Marbella East

Marbella East is becoming increasingly popular due to its beautiful beaches – from the famous Nikki Beach to the secluded Cabopino seaside-, luxurious lifestyle, world renowned golf courses – with a mild climate all year round, golfers can enjoy the sport in the sun, even during the winter months –, peaceful atmosphere, and easy access to the rest of the city.

The area boasts some of the most exclusive villas, apartments, and hotels, as well as a range of high-end restaurants, boutiques, and nightclubs.

Located on the eastern fringes of Marbella city, this area graces the Costa del Sol in southern Spain and is celebrated for its pristine beaches, opulent residences, and elite gated communities. The region is composed of several distinguished neighbourhoods, such as Los Monteros, El Rosario, Las Chapas, and Elviria.

Marbella East is also acclaimed for its breathtaking natural splendour, offering sweeping vistas of the mountains and sea. The locale provides a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors, including water sports, golfing, trekking, and shopping. It presents the perfect opportunity to experience the quintessential Mediterranean lifestyle amidst luxurious and scenic surroundings.

Situated along the eastern outskirts of Marbella city, Marbella East can be found within the southern coastal region of Spain’s Malaga province. This area forms part of the renowned Costa del Sol, which attracts visitors worldwide for its gorgeous beaches, pleasant climate, and dynamic nightlife.

It is bordered to the west by the Marbella municipality and to the east by the Mijas municipality. Easily reached by car, the area is roughly 45 minutes away from Málaga airport.

• Elviria, exclusive tranquility with top-tier golf and serene beaches in marbella.
• El Rosario, charming residential area with beautiful villas and close to Marbella’s best beaches.
• Río Real, prestigious golf community blending luxury living with Marbella’s natural beauty.
• Cabopino, picturesque marina surrounded by fine dining and idyllic beaches, embodying Marbella’s elegance.
• Marbesa, tranquil beachside haven offering exclusive properties in Marbella’s lush surroundings.
• Los Monteros, prestigious beachfront locality, synonymous with luxury and exclusivity in Marbella.
• Hacienda las Chapas, an elite enclave known for its privacy and sumptuous villas amid Marbella’s scenic landscapes.
• Bahía de Marbella, a coastal gem with luxurious beachfront properties and panoramic Mediterranean views.

Marbella East, along with its surrounding regions, possesses a storied past that can be traced back to ancient times. The earliest known inhabitants of the area were the Phoenicians, who established a port in the nearby town of Malaga in the 7th century BC. The Romans and Moors later ruled the region, leaving a lasting imprint on its culture and architecture.

In the 16th century, the Catholic Monarchs, Isabella and Ferdinand, founded the town of Marbella as a bulwark against pirates and other threats. Over the ensuing centuries, the town flourished, attracting artists, writers, and intellectuals during the 19th and 20th centuries.

The region now known as Marbella East remained primarily undeveloped until the 1960s and 70s, when coastal luxury villas and apartments began to emerge. Since then, Marbella East has risen to prominence as one of the Costa del Sol’s most exclusive and sought-after locations.

Presently, Marbella East is home to a diverse population, comprising both local residents from around the globe. The area continues to draw tourists and investors alike, enticed by its opulent properties, splendid beaches, and pleasant climate, as well as its rich cultural heritage and intriguing history.

The area covers approximately 26 square kilometres and stretches from the border of Mijas Costa in the east to the Rio Real Golf Course in the west, and It is also one of the most densely populated. Marbella East’s terrain is marked by striking contrasts, from hills and valleys to beachfront stretches. The region extends for several kilometres along the picturesque Mediterranean coast.

Marbella East, situated on the eastern side of Marbella, is an assemblage of exclusive neighbourhoods and gated communities, each exuding its own distinctive charm and allure. Here are some of the most prominent areas:

1. Los Monteros: Renowned for its splendid ocean-facing mansions, Los Monteros is undeniably the most prestigious area in Marbella East. Nestled in a tranquil surrounding, this idyllic oasis guarantees utmost peace, security and privacy right on the beach, where tourist traffic is minimal. Situated in the in-between space of the scenic Mediterranean coast’s sandy beaches and dunes on one side and the coastal motorway on the other, exclusive Los Monteros area boasts top-end one-of-a-kind Hotel Los Monteros Spa & Golf Resort- following the quintessential settings of other prestigious Marbella hotels, such as Don Pepe, Puente Romano and Marbella Club.
2. El Rosario: This gated community boasts ample space, serene views, and peace and quiet just a quick five-minute drive from central Marbella. with a blend of villas and apartments, is very popular among families and those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle, complete with schools, restaurants, and shops.
3. Elviria: In this area, you can find an abundance of first-rate developments and communities that offer a magnificent view of the ocean from an elevated position. It’s an ideal place for families and has attracted many international tourists looking for a second home. A bustling tourist hotspot with a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. This area also provides access to golf courses and beach clubs, appealing to those seeking a dynamic and cosmopolitan lifestyle.
4. Hacienda Las Chapas: Illustrated by fancy villas with an assorted range of styles, dimensions and layouts, the petite yet peculiar nook is settled within a pine-loaded terrain that oversees a tranquil beachfront. Additionally, it embraces a captivating Latino-themed resort complete with captivating apartments and houses arranged in a picture-perfect “pueblo blanco” demeanour and adorned with scenic faculties such as calm plazas, whimsical alleyways, and multiple cafeterias, making it the ideal spot for indigenous experience-seekers.
5. Rio Real: A peaceful residential area adjacent to a popular golf course, it offers a serene environment with a mix of villas and apartments. Having a frontline beach location, puts Río Real golf course in the exclusive category on the Costa del Sol. Interestingly enough, two golf holes were cleverly set on the beach. That said, the course provides gaming enthusiasts a unique view of the Mediterranean Sea throughout their visit.
6. Santa Clara: The area known as Los Monteros is home to Santa Clara Marbella. This gated community features luxury villas and townhouses, 24-hour security, a golf course, and a clubhouse. An exquisite luxury destination perfect for those seeking the finest experience while visiting the beaches near Marbella’s magnificent city centre. Here, one can find great restaurants and exquisite beach clubs just moments away from their luxurious 5-star location.
7. Altos de Los Monteros: Situated just 5 km east of Marbella, Altos de los Monteros offers an established living community with breathtaking scenic views. The development comprises of dedicated areas reserved for single-plot villas and several apartment complexes. Providing excellent living conditions, Altos de los Monteros comes complete with well-maintained infrastructure, including paved roads and pavements, public lighting and peaceful walking paths nestled within attractive green surroundings.
8. Bahia de Marbella: Elegant and stylish urbanization that offers luxurious villas, townhouses and apartments for sale just a few steps from the fine sandy beaches of Marbella. With high level of privacy, 24-hour security and gated access. The backdrop of Bahía de Marbella is formed by the spectacular Sierra Blanca mountains that rise behind the city, endowing it with a microclimate of mild winters and warm autumn and spring weather.
9. Cabopino: A picturesque marina within Marbella East, which offers luxury apartments and villas along with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Just a few minutes walking, Artola-Cabopino beach is regarded as one of the most exquisite and un spoilt beaches situated on the Costa del Sol. Holding a 1200 m ground, it is nestled within the boundaries of Dunas de Artola, a naturally formed monument approved in 2001. The contrasting features of the region include its commanding dunes and indigenous floras, that provide a feeling of peaceful liberty to visitors who are seeking a close connection with the mesmerising nature.
10. Artola: Situated beside a protected natural park, is a peaceful residential area with an array of luxury properties. Artola – Cabopino Beach is among the most pristine beaches on the Costa del Sol. With its fine, golden sand, it caters to a diverse range of beachgoers, from families to lone sun-seekers. Numerous sunbeds and beach chairs are available to hire alongside various beach bars and restaurants, perfect for a refreshing pit-stop.
11. Carib Playa: A beachfront locale popular among locals and tourists alike, this zone offers an assortment of amenities and luxury properties.
12. Marbesa: A residential beachside area known for its exclusive properties and various amenities. It is located just eight kilometres from the centre of Marbella, close to long sandy beaches. Easily accessible to shops, medical centres, international schools, world-class golf courses, and excellent beach restaurants, it is an ideal location for people seeking a relaxed lifestyle in Marbella.
13. Las Dunas de Elviria: A tranquil beachfront neighbourhood in Marbella East that offers beautiful scenery, fine white sand beaches including Playa de Los Monteros, Playa Pinillo or Río Real, Playa Nagüeles, Playa de Cabopino and Playa Real de Zaragoza -, crystal-clear waters, and a range of exclusive properties.
14. La Mairena: Located in the mountains on Marbella’s eastern side, it provides stunning sea views and a peaceful, secluded lifestyle, with several luxury developments available.

Marbella East is undoubtedly the destination for those in search of opulence and exclusive residences. The area offers a diverse selection of breathtaking homes, ranging from Mediterranean-style villas featuring white-washed walls, red-tiled roofs, and arched windows, to sleek, modern contemporary homes with expansive windows and open floor plans that invite an abundance of natural light.

For those who appreciate a more traditional aesthetic, Andalusian-style homes showcase intricate tile work, wrought iron accents, and vibrant mosaics. Alternatively, grand and stately Colonial-style homes present high ceilings, large windows, and ornate detailing.

Regardless of your architectural preferences, Marbella East’s exclusive and luxurious homes are designed with a keen emphasis on natural materials such as wood, stone, and glass. This attention to detail ensures a harmonious connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces. Immerse yourself in the unparalleled style and luxury that Marbella East has to offer, and elevate your living experience to new heights.

Luxury properties for sale in Marbella East

Properties in Marbella East are generally perceived as being at the upper end of the real estate market, due to the area’s exclusivity, luxury amenities, and prime location along Spain’s southern coast. Prices for properties in Marbella East vary widely, from several hundred thousand euros to tens of millions of euros, depending on factors such as location, size, amenities, and overall exclusivity. The Marbella East real estate market is highly competitive, with prices subject to fluctuations based on current market conditions.

Marbella East’s spectacular sea views contribute to its appeal and desirability. Many properties in this area, including villas, apartments, and plots of land, provide breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and coastline.

Some of the most sought-after properties in Marbella East are those situated on the beachfront or in elevated positions, offering unobstructed sea views. The area’s natural beauty, with hills and mountains serving as dramatic backdrops to the sea views, further enhances its appeal.

This area is known for its luxurious resorts, beautiful beaches, and upscale lifestyle. Here are some activities you can enjoy in Marbella West:

1. Beach Activities: Enjoy the spectacular beaches in the east of Marbella. You’ll find magnificent beaches where you can spend a pleasant day. Enjoy a relaxing swim, a pleasant walk along the sea shore or along its promenade, savouring the flavours of the cuisine of its bars and beach bars, or try out water sports such as jet-skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing.
2. Visit the thieves tower. The tower found in the Artola Dunes near Cabopino Port is known as the “thieves’ hideout” tower due to the protective structures built around it. This historical site played a crucial role in the Andalucian coastal defence line and is an excellent example of this type of construction in the area. A visit to this tower offers insight into the defensive strategies implemented during that time period.
3. Golf: Marbella East is renowned for its golf courses, offering golfers stunning views and challenging play. Some of the famous golf clubs include Santa Maria Golf Club Marbella, Río Real Golf Marbella, or Marbella Golf Country Club.
4. Indulge in the fascinating exhibits showcased at the Ralli Museum. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Ralli Museum which was established in 2000. It is one of the five museums of its kind across the world and the only one situated in Europe. The museum boasts a valuable extensive modern art collection featuring works from famed artists such as Paul Wunderlich, Max Ernst, Henry Moore, André Mason, and Marc Chagall as well as sculptures from Maillol and Dalí, among others.
5. Exploring the tapas scene in the eastern Mediterranean paradise of Marbella. Marbella is the perfect spot to indulge in the Andalusian tradition of tapa hopping if you want to enjoy scrumptious food in a fun and unique way. Our recommendation is to do it in the historic centre, especially as the evening sets in. You’ll be blown away by the experience. Some of the popular tapas bar include Taberna La Niña del Pisto, El Patio de Mariscal, or Boca Seca.
6. Old Town Marbella: Head to Marbella’s Old Town known as “Casco Antiguo”, to experience the traditional Andalusian charm with its narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and cosy squares. You can visit historical sites like Plaza de los Naranjos and the Castle Walls.
7. Full-day trips. Marbella’s location makes it an ideal home base for exploring some of the most beautiful towns and attractions in Andalucía. Simply rent a car and discover the Tajo de Ronda, the Dólmenes de Antequera, the Rock of Gibraltar, the Caminito del Rey, the charming Mijas donkey taxis and the stunning Bolonia Dunes in Tarifa in just short drive from Marbella. 

Marbella East offers several excellent educational opportunities for children, with a range of schools catering to a variety of nationalities and languages. Below are some of the top schools in the area:

1. English International College (EIC): A renowned international school in Marbella East, offering a British curriculum for students aged 3-18 years old, including the International Baccalaureate program.
2. Colegio Alboran: A bilingual Spanish-English school located in Marbella East, offering a range of educational programs for students aged 3-18 years old, including the International Baccalaureate program.
3. Las Chapas School: A private school located in Las Chapas, offering a bilingual Spanish-English curriculum for students’ aged 0-18 years’ old, with a strong focus on academic excellence and personal development.

In addition to these schools, there are several top schools located nearby Marbella East, including Aloha College in Nueva Andalucía, Laude San Pedro International College in San Pedro de Alcántara, Swans School International in Sotogrande, and The American College in Fuengirola, Costa del Sol, providing parents with a range of educational options for their children.

The area is approximately 10 to 15 kilometres (6 to 9 miles) from the city centre of Marbella, with a travel time of around 15-20 minutes by car, as well as the popular resorts of Puerto Banús and Estepona. This makes it easy for residents of Marbella East to take advantage of the wide variety of amenities available in Marbella and its connected zones, including shopping centres, restaurants, cultural events, and historic landmarks.

However, in general, Marbella East provides a range of local amenities, which are located within the individual communities that make up Marbella East, providing residents with easy access on foot or by car.

Marbella East is known for its safe and secure environment, with low crime rates and a visible police presence. The community is well-maintained, and there is a strong sense of community among residents, contributing to the area’s overall safety. However, like any other place, it is important to take precautions to ensure personal safety.