Beaches in Marbella
Beaches in Marbella
This page is part of our Marbella area guide, covering beaches, residential areas, and lifestyle.
Marbella’s coastline extends for approximately 27 kilometres and includes a wide range of beach environments, from central urban beaches near Marbella town to quieter, more natural stretches close to residential and protected areas. Beaches in Marbella are not only used during peak summer months but form part of daily routines for residents throughout the year.
Official and factual information about Marbella’s coastline is provided by local and regional authorities:
- Ayuntamiento de Marbella: https://www.marbella.es
- Turismo Costa del Sol: https://www.visitacostadelsol.com
Playa de la Fontanilla
Playa de la Fontanilla is one of Marbella’s most central beaches, located close to the town centre. It is fully serviced, with sunbeds, showers, lifeguards, and easy access to restaurants and cafés. Due to its proximity to residential areas, it is used regularly by local residents.
Playa de Venus
Situated near Marbella Old Town and the marina, Playa de Venus is a smaller urban beach surrounded by amenities. It is particularly popular with residents living in the historic centre.
San Pedro Beach
Located in San Pedro de Alcántara, this beach features a wide promenade, green areas, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The beach is closely linked to nearby residential neighbourhoods and is widely used by year-round residents.
Cabopino Beach
Cabopino is known for its protected dunes and more natural surroundings. It offers a quieter environment compared to central beaches and is often regarded as one of the most scenic beaches in the Marbella area.
What defines Marbella’s beaches
- Combination of urban and natural environments
- Well-maintained promenades
- Easy access from residential areas
- Regular use by residents throughout the year
Residential zones near these beaches are covered in more detail in Areas & neighbourhoods in Marbella.
FAQ – Beaches in Marbella
Are Marbella’s beaches suitable for year-round use?
Yes. Marbella’s beaches are used by residents throughout the year, not only during the summer months. Thanks to the mild Mediterranean climate and well-maintained promenades, beaches are part of daily routines such as walking, exercising, and socialising.
Are the beaches in Marbella urban or natural?
Marbella offers a mix of both. Some beaches, such as Playa de la Fontanilla and Playa de Venus, are urban and closely connected to the town centre. Others, like Cabopino Beach, are more natural and surrounded by protected areas and dunes.
Which beach is closest to Marbella town centre?
Playa de la Fontanilla is one of the closest beaches to Marbella town centre. It is within walking distance of residential areas, restaurants, and cafés, making it a popular choice for local residents.
Which beaches in Marbella are quieter and less busy?
Cabopino Beach and parts of San Pedro Beach are generally quieter than central beaches. Cabopino, in particular, is known for its natural surroundings and more relaxed atmosphere compared to beaches closer to Marbella town.
Are Marbella’s beaches family-friendly?
Yes. Several beaches in Marbella are suitable for families. San Pedro Beach, with its wide promenade, green areas, and calm environment, is particularly popular with families and year-round residents.
How do residents usually access the beaches in Marbella?
Many residents access Marbella’s beaches on foot or by bicycle, especially in central and residential areas. Promenades connect large parts of the coastline, and public transport also provides access to different beach areas.
Are there restaurants and services on Marbella’s beaches?
Yes. Most of Marbella’s urban beaches offer services such as sunbed rentals, showers, lifeguards, and nearby restaurants or cafés. Chiringuitos and beachside dining are common along the coast.
What makes Cabopino Beach different from central beaches?
Cabopino Beach is known for its protected dunes and more natural environment. It offers a quieter and more scenic setting compared to central urban beaches, which are more closely integrated with the town centre.
Are Marbella’s beaches connected to residential neighbourhoods?
Yes. Many of Marbella’s beaches are closely linked to surrounding residential areas, which is why they are used regularly by local residents. Access to the coast varies by neighbourhood.
You can learn more about nearby residential zones in our Areas & neighbourhoods in Marbella guide.
Where can I find official information about Marbella’s beaches?
Official and up-to-date information is provided by local and regional authorities, including:
- Ayuntamiento de Marbella: https://www.marbella.es
- Turismo Costa del Sol: https://www.visitacostadelsol.com
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