Travelling to the Costa del Sol means deciding between several destinations of which Estepona or Marbella stand out. A holiday with friends, but also a few days as a couple or with the family, becomes a luxury due to its climate, its gastronomy and the variety of services available, which makes these two towns ideal places to enjoy.

Is Estepona or Marbella better? These two locations are perfect for enjoying water sports, an afternoon of shopping or their wonderful beach clubs. The hotel offer in both towns stands out for the quality of its services, the customer service and its varied gastronomy. If you want to choose one of them, we’ll tell you more.

Two unmissable destinations in the Mediterranean

Whether you choose Estepona or Marbella for your next getaway, you should know that the climate in both locations means an average of 340 days of sunshine a year. The proximity of the mountains creates a special microclimate, which makes the Costa del Sol a perfect destination for sports, experiences, gastronomy or relaxing on the beaches. What can you find in each of the towns?

 

Marbella: a paradise in the Mediterranean

The town of Marbella stands out as a paradise between the sea and the mountains. Its exclusive luxury resorts, the wide variety of premium services and its famous Golden Mile make this location a safe bet for quality and exclusivity.

 

Luxury shopping in Puerto Banús

The so-called Golden Mile has a wide selection of luxury brands located in a charming setting. Puerto Banús is an oasis built with the inspiration of the white villages, so characteristic of this part of Andalusia. Its whitewashed shops are framed by flower-filled streets to offer the best variety and quality of high-end goods.

 

Premium services in Marbella and Estepona

Another feature that can help you decide between Estepona and Marbella is the premium services. In both locations you can find luxury car rental services, yachts and boats with or without skipper. In Marbella, a town associated with luxury since its beginnings, the catering, styling, health and beauty services stand out for their quality, experience and the qualifications of their employees.

 

Beaches and nature

In the municipality of Marbella you can enjoy 27 km of coastline with a total of 24 beaches available. Its more than 20 beach clubs offer sunbeds, exclusive swimming pools and gourmet gastronomy. Marbella’s proximity to the Sierra Blanca mountain range also offers a wide variety of activities such as a network of hiking and cycling trails.

 

Luxury Resorts in Marbella or Estepona

As we have seen, luxury-focused services are part of the essence of Marbella or Estepona. In total we can find more than 20 establishments dedicated to offering a complete experience to its visitors. From renting villas next to the golf course to luxurious suites with sea views. However, the hotel offer is much wider offering a wide range of prices to enjoy a few days in front of the Mediterranean Sea.

The perfect destination: Estepona

This town in Malaga has a special charm that distinguishes it from other destinations on the Costa del Sol. The centre of Estepona is located just a few metres from the beach and invites you to stroll through its white streets lined with colourful flowerpots. Unlike Marbella, Estepona is an ideal destination for those who love walking, charming hotels and experiences for all ages. Although its luxury offer is also extensive, it retains the charm of a white village where you can enjoy gastronomy, relaxation and adventure.

 

A town for strolling

Estepona is an easy town to stroll around, especially if you decide to stay in one of the hotels in the centre. Its 23 kilometres of coastline extend the experience of the historic centre and its streets invite you to walk and enjoy the smell of the flowers. Its beauty will surprise you enjoying one of the best corners of the white villages.

Boutique hotels in Estepona

The experience of disconnection and relaxation is assured in Estepona with the offer of exclusive hotels located in the very centre of the town. If you are looking for boutique accommodation with charm, El Pilar de Andalucía Estepona Hotel is an excellent option in the heart of Estepona. A 4-star boutique hotel in a central location just minutes from the sea. The nearby La Rada beach allows you to breathe in the atmosphere of a fishing village from unbeatable facilities.

• Where to Eat in Estepona: The Best Restaurants in the Town Centre

More than 29 kilometres of coastline

Estepona is located in front of the Alboran Sea. This area of the Mediterranean, closer to the Strait of Gibraltar, offers the perfect climate for sports such as kitesurfing. At the same time, Estepona offers different and exclusive beach clubs where you can enjoy an ideal day at the beach. The 15 beaches available in the municipality stand out for their fine sand and calm waves where you can enjoy the sun or other water sports such as paddlesurfing.

 

Sea and mountains: experiences for everyone

In addition to kitesurfing, paddlesurfing and jet skiing, Estepona offers its visitors sea and mountain experiences. During your stay you can choose from the varied offer of hiking in the Sierra Blanca or climbing in Sierra Bermeja, but also rent a boat with or without skipper to explore the coast.

 

What is the spirit of your trip: Estepona or Marbella?

If you are still not sure which is the best destination for your next trip to Estepona or Marbella it is important that you think about what kind of trip you fancy. A romantic getaway, a family holiday, a beauty retreat with friends or a group celebration. Every adventurous spirit has its needs and these locations on the Western Costa del Sol can meet them all.

 

Sports: golf and tennis in Marbella

If you want a trip focused on sports such as golf or tennis, both locations can meet your expectations, given their proximity. However, Marbella has the most prestigious facilities dedicated to these sports.

Health and Wellness: Estepona

Beauty retreats are a perfect way to share with friends while taking care of your body, both inside and out. Although both locations have SPAs and prestigious beauty clinics or hairdressers, Estepona offers the added bonus of tranquillity with a location you can walk to, as opposed to Marbella where you may need transport to visit certain places.

 

Unforgettable experiences: Estepona or Marbella

Trips with teenagers or friends to Estepona or Marbella can create unforgettable memories with a myriad of possible experiences. For archaeology lovers, Estepona offers the Necropolis of Corominas, an archaeological site where you can learn about archaeology. In addition, you have other options, such as the urban routes where you can find different ways to enjoy art.

 

Children’s activities in Estepona

The little ones can enjoy a visit to Selwo Aventura where they can get up close to the animals and spend a day with the family. Estepona also offers different children’s activities such as a visit to the Ratoncito Pérez’s house or a go-kart race. You can book an adapted room in the Plaza de las Flores and enjoy this marvellous enclave with your family.