Marbella East is the place dreamed by many: you can enjoy the best beaches of the Costa del Sol without noticing the pressure of thousands of bathers. It is an area where urbanism has developed based on villas, individual properties and high-level residential areas where there are hardly any tall buildings. It has a unique international atmosphere that knows how to combine the search for tranquility and relaxation with the most exclusive leisure and entertainment.

From the sea to the mountains. To the north a succession of cork oak wooded hills run parallel to the Costa del Sol. The cork oak forest of Elviria is a botanical jewel and, entering through the area of La Mairena, in a few minutes we can immerse ourselves in some of the most beautiful natural landscapes of the region.

This region is home to some of the most luxurious hotels and beach clubs in the area, as well as a rich gastronomic scene that caters to a variety of tastes. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast or someone in search of world-class education options for your children, Marbella East provides everything you need for a sophisticated and balanced lifestyle.

• Table of contents
• The History of Marbella East
• Exploring Marbella East
• Sectors in Which Marbella East Is Divided Into
• Outdoor Activities and Leisure in Marbella East
• Savor the Best of Marbella East: Dining, Beach Clubs, and Nightlife
• Charming Hotels for Every Traveler
• Schools and Healthcare Options
• Thriving Real Estate Market in Marbella East
• Final Thoughts: Why Marbella East is the Perfect Place to Call Home

To talk about Marbella East/ Elviria we must know the history of the lawyer and entrepreneur Salvador Guerrero Ramirez. This businessman received a handful of land in the place known as Hacienda Las Chapas, which extended over a large part of the municipalities of Marbella and Ojen, bordered to the south by the sea and the old road to Cadiz.

First, he renamed the land, calling it Elviria, in homage to his wife, Elvira Taillefer. Sensitive to the evolution of the Costa del Sol, due to the tourist phenomenon, Salvador Guerrero thought about what he could do with that amount of square meters, and it occurred to him to call an international competition of projects to urbanize the land and, at the same time, to make it known throughout the world. This international competition, held in 1960, which was endowed with magnificent prizes, served to spread the name of the Costa del Sol all over the world.

The winner of the competition was the French architect Ives Vitart. From this moment on, the development of Marbella East/Elviria began. While on the Golden Mile, the crown jewel of Marbella, the aristocrats Ricardo Soriano and Alfonso de Hohenlohe began to attract exceptional luxury tourism with the Marbella Club Hotel as the focus of attraction, Salvador Guerrero turned Elviria, at the other end of Marbella, into an area of extensive real estate developments.

He planted thousands of pine trees and, together with the magnificent natural beaches of Marbella East, attracted a large international community seeking tranquility and luxury on the shores of the Mediterranean. Undoubtedly, this is one of the true pioneers of urban development on the Costa del Sol. Salvador Guerrero Ramirez was also the promoter of the Marbella Hilton Hotel, which today is the Hotel Don Carlos.

Guerrero Ramirez was awarded the Gold Medal of the City of Marbella in 1961, an award that was given to him for his great charitable works, such as the donation of land for the construction of an institute and a Red Cross post in Las Chapas. He was also the one who provided Marbella with its first ambulance and created the first fire station.

Marbella East stretches from the enchanting shores of Cabopino till you pass under the iconic arch that welcomes you to Marbella. All along this route we will be flanked by the best beaches of Marbella to the South and the gentle cork oak hills of Elviria to the North. Two roads keep Marbella East superbly connected: the AP-7 freeway to the North brings us to Marbella or towards Malaga in a few minutes and the A-7 highway takes us very close to the sea to all the places of interest in Marbella East. 

Marbella East is characterized by the abundance of forests and pine areas. This is due to the reforestation campaigns that have been carried out in the area for 150 years. Specifically, there are two fundamental moments. The first is thanks to the planting, around 1875, of 300 bushels (about two million square meters) that were planted (pine and oak) on the estate of Don Tomás Heredia in the district of Las Chapas. And the second more recent was the result of a pine reforestation in the early years of Francoism, 40's and 50's, which were carried out in Marbella East.

Marbella East comprises the 11 kilometers of coastline and wooded hills that extend between the entrance arch to Marbella and the Port of Cabopino. Leaving from Marbella heading east the first area we find is:

Río Real: Exclusivity and Relaxation Near Marbella’s Heart

Rio Real and Rio Real Golf: Nestled east of Marbella Center, Rio Real is a picturesque haven centered around the eponymous river. Home to the prestigious Rio Real Golf Course and the iconic Trocadero Arena restaurant.

Part of the Rio Real area, next to the entrance of Marbella is occupied by the residential area of Bello Horizonte, an area with small villas and semi-detached apartments. To the north, next to the Rio Real is El Repique, a riding club that is an institution in Marbella.

Next to the Rio Real Golf Course, with great views of the sea and the mountains, is the Incosol Hotel, a legendary hotel establishment that is currently in the process of reform that will make it a benchmark of wellness and health.

The beach area of Río Real is characterized by the dunes of the Pinillo beach, where Parque Mediterráneo has recently been built, a leisure and sports area with beach volleyball and soccer courts.

Los Monteros: Pioneers of Luxury

After crossing the river we enter the area of Los Monteros. Created around Los Monteros Hotel in 1962 by the banker Ignacio Coca, these lands have evolved into a quiet labyrinth of urbanizations with villas of different sizes. The beaches of Los Monteros and Alicate, located within the Dunes of Marbella Ecological Reserve, are among the most spectacular on the Costa del Sol. 

To the north, the Costa del Sol University Hospital is the main medical center between Algeciras and Malaga and is also completing an expansion that will make it a reference in different medical specialties nationwide. Above the hospital there are two golf courses, Santa Clara Golf and Marbella Golf Country Club, and a panorama of residential areas of apartments and townhouses.

El Rosario/Las Chapas: Tranquil Life, Stunning Beaches, and Villas

El Rosario/Las Chapas is located east of Los Monteros. It is an area much appreciated by families for its quiet, safe, wide and tree-lined streets where villas of different sizes are the protagonists. Typically, the villas in El Rosario tend to be medium-sized homes located on plots that are sloped enough to ensure spectacular views of the coastal plain, the Mediterranean Sea, the golf courses and even the mountain ranges just behind.

Among the villas there is a wide variety of sizes, features, architectural styles and orientations, which also include newly renovated homes with the latest style and interiors, and older properties that offer restoration and investment possibilities.

El Rosario has a small shopping center that includes a Supersol supermarket, a German bakery and a coffee shop, as well as several smaller stores, cafes and charming restaurants right on the doorstep. In the village there are also banks, pharmacies. In addition, El Rosario is home to the Royal Tennis Club of Marbella which, with its first-class restaurant, club, courts and classes is among the best of its kind on the Costa del Sol.

The area, however, is also home to a good selection of townhouses and apartments, most of which are located in magnificent urbanizations with subtropical gardens and large swimming pools on the beach side of Las Chapas. It is to the west of Las Chapas beach where the dunes of Real de Zaragoza are located, also part of the Ecological Reserve Dunas de Marbella, which have several beach bars and where the future construction of the W Hotel is planned.

Elviria: The Heart of Marbella East

Elviria, located east of Las Chapas, is the heart of Marbella East. The town of Platero houses the Tenencia de Alcaldía, the seat of the municipal government. Elviria forms a labyrinth of avenues and well-kept streets that house sumptuous villas and townhouses, as well as apartment complexes.

Although it does not have a definitive urban center, Elviria has a pleasant and tranquil atmosphere, which is added to by the different nationalities that call it home. It has all kinds of gastronomic offerings and services for residents and all in a very international atmosphere.

Below the A-7 highway there is a maze of scattered residential areas that all lead to the beaches of La Vibora and Las Cañas. In addition to several beach bars, the Nikki Beach Club, just south of the Don Carlos Leisure Resort, stands out above all. If you like to party, to be seen, to have fun, this is the place.

Regarding family leisure, one of the places you can't miss is Aventura Amazonia, the largest adventure park in Andalusia, where you can spend a fun afternoon between zip lines, adventure games and outdoor sports. It is a park recommended for children from 4 years old, so you can enjoy it as a family. There are different circuits, adapted to different age groups.

La Mairena: The Costa del Sol's Scenic Viewpoint

Just above Elviria, following the Avenida España all the time we change landscape radically. We cross several urbanizations and the spectacular Santa Maria Golf. We leave behind the residential areas and villas and we enter a landscape of wooded hills where the cork oaks are the protagonists. In just 10 minutes we are located in the spectacular viewpoint that is the area of La Mairena. 

In 1987, La Mairena was born. Developed by the Massoud family, who have dedicated themselves to keeping this exclusive and beautiful residence immaculately maintained to the highest standards. They have committed to building on only 5% of the land, to ensure large green areas with protected cork oak and pine trees accompanying this magnificent hillside retreat. The stunning Andalusian architecture blends perfectly with the facades and colors of the houses and the surrounding mountains bring us closer to the Mediterranean Sea. 

In addition to the original Mairena, next to which are located two private schools, ECOS and the Deutche Schule Malaga, the gentle wooded hills have several villas and small scattered residential areas, where the most valued is the tranquility and the prodigious views to the sea that are enjoyed. La Mairena is rest away from the rest of the world. There are hardly any restaurants or private businesses. 

A sign of the exclusivity of this area is that the singer Julio Iglesias has his spectacular mansion in La Mairena.  Called "Cuatro Lunas", it sits on an area of no less than 450 hectares full of orchards and vast gardens. This vast estate has plenty of space for all kinds of services and amenities: a tennis court, two heliports, three swimming pools and several houses apart from the main house, all of which are luxurious and have their own dining and relaxation areas (the Huerta house has five bedrooms and a master suite). The grounds also feature a forest and are crisscrossed by several private trails (totaling 4 miles of trails).

Cabopino: Nature and Luxury at Its Charming Port

Cabopino beach is located next to the Cabopino Marina which is accessed by a road that is divided into two parts. On the one hand, there is the area that goes from the pier towards the port and has various facilities and restaurants. And the other, from the pier to the west, towards Marbella, has an extension of about three kilometers long and is part of the Natural Monument Dunas de Artola. This is a monument in which you can appreciate three types of dunes. On the beachfront are the mobile dunes that are easy to distinguish by their curls.

Further inland, as if forming a barrier parallel to the coast, are the inactive mobile dunes that are already covered with vegetation. And further out are the immobile fossil dunes, on top of which a dense pine forest is installed. Also, in the surroundings of the beach is the Tower of the Thieves, which is a military and defensive construction declared of Cultural Interest.

Its origin seems to date back to Roman times, although it was later rebuilt by Arabs and Christians to defend the coast from pirates. From this watchtower was exercised the surveillance of the eastern part of the inlet of Marbella, as it was built on a sandy point near the border of the municipality of Marbella with that of Mijas.

The small port of Cabopino The Cabopino Marina, a few kilometers from Marbella, is located in a natural environment of unique beauty, surrounded by pine forests and a spectacular beach of dunes, the Artola Dunes, a protected natural area declared a Natural Monument. The nearby Cabopino beach has a naturist beach area. In 1976, when tourism was already a reality and the nautical world had made a big hole in the municipality.

Three ports were already part of the landscape of the Marbella coastline (fishing, marina and of course, the jewel in the crown, Puerto Banus, a benchmark of luxury and leisure on the Costa del Sol). But there is still one more port to be built: Cabopino. It would be a smaller port, with 169 moorings for boats between 6 and 15 meters in length, aimed at a medium-high purchasing power and reluctant to the bustle, the spotlights and glossy magazines.

The place chosen for its construction would be far from the city, 12 kms from Marbella, to be a place tucked among pine trees where you could enjoy the beach, a good gastronomy and take a boat ride without hustle and bustle and in an international atmosphere.

Within the port of Cabopino you can choose from a select gastronomic offer. TEO Restaurant is a good option to taste, in a privileged and charming location, its great Mediterranean cuisine. Meat, fish and delicious salads, fabulous desserts, reasonable prices and family atmosphere.

If you like authentic Spanish and homemade food you should opt for Taberna Los Javieres, 100% homemade food made with love and perfect execution. Typical Spanish cuisine and especially of Asturian origin with an excellent gastronomic fusion of northern and southern Spain, tapas, rations and exceptional spoon dishes, such as cachopo with cabrales sauce, lamb shoulder super tender and tasty, croquettes, oxtail and fried squid, etc.

Fleur de Sel, is another international restaurant with Belgian roots that integrates very high quality ingredients into its delicious dishes. Husband and wife run this amazing restaurant and assure that "Fleur de Sel is a place where you can enjoy good food and drink all day long. We believe that every dish deserves attention. Our cuisine is pure and refined, like Fleur de Sel salt, the tastiest and most precious in the world. Our Belgian roots are reflected in our menu. We serve Belgian dishes ranging from exquisite fish to prime steak, we have something for everyone."

Marbella East is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities for all ages and interests. From its world-class golf courses to scenic cycling routes and stunning beaches, the area provides countless opportunities for relaxation and adventure.

• Golf: Marbella East is renowned for its excellent golf courses. Rio Real Golf Club, designed by Javier Arana, features an 18-hole Par 72 course set along the Río Real River, often considered one of Spain’s finest. Santa Clara Golf Club offers a challenging 18-hole Par 71 course, hosting numerous tournaments throughout the year. For a more challenging experience, Marbella Golf and Country Club provides a 6,608-yard course designed by Jay Morrish and Tom Weiskopf. For beginners or those seeking a relaxed round, Greenlife Golf Club offers a 9-hole par 3 course, perfect for newcomers to the game.
• Cycling: Marbella East’s scenic roads and dedicated bike paths make it an ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a leisurely coastal ride or a more adventurous mountain biking experience, there are plenty of routes to explore, including trails that weave through natural parks and rolling hills.
• Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is another popular way to experience the stunning landscapes of Marbella East. Several equestrian centers offer guided tours through olive groves, along the coastline, or into the hills, giving riders the chance to immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty.
• Tennis: Marbella East is home to excellent tennis facilities, including Marbella Tennis Club and The Tennis Club Marbella, where visitors can play on high-quality courts or take lessons from professional coaches. With its beautiful Mediterranean setting, the region offers an exceptional tennis experience for players of all levels.
• Beaches and Watersports: The coastline of Marbella East is dotted with pristine beaches, including Cabopino and Elviria, which are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the Mediterranean climate. For those seeking adventure, the area is also a hub for watersports, including jet skiing, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and more. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or someone looking to relax by the sea, Marbella East’s beaches cater to all preferences.
• Hiking and Nature Trails: For nature lovers, Marbella East offers stunning hiking trails that provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty. The area features scenic paths that wind through lush landscapes, with highlights such as the panoramic viewpoint at La Mairena. These trails with breathtaking views are perfect for those who want to explore the area's flora, fauna, and dramatic landscapes while staying active.

Whether you're an avid adventurer, a family seeking fun activities, or simply someone looking to relax, Marbella East offers an abundance of outdoor pursuits to suit all ages and preferences. From golf and cycling to horseback riding, tennis, and watersports, the region caters to everyone. Many of these activities are also family-friendly—ensuring that visitors of all ages can enjoy the natural beauty of Marbella East together.

Marbella East is a culinary paradise where beach bars, beach clubs, and restaurants all come together to create an unforgettable experience. From laid-back beach bars serving fresh seafood to elegant beach clubs offering a luxurious escape, this area has something for every taste.

Classic Beach Bars

The region’s iconic beach bars are perfect for a relaxed, authentic Mediterranean experience. Enjoy the warm sun, fresh sea breeze, and delicious seafood in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Marbella East's 11 kilometers of coastline are dotted with beachfront spots where you can indulge in espetos (grilled sardines) and fresh fish, all while taking in the stunning views.

• Las Mimosas, Las Flores, and Hippopotamus Beach exemplify the essence of traditional beach bars. These laid-back spots offer freshly caught seafood, Mediterranean dishes, and a welcoming vibe that's perfect for a day spent with family or friends by the sea.

Beach Clubs

For those looking to elevate their beach experience, Marbella East boasts several luxurious beach clubs, offering more than just a place to relax. These venues provide a combination of fine dining, live entertainment, and a chic, upscale atmosphere.

• Nikki Beach, famous for its extravagant theme parties and lively atmosphere, delivers luxury alongside delicious international cuisine and beachside fun.
• Trocadero Arena offers a refined Mediterranean dining experience with its sophisticated décor and Asian-influenced dishes, making it a perfect place for those looking to indulge by the sea.
• La Plage Casanis blends rustic charm with a stylish beach club vibe, known for its wood-fired grill and chic cocktail offerings.
• La Cabane Marbella, one of the most iconic beach clubs in the area, offers a luxurious fusion of world-class dining, entertainment, and design, all while overlooking the beautiful coastline.

Restaurants

Restaurants in Marbella East is as varied and vibrant as its beach clubs and bars. Whether you're looking for high-end dining or a cozy spot for a casual meal, there’s something for every preference.

• Restaurante El Lago provides an exceptional fine dining experience with a focus on Andalusian cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients and offering stunning lake views.
• The Playwright offers a sensory journey with its award-winning interior design and unique cocktail menu, creating a distinctive dining experience.
• Brass Marbella combines delicious international cuisine with live music, offering a vibrant atmosphere that brings together food, culture, and entertainment.
• Aguavientowaterwind, a mobile vegan food truck, brings sustainable, plant-based dishes to different spots around Marbella East, promoting a healthy, eco-friendly dining option.
• Marietta and Tagus are perfect for family dining, offering Mediterranean and local specialties in relaxed, comfortable settings.

Together, these beach bars, beach clubs, and restaurants form a dynamic gastronomic scene that reflects Marbella East’s blend of natural beauty, relaxed elegance, and culinary excellence. Whether you're enjoying a chilled beachside meal, unwinding at a stylish beach club, or dancing the night away at one of the area’s exclusive nightlife venues, Marbella East has everything you need to enjoy a memorable experience.

Marbella East is home to a variety of luxurious hotels, each offering unique experiences and top-tier amenities. Here’s a quick overview of some of the finest properties in the area:

Don Carlos Leisure Resort

A classic on the Costa del Sol, Don Carlos Leisure Resort blends Mediterranean elegance with modern luxury. The resort features a renovated beach club serving Mediterranean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and an exclusive atmosphere. The five-star The Oasis Wellness & Spa, with 35 rooms and a 1,600-square-meter wellness area, offers relaxation at its finest.

Incosol

Once the only medicalized hotel in southern Europe, Incosol is undergoing a major refurbishment and will reopen as a luxurious health and wellness resort in 2025. The 160-room property, located in the scenic Río Real area, will offer state-of-the-art medical facilities alongside its five-star hotel accommodations.

Kimpton Los Monteros

A tribute to Marbella’s glamorous past, Kimpton Los Monteros is a modern luxury hotel that recalls the golden age of the 1970s. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at Jara Restaurant and unwind at the exclusive Beach Club La Cabane by Dolce & Gabbana, located just steps from the beach.

Four Seasons

Currently under development, the new Four Seasons hotel in Río Real promises to bring world-class luxury to Marbella East. This five-star hotel, set to be completed with an investment of over 600 million euros, will feature a collection of villas and exceptional amenities, offering unparalleled luxury and service.

W Marbella

A super-luxury hotel currently under construction in the Elviria area, W Marbella will bring modern sophistication and vibrant energy to Marbella East. The hotel will feature 200 rooms, including suites and an Extreme Wow Suite, as well as two swimming pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and the dynamic W Residences offering 100 exclusive apartments and villas.

These hotels represent the epitome of luxury and relaxation in Marbella East, each providing a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you're seeking a historical setting, cutting-edge design, or world-class wellness, there's something for everyone in this stunning part of the Costa del Sol.

Marbella East is home to a variety of outstanding educational institutions and top-notch healthcare facilities, making it an ideal destination for families seeking quality living. From international schools offering diverse curricula to comprehensive healthcare services, the region provides everything needed to support both academic and personal well-being.

German School

Founded in 1898 and reopened in 1966, the German School of Malaga provides a unique intercultural experience. Students are immersed in German, Spanish, English, and French cultures, fostering multilingualism and global citizenship. The school benefits from strong support from the German State, allowing it to offer excellent infrastructure and maintain low student-to-teacher ratios. It is recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Education.

English International College

One of the oldest schools in the area, English International College offers a British curriculum and is known for its academic excellence. Students consistently graduate to prestigious universities worldwide, with an emphasis on nurturing talents in both academics and extracurricular activities. The school prides itself on encouraging curiosity, independence, and respect among its students.

Alboran School

This private institution offers education from ages 3 to 18 and is well-regarded nationally. Known for its personalized approach and strong ties to the community, Alboran School caters to a diverse range of students and is committed to the academic and personal development of each child.

Costa del Sol University Hospital

The Costa del Sol University Hospital, located in Marbella East, is a leading medical facility in the region. Opened in 1993, it provides comprehensive care in areas such as internal medicine, cardiology, pediatrics, oncology, and intensive care. As part of the Andalusian Public Health System, it ensures high-quality healthcare services to both locals and visitors.

All along the Costa del Sol, from Sotogrande to Malaga city, the situation of the real estate market is experiencing an incredible growth. Prices continue to rise for both apartments in residential areas and villas. The offer of properties of these two typologies is varied and adapts to the tastes of an international clientele.

The real estate market in Marbella East continues to experience remarkable growth, with property prices steadily increasing across both residential areas and exclusive villas. The demand for homes in this region is driven by a diverse international clientele, seeking high-quality properties in an enviable Mediterranean location.

Several new residential projects in Marbella East are providing exceptional living options, with many properties being purchased off-plan due to their high demand and luxurious offerings. Notable developments include:

• Estrella del Mar Villas Marbella (Elviria): This development features 88 townhouses with three and four-bedroom apartments. Each unit includes a private garden, covered terrace, pergola, and two private parking spaces. Prices range from €880,000 to €1,500,000, with completion scheduled for September 2025.
• Santa Clara Homes (Los Monteros): Offering 104 units, this under-construction development includes spacious three and four-bedroom homes ranging from 149 m² to 265 m². Prices range from €1,025,000 to €1,395,000, with 24 units still available.
• Dunique (Beachfront): Located near the stunning dunes of Barronal de la Morena, Dunique offers 96 luxury apartments and semi-detached houses. With sizes from 206 m² to 490 m², each property comes with private pools, garages, elevators, underfloor heating, and high-end finishes. Prices range from €2.4 million to €4.87 million, with 15 homes still available.

Marbella East is also renowned for its exclusive villas, offering expansive living spaces and premium locations. Villas in this area typically range from €3 million to €12 million, including:

• A five-bedroom villa in Los Monteros, with a constructed area of 329 m² on a 1,300 m² plot, priced at €5 million.
• A grand villa in La Mairena, boasting 1,300 m² of living space on a 60,000 m² plot, available for €12 million.
• A beachfront villa in Rio Real, featuring 420 m² of living space on a 4,250 m² plot, listed at €8 million.

Marbella East remains one of the most desirable areas on the Costa del Sol, offering a blend of luxury living, natural beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a second home, investment property, or a permanent residence, this region offers diverse options for every lifestyle.

With its top-rated schools, healthcare facilities, and a booming real estate market, Marbella East is ideal for families, retirees, and professionals. The area’s stunning beaches, recreational activities, and vibrant community add to its appeal, making it a standout destination for those seeking the best of coastal living.

Key Takeaways:

• It's an choice for those seeking a vibrant, high-quality lifestyle on the Costa del Sol.
• Luxury living in Marbella East is combined with natural beauty and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
• The area offers excellent schools, healthcare, and a growing real estate market.
• From golf to beaches and watersports, there's something for everyone.