Puerto Banús, with its marina crammed with luxury yachts and high-end shops, is a temple to hedonism in which fun becomes a sophisticated (and expensive) art. As the sun sets, this vibrant and cosmopolitan place, the haunt of the international jet set since the 1950s, becomes the epicentre of a nightlife that knows no set hours or rules. Imagine a tour that starts with a cocktail on the terrace of an exclusive beach club, continues the unrestrained glamour of a high-class nightclub, and culminates with a visit to a secret bar where you can enjoy wine and sea views until the early morning. Put on your best glad rags and get ready to feel like a celebrity when you join in Marbella’s nightlife.
- Partying areas in Puerto Banús: a map of hedonism and glamour
- The best nightclubs in Puerto Banús: the most cosmopolitan and wildest parties on the Costa del Sol
- Recommended bars and pubs: the perfect choice for a quieter night out
Partying areas in Puerto Banús: a map of hedonism and glamour
Puerto Banús’ nightlife unfurls like a fan that moves from sophisticated spots to epicentres of pure adrenaline. The seafront promenade, with its unmistakeable charm, is the perfect place to start the night. Here, the bars and terrace restaurants facing the marina offer one of the most exclusive views on the Costa del Sol: the imposing yachts resting on the waters of the Mediterranean Sea, the sun sinking behind the hills of Marbella and, in the distance, the lights beginning to twinkle in the darkness. This is the perfect place to sip a cocktail with your partner, while the sea breeze caresses your skin and you get in the mood for the excitement to come.
Bustling Plaza de Antonio Banderas marks one of Puerto Banús’ partying nerve centres, although few people would recognise its name. More than a square, it is a small labyrinth of bars, shisha and club lounges and terraces where, glass in hand, influencers wearing Balenciaga slippers, young millionaires from Dubai, British hen parties in fancy dress and tourists who only popped in out of curiosity have ended up staying to dance till dawn.
Here you will find places such as News Café, with its terrace overlooking the marina and a DJ setting the mood until the night is well underway; Pangea, which offers panoramic views of the quayside from its purple illuminated rooftop; and Linekers Bar, a classic Marbella night spot with giant screens, lined-up shot glasses and impromptu, vociferous karaoke. The square itself, surrounded by palm trees and low-hanging lanterns, is transformed into an informal dance floor, where people flirt in different languages to the sounds of reggaeton, house and R&B.
If you prefer a more select, quieter ambience, head southwards, to the Playa de Nueva Andalucía area. Here the beach clubs and open-air bars have become a refuge for those who want to party without losing sight of the sea. At places like Ocean Club Marbella, partying merges with the relaxed atmosphere of the beach, and exclusive poolside parties and luxury sun loungers create a space where the fun continues into the early hours of the morning. Amid the palm trees, and brushed by the sea breeze, the party rhythm never ends, but continues with the calmness that only the sound of the waves can provide.
The best nightclubs in Puerto Banús: the most cosmopolitan and wildest parties on the Costa del Sol
Puerto Banús is synonymous with quality nightlife, and its nightclubs and discos are an essential aspect of its reputation. One of the most famous and most exclusive in Pangea, located on the top floor of a building, with spectacular views over the marina and the sea. This nightclub is characterised by elegance and an exclusive atmosphere, making it the favourite night spot for famous people and jet setters seeking somewhere luxurious to enjoy the most cutting-edge electronic music.
Another of the area’s iconic discos is Olivia Valère, a club housed in an opulent mansion that combines partying and glamour in a single space. Famous for its décor inspired by Arab-Andalusian architecture and for its exclusive parties, Olivia Valère is a place where the sounds of international DJs mingle with the most select type of beautiful people, and an atmosphere of pure sophistication.
If you are looking for a more relaxed, but equally lively, ambience Tibu Marbella is an excellent option. This nightclub has established itself as a focal point of Marbella nightlife thanks to its unmistakeable blend of commercial and electronic music, along with its capacity to attract a wide range of people, including tourists and residents of the Costa del Sol.
Recommended bars and pubs: the perfect choice for a quieter night out
Puerto Banús is not all uninhibited partying; there are times when people seek a more laid-back atmosphere, ideal for a chat with your partner or a quieter night out. For times such as these, Puerto Banús offers a series of bars and pubs with a special touch.
Located on the Muelle de Levante, the Astral Cocktail Bar is a true icon. Its structure, which mimics that of a wooden galleon, and its location on the sea front make this a unique place to enjoy artisan cocktails whilst watching the sun set over the Mediterranean Sea. With a menu combining classics and innovative creations, this place is ideal for those seeking a quieter, sophisticated ambience before plunging into the marina’s nightlife.
Another popular establishment is La Sala Banús, a bar-restaurant that has achieved fame thanks to its laid-back atmosphere and its live shows. There are performances seven days a week, with live music all day on Sundays, along with weekly events with tribute acts to singers such as Michael Bublé, Barry White, Elton John and the legendary Rat Pack. Known for its superb service and its innovative cocktails, it is an ideal stopping-off point before moving on to one of the area’s nightclubs.
If you prefer an even more intimate experience, Sky Lounge Benabola, on the rooftop of the Hotel Benabola, offers a more chilled ambience. With panoramic views of the marina and the mountains of Marbella, this is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail in a stylish setting.
