Marbella, Spain
Situated in the south of Spain on the Costa del Sol, Marbella is a major tourist destination that offers stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, cosmopolitan atmosphere, and a multitude of leisure activities. You will also find a plentitude of nightlife options including chic bars and Michelin star restaurants where you can try the local and International cuisine. Besides being the playground for the rich and famous, Marbella is also home to International luxury shopping brands, as well as a number of high-end hotels with premium amenities and services.
DESTINATION GUIDE
Sailing in Marbella
Over the last couple of years, Marbella has enjoyed an increase in boat rentals with medium sizes sailing boats being the most popular among vacationers. This means that a lot of people choose to enjoy sailing in Marbella as part of their summer vacation. For example, a chartered yacht gives you an opportunity to explore the surrounding coastlines and enjoy a variety of water sports while vacationing in Marbella.
Weather in Marbella
Marbella enjoys a sunny and consistent climate year round. The best time to visit is between May and August when the weather is perfect for exploring Marbella with a bareboat charter. During this season, you can expect around 11 hours of sunshine daily. Keep in mind that the temperature can rise above 30 degrees in July and August. The most rainfall is expected in November and March.
The Village of Ojen
Located just a short drive from Marbella, the while village of Ojen is a lovely place that not many tourists know about. Take a walk down the lovely cobbled streets and admire the unspoiled beauty of this charming Andalusian village. There is a wine museum that is worth checking out, as well as several shops that sell authentic Spanish souvenirs. Since the village is located in the mountains, it offers magnificent views of the surrounding areas.
El Saladillo Beach
Easily accessible by a boat rental, El Saladillo Beach is located west of Marbella and is an ideal beach for travelers who wish to get away from large crowds of tourists. This beach is quite popular with locals and there are several restaurants nearby where you can order fresh seafood and a lot of other Spanish specialties.
Scuba Diving in Marbella
Thanks to its clear and calm semi-tropical waters, Marbella is an ideal destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. If you wish to discover the underwater environment and make the best out of your beach vacation, there are several diving centers located in the city that offer scuba diving and snorkeling equipment for rent. Travelers who wish to become professional scuba divers will be pleased to hear that some diving centers have PADI 5 programs available.
Nikki Beach
Well-known for its beachfront luxury, Nikki Beach Club is conveniently located at of the best beaches in Marbella and just a short walk from the city center. Opened in 2003, this place attracts local magazine celebrities and hosts International Latin and funky house DJ performances. This exclusive beach club boasts an amazing VIP deck that offers spectacular sea views, as well as a spacious pool, on-site restaurant, and a boutique.
Places to Visit in Marbella
From cobblestone streets lined cute whitewashed houses to exclusive golf courses, there is no shortage of amazing attractions in Marbella. Make sure to check out the town’s historic squares, art museums, historic landmarks, and high-end boutiques. Puerto Banus Saturday Street Market is a cool flea market that boasts over 120 stalls selling everything from vegetables and fruit to clothes and furniture. If you are looking for some high-quality beach time, head out to the popular San Pedro Beach. Some of the most famous museums in Marbella include Museum of Contemporary Spanish Engravings and Ralli Museum.
Old Quarter of Marbella
Travelers on a beach vacation in Spain who wish to escape from all the bustle of the present day resort should take a walk to the Old Quarter of Marbella. Expect to find dozens of buildings that date back to the 16th century, as well as a lovely stone mountain that is located close to the famous Orange House. The most famous building in the old part of the town is the Church of Saint Mary which is designed in baroque style and is famous for its red stone entrance.
Paco Jiménez
Nestled in the Old Town of Marbella in the charming Plaza de Los Naranjos, Paco Jiménez is an intimate restaurant that is well-known for its high-quality cuisine and a lovely interior. The changing seasonal menu at this fine dining establishment consists mostly of Mediterranean dishes such as snapper with saffron, seafood salad, rosemary rabbit, and rack of lamb. In case you are in the mood for dessert, make sure to try their signature tarta de queso.
Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engraving
Besides being a popular beach vacation spot, Marbella is also home to dozens of cultural attractions. One of these attractions is the amazing Museum of Spanish Contemporary Engraving, which is hidden in a small alley in one of the oldest parts of the city. The museum is situated inside a 16th-century palace and boasts a collection of 4,000 pieces of graphic design including aquatints, lithographs, engravings, and etchings.
Tibu
Thanks to its central location in Puerto Banus marina, Tibu nightclub offers easy access to guests with chartered yachts. This amazing nightclub features a couple of podiums where you can dance all night long to the beats of funky tunes. The crowd consists of your fashionable people and there are a few VIP areas that you can rent for special occasions. The great thing about the Tibu nightclub is that unlike other night venues in the city that overcharge for everything, here you will find the drinks are reasonably priced.
Puerto Banus Marina
The most famous marina on the Costa del Sol, Puerto Banus was built in 1970 as a luxury marina and a shopping complex. It is located in the suburbs of Marbella and offers mooring for around 900 boats, as well as a number of nightclubs, bars, and gourmet restaurants. If you are into people-watching and wish to admire all the fancy yachts and sports cars, make sure to visit this amazing marina in Marbella.
Puerto Deportivo de Marbella
Offering 377 berths and easy access for yacht rentals, Puerto Deportivo de Marbella is an ideal marina for families with children that features a variety of restaurants ranging from casual beach bars to expensive a la carte restaurants. There is a children’s playground on-site and the main shopping center in Marbella is within walking distance. Travelers can take a walk along the promenade during the summer season and purchase gifts and souvenirs from a number of kiosks along the away.
Olivia Valere
Olivia Valere is one of the most popular nightclubs in Marbella and world-famous celebrities like Enrique Iglesias and Bruce Willis have visited this place more than once. Expect to find open-air patios and magnificent Moorish arches which make this nightclub a truly enchanting place. The on-site Babilonia restaurant offers a variety of mouthwatering snacks to choose from and the bar features an extensive wine and cocktail list.
Ocean Club
No sailing vacation in Marbella is complete without a visit the world-famous Ocean Club. They have everything you can expect from a VIP venue: tastefully decorated terrace club with wood and white tones, comfortable beds, champagne parties, and fine dining options. Keep in mind that the Ocean Club is one of the most expensive beach clubs in the area. Reservations for beds are recommended.
Hotel Lima
Spend your beach vacation at the lovely Hotel Lima in the center of Marbella. Thanks to its central location, the property is located just a short walk from the many restaurants and bars and offers easy access to the sea front. There is a rooftop terrace which offers spectacular views of the town. All rooms are spacious and come with all the necessary amenities. The staff is friendly and always more than happy to recommend cool places worth visiting in the Old Town and provide directions to nice restaurants in the neighborhood.
Funny Beach Marbella Amusement Park
Funny Beach Marbella Amusement Park offers a variety of activities for families with children including go-karting, Flyboard jet skiing, and practicing your skills on the popular Wave X ramp. Parents with older kids can go on a trip on a variety of boats like Air Stream or Banana. Smaller children will also have plenty of activities to choose from including pedal boats and playing in the Bouncy Castle.
Frank’s Corner
Located just a few minutes from the beach, Frank’s Corner is a popular bar that attracts mostly tourists. It’s an ideal place to have a drink in the evening with your friends after a busy day on the beach. The music is loud and there is always some sports game showing on one of the 8 TV’s here. For an additional fee, guests can use the on-site pool.
Marbella Club
If you need to recharge your batteries after a sailing vacation in Spain, head out to the popular Marbella Club. This historic hotel was founded 75 years ago and offers a wide range of different wellness programs. They have their own personal trainers that create tailor-made courses for both newbies to vacationers who have experience with fitness, yoga, and wellness. After all the outdoor activities and sessions in the gym, you can visit the club’s spa center and relax with some treatments.
Funky Buddha
Many travelers with yacht rentals say how the Funky Buddha is one of the most prestigious nightclubs in Marbella. This elegant London-style venue is located just off the Golden Mile and features a huge dance floor and a couple of VIP tables for the rich and famous. The nightclub is decorated with cute cushions, Indian rugs, and several figures of Buddha. Keep in mind that Funky Buddha is quite an expensive place and reservations for tables are recommended.
La Sala By the Sea
The last but not the least important beach club on our list is the magnificent La Sala By the Sea. This is an ideal place to eat good food, listen to good music, and enjoy hot summer days in Marbella. There are dozens of reasonably priced beds available for guests and a large swimming pool on-site. The on-site restaurant is ideal for candle-lit romantic dinners by the sea.
Casa la Concha
Offering a peaceful ambiance, Casa la Concha is a boutique hotel located along the popular Golden Mile in Marbella. This property boasts one main house and six cottages that have been renovated a few years ago. Expect to find a mixture of a rustic chic style and a modern décor, as well as a lovely outdoor garden and a swimming pool. You can also get a massage at Casa La Concha from trained professionals.
Bulevar San Pedro Alcántara Children's Playground
For an unforgettable adventure in Marbella, head out to the popular children’s playground at Bulevar San Pedro Alcántara. You will find a complex that consists of three playgrounds with wooden horses, hills, swings, and different rides. There is also a zip line in the area, as well as a track for rollerblading and biking. Make sure to check out the nice bridge that offers spectacular views of the Marbella coastline and the mountains.
Barrocco Café Cocktail Bar
Take a break from exploring the Spanish coastline with a boat rental and have a drink at the lovely Barrocco Café Cocktail Bar in Marbella. They offer a nice selection of excellent cocktails and coffees, as well as some delicious snacks. In case you are planning to come with children, there is also a kid’s play area.
The Fresh Food Café
The Fresh Food Café is located just a short walk from the Puerto Banus, a luxury marina packed with megayacht rentals. Thanks to its central location, you will have an opportunity to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city. On the menu, expect to find a variety of fresh and healthy dishes including a nice selection of wraps, salads, and pastries. Fresh Food Café also serves craft smoothies, as well as freshly squeezed juices. It’s definitely the number one brunch spot in the city.
Dezentral
Established by Carsten Joh and his lovely wife Susanah, Dezentral is an ideal spot for travelers who are looking for a quieter spot while enjoying their sailing vacation in Spain. They offer a wide range of drink choices and tasty food. If you are into healthy foods, Dezentral focuses on dishes which are prepared with fresh ingredients and include things like avocado and other fresh fruits and vegetables. Customers say how Dezentral serves probably the best coffee in Marbella.
Bounty Beach
If you are looking for a beach which is located close to the center of Marbella, you should definitely head out to the lovely Bounty Beach. Expect to find a relaxed atmosphere, chilled our music, and reasonably priced drinks at one of the few beach bars.
Playa Del Pinillo
If you are on a sailing vacation with kids, Playa Del Pinillo offers a lot of entertainment options for the little ones. There is even a go-karting track which is quite popular among kids. Keep in mind that this beach attracts large crowds of visitors, especially during the summer season and on the weekends.
Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa
Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa is a 5-star hotel that offers a number of well-maintained tennis courts, several restaurants, and spa facilities. The hotel is conveniently located a few steps from the beach and just a short drive from the airport in Malaga. All of the junior suites are decorated with Tunisian mosaics, Egyptian marble, and Iranian stone. En-suite bathrooms come with separate showers, whirlpool baths, illuminated mirrors, hairdryers, and Molton Brown toiletries.
Happy Days on the Costa del Sol
In case you are taking a break from sailing with a luxury yacht, take your kids to the lovely Happy Days on the Costa del Sol 9-hole mini golf course. There is also an ice skating ring on-site, as well as an American-style diner where you can order authentic American hot dogs and burgers. This diner also boasts a flat-screen TV so that parents can watch live sports broadcasts while the kids are playing. The popular football pool can be found on-site.
El Palique
Located in the Old Town in Marbella, El Palique is a traditional Spanish bar that offers a wide range of reasonably priced cocktails and tapas. You will find many locals here sitting outside and enjoying the views of charming cobbled streets and old buildings. If you are looking for a bar with a cozy interior and a friendly vibe, El Palique might just be what you are after.
Shanti-Som
Take a break from your boat rental adventure to clear your mind and body and come to one of the best yoga retreats in the region, the amazing Shanti-Som. The estate is surrounded by the lovely mountains above Marbella and offers daily yoga classes in either the outdoor yoga pavilion or the indoor studio. It doesn’t matter if you are an expert or just starting out with yoga, these classes are created for travelers who wish to take a short break from the busy life and reconnect with their inner spirit. They also offer different types of practices such as Hatha yoga and Vinyasa.
Pinomar Beach
A small beach located east of the Marbella’s city center, Pinomar Beach is a semi-urbanized spot that is only 300 meters wide. It has moderate waves, making it an ideal place for swimming and scuba diving. If you are looking to get away from all the hustle and bustle of the old town and wish to have some privacy on your vacation, Pinomar Beach is the right place for you.
Aquamijas Waterpark in Mijas
Aquamijas Waterpark in Mijas is a popular destination for travelers with children. It boasts five water slides, as well as a beach area and a wave pool. The price for a day pass will cost you between 14 and 24 euro. Senior citizens and families with kids can get a discount. If you wish to take a break from your yacht rental vacation in Spain, Aquamijas Waterpark in Mijas is definitely a place worth going to.
Sunny Dom Hotel
Take a break from your sailing vacation with a chartered yacht and spend a couple of nights at the lovely Sunny Dom Hotel in Marbella. This adult’s only property is conveniently located in a quiet area of the town, but still within walking distance from the center of Marbella. Rooms are individually decorated and offer magnificent sea views. Sunny Dom Hotel also offers easy access to a number of great cafes, restaurants, and bars.
Best beaches for kids in Marbella
There is no shortage of great family-friendly beaches in Marbella. If you are on a beach vacation with kids, Playa Fontanilla is definitely one of the best options, as it is close to the city center and boasts a number of facilities such as restaurants, shops, cafes, and access to public toilet facilities. Nagüeles beach is also an ideal destination for parents with children. You can rent a pedalo for fun or enjoy other water sports activities here. Nagüesle beach is also located close to the city center.
The Playwright
Opened in 2011, the Playwright has one the largest whiskey collections in the country and a nice selection of both local and International beers. Guests are welcomed to sample whiskey and some bottles date back to the beginning of the 19th century. If you get hungry, there is a restaurant attached to the bar that serves traditional Spanish food.
Las Chapas Beach
Las Chapas is a 750 meters long beach that boasts crystal clear waters and beautiful sand. This semi-urban beach gets quite crowded in the summer, but it has all the necessary facilities and amenities for families with children on vacation.
Dolphin and Whale Watching
If you are vacationing in Marbella, you will have an opportunity to go on dolphin and whale watching tours. Most of the tours are arranged from Puerto Banus and this is a fantastic way to experience the magic of these lovely creatures. These dolphin and whale boat trips cost around 16 euro per adult and 8 euro for children.
The Boardwalk
If you are looking for an elegant and sophisticated bar while enjoying your beach vacation in Marbella, head out to the popular Boardwalk bar. It is located just a short walk from the beach on the Paseo Maritimo. On the menu, guests will find a nice selection of snacks and drinks including tea, cocktails, and delicious homemade cakes.
Cabopino Beach
Located on the eastern side of Marbella, Cabopino Beach is well-known for its turquoise waters and clean sand. In case you wish to avoid large crowds of tourists who come here in summer, you can check out the neighboring nudist beach, Dunas de Artola.
Puro Beach
An elegant establishment surrounded by 3 large nomad beds and around 90 hammocks, Puro Beach is one of the most popular beach clubs in the area. It is located at the lovely El Padron Beach and offers spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. There is a docking area for yacht rentals, as well as a yoga area with spa services. This amazing beach club also offers a transportation service to and from your anchored yacht, so that you can spend the whole day at the club.
Zoco del Sol Market
Open daily from 11 am until midnight during the summer season and only on Saturdays for the other part of the year, Zoco del Sol Market houses numerous stalls where you can find vintage clothing, jewelry, glassware, and ceramics. The good news is that unlike some other markets in the city, here at the Zoco del Sol Market everything is reasonably priced.
Cabopino Marina
Located away from the hustle and bustle of the Marbella town center, Cabopino Marina boasts a small selection of bars, coffee shops, and restaurants. It accommodates a limited number of motor cruisers and yachts and is one of the favorite marinas among the locals. Travelers can spend a day sunbathing at the Capobino Beach or play golf at the nearby golf course.
Marbella Artisan Market
Located in the Marbella’s port where you can leave your boat rental, Marbella Artisan Market is probably the best arts and craft market in the city. Expect to find everything from hand-made souvenirs and antiques to ceramics and jewelry. The market is open on Sundays until 6 pm. When you get tired of all the shopping, you can sit down and grab a drink at one of the tapas bars in the Old Town.
Sailing and Boat Charters
Sailing with a boat charter on Costa del Sol is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Spanish coastline. The good news is that there are numerous providers that offer a wide range of boat rentals including bareboat charters and chartered yachts. You can also rent a party boat that can accommodate up to 50 people and is designed for private celebrations and corporate events.
San Pedro de Alcántara Market
Open on Thursdays from 9 am to 2 pm, San Pedro de Alcántara Market serves as a flea market and has more than 230 stalls. This is an excellent place to find fresh fruits and vegetables at bargain prices.
Las Chapas Market
Every Friday morning, a small market even is held just behind the hall building in Marbella. Thanks to its central location, Las Chapas Market is an ideal spot to spend the day and browse in case you are exploring the Old Town. Besides clothes and jewelry, there are colorful stands where you can purchase fresh fruit and vegetables.
Monday Street Market
Located on the eastern edge of the city, Monday Street Market in Marbella is one of the best markets in the city. It boasts more than 350 stalls selling locally-made arts and crafts, vegetables, and fruit. You will also find a wide range of clothing and toys at this charming market. Visitors say how everything here is reasonably priced and there is also a large drink and food stand right at the entrance. If you are after a well-equipped market while sailing the Mediterranean with a bareboat charter, spend a day in Marbella and check out this amazing place.
Café de Ronda
Popular with the locals and tourists, Café de Ronda is a charming café that offers a wide variety of drinks and food. It’s an ideal place to go and get some breakfast or branch while visiting the lovely city of Marbella. Some of the favorite dishes include tapas, omelette, and baguettes. Make sure to try the eggs benedict here, as they are delicious.
Blue Palm Café
If you are looking for a place that doesn’t offer traditional Spanish food, head out to the lovely Blue Palm Café which is quite popular with tourists. This traditional English joint offers an excellent selection of dishes including scrambled eggs, salmon, and full English fry-up breakfast. The café is located right in front of the beach and the friendly owners are always more than happy to recommend what to order from the menu.
La Canada Shopping Centre
The main our-of-town place to shop is the large La Cañada shopping center. Here, you will find everything from sports and clothes shops to restaurants and cinemas. It is one of the most popular places to shop in the city and the parking is complimentary. La Canada Shopping Centre is also home to big names such as Zara, Mango, Adidas, and Hollister. Travelers on a beach vacation in Marbella will be happy to hear that this shopping center has a big bowling alley and a Camelot park for kids. The opening hours are until 10 PM from Monday to Saturday.
Marbella Town Shopping
Marbella Town is an ideal place to walk around and find something interesting to buy. The cobbled streets are packed with small shops that sell all kinds of gifts including scarves, olive oils, soaps, toys, and jewelry. There is a nice glass shop in the center of Marbella Town, as well as a couple of old- fashioned toy shops that sell wooden cars and dollhouses.
Puerto Banus Shopping
If you are visiting Marbella with a boat rental as a part of your sailing vacation in the Mediterranean, you can dock at the Puerto Banus marina where you will find plenty of shopping options. This high-end marina is home to dozens of high-end designer shops including Versace, Louis Vuitton, and others. In case there is rain, you can check out the El Corte Ingles Department store which houses brands like DKNY, Loewe, and Karen Millen. Located just across the street from El Corte Ingles, Marina Banus is an indoor shopping center where shops like Stradivarius, Yamamay, and Zara Home can be found.
The Farmacy
The Farmacy is a vegan café and a yoga studio located within walking distance from the center of Marbella and just 5 minutes from the beach. Besides serving delicious vegan breakfast, lunch, and dinner with extras like juices, smoothies, and vegan desserts, they hold daily meditation, yoga, and pilates classes. You can even get a sports massage here and pick up at the lasts fitness/yoga fashion. After the session, you can unwind with a bottle of gluten-free beer or try the best carrot cake in the city.