Teba Siles | · 10 min. read
Nestled just 3.7 miles from the cosmopolitan Marbella, Puerto Banús is not just a destination—it’s a lifestyle reserved for the elite. Renowned for its luxurious yachts, high-end automobiles, designer boutiques that stay open till midnight, and impressive multi-million dollar estates, Puerto Banús stands as a beacon of luxury on Spain’s Costa del Sol.
Named after José Banús, a visionary developer, this prestigious marina has been declared a National Tourist Interest Center and is adorned with the Gold Medal for Tourist Merit. It has been a magnet for millionaires, celebrities, global tourists, and those intrigued by its splendor for nearly five decades. Established in 1970, Puerto Banús forms a crucial vertex of the illustrious ‘Golden Triangle’ which encompasses the enchanting towns of Marbella, Estepona, and Benahavís— not to mention its pivotal role in the real estate heaven known as Marbella’s Golden Mile.
Puerto Banús is more than its glitzy facade; it blends traditional Andalusian charm and a vibrant social scene, making it a unique spot where nightlife sparkles as brightly as the Mediterranean sun. Annually, it draws over four million visitors captivated by its allure, many of whom are eager investors and luxury home seekers from across the globe.
Let The Agency Marbella – The Belleside Team guide you through everything you need to know about this luxurious Mediterranean port. As the fifth most expensive marina in Europe, Puerto Banús offers a singular mix of traditional Spanish aesthetics and a bustling, glamorous lifestyle. Discover why this exclusive haven is not just a place to visit but to live and invest.
Where is Puerto Banus?
Puerto Banús is nestled in southern Spain, part of the glamorous Marbella within the Costa del Sol region. It is located to the southwest of Marbella’s center and conveniently between the city and San Pedro de Alcántara. This prime location is accessible by a scenic walk along the Paseo Marítimo boardwalk from these nearby areas. It’s approximately a 40-minute drive from Málaga Airport, with efficient access via the A-7 motorway. Its proximity to major roads makes exploring other Marbella attractions, such as the Golden Mile and Marbella Old Town, very convenient.
Puerto Banus history
Puerto Banús was founded by the visionary property developer José Banús, who transformed a quaint fishing village into a luxurious Marbella marina. Officially opened in 1970, the launch was celebrated grandly, attended by celebrities and royalty like the Aga Khan and Monaco’s Prince Rainier and Princess Grace, with entertainment by Julio Iglesias. Initially intended to feature high-rise buildings, Banús opted for a more charming Mediterranean village to attract the world’s millionaires and celebrities. Since the 1970s, Puerto Banús has expanded significantly, attracting over 5 million visitors annually due to its famed reputation and strategic marketing. Today, the area boasts beautiful Andalusian architecture and many upscale shops, restaurants, and bars, maintaining its status as a premier destination for luxury tourism on the Costa del Sol.
What kind of properties are in Puerto Banus?
Puerto Banús is synonymous with luxury, hosting an array of high-end properties, predominantly modern apartments, and lavish penthouses near its renowned marina. The area showcases exclusive apartment complexes such as Playas del Duque and Laguna de Banús, which offer breathtaking sea views, lush gardens, and outstanding amenities, including large swimming pools, spas, and gyms. While space constraints mean few villas within Puerto Banús, many stunning villas are just a short drive away in nearby Nueva Andalucía. For those seeking waterfront living, beautifully renovated apartments along the marina offer a luxurious lifestyle with features like heated pools, private security, and direct beach access, making Puerto Banús a highly coveted place to live or invest.
The zones within Puerto Banús
The main thoroughfare of Puerto Banús is Avenida de Julio Iglesias. However, other celebrities like Antonio Banderas and Lola Flores also have their tributes here, with a plaza and avenue named after each, respectively. Literary figures like José Saramago, Mario Vargas Llosa, and businessman Ramón Areces have streets named in their honor in this upscale enclave, home to some of the Costa del Sol’s priciest real estate.
Puerto Banús is a vast residential area, and like other residential zones in Spain, it comprises various distinct regions, each offering a unique blend of lifestyles, locations, properties, and views. The best spot is in the marina for those wanting to be at the heart of the residential area, close to beaches, shops, restaurants, and other amenities. You’ll find luxury apartments and exclusive complexes near everything you need here. These complexes are private oases featuring enormous gardens and incredible homes with stunning sea views.
Areas like Marina Banús, Terrazas de Banús, and Playas del Duque, along with the Puerto Deportivo mentioned above, offer additional luxuries such as private parking, swimming pools, gyms, private spas, concierge services, and much more.
Alternatively, for those looking to be close to the action but slightly removed from the most private strips, living west of Puerto Banús is an excellent choice. This area hosts significant residential complexes like Jardines de Ventura del Mar, El Embrujo Playa, and Las Mimosas, which feature some of the most exclusive penthouses available in Puerto Banús.
This quieter, more private zone is where you’ll find the few villas in Puerto Banús and luxury apartments in complexes such as Alcazaba and Dama de Noche. Overall, Puerto Banús stands out as one of the best places to live in Marbella for its dynamism, privacy, and exclusivity.
What is the cost of property in Puerto Banus?
Property prices in Puerto Banús reflect its status as a premium luxury destination, with costs varying significantly based on each property’s type and specific location. Typically, the entry price for condos in Puerto Banús starts at approximately $440,000. However, options at this starting price point are somewhat limited. More commonly, condo prices range from $550,000 to several million dollars. For example, condos in the esteemed Los Granados development begin at around $3.25 million, with duplex penthouses climbing to about $5.5 million. In the sought-after Playas del Duque area, three-bedroom condos start at $910,000, with prices reaching upwards of $2.2 million. Meanwhile, villas near Puerto Banús begin at around $3.85 million, with prime beachfront villas potentially costing as much as $33 million, depending on their precise location and distinctive features.
Best of Puerto Banús: entertainment & activities
Puerto Banús is not just a luxury marina; it’s a vibrant hub of entertainment and leisure activities that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or someone who enjoys vibrant nightlife, Puerto Banús has something special for you. Explore what this luxurious destination offers, from world-class gastronomy and electrifying nightlife to exhilarating outdoor activities and water sports.
Gastronomy in Puerto Banús
Puerto Banús is a culinary paradise, offering a dazzling array of dining options that cater to every palate and ensure every meal is an adventure. Along the marina, you’ll find iconic eateries like the Picasso restaurant, which has been serving classic Italian dishes since 1982, and Los Bandidos, known for its exquisite Mediterranean cuisine for over 30 years.
For those who prefer dining with a view, beachfront restaurants called “chiringuitos,” like Aurora Beach and Camuri, serve fresh seafood right on the sand. The area also boasts a variety of international cuisines, from authentic Spanish seafood to Lebanese, Italian, and Indian delights. Meat enthusiasts will savor the Argentinean grills at El Gaucho and Tango. At the same time, families might prefer the laid-back atmosphere at Jack’s Smokehouse for a barbecue or Picasso for a casual pizza night.
Just a short stroll from the marina, innovative restaurants like Breathe and La Sala offer fresh, healthy food with sustainable practices and nights filled with live music, solidifying Puerto Banús as a diverse culinary hub.
Nightlife in Puerto Banús
When the sun sets, Puerto Banús’s nightlife comes alive. From glamorous beach clubs like Plaza Beach and Ocean Club to buzzing bars and nightclubs, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy the night. Start your evening at Sinatras, a favorite spot on the marina front, or enjoy unique pirate ship décor and large cocktails at Astral Bar.
Dance the night away at Dreamers, renowned for its vibrant electronic music scene and top DJs, or experience the sophisticated atmosphere at Olivia Valere, a superclub known for its dining and dancing options. The area around the harbor features various music styles, from the laid-back vibes at Funky Buddha to the upscale cocktail experience at Astrals. For those looking for breathtaking views with their drinks, the rooftop at the Benabola Hotel offers an exclusive setting. Take advantage of a visit to Pangea, located in the harbor, to taste Marbella’s nightlife.
Outdoor activities and water sports in Puerto Banús
Puerto Banús is a prime destination for lovers of the sea and outdoor activities. Rent a luxurious yacht with a captain to explore the Mediterranean, or take the helm of your motorboat for a more personal adventure. Thrill-seekers can enjoy jet ski rentals, racing across the waves for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
The FlyBlue ferry provides a scenic route between Puerto Banús and Marbella Center’s Port, perfect for those enjoying the sea breeze and picturesque coastal views. The marina’s beaches offer everything from stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaks to banana boats and electric surfboards. Don’t miss the opportunity to go sport fishing or go on a dolphin expedition, ensuring a memorable experience.
The beaches also feature inviting bars and sunbeds, ideal for a relaxing day in the sun or an action-packed beach day. During the summer, the main square hosts a lively market where you can shop for unique items at various pop-up stalls. The square also houses an arcade open year-round, entertaining air hockey, car racing, and mini bowling, making Puerto Banús an exceptional place for relaxation and adventure.
Shopping in Puerto Banus
Puerto Banús is a shopping paradise famous for its impressive selection of high-end boutiques and designer stores. The marina area is lined with prestigious brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Hermes, Versace, Gucci, Dior, and Louis Vuitton, offering the latest luxury fashion. Men’s fashion is equally well-catered for stores such as Tom Ford, Salvatore Ferragamo, and DSquared.
Beyond fashion, the nearby El Corte Inglés, one of Spain’s top-performing department stores, offers a wide range of products, from super-brands to a luxury food emporium on its upper floors. The marina also hosts popular Inditex brands like Zara and Massimo Dutti and other retail options such as H&M and various independent boutiques. Whether you’re after high-end fashion or everyday chic, Puerto Banús offers a shopping experience that’s both luxurious and exciting.