Marbella is considered by many to be the premier golf resort in Europe. With 19 golf courses within 26km this is the ultimate golf experience in Southern Spain.
In this article we want to share with you the Ultimate guide to golf in Marbella and put together for you an amazing itinerary.
There are golf resorts and there are golf resorts. In many countries you drive from the airport, head out to your golf resort, drive through the gate and stay on the property for the duration of your stay enjoying their on site courses and dining in their on site restaurants. If you want to see more of the area you drive off the resort and head into the nearest town to explore.
Golf on the Costa del Sol and particularly Marbella things are different. Marbella is the resort! You choose the type of accommodation that suits your taste and budget, our suggestions are below, and then all of the delights that Marbella has to offer are right on your doorstep.
The choice of gastro delights, glitzy nightlife or understated culture is endless. Marbella is a town that is steeped in history and has been a prominent social hub for travellers since the 12th century.
With 19 golf courses within its boundaries this is the ultimate golfing destination for those that love golf and love life.
In this article we have highlighted 15 golf courses in Marbella that we have played and that we know you will love!
Similarly we have featured a range of hotels and apartment accommodation that are very well known for catering to golf tourists and have solid gold reputations.
There are close to 700 restaurants and bars in Marbella. It is fantastic! We have featured 3 that we consider to be truly remarkable.
Cabopino Golf Club
The Course:
Yellow Tees 5200m Par 71
Red Tees 4640m Par 71
Designer: Juan Ligues Creus
Opened:2001
18 Holes
Facilities
Driving Range
Pro Shop
Club Fitter
Club Hire
Buggy Hire
Clubhouse
Bar
Restaurant
On-Course refreshments
Changing Rooms
Showers
Overview
Located close to Puerto Cabopino, a marina and beach resort, this golf course is extremely pretty.
Visiting players comment on its high degree of maintenance and outstanding condition. Whilst narrow in places Cabopino Golf offers a great day of golf for all levels of ability and experience. Priced between 60 and 90 euros this is great value too!
Price Range: From 60 Euros – 90 Euros.
Santa Maria
The Course:
White Tees 6015m
Yellow Tees 5766m
Red Tees 5084m
Designer – Antonio Garcia Garrido
Opened – 1996
18 Holes
Ideally situated in the urbanisation of Elviria. Santa Maria Golf is just a few hundred metres from the beaches of Marbella. Malaga airport is only 35 minutes away by car, Marbella and Puerto Banus just a few minutes drive. A perfect golf course from which to enjoy the attractions that Marbella has to offer.
Facilities
Putting Green
Warm-up nets
Clubhouse
Changing Rooms
Lockers
Showers
Restaurant
Snacks
On Course Refreshments
Fully stocked Pro Shop
Overview
Santa Maria Golf is always in great condition. The view from the clubhouse terrace of the lush green rolling fairways is sure to get your golfing juices flowing and put you in the right frame of mind for a great day.
Wide fairways, generous greens and a thoughtful layout make this 6000m Santa Maria Golf Course an excellent experience for holiday golf. Suitable for players of all skill levels, Santa Maria is a comfortable walk with only two steep fairways.
Sanat Maria Golf will give you a “feel good” experience and will draw you back again and again!
John and I wrote a playing review of Santa Maria recently, it will give all you need to know about this course before playing it and will give you a good idea of how the course will play.
Price Range: From 55 euros to 110 Euros
Rio Real
The Course:
Opened: 1965
Designer: Javier Arana
18 holes Par 72
Just a 30 minute drive from Malaga airport Rio Real Golf is 5 minutes from Marbella, 20 minutes from Fuengirola and 40 minutes from Sotogrande.
Facilities
Driving range
Putting green
Chipping green
Pro shop
Buggies are included with the green fee
Clubhouse
Bar
Restaurant
Snack menu
A la Carte menu
Group functions
Terrace
Overview
Rio Real Golf has been a preferred golf course for those enjoying golf in Marbella since 1965. Rio Real Golf is often the pinnacle of the trip for Marbella’s visiting golfers. The wide tree lined fairways are always in perfect condition and the mature grounds with beautiful scenery make this a very special place. JW and I thoroughly enjoyed the course as you will see from our playing review and guide.
The beauty of Rio Real Golf and why so many of Marbella’s golfing aficionados choose to play here is that the golf course is not designed to embarass you if you hit a bad shot. It might give you a slap on the wrist but it will not ruin your day! This characteristic means that Rio Real Golf is enjoyable for golfers of all standards.
Price range: dynamic pricing
Santa Clara
The Course:
White Tees 5863m
Yellow Tees 5511m
Blue Tees 5189m
Red Tees 4765m
Designer: Enrique Canales Busquets
Opened: 2002
18 Holes
Santa Clara Golf is a few hundred meters from the glamour and bustle of downtown Marbella. Thirty minutes from Malaga airport, 60 minutes from Gibraltar. Santa Clara Golf enjoys the perfect location for Marbella based golfers.
Facilities
Clubhouse
Golf Academy
Lockers
Changing Rooms
Showers
Bar
Restaurant
Bar Snacks
On Course Drinks
Driving Range
Practise Ground
Overview
Santa Clara Golf Club in Marbella aims to provide visitors an amazing golfing experience. They want you to have fun. Their reputation for friendly hospitality is matchless. The focus of the Santa Clara team is wider than just golf; they aim to make sure you enjoy every moment of your time at Santa Clara.
The golf course is extremely pretty with beautiful Andaluz flora. A kind golf course, gentle in nature Santa Clara is enchanting and will make all that play here feel great about golf!
I personally was blown away by the cheerful and positive ambience around the clubhouse and absolutely smitten by how the golf course plays as you will see from our playing review.
Santa Clara is all about having fun irrespective of how great or frustrating your golf is! Thanks to the amazing hospitality team and delightful golf course fun is exactly what you will have!
Price range: From 66 Euros in low season
Marbella Golf and Country Club
The Course
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr
Opened in 1994
White Tees 5867m Par 72
Yellow Tees 5551m Par 72
Blue Tees 5066m Pr 72
Red Tees 4687m Par 72
In the heart of the Marbella Golf valley, Marbella Golf and Country Club is perfectly located close to the night life, beaches and gastronomy of Marbella. Malaga airport is 35 minutes driving time whilst Gibraltar is 50 minutes.
Facilities
Clubhouse
Drinks and dining terrace
Restaurant
Snack menu
A la carte menu
Pro Shop
On Course Refreshments
Lockers
Showers
Driving Range
Short Game Practise Area
Golf Academy
Tennis Club
Overview
Over the years I have been a regular visitor to the Marbella Golf and Country Club. It is maturing beautifully. I have never seen the course looking or playing better than it does right now. The greens are fast and smooth. The fairways and tee boxes are superb paying surfaces and look fantastic.
This is a tough golf course. The view from each tee box suggests that this is a narrow twisting layout, In fact the fairways are more than generous. Not every hole requires a blast with the big dog, some thought and strategy is required. The real challenge of this course comes after the tee shots. The greens are small and difficult to hit. The majority of the greens are elevated with short but treacherously sticky rough surrounding them. Copious bunkers and water complete the defences.
We were lucky enough to play here recently, we wrote a playing guide to the course which will give you an idea of what it is like to be here and also we played a challenge match against a couple of professionals. The match report gives a great insight on how to build a winning strategy around this tough course.
We had an excellent day here, from the greetings afforded us in the pro shop and clubhouse, to the excellent practise facilities and of this lovely Trent Jones Golf course. Put Marbella Golf and Country Club on your list!
Price Range: From 60 Euros – 110 Euros
La Quinta
The Courses
Opened:1989
Course A, San Pedro, Par 35, 2818 metres
Designer: Manuel Pinero
Course B, Ronda, Par 35, 2649 metres
Designer: Manuel Pinero
Course C, Guadaiza, Par 36, 3057 metres
Designer: Manuel Pinero
The La Quinta Golf Resort is perfectly situated to offer the best that the Costa del Sol has to offer. Ten minutes from the attractions of Marbella and Puerto Banus, 30 minutes from Malaga airport.
Facilities
Clubhouse
Restaurant
Bar
Pro Shop
Driving Range
Putting Green
Club Rentals
Lessons
Changing Rooms
Lockers
Showers
Overview
La Quinta Golf Resort is a very special place with terrific heritage in the Marbella Golf Valley. The beautiful Marbella hinterland makes a backdrop of outstanding beauty and serenity and the perfect location for the elegant golf course. La Quinta Golf is one of Marbella premium brands.
This is a wonderful golfing experience that will test and reward all abilities. Whether your handicap is long or if your drives seek out the horizon, La Quinta Golf will treat you both the same!
Our playing guide to each of the nine hole layouts gives you a feeling of how these golf courses play.
Playing review La Quinta A
Not a long golf course, but set up to reward golfers of all abilities for finding their most effective risk and reward strategy. These courses are best unpicked with good shot making rather than bombed into submission.
My particular favourites are the A and C loops. A more satisfying round of golf is hard to find!
Aloha Golf Club
The Course
Opened: 1975
Designer: Javier Arana
18 Holes
White Tees 6293m
Yellow Tees 6007m
Blue Tees 5650m
Red Tees 5254m
Facilities:
Pro Shop
Club Hire
Buggy Hire
Driving Range
Par 3 Course
Golf Academy
Clubhouse:
Restaurant
Terrace
Changing Room
Lockers
Showers
Overview:
Aloha Golf Club is one of the big names in golf on the Costa del Sol. known as one of the preferred golf courses for celebrities visiting Marbella Aloha also boasts a fine tournament history have played host to the European Tour Turespana in 1992, 1993, 1994 and 1999, the Open De Andalucia 2008, 2009 and 2012, and Ladies European Tour 2019 amongst a host of others.
This Is an exclusive members club which welcomes visitors. A truly exceptional day of golf awaits you.
Price Range: From 150 Euros – 225 Euros
Los Naranjos
The Course:
Opened: 1977
Designer: Robert Trent Jones
Black Tees 6532m
White Tees 6154m
Yellow Tees 5854m
Red Tees 5131m
18 Holes
Facilities:
Pro Shop
Club Hire
Buggy Hire
Driving Range
Golf Academy
Clubhouse:
Restaurant
Terrace
Changing Rooms
Lockers
Showers
Overview
The designer Robert Trent Jones set his man on the ground, Cabell Robinson, the challenge of creating a championship quality golf course at Los Naranjos. He was completely successful. Los Naranjos Golf ranks amongst the best golf courses along the Costa del Sol.
Home to the European Tour Spanish Championship in 1989 and the Ladies European Tour Marbella Open 1988 Los Naranjos Golf has serious credentials.
Visitors to Los Naranjos give tremendous feedback on the quality of the golf, its design and playability, some commenting that they prefer it to Valderrama! They also remark on how friendly the staff are and how wonderful the clubhouse and restaurant are.
Price Range: From 75 Euros -105 Euros
Las Brisas
The Course
Opened 1977
Designer: Robert Trent Jones
Re-Construction Kyle Phillips
65. 6464m 61.6115m 57.5665m
52. 5180m 48. 4797m
18 holes
Facilities:
Pro shop
Club Hire
Buggy Hire
Practise Ground
Clubhouse:
Restaurant
Terrace
Changing Rooms
Lockers
Showers
Overview
Another prestigious name on our ultimate guide to golf in Marbella. Another brilliant creation from Trent Jones and Cabell Robinson, Las Brisas is simply outstanding in every area. There are only a few tee times available each day to non-members. If you can get one – do so!
The layout and exemplary condition of the golf course at Las Brisas make for an incredible experience. The ambience and facilities of the clubhouse and restaurant only reinforce the understated charm and grace of Las Brisas Golf Club.
Price Range: From 250 Euros
Marbella Club
The Course
Opened: 1999
Designer: David Thomas
White Tees 6121m
Yellow Tees 5724m
Blue Tees 5270m
Red Tees 4826m
18 Holes
Facilities:
Pro Shop
Buggy Hire
Club Hire
Driving Range
Clubhouse:
Restaurant
Terrace
Changing Rooms
Lockers
Overview
Comprising an 18 hole championship length golf course and a full length 9 hole course Marbella Club Golf Resort is one of the best golf facilities on the Costa del Sol.
Generous tree lined fairways with elevated tees and greens always in superb condition makes for a great day of golf.
Stunning views from the clubhouse terrace make the experience complete.
Price Range: From 80 Euros
Atalaya Golf and Country Club
The Old Course:
Opened: 1996
Designer: Bernard von Limburger
18 Holes
The New Course:
Opened:1990
Designer:Paul Krings
18 Holes
Located just 1km inland and a few minutes to the west of Marbella centre, Atalaya is easy to reach for golfers based in Marbella. The 36 hole facility is a must.
Facilities
Pro Shop
Buggy Hire
Club Hire
Short Game Practise Area
Driving Range
Clubhouse
Restaurant
Terrace
Bar
Changing Rooms
Lockers
Showers
Overview
Designed by the famous German golf architect Bernard von Limberger the sensational old course was opened in 1968. It has matured to become one of the finest golf courses on the Costa Del Sol.
With wide rolling fairways playing into large elevated greens, this generous open design is simply a delight.
The new course offers a very different challenge. Much narrower fairways and smaller greens make the emphasis here accuracy rather than length. A perfect contrast to the old course. The views from the high points of the new course are incredible. Clear view of Gibraltar right across the Mediterranean Sea to give an awe inspiring vista across North Africa. This is a truly beautiful place.
The condition of both courses is always good. The playing surface is excellent with fast and true greens.
My favorite is the Old Course. Both offer a tremendous experience.
Price Range: From 58 Euros
El Higueral Golf
The Course
Opened: 2009
Designer: Roderick Bastard
White Tee 2938m
Yellow Tees 2682
Blue Tees 2509
Red Tees 2201
9 Holes Par 36
Facilities
Pro Shop
Bar
Terrace
Overview
This nine hole golf course is the sister course to the nearby Marbella Club Golf Resort. Designed by Rod Bastard, one of the finest players currently on the Costa del Sol and the General Manager of Marbella Club Golf Resort, this nine hole track is jaw droppingly good!
El Paraiso
The Course
Opened: 1972
Designer: Gary Player
White Tees 6131m
Yellow Tees 5912m
Blue Tees 5271m
Red Tees 4998m
18 Holes Par 71
Sited in the heart of the residential urbanisation of El Paraiso about 20 minute west of Malaga this Gary Player designed golf course is a gem.
Facilities
Pro Shop
Club Hire
Buggy Hire
Driving Range
Golf Academy
Short Game Area
Clubhouse
Restaurant
Terrace
Covered Terrace
Changing Rooms
Lockers
Showers
Overview
El Paraiso Golf will be celebrating its 50 anniversary in 2023!
This is a course that I have played often over the years and I can state unequivocally that I have never seen El Paraiso looking or playing better.
This Gary Player design is one of the most established and popular golf facilities on the Costa del Sol. A thriving members club that welcomes visiting players, El Paraiso offers a comfortable walking course with excellently maintained tees, fairways and greens making superb playing surfaces. The wonderfully matured gardens and grounds make El Paraiso a serene paradise!
Price Range: From 55 Euros
Where to stay in Marbella for a golf trip
The Westin Resort
The Marriott Westin Resort boasts its own 27 hole golf course, none other than La Quinta! The Hotel is beautiful with notably large and airy rooms. The restaurant has a terrific reputation. This is a premium destination and is perfect for solo travellers, small groups or events. Having such a wonderful golf course on site makes this an easy choice!
You can read the Tripadvisor reviews or click here to see the latest rates.
Rio Real Golf Hotel
Located on the lovely Rio Real Golf Course this 4 star hotel is highly regarded. Priced in the mid to high range this is perfect for individuals, couples and small groups coming to enjoy some relaxed elegance, great golf and be close to Marbella’s famous beaches.
You can read the Tripadvisor reviews or click here to see the latest rates.
Puente Romano
This upscale resort is regarded by many as being the best of its kind in Marbella. It offers a first class service, wonderful atmosphere, tropical report facilities, wonderful restaurant and of course outstanding accommodation.
This high end resort is perfect for couples and small groups.
You can read the Tripadvisor reviews or click here to see the latest rates.
Gran Melia Don Pepe
The Gran Melia Don Pepe is held in great regard. An upscale beachfront hotel with 3 pools, 3 restaurants, and amazing feedback from legions of delighted guests!
The reviews earned by the team at Gran Melia Don Pepe speaks volumes of the experiences the guests enjoy. Flattering feedback specifically mentions the high quality of the staff, the perfect beach front location, the tennis academy, breakfast catering, the restaurants, the accommodation and the price/quality ratio.
You can read the Tripadvisor reviews or click here to see the latest rates.
Restaurants in the Old Town
According to Trip Advisor there are more than 900 restaurants in Marbella. You can choose any culinary style that you choose! In this Ultimate Guide to Golf in Marbella we suggest 3 restaurants that we think you will enjoy!
The Orange Tree
The Orange Tree restaurant is set close to Orange Square, the most famous and beautiful of the plazas in the old centre of Marbella. If are in Marbella is a “must do”.
This is a highly regarded fine dining experience. Set close to the beautiful Orange Square in Marbella’s Old Town, it is wonderful to sit here and watch the world go by. That is until the food arrives at which point all of your senses will be enthralled by the visual and aromatic experience you are about to enjoy!
La Bodega del Mar
This is a favorite place of mine. The atmosphere is relaxed, informal and totally inclusive. Exactly the family feel that I enjoy. The food is great, wholesome, perfectly prepared and perfectly presented.
The sea food here is outstanding. I don’t live in Marbella, but I happily drive my family 35km specifically to come and enjoy this restaurant. You will too.
The Rib Shack
This unassuming looking venue located beachside in the heart of Marbella is a carnivore’s delight. Simple, wholesome and deeply satisfying. The smoked ribs, “Cowboy” burgers, buffalo wings and in fact everything else on the menu are eagerly and happily devoured by its legions of fans.
With a good range of cold beers this is my kind of paradise!
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