9 Best Beaches in Estepona You Won't Want to Miss
The thing we love most about Estepona's beaches? There's no one-size-fits-all. Some are wide, open, and full of buzz. Others are tucked-away coves where you'll ...
Estepona, Spain Travel Guide
The Garden of the Costa del Sol – a charming town known for its flower-filled streets, colorful murals, and authentic Andalusian character.
Estepona has transformed itself into one of the Costa del Sol's most charming destinations with its stunning street art, beautiful flower displays, and pedestrianized old town. Unlike its glitzier neighbors, this 'Garden of the Costa del Sol' maintains an authentic Andalusian feel while offering excellent beaches and a thriving culinary scene.
Ready to explore? Discover the best things to do in Estepona.
Estepona at a Glance
Best Place to Eat
»La EscolleraBest Place to Stay
»Kempinski Hotel BahíaBest Beach
»Playa del CristoBest Time to Visit
»April – June, Sept – OctBest Day Trip
»Casares White VillageBest Activity
»Old Town Mural WalkMust-See
»Orchid HouseDon't Miss Out
»Sunday Market
Find the Best Things to do in Estepona
VIEW HEREFind the Best Day Trips from Estepona
VIEW HEREBest Time to Visit Estepona
Estepona has one of the mildest climates on the Costa del Sol, making it pleasant almost year-round. For more detailed information, check out our best time to visit Estepona guide.
for beach weather: June to September
for exploring the old town: April to May, October
for golf: March to May, September to November
for fewer tourists: November to February
for the Sunday market: Any Sunday year-round
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Where to Eat in Estepona: Best Restaurants & Tapas Bars (2026)
Discover the best places to eat in Estepona, from beachfront chiringuitos to hidden tapas bars in the Old Town. Your complete guide to restaurants and local cuisine in the Garden of the Costa del Sol.
Where to Eat in Estepona
Estepona's culinary scene is centered around fresh seafood and traditional Andalusian cuisine. The port area and old town are packed with excellent restaurants ranging from casual chiringuitos to upscale dining.
Recommended Restaurants
- La Escollera – Beachfront institution famous for its incredibly fresh fish and seafood. A local favorite for decades.
- Restaurante Lido – Upscale beachclub restaurant with stunning sea views and Mediterranean fusion cuisine.
- Taberna El Cruce – Traditional tapas bar in the old town, known for generous portions and authentic local atmosphere.
- La Casa del Rey – Fine dining in a beautifully restored townhouse, offering creative Andalusian cuisine.
Where to Stay in Estepona
From beachfront resorts to charming boutique hotels in the old town, Estepona offers accommodation for every style. The promenade and port area are great for beach lovers, while the old town suits those seeking authentic character.
Editor's Pick-20% OFFMETT Hotel & Beach Resort Marbella-Estepona
New Golden Mile
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Beachfront locationHuge outdoor poolBeach clubMultiple restaurants
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Tours in Estepona
Estepona offers unique experiences from wildlife encounters to water sports. The town's proximity to natural parks and the Mediterranean provides plenty of adventure options.
Popular Tours & Experiences:
What to See Near Estepona
Estepona's location on the western Costa del Sol makes it an excellent base for exploring both the glamorous Marbella coast and the natural beauty of the Genal Valley and Gibraltar.
Gibraltar
Full day
The famous British territory with its iconic rock, wild monkeys, and duty-free shopping. Just 30 minutes from Estepona.
Tip: Take your passport – it's technically leaving Spain!
Marbella & Puerto Banús
Half day
Glamorous marina filled with superyachts, designer boutiques, and celebrity spotting opportunities. Marbella's old town is charming too.
Casares
Half day
One of Andalusia's most dramatic white villages, perched on a mountainside with a ruined Moorish fortress and stunning views.
Tip: Visit at sunset for incredible photos.
Genalguacil
Full day
The 'Pueblo Museo' – an artistic village where streets are filled with sculptures and the houses themselves are works of art.
Ronda
Full day
The dramatic clifftop city with its iconic bridge is about 1 hour inland through beautiful mountain scenery.
Why Visit Estepona?
Estepona has quietly transformed itself into one of the Costa del Sol's most charming destinations. Known as 'The Garden of the Costa del Sol,' the town has invested heavily in beautification. Streets overflow with flowers, colorful murals adorn building walls, and the pedestrianized old town retains an authentic Spanish feel that's increasingly rare on this coast.
Unlike its glitzier neighbors, Estepona offers a more relaxed, genuine experience. You'll find excellent beaches, great restaurants, and a thriving local community that hasn't been pushed out by tourism. The Orchidarium houses one of Europe's largest orchid collections, while the promenade stretches for miles, perfect for sunset strolls.
With easy access to both Gibraltar and the glamour of Marbella, yet a character all its own, Estepona is the Costa del Sol's best-kept secret.
Museums in Estepona
While not a museum destination, Estepona's unique attractions include botanical gardens, street art, and cultural centers that showcase its transformation into 'The Garden of the Costa del Sol.'
Festivals in Estepona
Estepona celebrates traditional Costa del Sol festivals with local flair. Summer brings the biggest celebrations with the town's annual fair and beach festivities.
- Early JulyFeria de Estepona — Week-long summer fair with flamenco, fireworks, and celebrations in the fairground
- July 16Virgen del Carmen — Patron saint of fishermen celebrated with processions and the statue carried to sea
- March/AprilSemana Santa — Holy Week processions through the old town streets
- May 15San Isidro — Agricultural festival celebrating the patron saint of farmers
- June 23Noche de San Juan — Midsummer beach bonfires and celebrations
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