Puerto Banús in Marbella is a hotspot for luxury, leisure, and parties that extend way beyond the summer months.
Whether you’re seduced by the allure of posh beach clubs, never-ending parties, or simple pleasures like spotting luxury cars, this guide for the best things to do in Puerto Banus will offer something for everyone.
As someone who visited Puerto Banus many times, as I live right next to Marbella, I will also offer some practical tips and insights that will help you get the most out of your visit to Marbella.
Let’s get started!
17 Best Things To Do in Puerto Banus, Marbella
Here is the complete list, followed by my tips on where to stay and practical travel tips. If you want to expand your options, you can also check my list of things to do in Marbella here.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
1. Stroll Along Puerto Banus Marina
Start your visit with a leisurely walk along the marina.
Admire the array of opulent yachts, take in the spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea, and enjoy the people-watching.
The marina is lined with chic cafes and bars where you can relax and soak in the luxurious atmosphere.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
2. Indulge in Designer Shopping
Puerto Banús is a shopping paradise, particularly for those with a penchant for high fashion.
Stroll through the streets lined with designer stores like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Dolce & Gabbana. Even if you’re not looking to buy, window shopping in this glamorous setting is an experience in itself.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
3. Relax on the Beach
No visit to Marbella is complete without some beach time.
Puerto Banús boasts beautiful beaches like Playa Puerto Banús, also known as Playa de Levante, where you can sunbathe, swim, or indulge in water sports.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
4. Enjoy the Nightlife
As the sun sets, Puerto Banús transforms into a nightlife hub.
The area is home to some of the best nightclubs and bars in Marbella, offering everything from chic cocktail bars to pulsating dance clubs.
If you fancy exploring the night scene with a local guide, this guided walking tour will take you to the best bars and tell you everything you need to know about the area.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
5. Taste the Local Cuisine
Sample the local culinary delights at the numerous restaurants around the marina.
From traditional Spanish tapas to international cuisine, the dining options cater to all tastes.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
6. Visit the Saturday Market
For a more local experience, visit the Puerto Banús street market held every Saturday near the bullring. Here, you can find a range of items, from clothing to handcrafted goods, perfect for souvenirs.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
7. Take a Boat Trip
Experience Puerto Banús from a different perspective by taking a boat trip. In addition to renting your own boat, there are a few popular boat cruises and trips you can book via the links below:
Sailing and Dolphin watching cruise with snacks and drinks – this cruise runs even in the winter months and you can choose to book it either as a group trip or a private cruise.
This sunset sailing cruise from Puerto Banus is one of the most popular options, allowing you to enjoy and capture a stunning sunset, with a bottle of wine or cava included in the price.
This private sailing cruise from Puerto Banus is perfect for those who want to plan a private trip. It’s suitable for up to 7 passengers and runs also in the winter months.
All of the above tours come with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip, and the option to book now and pay later.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
8. Explore the Art
If you’re an art enthusiast you need to visit the Ralli Museum, located near Puerto Banús. The museum houses a significant collection of Latin American and European art and is a great way to spend a quiet afternoon.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
9. Play a Round of Golf
The area around Puerto Banús is famous for its excellent golf courses. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy a game under the sunny skies.
Here is a list of the courses nearby – check the individual websites for details on fees and location.
| Golf Resort | Description & Link |
|---|---|
| Real Club de Golf Las Brisas | Located in Nueva Andalucía, close to Marbella, known for its championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. More Info |
| Rio Real Golf Club | Renowned course in Marbella, designed by Javier Arana, featuring the Rio Real River. More Info |
| Los Naranjos Golf Club | In Nueva Andalucía, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., known for its wide fairways and undulating greens. More Info |
| Aloha Golf Club | 18-hole championship course in Nueva Andalucía, near Marbella, known for its strategic layout. More Info |
| Marbella Golf & Country Club | Offers a challenging layout and natural beauty, located just 5 minutes from Marbella. More Info |
| Real Club de Golf Guadalmina | Situated in Guadalmina, near Marbella, featuring two stunning 18-hole courses. More Info |
| Marbella Club Golf Resort | Located in the hills above Marbella, known for its tranquil setting and luxurious amenities. More Info |
| Santa Clara Golf Marbella | Known for its strategic design and captivating views, located in Marbella. More Info |
| La Quinta Golf & Country Club | 27-hole course in the heart of the Golf Valley near Marbella, set among Mediterranean flora. More Info |
| Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club | Designed by Severiano Ballesteros, known for its challenging layout in Benahavís, near Marbella. More Info |
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
10. Relax at a Beach Club
For a luxurious day, visit one of the exclusive beach clubs in Puerto Banús. Offering plush sun loungers, pools, and excellent service, it’s the perfect way to unwind in style.
Here are a few of the most popular ones:
Beach Clubs in Puerto Banus, Spain
| Beach Club | Description & Link |
|---|---|
| SLVJ Marbella Restaurant & Beach Club | Stylish beach club in Playa del Duque, offering international and Mediterranean cuisine, with sun loungers, a pool, and live music. Visit Website |
| Ocean Club Marbella | Famous for its large pool, luxurious sunbeds, live DJs, and vibrant atmosphere. A popular spot for daytime parties. Visit Website |
| La Sala by the Sea | Beachfront club with a restaurant and bar, featuring a large pool, sun loungers, live music, and DJ sets. Visit Website |
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
11. Book a Guided Bike Tour
If you like to spend your time more actively, why not book a guided bike tour!
This local guided tour will take you from Puerto Banus along the coastline towards Marbella, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery while learning everything you need to know about the city.
The tour comes with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip, in case you need to change your plans.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
12. Plan a Day Trip to Gibraltar
Fancy exploring beyond the borders of the city?
The good news is you don’t even need to drive! A day trip from Marbella to Gibraltar is one of the most popular local tours that runs all year round, and at very affordable prices.
You will get picked up in Marbella, and the day trip also includes a tour of the local Nature Reserve.
You can book your tour here with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
13. Enjoy a Day at a Spa
Indulge yourself with some me time in one of the luxurious spa hotels in and near Puerto Banus. Here is the full list!
| Hotel Name | Description & Link |
|---|---|
| Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa | Lovely Andalusian-style Hotel in exclusive beachfront location, facing the Mediterranean Sea. More info |
| Puente Romano Beach Resort | Beachfront Hotel reminiscent of Andalusian village, located in residential area; 2 km from center or Puerto Banus Marina. More info |
| Eurostars Oasis Marbella | This 68 room property, built in 2023. More info |
| Alanda Hotel Marbella | Modern Art Deco spa hotel located in the heart of the Costa del Sol and just a 5-minute walk from the beach. More info |
| Hard Rock Hotel Marbella | Self-contained Convention & Resort Hotel located 4 miles from town center. More info |
| Hotel Vasari Vacation Resort | An Aparthotel located in Puerto Banus-Marbella – 50 kilometer away from Malaga airport – Modern rooms with garden view. More info |
| Iberostar Marbella Coral Beach | Attractive Mediterranean-style Hotel surrounded by well-landscaped grounds overlooking the sea in the “Golden Mile” area. More info |
| Nobu Hotel Marbella | This 49 room property, built in 2017. More info |
| Sisu Boutique Hotel Puerto Banus | Located just few steps from Puerto Banus, boutique hotel has chic decor suites overlooking the pool – 47.7km from Malaga Airport. More info |
| Aloha Gardens | Located in the heart of Nueva Andalucia – 6 km from Puerto Banus and Marbella town and 42 minutes from the Malaga Airport. More info |
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
14. Walk the Golden Mile
Take a stroll from Puerto Banus towards Marbella, and you will walk through the famous Golden Mile – a stretch of the coastal promenade with some of the most expensive real estate on Costa del Sol.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
15. Go Shopping
Whether you need a plan for a rainy day, or a bit of retail therapy, La Canada shopping mall offers over nearly 300 different shops, with restaurants and cafes to keep you busy all day.
It’s located just outside of Puerto Banus, a short car or taxi journey away.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
16. Go Car Spotting
Sit down in a local cafe and watch some of the most luxurious cars in the world cruising the streets of Puerto Banus. The area of the marina is particularly good spot for this!
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO BANUS
17. Conquer Your Fear of Heights at Caminito del Rey
Caminito del Rey (Pathway of the King) is the most popular natural attraction in Malaga region, and it would be a shame to miss your chance to visit!
You can drive there on your own with a rental car, or book a local tour that has tickets and expert guide included.
The pathway stretches alongside the El Chorro gorge, offering stunning views and a truly memorable experience. I don’t like heights myself, but did not struggle to walk the path at all. It’s not physically challenging at all, but suitable shoes are required.
Book your tour here, with tickets included and also free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip.
Where To Stay in Puerto Banus
Puerto Banus is not a massive area, but there are hotel and apartment options for nearly every budget. Keep in mind it will be quite a bit more expensive than the hotels and properties closer to central Marbella.
Here are a few options for every budget.
Luxury Hotels
Hotel Gran Guadalpin Banus: This 5-star hotel offers direct beach access and stunning views of the Mediterranean. With a variety of dining options, a lavish pool, and exquisite rooms, it’s perfect for travelers looking for luxury and comfort.
Hotel Benabola: Located right in the heart of Puerto Banús, this hotel boasts beautiful views of the marina and is a stone’s throw away from the area’s famous nightlife and shopping.
Boutique Hotels
Boutique Hotel B51: This stylish hotel offers modern and sophisticated rooms with a focus on comfort and design. Its location is ideal for those who want to be close to the action but also enjoy a peaceful retreat.
Park Plaza Suites Hotel: Situated by the marina, this hotel provides a unique blend of luxury and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for those who appreciate a more personalized service.
Budget-Friendly Options
Aloha Gardens: Located a bit further from the main marina, this is a great option for those who don’t mind a short commute in exchange for lower rates.
Practical Travel Tips for Puerto Banus
Now that you know what to do in Puerto Banus and where to stay, let’s cover some practical travel tips that will help you have a wonderful stay in Puerto Banus.
Best Time to Visit Puerto Banus
First things first, timing is everything.
The peak season in Puerto Banús is from May to September. This is when the weather is at its best, but it’s also when it’s most crowded. If you prefer a more relaxed vibe, consider visiting in the spring or early fall. The weather is still lovely, and the crowds are fewer.
Transport from the Airport to Puerto Banus
The closest airport to Puerto Banus is Malaga Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), which is about 50 mins taxi or car drive. You can rent a car directly from the airport and drive, the local transport options are pretty limited, but you can check my guide here for the airport transport.
The other option is booking your airport transport in advance – I recommend using Get Transfer for this. I have lots of personal experience with them, and the service makes the airport commute a breeze.
Put your travel details in the form here, and they will source quotes from local transport companies, giving you the best prices available.
Renting a Car in Puerto Banus
Puerto Banús is pretty compact, so getting around is a breeze. Walking is often the best way to explore and soak in the sights. If you want to venture further, there are plenty of taxis, and they’re reasonably priced, and also uber operates in Marbella.
If you want to explore beyond the city borders, which I highly recommend, getting a car is a must.
To get the best deal on your car rental, or find some pretty cool car options (like luxury vehicles), you should use Discover Cars. They source car rental options from local and international companies, giving you the most options to choose the perfect car for your trip.
You can use filters to quickly find a car you like, or filter by price to see the cheapest deals. Add your trip details here and get dozens of car rental options in a matter of minutes.
Respect Local Customs
Remember, you’re a guest in a different culture. Siestas are common, and businesses often close in the afternoon. Also, Spanish people are generally warm and friendly, but being polite and respectful goes a long way.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Banús is all about enjoying the finer things in life. Take your time, soak in the sun, the sea, and the vibrant atmosphere. It’s a place to relax and indulge, so make the most of it!
Hope these tips help make your trip to Puerto Banús a blast. Safe travels and enjoy every moment!
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