Not everyone who visits Marbella comes just for the seaside. While it’s renowned worldwide for its golden beaches and warm Mediterranean Sea, there is so much more to Marbella than its coast. Here, we’ve put together some ideas for what to do in Marbella if you’re not a fan of sand.
Browse the street markets
The most well-known market is by the Bullring (now the Arena) on a Saturday. It’s an historic market that has been held in the same place for many years, with artisanal produce, as well as fruit and veg, plants – even antique furniture. Taking over the road that runs down to the port from Centro Plaza, it is closed off every Saturday morning from 9:00am – 2:00pm and is a traditional way to pass a Saturday morning. Puerto Banús’ main square, Plaza Antonio Banderas, is host to a white-tented village every summer, where artisanal crafts can also be found, often with the creators themselves on the stand. There are food stalls and a children’s outdoor arcade to keep the little ones busy while the grown-ups are browsing. The square is surrounded by bars and restaurants to stop off for much-needed sustenance after a long shopping session!
Take a stroll on the Paseo Marítimo
One of the most popular pastimes in Marbella for locals and tourists alike, the beautiful Paseo Marítimo, or seafront promenade, now accounts for 27km of the Marbella coastline. Recently the section connecting San Pedro Alcantara to Puerto Banús was completed, including a new bridge put in place, making the seafront accessible for all. The whole stretch is lined with bars, restaurants and shops, with a different atmosphere according to where you are strolling. San Pedro to Puerto Banús passes from quiet to lively, while the Paseo Marítimo through Marbella town is vibrant and entertaining in the summer.
Go yacht-spotting – or take to the seas yourself!
Head to the luxurious Puerto Banús marina and indulge in some high-end shopping while admiring the luxury super-yachts that line the quays. Many of them are for hire, so why not have a fabulous afternoon with your very own crew, taking in the beautiful Marbella coastline from a privileged viewpoint out to sea. Many charters will also lay on refreshments for the ultimate yachting experience. When you get back you can enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants that line the harbour. It’s also a great place for people-watching and experiencing the unique atmosphere of this luxurious marina.
Sand-less fun on the water
If you love the water but don’t like the beach, there are a wide range of ways to experience fun on the water without getting sand on your feet. In the hills just behind Marbella is the pretty White Village of Benahavís, by which the Río Guadalmina runs and where local companies run canyoning excursions. It’s advised to go with a reputable company who knows the area as it’s a thrilling activity but not for the faint-hearted! A more sedate option would be to visit the Embalse de la Concepción, a stunning reservoir, again just minutes from the coast but a world away in terms of the peace and tranquillity of the natural surroundings. Here you can learn to paddle-board on the calm lake waters, or kayak around the shoreline.
Discover Andalucía on a thrilling quad bike safari
Not just quad bikes but dirt bikes and jeeps – there are all kinds of exciting ways to discover the Andalucía that most people don’t get to see, literally off the beaten track! Heading out into the hills that provide the backdrop to this beautiful part of the world, you get to see the part of Marbella that most beach-lovers don’t even know exists. Through ancient cork-oak and Mediterranean pine forests, choose your method of transport and hang on tight!
We’ve hardly touched on all the great activities available in Marbella if the beach isn’t your thing. This is one of the reasons Marbella is so loved by visitors and residents alike – it offers something for everyone, whatever your favourite hobby (we didn’t even mention golf!), you can be sure that Marbella will have something to suit your taste.
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