located about 4 kms east of Estepona's town centre, is a popular beach known for its extensive length and relaxed atmosphere. This beach stretches approximately 1,230m in length and 40m in width so it never feels too busy, even during the busy summer season. Its tranquil waters make it an ideal spot for swimming and other water activities. The beach is situated near the luxurious Kempinski Hotel Bahía and the newly renovated Laguna Beach complex​.

Facilities: Playa del Padrón offers a range of amenities to ensure an enjoyable day at the beach. These include sunbeds, parasols, showers, restrooms, and foot showers. The beach is accessible for people with disabilities and provides ample parking spaces, though these can fill up quickly during peak times.

Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy various activities such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. There’s a children's play area and lifeguards during the summer season. The nearby Sublim Beach Club, part of the redeveloped Laguna Village, offers high-end dining, a stunning infinity pool, and exclusive beach services. Several chiringuitos along the beach also provide local cuisine and refreshments​.

Playa de la Rada

Description: Playa de la Rada is Estepona's main urban beach, stretching over 2 kms and up to 50 m wide, with fine grey sand. This beach runs alongside the town's bustling seafront promenade, the Paseo Marítimo, making it easily accessible and convenient for visitors who also wish to explore the nearby Old Town.

The beach offers stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea, with vistas extending to Gibraltar and even the African coastline on clear days. Its central location and extensive length make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Facilities: Playa de la Rada is equipped with numerous amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience. These include sunbeds, parasols, showers, restrooms, and foot showers. The beach is monitored by lifeguards in high season, and there are designated areas for sports such as volleyball. It’s a great spot for families, with a children's play areas and a floating water park available during the summer months. The beach is also home to several well-known chiringuitos (beach bars) and restaurants like Palm Beach and El Madero, offering a variety of local dishes, including paellas and fresh seafood. For those looking to stay active, water sports equipment rentals are available, and the recently renovated promenade provides a great space for walking, jogging, or cycling. Playa de la Rada has been awarded the Blue Flag for its high standards of cleanliness and excellent facilities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors.

Playa Bahía Dorada

Description: A quieter beach with dark sand, ideal for those seeking a quieter environment.

Facilities: Sunbeds, parasols, showers, restrooms, and basic amenities like rubbish bins​.

Playa del Cristo

Description: A sheltered cove west of the marina, Playa del Cristo is perfect for swimming and family outings due to its shallow, calm waters.

Facilities: Sunbeds, parasols, showers, restrooms, two chiringuitos, and ample parking. The beach also provides changing rooms and facilities for disabled access​.

Playa Costa Natura

Description: Playa Costa Natura, located approximately 3 kms west of Estepona, is renowned as Spain’s first official naturist beach. This beach forms part of the Costa Natura Naturist Village, a gated community designed to provide a safe and private environment for naturists. The beach is characterised by a mix of sandy and pebbly areas and is surrounded by lush Mediterranean gardens, adding to its peaceful atmosphere. With views of the Rock of Gibraltar and the mountains at the coast of Morocco, Playa Costa Natura offers a unique, picturesque setting.

Facilities: Playa Costa Natura is well-equipped with a range of amenities aimed at ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for naturists. Facilities include sunbeds, parasols, showers, restrooms, and foot showers. The beach is also monitored by lifeguards during peak times to ensure the safety of all visitors. There is also parking close by.

Marbella and Estepona offer an array of beautiful beaches, each with its unique charm and facilities. From the lively, centrally-located urban beaches with bustling promenades to peaceful, natural stretches ideal for relaxation, there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for family-friendly spots, luxurious beach clubs, or naturist experiences, these coastal towns have it all. Enjoy your visit to these stunning beaches and make the most of the amenities they offer for a perfect day by the sea.

Pia Arrieta, 02 Sep 2024 - Lifestyle - Living in Marbella