Flight + hotel 
Marbella and Ibiza Blog Amàre Beach Hotels
- Amàre Hotels
- Blog
- Tourism
- Do you know Marbella’s best beaches?
01 Jun
2022
Do you know Marbella’s best beaches?
Since the 1950s, Marbella beaches have been the favourite destination of both Spanish and international tourists. From Guadalmina to Cabopino, Marbella is home to over 18 miles of beaches catering to all tastes and offering a variety of ambiences, from the coolest in the centre to VIP ones with beach clubs and refreshment stalls.
The beaches undoubtedly have an attraction that makes them known to everyone. This is thanks to the area’s wide variety of places that everyone can enjoy. If there is something that stands out, it is that the best beaches in Marbella are whims of nature that make you not want to leave. Marbella is the beach, too!
Guadalmina Beach
Guadalmina beach can be found in San Pedro de Alcántara; this is the last municipality in Marbella and it borders Estepona. This beach lies alongside Marbella’s first golf course: the 1959 South Course and 1973 North Course. The beach is stony and access by car is limited. It is very secluded and offers spectacular views over Gibraltar and the Atlas Mountains in Morocco; the beach is full of coves and the ruins of the Ciliana Roman baths can be seen here. The Almenara Tower is another of this beach’s landmarks.
San Pedro de Alcántara Beach
This beach lies half way between Marbella and Estepona. Here you will find all the amenities you need to spend a lovely day of sunshine and sea and can enjoy a relaxing trip to the seaside with its many bars and refreshments stalls, all without annoying buildings that can be overbearing. You will also have no difficulty parking, since there is always a space to leave the car. However, if you come by bus you will have to walk a little, since the stop is several streets away.
Nueva Andalucía Beach
This is one of the most different and spectacular beaches in Marbella and the Costa del Sol; it starts in Puerto Banús and stretches 1000 metres towards the east, with a width of 30 metres. The beach area is characterised by its small coves. The sand is dark, coarse and typically Mediterranean. There is a lovely stretch of seafront promenade running from Puerto Banús to Nueva Andalucía, lined with palm trees and with a series of places where you can stop for a drink.
Puerto Banús Beach
Puerto Banús Beach is located with its back to Puerto Banús. This pretty beach that looks directly towards the River Verde combines a multitude of attractions, since it is surrounded by all manner of amenities (not for nothing is Puerto Banús the most sophisticated enclave of the Costa del Sol) and the best restaurants, which has led to it enjoying high visitor numbers.
Glamour finds its natural habitat on this beach, just as at its port, and the coolest people from the world of television, both Spanish and international, stroll along its sands and frequent its terraces and shops.
Rio Verde Beach
You can find Río Verde Beach just before you arrive at Puerto Banús. Its location and, in particular, the quality of the amenities it offers makes it one of the most popular beaches in the whole of Marbella. Furthermore, its vicinity is home to the remains of a 1st century Roman Hispanic city known as Río Verde Villa Romana.
El Ancón Beach
El Ancón Beach in Marbella is found on the Golden Mile, alongside the estate of the same name. It is a beach with a good length and medium width; it doesn’t get excessively busy, although high numbers of people visit during the summer season. Here can also be found Victor’s Beach bar, one of the best known in the municipality.
Nagüeles Beach
Located on the “Golden Mile” alongside Marbella Club, this beach has a newly built seafront promenade and good services, with disabled access. Nagüeles beach is very well known and gets busy during the summer, whereas in winter it is the perfect place for a quiet stroll.
El Faro Beach
El Faro Beach is one of the most central and famous beaches in all of Marbella. It owes its name to the very same lighthouse that you can see if you spend a day here. Faro is not one of the longest beaches in the locality, since it is around 656 feet long, though its fantastic location (it is just 5 minutes from luxury shops, designer shops, terraces and restaurants) makes it the ideal option for enjoying sunshine and sea, which is why it is busy all year round. As added value, it must be said that it has free parking, since it is rather difficult to find a space in summer.
And if you get tired of all the sunshine, Constitution Park is one street away, where you can enjoy a beautiful garden and an auditorium where different activities, both leisure and culture, are carried out.
La Venus Beach
La Venus beach is located in Marbella city centre, alongside the Represa River. It is a very well-known beach as it is right on Marbella’s seafront promenade, opposite the Alameda; in the vicinity can be found restaurants, bars, shops and apartments, etc.
The beach itself offers a full range of services and disabled access.
Bounty beach
This is for many the “coolest” beach on the entire Costa del Sol, thanks to its location close to the centre of Marbella and its relaxed environment, where Chill Out music is always played. Palms and banana trees provide shade on the beach. It has a relaxed environment… very relaxed.
El Realejo Beach
If you want to enjoy fine golden sand, be surrounded by exotic vegetation and bathe in calm waters, El Realejo Beach Is the perfect place. At 2,625 feet long, this beach has a calmer personality than other beaches. Also, very nearby, almost kissing the shore, is the Río Real Golf Course. So, if you want to play some holes when you’re tired of the sunshine and sea, you can do so here. Don’t forget that the Costa del Sol is also called the Costa del Golf, because it is home to over 70 different courses that you can choose from.
Los Monteros Beach
Los Monteros is one of Marbella’s semi-urban beaches, located just a few km from the city. Nearby can be found some of Marbella’s most luxurious estates. This beach forms part of around two km of coastline with sand dune formations, along with the beaches La Adelfa, Realejo and Río Real. Without a doubt this is the perfect beach for a bit of quiet sunbathing…
El Alicate Beach
El Alicate beach in Marbella is not excessively busy and only every gets half full during the summer. However, its golden sand and clear blue water make it one of the most charming beaches in Marbella: it is visited by those wanting to enjoy a bit of peace and quiet.
El Alicate beach is on the edge of an exclusive estate of the same name. It is home to some celebrities, including Antonio Banderas, who has a house right on this beach.
Real de Zaragoza Beach
Real de Zaragoza beach is long and fairly narrow, but without a doubt one of Marbella’s best. It is a quiet beach with golden sand, perfect for lying down in the sun for some rest and relaxation. Nearby can be found some of Marbella’s most exclusive estates, as well as beach bars and restaurants
La Víbora Beach
This golden sandy beach with extensive vegetation owes its peculiar name to the spring that sits next to it. Thanks to its particular landscape features, this beach is ideal for, in addition to enjoying a wonderful day of sunshine, disconnecting and enjoying the leisure amenities that can be found here, since less than a mile away is Cabopino Marina, a small, pretty marina offering an abundance of leisure activities and restaurants.
Las Chapas Beach
Las Chapas Beach is the most glamourous beach on the whole of the Costa del Sol, since it is home to a good number of top quality restaurants and establishments and, of course, beach clubs. The places on Las Chapas Beach include the famous Nikki Beach, a fabulous club where you can hear good music and eat the best food while enjoying the best leisure activities. However, this in no way affects its peace and quiet, since while it is one of the most beautiful and best-known beaches in Marbella, it is not usually excessively busy.
Cabopino Beach
Over time, this beach is becoming better known and more visited by tourists seeking natural beaches; this one runs alongside the protected Artola sand dunes. Despite this beach being very popular, you can always find a secluded spot for yourself.
Practical tips for visiting Marbella’s beaches
Best Time to Visit
- The ideal beach season in Marbella runs from June to September, though May and October offer great weather and fewer crowds.
- Head to the beach early in the morning (before 10:30 am) or later in the afternoon (after 5:00 pm) to avoid the strongest sun and easily find a good spot.
Accessibility & Facilities
- Many beaches are equipped with showers, boardwalks, toilets, sunbed rentals, and accessible areas for people with reduced mobility.
- Look out for the Blue Flag—a symbol of high environmental and service standards.
Parking
- Parking can be tricky in the summer months. Opt for public car parks nearby or consider cycling or public transport if you’re staying in town for a hassle-free experience.
What to Bring
- Don’t forget your sun cream, sunglasses, hat or cap, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Bring a small bag for your rubbish—Marbella takes great care of its coastline, and you can help keep it that way.
Personal Protection
- Protect your skin: tan gradually to avoid sunburn. Holidays may be short, but sun damage can be long-lasting.
- Shield your eyes: wear sunglasses with UV protection. There are plenty of stylish and affordable options out there.
- Hydration is key: drink water regularly and dispose of empty bottles in the correct recycling bins.
Where to Eat
- Nothing beats a beachside chiringuito. Try local favourites like Los Sardinales, Trocadero Playa, or Victor’s Beach.
- Enjoy fresh fish, sardine skewers (espetos), and the best of Andalucian cuisine with a sea view.
Recommended Activities
- Water sports: if you’re after a bit of adventure, many beaches offer paddle surfing, kayaking, or jet skiing.
- Snorkelling: while Marbella isn’t famed for its underwater life, there are hidden spots with clear waters and small marine creatures that are perfect for a quiet snorkel.
Beachside Plans
- Marbella’s Seafront Promenade: ideal for a walk, a skate, or just soaking up the Mediterranean breeze.
- Puerto Banús: perfect for strolling among luxury yachts, grabbing a drink, or indulging in a bit of shopping.
- Marbella’s Old Town: a charming maze of whitewashed streets, artisan shops and Andalucian flair.
- Artola Dunes (Cabopino): a protected natural area with scenic wooden walkways through pines and dunes.
Sustainability Matters
- Respect protected areas: don’t step on dunes or pick native plants.
- Use recycling bins and minimise single-use plastic.
- Avoid disturbing local wildlife, especially in areas like Artola, part of the Natura 2000 Network.
More Handy Tips
- Where to stay: choose a hotel close to the beach to make the most of your downtime.
- Sun loungers and umbrellas: widely available to rent—just ask at the nearest chiringuito or beachside shop.
- Language: English is widely spoken, but learning a few phrases in Spanish will go a long way and is always appreciated.
MÁLAGA’S 10 BEST BLUE FLAG BEACHES
DISCOVER THE BEST BEACH CLUBS IN MARBELLA AND THE COSTA DEL SOL
Where to stay
Marbella is a paradise in which to enjoy the city’s rich cultural, natural, historical, and gastronomic wealth. The options offered by this city are varied and spectacular. The Amàre Beach Hotel Marbella hotel is in the perfect location, on the seafront promenade and just 5 minutes from the historic centre of the city, so you will be in the ideal place to make any of your plans for your getaway to Marbella. It is perfect for adults who want to enjoy a peaceful stay in a unique place where you can relax and be pampered with all the attention you deserve.
María