‘No carbs before Marbs’ has painted this town as a party place with the beach clubs to be seen at by day and those to play at by night. And in the height of summer it can be – I certainly came here 15 years ago for the fun. But that is just one side to this area of Southern Spain. With temperatures at 30 degrees in autumn, stunning stretches of beaches and a picturesque promenade, prolonging summer has never been easier. Families, couples and anyone chasing a micro climate, Marbella is an ideal location all year round.
Discover Marvellous Marbella
How to get from the airport in Malaga to Marbella
Malaga International Airport serves as the nearest airport for travellers heading to this Spanish coastline. Known for it’s summer queues allow plenty of time, though I have been lucky and sailed through my last couple of trips. I have used Shuttle Direct, Bolt and Uber to transfer to Marbella. It’s not a cheap option at around £70 for the 45 minute journey so factor that in to your budget if you have luggage. A much cheaper choice is the direct bus service from terminal 3. It drops you at Marbella bus station for under 10 euros in the same amount of time.
Where to stay in Marbella?
I have stayed in a couple of hotels in Marbella but my favourite and the one I would recommend is the Amare. When I booked they didn’t have availability for the whole time I was going which forced me to look into a mini break in Malaga on the way back home, rather than move in Marbs mid break and what a treat that turned out to be. So highly recommend combining the two.
Amare is an adults only modern hotel with a gorgeous small beach club, a pool, set on the seafront, oh and of course it had a rooftop bar – the Belvue! The beautifully decorated interior, adorned with quirky and fabulous art throughout, gives it the ambiance of a large boutique hotel! Fellow guests were lovely and tended to keep themselves to themselves. It was an older crowd of 40+ though that probably was due to it being term time in September. The hotel as it was perfectly located to the old town and marina. Just a 10 minutes stroll along the promenade and restaurants lined the way. Perfect for less effort more relaxing.
One stand outs was the staff, some of the most diligent, hard working, kind and funny people I’ve met. Everything is communicated by ear pieces, nothing happens by accident but it appears seamless as if by magic. They will go out of their way to ensure you have the best stay.
The rooms are scaled on amenities, size and view. We had the ‘Keep the Secret’ room simply due to availability rather than choice. Built in sound system with a side sea view and balcony, super comfy beds and modern bathroom. Perfect!
Breakfast was by far one of the most extensive offerings I’ve ever seen. Everything you’d expect was there: bread, cereals, cold meats, eggs etc but then also everything I’d hope was too: eggs done your way, gluten free options and of course Cava! But then there was so much more… from raw honey blocks to piles of avocado. Reminded me a bit, of a smaller Club Med in the choice there was. Oh and did I mention you can sit out on the terrace with palm trees and pool & sea view. Definitely one of the best hotel breakfasts I’ve had.
Beach Club at Amare Hotel
If you are looking for a hotel with a brilliant beach club where your priority is R&R or well B&B – bubbles by the beach then this ocean setting is for you. There’s quiet tunes played all morning and then a DJ most afternoons. Not imposing, loud or channelling Ocean beach encouraging drunken day dancing. No, just music that just adds to the holiday happiness.
One thing to note is the dark sand and slightly rocky, pebbly entrance to the sea. It didn’t stop me but it should have without seashoes. Yes, I was wiped out by a huge wave as I was trying desperately to gracefully stroll out of water, ruining any kind of dignity I had!
There’s also an inviting pool area, I had read some reviews of some towel wars, I didn’t see any of that happen. At both if you are eating at their beach club restaurant they place a ‘gone for lunch’ sign on your bed so your spot is safe. Equally without that sign and if you have been gone hours, the staff will remove it. Fairs fair for other guests.
What to do in Marbella
Visit Marbella old town
Wander the old streets of the famous Spanish town, picture worthy moments, cute corners. Stop for spontaneous sangria and tapas or just soak in the energy of the area.
Visit the Church of Encarnacion
The old church is set in a magical little square. Built in the 16th and 17th century you can visit for mass or to just to admire this stunning building.
Have a Sunset drink on a Rooftop Bar
Several stunning rooftop bars for sunset or just to soak in the sights from on high await in Marbella. Full details of them can be found here. Notably one of the reasons I chose the Amare Hotel was the ease of arriving and heading straight upstairs for sunset on their rooftop. You don’t have to book but I’ve advice it as it is open to the public.
Visit San Pedro
If you Uber across to San Pedro you will find a more more chilled authentic Spanish town. Far less about the body con dresses and contouring of neighbouring Peurto Banus and much more laid back seaside vibe. The promenade is lined with market stalls and beach restaurants. The only reason I ventured this far was for a fabulous lunch at Kala Kalua Playa that a dear friend arranged. Lynne and I met on Insta with a shared love for travel, fabulous lunches and bubbles. (2024 update) I have been back to stay with Lynne who has now adopted me and have explored more of this area and it is worth the walk or drive to.
Party in Puerto Banus on Rooftop Bars
The infamous home to the players of the world, the crazy cars and incredible yachts. Shops at the port are reminiscent of Cannes sea front and there’s bars and restaurants to pose at a plenty. If the boujee beach clubs are your seen then La Sala by the Sea and Ocean Beach club are a must. By night you need Pangea, Breathe and Tibu – all with rooftops! Though not open as much out of season and being a chilled trip I forgo reliving my 20s!
One rooftop bar open in shoulder season and that is definitely part of the Puerto Banus scene, was Benabola Sky Lounge. Accompanied by incredible marina views this makes a perfect setting for a sunset drink. A drink in Astral Marbella, I’d recommend just for the toilet décor!
Go shopping
From a marina with lined with designer shops to the Spanish department store to independent shops scattered around every street. You won’t be lacking choice for some souvenir purchases.
Where to eat in Marbella
Amare Beach club
Lunch at the beach club is open for non guests, it’s beautifully set with all the holiday vibes you could wish for, oh and the food is pretty fantastic!
Plaza de Naranjos
I was advised to avoid the Plaza de Naranjos, also known as the Orange Square. Touristy and over priced but the atmosphere was electric and found it to be full of live and worth ignoring the critics. There is so much choice here. If you are a foodie then do your homework. If you walk further north from the square you hit more and more streets lined with restaurants if you are looking for something a bit more quiet.
Casa del Corregidor, Plaza de Naranjos
I loved the atmosphere and the paella at Casa del Corregidor. We didn’t book and took our chance but in summer I imagine we wouldn’t be as lucky.
The Farm
If oat milk lattes and vegan food is your jam then there’s a healthy option at The Farm – very kitsch and cute with its own community.
Soleo Beach Club
With its sensational sea setting, fabulous fish and an imitate atmosphere, Soleo beach club was magical. If you choose a seat by the ocean, expect a little sea spray as the waves lap just below. You might even see a mermaid! Magical place.
Harbour Bar & Restaurant
I’d also recommend the Harbour Bar & Restaurant, quite old school with the wonderful views if you request a front facing table. I would not recommend the harbour/marina area otherwise unless shots shots shots and tacky bars is your thing. Which it once was mine so I’m not knocking it. If partying is what you want then head here.
El Chiringuito Beach Club
If you walk the famous ‘Golden Mile’ towards Puerto Banus you will come to a string of famous restaurants at Puente Romano Beach Resort. Find restaurants such as Bibo and Nobu set up on the streets. I opted for El Chiringuito as it was ocean set. Lit by fairy lights with the sound of crashing waves it was an easy evening of natural entertainment.
Final thoughts about Marbella
Marvellous Marbella. If you need sunshine, relaxation and all the rose. Then Marbella is made for you.