Cabopino Marina is located between Calahonda and Marbella on Spain’s Costa del Sol. Unlike the bustling marinas in Puerto Banus and Benalmadena, this little marina is somewhat of a hidden gem. Here is our definitive guide to what you can expect from a trip to Cabopino.
Great Beaches
Cabopino beach is one of the most attractive stretches of coast close to Marbella. It is 1500 metres long and 25 metres wide, giving visitors plenty of space to relax in, even in busy summer months.
The beach starts at the port and ends at the Artola sand dunes and Playa Artola, one of the few nudist beaches on the Costa del Sol. It is the only section of beach in Marbella that is backed by sand dunes and that has escaped urbanisation, making it particularly special.
The sand is fine and soft all along the beach which make this a popular choice for families with young children. There are plenty of sun loungers and parasols available for hire if you need shade for little ones.
For those who like beach activities there are a variety of things to keep you busy, from hiring pedalos, jet skis or taking a boat trip.
There is also a good selection of beachside chiringuitos and beach bars to get refreshments from. All of these also have shower and toilet facilities that patrons can use for free. A popular choice of bar for locals and tourists alike is Andy’s Beach Bar that serves a wide range of food and drink, including a great cocktail list and an extensive seafood menu cooked on the traditional beachside barbecue.
Restaurants on the Marina
Cabopino Marina may be small, but it offers a superb range of bars and restaurants. Here is our pick of the best places to dine.
Alberts Bar and Grill
Alberts has been a favourite on the marina for over 15 years. Its large outdoor terrace has lovely views over the port and they have live music at the restaurant every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. The restaurant is very child-friendly and it also caters for those with dietary requirements, offering a gluten-free menu.
The menu at Alberts is ever-changing, but it always offers a good selection of classic dishes like fish and chips, pizzas and burgers. The steaks are renowned for being great here too.
La Despensa
If you like Italian food, this legendary restaurant is a must. Open since 1980, La Despensa serves amazing pizzas, pasta, seafood and steaks. You can also sample freshly made paella and other local specialities including oxtail stew. Make sure you leave space for a desert as the crepes are out of this world!
The restaurant commands some of the best views over the marina so you can watch people arrive in the port by boat, or Jet Ski whilst sipping on a cold drink and soaking up the sunshine, perfect!
Hermosa Bistro
If you want a special dinner on Cabopino Marina. Look no further than Hermosa Bistro. Offering modern cuisine from Europe, the Americas and Asia, this southern Californian style bistro offers customers delicious flavours in a relaxed, stylish setting.
Dishes are unique and use unique concepts such as ‘Fusion Cottage Pie’, with Goan spiced beef, madras mash and a red onion and potato bhaji. There are also more traditional Spanish favourites, such as the ‘Fritto Misto’, a selection of seasonal market fish served as a starter with lemon and aioli. The dishes on the a la carte menu may sound rather fancy, but prices are reasonable and offers are often available outside of the summer months.
The grill menu has a fantastic selection of meats and fish on it, available with different rubs and marinades, so you can create your perfect combination of flavours.
Other restaurants that are also worth a mention at Cabopino are Taj Palace Indian Restaurant for all things Indian, Taberna Los Javieres for tapas, and Santiago’s Sports Bar & Grill for beers and burgers. Da Brunos Italian is a favourite for celebrity clients, so keep your eyes peeled for famous faces if you dine there!
Cabopino Golf
Although this is not technically on the marina, Cabopino Golf is located just opposite the marina, within easy walking distance of the beach and restaurants. The 18 hole course was opened in 2000 and covers over 5000 sqaure metres.
This is a particularly attractive course with views over the Mediterranean, and lakes and streams on the course. There are excellent facilities including a restaurant, bar and driving range. Discover more about the Best Golf Courses on Mijas Costa.
Looking to stay nearby? Browse our holiday villas in Marbella.
