Destination
Estepona
Book your hotel in Estepona
Together with Marbella, the town of Estepona is one of the most emblematic landmarks of the Costa del Sol on the coast of Malaga, and one of the most important tourist destinations in Spain. In fact, it has it all: long sandy beaches, beautiful landscapes and nature in its purest form, picturesque streets, a sports marina and many other tourist services. This explains why staying at one of our hotels in the area will be the best choice for your holidays in Andalusia.
Whether you are traveling to Estepona as a family, or planning a romantic getaway or a break with friends, you will find everything you need to fall in love with one of the best-kept secrets of the Mediterranean.
What can you do during your holiday in Estepona?
- Flamenco airs and local culture: Estepona is one of the liveliest towns on the Costa del Sol. In addition to the traditional popular festivals and religious feasts, there are dozens of cultural events throughout the year, comprising a wide variety of activities: sports competitions, flamenco lessons, modern art exhibitions…
- Living gastronomy: A delicious sardine skewer by the sea. An invigorating soup like gazpacho or salmorejo. A typical dish or drink like pescaíto frito (deep-fried fish) and camomile tea. A treat of fresh shellfish, just brought from the harbour. Eating in Estepona is an out-of-this-world experience. Many consider this town one of the best destinations for foodies in Andalusia.
- Long, sandy beaches: Ideal to come with children or just to relax on your own by the sea, the beaches in Estepona are synonymous with peace and harmony. Most of them are long strips of fine, golden sand with moderate swell – their waves dancing in the wind – and flat sea bottoms that make it safe to take a dip, no matter how young (or old) you are.
- Fun and adventure for all and sundry: There are a million things to do in Estepona if you want to enjoy yourself outdoors, either during the day or by night. The beaches make the perfect setting for water sports like sailing, diving or surfing. And when the sun goes down, the town streets and waterfront promenades get busy, their restaurants, terraces and clubs bursting with joyous people.
Interested in Iberostar Hotels and Resorts for your holiday in Estepona?
The Iberostar Hotels & Resorts Group runs the Iberostar Costa del Sol Hotel in one of the finest locations in Estepona. An iconic seaside resort on the Costa del Sol offering good value for money and accommodation with the best carefully selected services. The ideal place for an unforgettable family holiday, romantic getaway or break with friends.
Things to see in Estepona
When strolling through the old town of Estepona, there is no escaping the atmosphere of a traditional Andalusian village, since this is one of few enclaves of the Costa del Sol that has preserved samples of traditional architecture. Among the most picturesque spots here are Plaza de las Flores which is peppered with bars, terrace cafes and restaurants, and the Casa de las Tejerinas; a beautiful 18th century house which opens its doors to many interesting art exhibitions.
In the old historic centre one can see buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries and the remains of the Castle of San Luis, built by the order of Catholic Monarchs in the early 15th century. Next to the castle there is a 15th century Clock Tower of Arab origin, and of course, we recommend you visit the Casa de los Alijibes, the seat of the Archaeological museum, and the local food market.
Among other buildings not to be missed are the Seven Signal Towers, erected during the Islamic period which made part of the defensive system and were in use until the 19th century. We also recommend visiting the Dolmens of Corominas, the Roman Villa “Las Torres”, the ruins of the Castle of El Nicio where some 9th century walls and towers are preserved, and the Punta Doncella Lighthouse.
It is also worth paying a visit to the Route of Artistic Murals to see buildings with beautifully decorated facades, or the original Route of Poetry that surprises visitors with literary fragments displayed in different languages on tiles. By means of this remarkable initiative culture is always on display in the street.
And one last thing: don’t forget to stop by the Estepona Orchid Farm, which brings together around 5,000 plants and more than 1,300 species of orchids from all over the world.
Things to do in Estepona
With all due respect to the above-mentioned attractions, one of the greatest lures of the area are the long beaches of Estepona with fine sand which makes them perfect for those who have decided to have a family holiday on the Costa del Sol. The relaxing moderate waves make them very suitable to safely take a dip or simply to chill-out. Check out at the Del Cristo beach and the La Rada beach.
Estepona is also a strategic point to get acquainted with wildlife. Without going further, drop by the Selwo Aventura Park, where visitors can see around 2,000 specimens of 200 species of animals in relative freedom. Likewise, here one has the chance to watch whales and dolphins.
However, for those who wish to get in touch with nature in its purist form, there is nothing better than the Los Pedregales Park, located in Sierra Bermeja, just 8 km away from the city centre. And of course, another great way to explore the natural charms of the area is to go on one of the exciting horseback excursions that are frequently organized in the Costa del Sol.
The sports marina of Estepona is a must-see for all fans of the sea. There one can rent sailboat or a catamaran excursion, one of the most original ways to discover the coastline. And of course, there are a thousand and one active leisure activities available, including sailing, scuba diving, surfing, windsurfing or kitesurfing.
This list would not be complete without one of the most popular sporting options in the Costa del Sol: golf in Estepona. Valle Romano Golf & Resort, El Paraíso Golf Club, Estepona Golf and Atalaya Golf & Country Club International are just a few of the venues for you to enjoy the 18-hole sport.
On the other hand, don’t forget that this is an ideal place to try some typical dishes of authentic Andalusian cuisine. Go ahead and try exquisite sardines, recharge your batteries with a plate of deep-fried fish “pescaíto frito” and Manzanilla Sherry, freshen up with a glass of gazpacho or salmorejo or indulge yourself in one of the many seafood restaurants. This rich mix of flavours makes Estepona an increasingly popular gastronomic destination.
Finally, don’t forget that as night falls, the streets of the city and its promenade come alive with all types of nightlife and a great choice of trendy places, including many pubs and clubs.
Discover our hotel in Estepona
The Iberostar Hotels & Resorts Group invites you to experience all these sensations at Iberostar Costa del Sol, a 4-star hotel in one of the finest locations in Estepona with direct access to the beach, designed to help you make the most out of your holidays in Estepona.
Along with excellent value for money, this resort offers impeccable services and facilities: 20 swimming pools and water areas, laundry, activities for children including flamenco lessons, a chill out area on the beach, show cooking, and rooms with a round bath. And don’t forget that it is a Spa Hotel, so say goodbye to stress with a relieving massage from our team of therapists or simply dive into the pool.
And if you want to exercise, remember that this hotel in the Costa del Sol is located close to several golf courses.
Check out our offers in Estepona, book your room, choose your preferred accommodation arrangements, - we also offer an all-inclusive formula, for your convenience, and get ready for an unforgettable holiday on the Andalusian coast. We're looking forward to welcoming you!
The main beaches in Estepona
Spanning a 23km-long coastline, the beaches in Estepona are the perfect setting to enjoy the sea in a quiet family-friendly atmosphere. There are amazing, exceptionally well-preserved natural areas. Being one of the major touristy cities on the Costa del Sol, Estepona offers beaches that are attractive beyond their crystal-clear water and fine sand, for they feature dozens of beach bars where you can unwind and take a look at the landscape.
Main beaches in Estepona:
- El Sol beach: Very near Punta del Saladillo, within the housing development of Villacana, Playa del Sol is perfect for a family holiday: fine access from nearby hotels, moderate swell and all kinds of services, including security, showers and beach bars.
- El Saladillo beach: A 3km-long golden sand strip makes one of Estepona’s most popular beaches, in the area of Benamara. Despite the moderate swell, it is great for a dip and for all kinds of water sports. Services include parking (without security) and access on foot.
- Arroyo Vaquero beach: Also known as Guadalobón or Costa Natura, this semi-urban sandy beach is 2.5km long and 30m wide. Easily accessible from Estepona Bay, it always attracts crowds of beachgoers. There is a 400m-long section dedicated to naturists. The moderate swell, dependent on the wind, attracts water sports lovers as well.
- Arroyo de los Caños beach: This somewhat smaller beach (1.2km long) offers fine, dark gold sand and the calmest waters you will find in Estepona. The area is quite lively, peppered with beach clubs, houses and restaurants. The occupancy rate is thus above average all year round.
- El Cristo beach: Estepona’s main urban beach, close to the local marina, is sheltered from the wind. This makes it ideal for a splash, for there is virtually no swell. Recently rehabilitated, El Cristo offers lots of services and easy access. This has raised its popularity among both visitors and locals.
- Playabella or Guadalmansa beach: It is one of the longest beaches in Estepona: a 2.5km sand passing by small housing developments, including sections with all kinds of services. Most sections are well-preserved and far from houses, surrounded by manicured green areas. Moderate swell, fine, dark sand, and easy access.
What to see in Estepona
The things you can do in Estepona are the best, most fun way of exploring the culture, history and character of this town in coastal Málaga. Walking along the streets or visiting the most popular tourist attractions – the watchtowers, the ruins of San Luis Castle –, you will get a glimpse of the different stages it went through, understanding how it came to be one of the most lively, colourful and popular tourist resorts on the Costa del Sol.
What to do and what to see in Estepona
- Old Town: If you want to get to the essence of a typical Andalusian village, come to the old town in Estepona. Most streets and alleyways are pedestrian-only, so that you can walk at leisure, reaching every nook and cranny. Take a look at the little houses whose balconies are blooming with colourful flowers: the colours are different in every street or area!
- Clock Tower: Standing in the old town, this tower is the only remnant of the fortress and a fine example of the Islamic-Neoclassical blend of styles that characterises Estepona’s historic district. Today, it dominates the quaint Plaza del Reloj – a meeting point for visitors and locals alike.
- House of the Arab Cistern (Casa del Aljibe): Housing the Museum of Archaeology, this building is a great example of traditional architecture. It shows the most interesting items brought from the archaeological sites in the surroundings.
- Watchtowers: Scattered along the coast, there are seven watchtowers that used to announce the arrival of enemy ships. Built by both the Arabs and the Christians, they are known as Torre de Arroyo Vaquero (by the beach with the same name), Saladavieja, Guadalmansa, Velerín, El Paredón, El Saladillo and Baños.
- San Luis Castle: Only the ruins of this majestic castle have come down to us. It used to stand in the heart of the old town. They can easily be seen from the neighbouring pedestrian streets and alleyways, with their little houses and flowery balconies.
- Punta Doncella Lighthouse: A must in every stroll down the waterfront promenade, Punta Doncella stands between the promenade and the marina, flashing out every 15 seconds. Designed by engineer Antonio Molina, this 22m high tower has a length of flash of up to 12 nautical miles.
What to do in Estepona
Estepona is synonymous with sand, sun, party-going, deep-fried fish and a cool beer by the sea, sports and nature, lying in the sand, dancing till the wee hours, fashionable clubs and bars. Not far away from the exclusive, lively Puerto Banús, it has plans for visitors with a wide variety of interests and budgets, who will all have a wonderful, fun, original holiday on the Costa del Sol.
Experiences in Estepona: What to do
- Historical tours: Estepona is home to some of the most interesting archaeological sites on the Costa del Sol. They can be visited on guided tours or self-guided excursions. Las Torres is worth a half-day visit: a genuine fishing village from the days of the Roman Empire. The ruins of the Nicio Castle and the dolmens in Corominas are worth visiting too.
- Safaris: On foot or by jeep, if you are coming to Estepona with children you must visit Selwo Aventura – a theme park and zoo where animals are kept in semi-captive environments. Covering about 100ha, the park recreates the animals’ habitats.
- A stroll among the orchids: Estepona’s recently opened botanical garden is the perfect place to escape hot weather and relax far from the beach. There are clearly signposted trails that will take you along an enjoyable hike marked by key botanical elements, like water or orchids. The garden houses thousands of plants and trees from all over the world.
- Beer and tapas by the sea: Being one of the main tourist resorts in Málaga, Estepona sticks to some of the Costa del Sol’s best-known traditions. The beaches are peppered with lovely beach bars where you can have a beer and tapas to beat the heat. Most of the bite-size dishes carry traditional Andalusian flavours, like olives, or a taste of the sea, the star being, of course, pescaíto frito (deep-fried fish, usually anchovies or sardines).
- Dinner in the old town: Estepona’s finest cuisine is to be found in the old town. There is probably no better plan to bring your day to a close than having dinner in one of the many taverns with street tables. Eating alfresco in the cool Andalusian evening, in an atmosphere pervaded by the smell of flowers, is a pleasure that visitors with a delicate palate will certainly enjoy.
- Flamenco evening at Felipe VI Concert Hall: One of Estepona’s newest cultural centres, the Felipe VI Concert Hall puts on flamenco shows on a regular basis, in an effort to support one of Andalusia’s fundamental cultural expressions. You can also come for an exhibition or a play. It will be an evening to remember.
Events in Estepona
Film, theatre, flamenco… The events, festivals and parties held in Estepona are deeply rooted in its Andalusian essence, which means Islamic influence and the special magic of local people – joyous, warm, always ready to dance, laugh, enjoy themselves. The calendar of festive activities is packed with events all year round (both in the tourist and the off season), for Estepona is one of the liveliest towns on the Costa del Sol.
Main events in Estepona
- February – Carnival: As in Andalusia at large, Carnival in Estepona is a time of merrymaking in the streets. The town gets filled with light, colour and joyful songs. The sounds of local bands and krewes go on until Ash Wednesday, when Carnival bids farewell and Lent sets in.
- March/April – Easter: Easter celebrations are deeply rooted in Estepona. Even though they are not as big as those in Málaga City, they are still lively and original, especially the Passion processions and their float bearers, known as costaleros.
- March – Estepona Fashion Show: Held in the beautiful and quiet pedestrian streets of the old town, the Estepona Fashion Show gathers famous Andalusian designers and young creators from all over the Costa del Sol.
- May – St Isidore’s Procession: A heartfelt religious event, the procession dedicated to St Isidore the Farmer is one of the most traditional events on the local calendar. It is held in the park in front of the Chapel of San Isidro, in Los Pedregales. There is an outdoor meal, a farming fair and religious celebrations. Devotion can be felt in the heart of town too, where there are several street processions.
- 23 June – St John’s Eve: St John’s is one of the most magical festivals held in Estepona. As in almost every other Spanish village, bonfires are lit on the beach, but here there is an extra element: the burning of Judas – rag dolls known as júas, standing for the year’s hottest political, social or cultural moments. It is a sort of purification rite: the burning helps you leave the past behind. St John’s Eve is an evening for real joy. There is flamenco music and dancing till the early hours.
- Early July – Estepona Fair: The city’s big festival begins a week before the feast of Our Lady of El Carmen, comprising a fair, street parties, concerts and all kinds of cultural activities in the town’s streets and squares and on the beach. Music and gastronomy, sports and children’s entertainment are some of the ingredients, along with local history, customs and traditions.
- 16 July – Feast of Our Lady of El Carmen: The Patroness of Estepona – and of all sailors –, Our Lady of El Carmen is honoured in the most important festival held every year. The main event is the procession on 16 July: a statue of Virgin Mary is taken down the streets to the harbour, where dozens of boats are waiting to take Her to sea for the annual blessing. Everybody carries flowers and white candles. The picture is really stunning.
- 15 August – Tourist Day: Since tourism is one of the driving forces of the local economy, no wonder Estepona dedicates a big summer day to honour tourists. There are cookouts and activities for all.
- August/September – International Fantastic and Horror Film Festival: Summer comes to a close in Estepona with this key event on the calendar of the Spanish film industry. This festival has been held since 1999, gathering the best science fiction, fantasy and horror films and filmmakers. It gives awards to Spanish and international productions.
- 31 December – New Year’s Festival: Estepona is a town with seafaring traditions, great weather and welcoming people. On 31 December there is a big festival, with the Clock Tower chiming off the old year and marking the beginning of the New Year’s party.
Sporting holidays in Estepona
Estepona is one of the most versatile locations in Spain when it comes to sports. Its mild weather all year round and the world-class sports facilities, plus the pleasant atmosphere and the availability of all kinds of services, enable the practice of all types of sports: tennis, football, basketball, swimming, surfing, sailing, diving, kayaking, hiking and, of course, golf. Andalusia at large is an idyllic setting to improve your swing in the most modern golf courses by the sea.
Sports in Estepona
- Golf in Estepona: Lying near the so-called Golf Valley, Estepona is a unique meeting point for golfers. Surrounded by top-level golf courses, it offers a full range of services: academies, tournaments, practice areas for experienced players, lessons for beginners, and so on.
- Sailing at the marina: One of the best sailing schools in Spain can be found in Estepona and its Royal Yacht Club. It organises regattas in several classes, offers lessons for would-be sailors of all ages, rents boats and sailboats for a ride along the bay, etc. Luxury options for lovers of the sea.
- Horse riding on the Costa del Sol: Riding a horse on amazing beaches, training on a fine Andalusian specimen, galloping down trails amidst native plants and trees… Estepona is a perfect destination for horse lovers. In fact, it boasts one of the best equestrian schools in Andalusia; it is located in the area of El Padrón.
- Hiking in Sierra Bermeja: Sierra Bermeja is Estepona’s most impressive natural area. Here there are hiking trails for all and sundry. Los Reales de Sierra Bermeja is one of the most scenic and popular routes, but there are many others; for instance, the Hike of Spanish Firs. Given the mild weather in the area, hiking is a sport to do all year round.
- Mountain biking in Estepona: Year in, year out, Estepona welcomes hundreds of bikers. In fact, it is one of the few destinations in coastal Andalusia that host official MTB races. The wonderful geography of Sierra Bermeja affords picturesque routes like those to Casares, Puerto Peñas and Altabacales Bajos.
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