If you want to experience authentic Spain with guaranteed sunshine, Estepona is worth considering. Located on the western edge of the Costa del Sol, this lovely Andalusian town combines traditional whitewashed streets with a laid back seaside atmosphere. Often overlooked in favour of the flashier Marbella, Estepona provides a more relaxed experience. It is stylish yet unpretentious, lively but distinctly Spanish.
Here is your complete guide to the best things to do in Estepona.
Wander the Old Town
One of the very best things to do in Estepona is simply explore the old town. This is not a token historic quarter created for tourists. It is a living, breathing neighbourhood filled with locals.
Cobbled streets between whitewashed houses decorated with brightly coloured flower pots. Each street has its own colour theme, from cobalt blue to sunshine yellow. Look up and you will see wrought iron balconies draped with geraniums.
It is peaceful in the mornings and gently buzzing in the evenings when residents step out for a paseo before dinner.
Relax on Estepona’s Beaches
Estepona boasts more than 20 kilometres of coastline, making beach time unavoidable.
Playa del Cristo is particularly popular thanks to its sheltered bay and calm waters. It is ideal for families or anyone who prefers a quieter setting. Along the main promenade, you will find wide sandy stretches perfect for long walks at sunset.
Unlike some Costa del Sol resorts, the atmosphere here is relaxed rather than rowdy. Expect beach bars serving grilled sardines, couples spending time together over drinks and locals enjoying the sea after work.
Discover the Ruta de Murales
A surprising highlight among the top things to do in Estepona is exploring its open air mural trail. Large scale artworks decorate apartment blocks across town, transforming ordinary streets into a vibrant gallery.
Pick up a map from the tourist office and make a morning of it. The murals range from playful to deeply symbolic, and they add a modern edge to an otherwise traditional town.
Eat Your Way Through Estepona
No Estepona travel guide would be complete without mentioning the food.
Seafood is central to local cuisine. Sardines cooked over open flames, known as espetos, are a regional classic. You will also find calamari, prawns and hearty seafood stews on most menus.
Head into the old town in the evening for tapas. Order a glass of chilled white wine and share small plates as they arrive. Dining here is unhurried and sociable, exactly as it should be in southern Spain.
Explore the Sierra Bermeja
For a change of pace, venture inland to the Sierra Bermeja mountains. The reddish peaks form a dramatic backdrop to Estepona and offer excellent walking routes.
On clear days you can see across the Mediterranean towards North Africa. It is a reminder that while Estepona is known for its beaches, nature is just as much a part of its appeal.
Why Visit Estepona?
If you are weighing up where to stay on the Costa del Sol, Estepona strikes a fine balance. It has reliable sunshine, good restaurants and beautiful beaches, yet it retains its Andalusian identity.
For British travellers in particular, it feels accessible without being overly anglicised. English is widely spoken, but Spanish traditions remain strong.
Whether you come for a long weekend or a longer escape, the best things to do in Estepona revolve around simple pleasures. Wandering flower lined streets, eating fresh seafood and watching the light fade over the mountains. Sometimes that is more than enough.
Best Time to Visit Estepona
Estepona enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year.
Spring and autumn are ideal if you prefer warm weather without peak summer crowds. July and August are hottest and busiest, though still less intense than some neighbouring resorts.
How to Get to Estepona
The nearest airport is Malaga Airport, approximately one hour away by car.
You can hire a car, arrange a transfer or take a bus connection from Malaga. Having a car is useful if you plan to explore more of the Costa del Sol or head inland to traditional white villages.
Is Estepona Worth Visiting?
In short, yes.
If you are looking for authentic Andalusian character, reliable sunshine and excellent food without the high gloss feel of larger resorts, Estepona delivers.
It feels Spanish first and resort second, which is increasingly rare along the Costa del Sol.
For travellers who want beaches, culture and a slower pace of life, the best things to do in Estepona are refreshingly simple. Wander the Old Town, eat fresh seafood, watch the light fade over the mountains and allow yourself to slow down.
And sometimes, that is exactly what a holiday should be about.
For more information check out the tourist information website.
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