8 Best Things to Do in Estepona

Playa del Cristo is sheltered from the wind in a small cove, making it a family-friendly spot in Estepona. The 700-metre-long beach has an east-facing orientation which, coupled with its breakwater and the natural curve of the bay, gives it protection from the worst of the winds and waves. Combine this with its shallow waters, this all makes for a kid-friendly swimming spot. The beach received the iconic Blue Flag status in 2019.

Nestled just around the corner from Estepona’s marina, Playa del Cristo has a full range of amenities, including 2 chiringuitos (beach bars) serving local snacks and refreshments. You’ll also find sunbed rentals, disabled access, and on-duty lifeguards here.

The urban art found all along Ruta de los Murales Artisticos has helped attract lots of travellers to Estepona in recent years. While the old town is notable for its whitewashed houses, potted plants, and ceramic tiles, a trip to the surrounding neighbourhoods will also be richly rewarded with views of the ever-changing Estepona murals.

Painted on the sides of apartment blocks and office buildings, the murals are diverse in subject material and style. The street art covers quite a large area, so it's a good idea to pick up a map indicating the locations of these works of art at the tourist office. You can find it by the harbour or in Plaza de Las Flores.

At 1,449 metres high, Sierra Bermeja looms over the landscape behind Estepona. This mountain range gets its name and distinctive red appearance from the iron deposits found here. While hiking, you might see wildcats, ibex, golden eagles, falcons, vultures, and plenty of common reptiles.

There are lots of hiking trails offering views out towards the African coast from the mountain slopes. For those looking for an easier hike, the Reales de Sierra Bermeja Trail features a 6.5-km route up through a Spanish fir forest with great views. For the more seasoned hiker, there is a 15-km hiking trail to the top of the Reales which takes about 9 hours. It's not recommended during the summer due to the heat and lack of water sources.

The largest beach in Estepona, Playa de la Rada spans around 2.6 km of sand along with with a host of beach amenities. You’ll find almost everything, from children’s play areas with trampolines to a basketball court and fitness trail.

As the closest beach to Centro Historico (Estepona Old Town), you’re within a short distance of the old town's many dining options. There are lots of apartment buildings and hotels nearby Playa de la Rada, so this location is excellent if you want to combine a beach holiday with all the convenience of an urban town.