Playa de Artola

Playa de Artola lies at the eastern end of Marbella, running west away from the elegant Cabopino Marina on an area of coast known as the Punta Ladrones (Thieves’ Point). However, unlike most beaches in Marbella, Playa de Artola is not surrounded by large hotel complexes. Instead, it sits among rolling dunes that have been a protected Spanish national space since 2001.

Though quite narrow, the gently-curving sands of Playa de Artola stretch for around one kilometre, with most visitors basing themselves closest to Cabopino Marina and the large car parks located here. Boardwalks then lead across the dunes to the biscuit-coloured sands, taking in a historic watchtower along the way.

Having been awarded a Blue Flag by the European Union for its cleanliness and the quality of its amenities, local businesses offer a range of water sports to tempt visitors into the Mediterranean, including banana boat rides and jet ski rental. The beach is also able to boast a large trampoline that will have children happy for hours, while on the opposite side of the road visitors will find a golf course and campsite.

While the beach itself is largely naturalistic, there are plenty of places to eat and drink in and around the marina.