Where to stay

Marbella has miles and miles of sand. Almost all accommodations are within a short walk of one of the region's spectacular strands, if not directly facing out toward the sea. When many people talk about Marbella, they actually mean Puerto Banús, west of Marbella town. The main reason to stay here is to be close to the ritzy yacht-filled harbor, but it also has a good sheltered beach, known either as Playa de Levante or Playa Puerto Banús. Between the two, beaches such as Playa de Nagüeles offer a more relaxed experience. Here more affordable places to stay are set back from the sand.

Nikki Beach, east along the coast from the center of Marbella itself, is by far the most famous of Marbella's spots to see and be seen. Not many people come here for the sand; popping bottles of champagne on sun beds is the main attraction. Book a hotel set back from the shore to be able to drop in for as long or as short a time as you wish. Stay at one of the resorts just along the coast for five-star luxury. The scene in Puerto Banús is predominantly close to the harbor. Get a hotel here for Marbella's best restaurants, bars, and clubs, frequented by everyone from celebrities to reality TV stars.

Marbella might not immediately come to mind as a destination for a family trip, but the region has plenty to see and do. With safe beaches, near-endless sunshine, and ample kid-friendly activities and watersports, Marbella is just as perfect for a family vacation as it is for those seeking its famous nightlife. To be far from the party vibe in Puerto Banús, book a hotel along the narrow lanes of the pretty Old Town or in the center of Modern Marbella. It's too small to really be dubbed Marbella City Center, although some hotels use this terminology. The small town of San Pedro de Alcantara, a short drive up the coast, also has excellent places to stay. Reserve here for picturesque villas and smaller, family-oriented hotels with pools.