The Beaches of Marbella: A Unique Coastline on the Alboran Sea
What and where is the Alboran Sea?
🌊 The Alboran Sea: A Unique Sea in the World
Before discovering The Beaches of Marbella, it is essential to understand the setting where they lie. The Marbella coastline overlooks the Alboran Sea, the westernmost basin of the Mediterranean that separates Europe from Africa. This sea, which stretches from the Strait of Gibraltar to Cabo de Gata, is one of the richest and most diverse marine ecosystems on the planet.
What makes the Alboran Sea special is its exceptional biodiversity. Its waters are home to more than 1,200 marine species, many of them endemic, and it is a vital corridor for protected species such as bluefin tuna, bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales and the endangered loggerhead turtle. In addition, its meadows of Posidonia oceanica, a plant endemic to the Mediterranean, act as the sea’s lungs and guarantee the clarity and quality of its waters.
For visitors to Marbella, the Alboran Sea offers clear waters, mild temperatures and exceptional visibility for snorkelling and diving. It is, without doubt, one of the most valuable natural treasures on the Costa del Sol.
What do the Beaches of Marbella offer?
📍 A 27‑Kilometre Coastline: The Beaches of Marbella
The municipality of Marbella has more than 27 kilometres of coastline, divided into 24 beaches with very different characteristics. From sheltered coves to large urban beaches, and from virgin stretches to others with full services, the offering is so varied that every visitor can find their perfect spot.
Marbella is also the Andalusian municipality with the most Blue Flags on its coastline. In 2025, it received twelve awards for its beaches and marinas, a recognition granted by the Association for Environmental and Consumer Education (ADEAC) that certifies the quality of its waters, environmental management, safety and services.
🏖️ Guide to the Beaches of Marbella from West to East
🌅 Western Beaches (San Pedro Alcántara to Puerto Banús)
Playa de San Pedro Alcántara: Perfect for Families
- San Pedro Alcántara beach is one of the most extensive in the municipality, with a length of 1.6 km and a width of 30 m. It consists of gravel and dark medium‑grain sand, and has the Blue Flag that certifies its quality.
- This beach has become a calm retreat away from the bustle of Puerto Banús. Its promenade is lined with palm trees and offers a wide range of beach bars (chiringuitos) where you can enjoy traditional sardine espetos. It also has a children's play area and adapted access for people with reduced mobility.
THE SUN PLACES Tip: If you are travelling with children, this is your beach. Arrive early in July and August to get a good spot and enjoy a meal at the chiringuitos at sunset.
Playa de Guadalmina: Luxury and Archaeology
- Guadalmina beach, 1.5 km long, is located in one of the most elegant areas of the Costa del Sol, surrounded by the golf course of the same name. It is made up of small coves created artificially by breakwaters, with coarse golden sand.
- What makes this beach special is its historical richness. Nearby you will find the Las Bóvedas Roman Baths, a 2nd‑century complex, and the Vega del Mar Paleochristian Basilica, a 4th‑century temple with a unique necropolis, considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Andalusia.
THE SUN PLACES Tip: Combine a day at the beach with a visit to the Roman ruins, which are free. It is the perfect opportunity to enjoy culture and sea in one place.
Río Verde – Playa de Puerto Banús: The Heart of Glamour
- This beach, 1 km long and 40 m wide, is the one that directly receives the glamour of Puerto Banús. Its sand is golden‑pinkish in colour and the swell is moderate. It has a Blue Flag and a high occupancy rate.
- It is the ideal beach for those who want to combine swimming with a stroll through the port, where superyachts and luxury boutiques line up. It is also perfect for water sports such as jet skiing or paddle surfing.
THE SUN PLACES Tip: Book at one of the exclusive beach clubs nearby if you are looking for a premium experience. Arrive early to find parking near the port.
Playa de Cortijo Blanco: Volcanic Sand and Crystal‑Clear Waters
- Cortijo Blanco beach, 600 m long and 25 m wide, stands out for its dark sand of volcanic origin that the Guadaiza River carries to its mouth. It is semi‑urban and has a low occupancy rate.
- Its water is especially clean and its atmosphere is peaceful, perfect for escaping the bustle of Puerto Banús. It has showers, sun loungers, beach bars with Mediterranean food, and lifeguard service in high season.
THE SUN PLACES Tip: The volcanic sand makes for spectacular photographs, especially at sunset. That is the perfect time to visit if you are looking for fewer people and unique views.
🏙️ Central Beaches (Marbella Centre)
Playa del Faro: Elegance by the Marina
- Named after the elegant 1864 lighthouse that presides over its promenade, this urban beach is protected by a breakwater and the Marbella marina. It is 300 m long and 30 m wide, with golden sand and calm waves.
- It has a Blue Flag and is one of the most popular beaches in the city, both in high season and the rest of the year. It is just a five‑minute walk from the luxury shops in the centre and offers all services: showers, sun loungers, beach bars and access for people with reduced mobility.
THE SUN PLACES Tip: Take the opportunity to climb the lighthouse and take a photo with the sea in the background. From there you can walk to the old town, full of shops and cafés.
Playa de la Fontanilla: The Heart of Marbella
- Located in the centre of Marbella, between Constitution Park and the lighthouse, Fontanilla beach is one of the most popular. It is 850 m long and 30 m wide, with dark medium‑grain sand and moderate waves.
- It has a Blue Flag and is equipped with ramps and amphibious chairs in high season, making it accessible to all. Its location makes it the perfect choice for combining the beach with shops, bars and the city’s urban atmosphere.
THE SUN PLACES Tip: Take advantage of the restaurants just steps away to try fried fish or paella after the beach.
Playa Venus: Palm Trees and Family Atmosphere
- Near Alameda Park, Venus beach is very family‑friendly and is surrounded by palm trees that provide natural shade and a tropical touch. It is 500 m long and 50 m wide, with dark sand and calm waves.
- It has all services, a children’s play area and beach bars along the promenade. Its waters are shallow and safe for young children, making it ideal for families.
THE SUN PLACES Tip: Take advantage of the shade from the palm trees for a family picnic. During the week it is usually quieter than at weekends.
Playa del Cable:
- History, Events and Atmosphere
- Playa del Cable owes its name to the aerial cable that, from 1957, transported ore from the Peñoncillo mine to the ships. The "Cable Post" still stands as a heritage symbol.
- At 1.3 km long and 50 m wide, it is an urban beach with dark sand, moderate waves and a high occupancy rate. In 2021 it was awarded the Blue Flag for the quality of its sand, accessibility and services.
- Today it is popularly known as "Playa Padre" thanks to the beach bar of the same name, famous for its DJ sessions, cocktails and beach events. In summer they often organise night concerts, making it a meeting point for those looking for atmosphere and fun.
THE SUN PLACES Tip: Check Marbella’s event calendar to catch a concert on the beach. Arrive early to park near the promenade or walk from the centre.
🌅 Eastern Beaches (East of Marbella)
Playa de Nagüeles:
- Located on the Marbella Golden Mile, Nagüeles beach is 800 m long and 40 m wide. It is semi‑urban, with medium‑grain golden sand and moderate waves. It has a Blue Flag and a high occupancy rate.
- It is surrounded by the city’s most luxurious hotels and is perfect for those looking for an elegant atmosphere and quality services.
Playa de Los Monteros:
- The Long Beach of the Coast
- At over 2 km long and 30 m wide, Los Monteros beach is actually the union of several smaller beaches:
- La Adelfa, Realejo and Río Real. It is semi‑urban, with medium‑grain golden sand and moderate waves. It was awarded the Blue Flag in 2025, joining the list of award‑winning beaches in the municipality.
Playa de Cabopino: Dunes and Nature
- Cabopino beach is one of the most beautiful and natural in the municipality. It is protected by a dune system that preserves its wild state. It has a Blue Flag and is especially popular for its marina, with restaurants and a more relaxed atmosphere than the centre. Next to it there is a nudist area.
🏅Services and Accessibility on the Beaches of Marbella
Beaches for Everyone
Marbella has established itself as an inclusive tourist destination, with nine beaches adapted for people with reduced mobility: San Pedro Alcántara, Puerto Banús, Nagüeles, El Cable, Fontanilla, Faro, Bajadilla, Cabopino and Nueva Andalucía.
All of them have adapted access, shaded areas, accessible toilets and showers. In addition, each season the City Council runs an assisted bathing service, with amphibious chairs, adapted crutches and the attention of specialised lifeguards. To access the service, it must be requested 24 hours in advance.
🍤 The Beach Bars (Chiringuitos) of Marbella’s Beaches
The Beach Bars of the Beaches of Marbella: The Gastronomic Soul of the Beach
You cannot talk about the beaches of Marbella without mentioning their beach bars (chiringuitos). These establishments are much more than simple beach restaurants: they are institutions where authentic Mediterranean culture is lived.
The specialities you cannot miss are:
- Sardine espeto: Sardines skewered on bamboo canes and grilled over wood. A tradition that has been practised here for generations.
- Fried fish (pescaíto frito): Anchovies, squid, sole and cuttlefish freshly fried, crispy and tasty.
- Prawns and king prawns: Especially on the beaches near San Pedro Alcántara.
- Outstanding chiringuitos: El Cable (on the beach of the same name), Los Manueles (with more than 50 years of history) and exclusive beach clubs such as Nikki Beach or Ocean Club, which transform the beach into an open‑air lounge where you can enjoy cocktails with your feet in the sand.
Where to Stay near the Beaches of Marbella?
🏡 THE SUN PLACES: Your Luxury Retreat on the Costa del Sol
At THE SUN PLACES, we know that the Beaches of Marbella are the perfect setting for an unforgettable holiday. That is why we offer you our exclusive selection of Luxury Apartments in Puerto Banús, designed for you to enjoy the sea with the utmost comfort and elegance.
🌟 Why stay with us?
- Privileged Location: Our properties are located in the best areas of Marbella, from the historic centre to the Golden Mile and Puerto Banús, just steps from the most emblematic beaches.
- Absolute Comfort: Enjoy spacious areas, equipped kitchens, high‑quality beds and private terraces with sea or mountain views.
- Specialized Concierge: Our local team will help you with recommendations on the best beaches according to your preferences, reservations at exclusive beach bars and nautical activities.
- The Perfect Retreat: After a day of sun and sea, return to a space of tranquility and elegance where you can rest and recharge.
"The Beaches of Marbella are a treasure bathed by the Alboran Sea, a place where luxury, nature and tradition come together. At THE SUN PLACES, we open the doors to this Mediterranean paradise for you to experience it with the comfort and elegance you deserve."
📞 Contact THE SUN PLACES to book your Luxury Apartment in Marbella. Sun, sea and the best gastronomy await you on the Costa del Sol.