Puerto Banús is often associated with gleaming yachts, high-end fashion boutiques and a constant stream of sports cars. But behind that glamorous façade lies a coastline of elegant, bustling beaches where the Mediterranean glows a calm blue and the atmosphere blends seaside relaxation with the jet set’s social buzz. The beaches of Puerto Banús aren’t just somewhere to sunbathe, they are a way of experiencing the Costa del Sol in style, with sun loungers set up beside top-end restaurants and promenades where tourists, locals and celebrities all mingle. This article will take you through the best beaches in and around Puerto Banús, from the most exclusive to quieter, more family-friendly spots.
- Natural setting of Puerto Banús: between the mountains and the sea, under (almost) constant sunshine
- Best beaches in the city: soft sand and a cosmopolitan vibe under the palm trees
- Top beaches nearby: a seaside escape just minutes away
- Things to do: more than just lying in the sun
Natural setting of Puerto Banús: between the mountains and the sea, under (almost) constant sunshine
Puerto Banús is tucked into one of the most privileged stretches of the Málaga coastline, west of Marbella’s town centre. The Sierra Blanca shields the area from northern winds, creating a microclimate with over 300 days of sunshine a year and mild temperatures even in winter. That mix has turned Puerto Banús into a destination that’s not just famous for nightlife and shopping, but for its natural surroundings too.
The sea here has a particularly bright tone, thanks to the shallow coastal waters and constant upkeep of the shoreline. Beaches stretch out on both sides of the marina, sheltered by breakwaters and lined with palm trees, an almost perfect Mediterranean scene. There’s also a well-maintained network of promenades and beach bars, alongside a top-tier tourism infrastructure, which is ideal whether you’re after comfort or outdoor activities.
Best beaches in the city: soft sand and a cosmopolitan vibe under the palm trees
Just steps from the marina, you’ll find some of Marbella’s most popular and accessible beaches. Even though they are located in an urban environment, they still feel exclusive thanks to their well-kept facilities, spotless sand and quality of their services. It’s the perfect area for those who want to mix sun, shopping, good food and socialising.
Puerto Banús Beach, the epitome of luxury
Puerto Banús Beach, just west of the marina, is a wide stretch of golden sand with especially calm waters thanks to the shelter of the breakwater. It’s around a kilometre long and offers showers, walkways, sun lounger rental and active lifeguards during high season. The seafront connects directly to Marina Banús shopping centre and Avenida Julio Iglesias, which is lined with boutiques, ice cream shops and restaurants serving international cuisine. The cosmopolitan atmosphere never lets up. You’ll find European tourists, local families and lovers of laid-back luxury all soaking up the sun just a stone’s throw from the shops and yachts.
Río Verde Beach: Roman history and seaside calm
A little to the east, across the river it’s named after, lies Río Verde Beach, a peaceful stretch where time seems to slow down. It’s around 1,500 metres long, wide and less crowded than the marina beach, perfect for a quieter dip without sacrificing any amenities.
The real highlight, though, is just metres from the sand: the Roman Villa of Río Verde, a 1st-century site with preserved mosaics and remains of what was once a luxurious seafront home in imperial times. So a visit here means not just sunshine but also a glimpse into the area’s Roman past, making the experience much more fulfilling than just a day at the beach.
El Duque Beach: sun loungers, cocktails and social buzz by the sea
At the western edge of Puerto Banús, you’ll find El Duque Beach (also known as Nueva Andalucía), one of the Costa del Sol’s most stylish and busiest beaches. Here, traditional beach bars give way to beach clubs with Balinese beds, cocktails with flair and waitlists for a prime table. Names like Ocean Club and Plaza Beach have made it a hotspot on the international luxury circuit.
The sand is fine, access is easy and the food ranges from sushi to inventive Mediterranean dishes. The vibe shifts depending on the time of day. In the morning it’s more relaxed and family-friendly, while in the afternoon and evening, it becomes a hotspot for those looking for music, drinks and views of the sunset. It’s not unusual to see celebrities from the worlds of sport and entertainment either enjoying the sea discreetly or surrounded by camera flashes.
Top beaches nearby: a seaside escape just minutes away
If you’re keen to venture beyond Puerto Banús, several nearby beaches are well worth the trip. Just five minutes west by car is San Pedro de Alcántara Beach. It’s a long, family-friendly spot with a landscaped promenade, open-air sculptures and relaxed beach bars. Things move at a slower pace here, and it’s common to see locals and visitors side by side in a more authentic setting.
Another great option is Nagüeles Beach to the east, on Marbella’s Golden Mile. A bit more tucked away, it offers spectacular views of La Concha and draws regulars from the five-star hotels nearby. The water is particularly clean and the facilities are spotless. This place is perfect for a quiet day with a touch of class.
Things to do: more than just lying in the sun
The beaches in Puerto Banús offer much more than towels and parasols and a chance to enjoy the sea. At the western end, near the breakwater, several companies rent out jet skis, paddleboards and kayaks, with rates from 25 euros for half an hour. You’ll also find guided boat trips to Cabopino or Estepona, many of them at sunset with a glass of cava included. Some tours mix sailing with snorkelling or even sport fishing, a favourite activity among British and Nordic tourists.
At sunrise, it’s not unusual to see small groups doing yoga on the sand, especially near Ocean Club or the La Pesquera beach bar. Nearby hotels like the Meliá Marbella Banús organise outdoor functional training sessions for guests. And for those who prefer food over fitness, well-loved spots like Aurora Beach and Los Espigones serve up wood-grilled sardine skewers, creamy rice dishes and fresh seafood, all with your feet in the sand and a cold glass of white wine.
