Located 80km from Málaga Airport, on the western edge of Spain’s Costa del Sol, Estepona combines the charm of a traditional Andalucían village with the laid-back allure of a seaside town. The resort lies at the base of the Sierra Bermeja mountains, offering a refreshingly authentic atmosphere compared to many of the region’s bustling, high-rise resorts.
With its iconic whitewashed houses decorated with colourful geraniums, narrow cobbled streets and a palm-fringed promenade along the seafront, Estepona captures the soul of Andalucía. From exploring local tapas bars in Plaza Las Flores to relaxing on its pristine beaches or diving into water sports, Estepona promises a unique blend of activities for every visitor. Whether you’re here for a family getaway, a romantic escape, or a quiet retreat, you’ll find plenty things to do in Estepona.
Getting There: Estepona is further from Málaga Airport than the region’s other popular resorts making car hire, a private transfer or taxi the most convenient transfer option. The journey takes around 50 minutes via the AP-7 toll road or the A-7 motorway. Alternatively, a direct airport bus operated by Avanza takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, offering a cost-effective way to get there.
Things to Do in Estepona
Explore the Historic Old Town
Estepona’s old town is considered to be one of the most picturesque on the Costa del Sol. With its whitewashed houses, narrow cobbled streets and colourful flower pots adorning the walls, the historic centre retains the character of a traditional Andalucían village. The old town is centred around Plaza de las Flores, a beautiful square lined with orange trees, cafes and shops. Walking around the old town, you’ll find murals on building walls as part of Estepona’s unique “Ruta de Murales” project, which showcases large-scale works by local and international artists.
Visit the Orchidarium
The Estepona Orchidarium is one of the town’s most unique attractions. This modern botanical garden houses over 5,000 species of plants, including 1,300 types of orchids, making it one of the largest orchid collections in Europe. The building itself is a sight to behold, featuring three large glass domes and a 15-metre indoor waterfall which creates a tranquil atmosphere. The Orchidarium provides a refreshing escape from the summer heat and nature lovers will enjoy the impressive selection of exotic plants and the tranquil environment.
Stroll Along the Estepona Promenade
Estepona’s promenade, or Paseo Marítimo, stretches along the coastline and provides stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride and is dotted with cafes, bars and restaurants where you can stop for a coffee or a beer with a view. Running parallel to the beach, it connects several of Estepona’s most popular beaches, including Playa de la Rada, which is known for its golden sands and calm waters. The promenade comes alive in the evenings, with local street performers and artists adding to the lively atmosphere.
Relax on Estepona’s Beaches
Estepona boasts 21 kilometres of coastline with a variety of beaches to suit all preferences. Playa de la Rada is the main beach, with a lively atmosphere, plenty of facilities and beachside restaurants known as chiringuitos serving fresh seafood and refreshing drinks. Playa del Cristo, a small sheltered bay, is a popular spot for families thanks to its shallow waters and quieter ambiance. For a more secluded experience, head to Playa Bahía Dorada, where the rocky coastline and clear waters offer an ideal setting for snorkelling and enjoying nature in peace.
Discover Estepona’s Murals Route
Estepona is known for its open-air museum concept, with over 50 large-scale murals painted on buildings around town. The Ruta de Murales showcases a variety of styles, from surrealism to realism and often depicts local themes and characters. Walking through Estepona and discovering these murals offers a unique way to experience the town’s vibrant artistic side. Some of the most notable murals include ‘Día de Pesca’ and ‘La Venus’ which reflect Estepona’s relationship with the sea and its fishing heritage.
Explore the Estepona Marina
Located at the western end of the town’s promenade, Estepona’s Marina is a lively area with much to offer. During the day, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the docks, admire the boats and choose from a range of bars and restaurants. On Sunday mornings, a popular tourist market adds to the marina’s appeal with local crafts and products. As night falls, especially in summer, the marina is transformed as music bars, clubs and discos open up, attracting a mix of locals and visitors. For those looking for fresh seafood, the fishing port next door is home to Restaurante La Escollera, a long-standing restaurant which has survived the test of time.
Visit the Archaeological Museum
Housed in the historic Casa del Ajibe (Plaza Blas Infantes), Estepona’s Archaeological Museum offers a fascinating look into the area’s ancient history. The museum showcases artefacts from various periods, including prehistoric, Roman and Moorish times. Some of the highlights include Roman pottery, ancient coins and Phoenician relics. The museum provides insights into the area’s evolution and its role in trade and cultural exchange along the Mediterranean coast.
Take a Day Trip to Selwo Aventura
Selwo Aventura is a safari-style adventure park located just outside Estepona, making it a popular destination for families. The park is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world, including elephants, lions and giraffes. Selwo Aventura offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to explore the park in 4×4 vehicles, go on guided walks and even zip-line over enclosures. The park’s dedication to conservation and educational programmes adds an extra dimension to the visit, making it both fun and informative for all ages.
Attend a Festival in Estepona
Estepona is home to several annual festivals which showcase the town’s rich cultural heritage. One of the most significant events is the Feria de San Isidro, held in May, which features traditional music, dancing and vibrant parades. In July, the town celebrates Virgen del Carmen, Estepona’s patron saint, with a maritime procession where a statue of the Virgin is carried through the streets and taken out to sea. During these festivals, the town comes alive with festivities, providing visitors with an unforgettable glimpse into local traditions.
Play Golf at One of Estepona’s Many Courses
Estepona is home to several world-class golf courses, thanks to the Costa del Sol’s reputation as a top golfing destination. Some of the most popular courses include Valle Romano Golf & Resort, El Paraíso Golf Club and Estepona Golf, each offering unique landscapes and challenges for golfers of all skill levels. With mild weather year-round, Estepona provides the perfect conditions for golf, attracting players from around the world. Most courses also have excellent facilities, including clubhouses and dining options, making it easy to spend a full day enjoying the sport.
Best Day Trips from Estepona
Sierra Bermeja Natural Park
A day trip from Estepona to the Sierra Bermeja Natural Park allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rugged, mountainous landscape just 20km inland from Estepona. The park’s highlight is the unique Pinsapo fir forests, found nowhere else in the world outside of this region. Hiking trails wind through these ancient forests, offering opportunities to spot diverse wildlife and take in panoramic views over the Mediterranean coastline. You can also combine your visit with a stop in the charming white village of Jubrique, located within the park boundaries, for an authentic taste of Andalucían mountain life.
Gibraltar
A day trip to Gibraltar from Estepona is one of the classic excursions from the Costa del Sol which offers visitors the chance to experience a blend of British and Mediterranean cultures. Just a 45-minute drive away, Gibraltar is known for its iconic Rock, which provides stunning views over the Strait to Africa. Take the cable car up to the Rock’s peak to visit the famous Barbary macaques, Europe’s only wild monkey population. Explore the fascinating St. Michael’s Cave, a natural wonder filled with stalactites and stalagmites, or wander Gibraltar’s British-style streets lined with shops and pubs. Be sure to take your passport and check the latest border crossing information before planning day trips to Gibraltar.
Ronda
A day trip to Ronda from Estepona is a fantastic way to experience one of Andalucía’s most beautiful and historic towns. Located 70km away, via San Pedro de Alcántara, the road trip takes you through the scenic mountain roads of the Serranía de Ronda. On arrival you’ll see the Puente Nuevo bridge, which spans the breathtaking El Tajo gorge and offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
You can take a walking tour of Ronda’s charming old town, strolling through narrow, cobbled streets lined with whitewashed buildings and visit Spain’s oldest bullring. On this day trip you might also include a visit to Setenil de las Bodegas which is a unique village where homes and shops are built directly into rocky cliffs.
Tangier, Morocco
A day trip to Tangier from Estepona, departing by ferry from Tarifa, offers a fascinating dive into Moroccan culture and a taste of North Africa. The ferry ride is only about an hour, making it an easy journey across the Strait of Gibraltar. Once in Tangier, explore the lively Medina, where bustling markets, narrow alleys, and traditional Moroccan architecture create a vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss the Kasbah Museum and a visit to the colorful souks, where you can shop for unique crafts and savour authentic Moroccan cuisine. A guided tour is recommended for first-time visitors.
