Puerto Banús

What is Puerto Banus? 

Puerto Banús, often simply called The Port, is Marbella’s world-famous marina and lifestyle hub. Home to more than 900 yacht berths, it is surrounded by designer boutiques, fine dining restaurants, and lively nightlife venues that line its elegant waterfront promenades. 

At the heart of the area lies Plaza Antonio Banderas, which is the main square surrounded by cafés, luxury stores, and the renowned El Corte Inglés department store. The neighbourhood also offers modern apartments, supermarkets, and even an english cinema, making Puerto Banús a self-contained destination where glamour meets everyday comfort.

Where is Puerto Banus?  

Puerto Banús is located on Marbella’s western coastline, just below Nueva Andalucía and adjacent to the prestigious Golden Mile. It sits along the Mediterranean Sea, perfectly positioned between Marbella Centre and San Pedro de Alcántara. The marina is easily accessible via the A-7 coastal highway, connecting it to the rest of the Costa del Sol.

This iconic location blends convenience with exclusivity, offering direct access to luxury shopping, fine dining, and nightlife, all while being minutes away from Marbella’s beaches, golf courses, and international schools. Whether arriving from Málaga or Gibraltar, Puerto Banús is one of the most connected and desirable destinations in southern Spain.

Distances from Puerto Banús:

• Golden Mile – 5 min drive (3.5 km)

• Puente Romano Beach Resort – 6 min drive (3.6 km)

• Marbella Old Town – 10–12 min drive (7.8 km)

• San Pedro de Alcántara – 5 min drive (3.6 km)

• Estepona – 20–25 min drive (22 km)

• Malaga Airport – 40–45 min drive (57 km)

• Gibraltar Airport – 1 hr drive (68 km)

What is the history of Puerto Banús?

Puerto Banús was the brainchild of visionary developer José Banús, who set out in the 1960s to transform a quiet fishing village into a world-class luxury marina. Construction began in 1965, with the official grand opening taking place in 1970, an event attended by international celebrities, royalty, and film stars, cementing its reputation from day one as the Mediterranean’s new playground for the elite.

Originally, it was designed in collaboration with architect Noldi Schreck, who also worked on Beverly Hills. The marina combined traditional Andalusian charm with sophisticated Mediterranean glamour.

Alongside the launch of the Hotel Andalucía Plaza (now the Hard Rock Hotel Marbella), Puerto Banús quickly became the heart of Marbella’s luxury lifestyle.

By the late 1970s, it was already competing with the French Riviera as a symbol of prestige. Decades later, Puerto Banús continues to thrive, welcoming over 5 million visitors each year while remaining one of Europe’s most iconic destinations for luxury, leisure, and style.

How big is Puerto Banús?

Puerto Banús spans approximately 15 hectares, making it compact in size but immense in prestige. Despite its relatively small footprint compared to other districts of Marbella, the marina is one of Europe’s largest and most renowned luxury ports, with space for over 900 yachts, including some of the world’s most impressive superyachts.

Its size allows everything to be within easy walking distance, from designer boutiques and fine dining to vibrant nightlife, creating an intimate yet cosmopolitan atmosphere that defines the Puerto Banús lifestyle.

What is the architectural character of Puerto Banús?

Puerto Banús is best known for its elegant waterfront apartments and penthouses, which reflect a blend of classic Andalusian charm and modern Mediterranean luxury. The area’s architecture is designed to capture Marbella’s coastal essence, with whitewashed façades, terracotta roofs, and lush landscaped gardens combined with sleek, contemporary interiors.

Among the most exclusive residential developments are Playas del Duque, a beachside complex of over 500 luxury apartments and penthouses spread across five buildings, surrounded by tropical gardens and direct access to the promenade. Its timeless Andalusian architecture and panoramic sea views make it one of the area’s most sought-after addresses.

Nearby, Malibu and Laguna de Banús stand out as two of Marbella’s most prestigious beachfront communities. These gated residences feature spacious modern homes with high-end amenities such as resort-style pools, wellness centres, and 24-hour security all just steps away from the marina’s vibrant lifestyle.

Because land in Puerto Banús is limited, standalone villas are rare. Those seeking more privacy or larger plots often turn to nearby Nueva Andalucía. To learn more about this location and the kind of properties available, you can check out our Nueva Andalucia Area Guide.

Does Puerto Banús have sea views?

Yes, Puerto Banús offers some of the most sought-after sea and marina views in Marbella. Many of the frontline apartments and penthouses overlook the luxury yachts, the Mediterranean Sea, and the distant outline of Gibraltar on clear days. The Puerto Banús Beach, stretching roughly 1.5 kilometres, lies just steps away from most residences, offering easy access to the sand and promenade.

Properties on the west side of the port, including developments like Playas del Duque and Malibu, enjoy direct beachfront access and uninterrupted views across the bay. Whether dining along the marina or relaxing on your terrace, the sound of the sea and the vibrant port atmosphere are never far away.

Is Puerto Banús a popular place to live?

Absolutely, Puerto Banús is one of the most prestigious and lively addresses in Marbella, attracting both full-time residents and many international visitors. 

Its unbeatable location that combines everything from high-end shopping, fine dining, and direct beach access, making it a unique blend of luxury and convenience.

The area is also known for its secure environment, year-round activity, and cosmopolitan energy. Even outside the summer season, the marina remains active with restaurants, cafés, and boutiques open daily. Residents enjoy a walkable lifestyle, world-class amenities, and a constant sense of vibrancy that few other parts of Marbella can match.

What is there to do in Puerto Banús?

When it comes to luxury, leisure, and lifestyle, Puerto Banús is the undisputed heart of Marbella. It’s the place where Mediterranean charm meets cosmopolitan glamour, a vibrant hub lined with superyachts, designer boutiques, fine dining, and an endless choice of entertainment options, all within walking distance. Whether you’re here to unwind, shop, or socialise, Puerto Banús has something for everyone.

Gastronomy

Puerto Banús is a culinary playground, offering everything from laid-back beachfront dining to elegant fine dining experiences. The marina’s front line is lined with world-class restaurants, each serving up its own flavour of Marbella’s international lifestyle.

Classics like Picasso have been an institution since 1982 and are famous for their authentic Italian dishes and lively atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the port. 

Just next door to it you will find Amore Fantasia and Pasta Factory, both embodying the Italian tradition with homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and waterfront views.

If you’re in the mood for something more refined on the other hand, then Los Bandidos, a local favourite for over three decades, serves Mediterranean classics with timeless elegance. Along the beachfront, you can find Aurora Beach and Camuri offering the quintessential Marbella experience, grilled seafood, chilled cocktails, and feet in the sand.

For those looking to explore further, the nearby Golden Mile hosts Michelin-starred chefs and iconic venues like Nobu, Sea Grill, and Dani García’s Leña, all just minutes away. 

Entertainment 

Life in Puerto Banús is built around the marina. Water lovers can charter a private yacht, rent a luxury boat for the day, or hop aboard the Fly Blue Ferry, which sails between Puerto Banús and Marbella’s old port in just 30 minutes.

For a bit of adrenaline, jet skiing along the coastline offers unbeatable views of La Concha Mountain and the open sea. You’ll also find companies like Boat2Go and Náutica Marbella providing everything from powerboats to family-friendly rentals.

In summer, Plaza Antonio Banderas, the town’s main square, transforms into a lively open-air market filled with boutique stalls, local art, and handmade goods. The square is also home to a family-friendly arcade, a popular Mojito Bar, and seasonal pop-ups that create a festive energy day and night.

Film lovers can visit the Red Dog Cinema, which screens the latest releases in both Spanish and English, or dive into the Virtual Reality Lounge next door for a more immersive experience.

Shopping

Puerto Banús is often called the luxury shopping capital of southern Spain, and for good reason. Along the marina promenade, you’ll find the world’s most prestigious fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, Fendi, Gucci, Hermès, Rolex, Bvlgari, and Saint Laurent, among many others. 

Every corner feels like a catwalk, and window shopping here is a visual experience of global glamour.

A short walk inland brings you to El Corte Inglés, Marbella’s landmark department store, offering everything from designer fashion and beauty products to homeware, gourmet groceries, and electronics. The store also houses organic food options, pharmacies, and an extensive cosmetics section making it a convenient one-stop destination.

For high-street fashion, Marina Banús Shopping Centre offers brands like Zara, Massimo Dutti, and Mango, perfect for a relaxed afternoon browse.

Nightlife in Puerto Banús

When the sun goes down, Puerto Banús transforms into one of Europe’s most vibrant nightlife destinations. The second line of the marina comes alive with clubs, cocktail bars, and lounges, each offering a unique atmosphere.

For classic Marbella glamour, Sinatra’s sits right at the water’s edge with unbeatable views of the harbour and DJs spinning late into the night. Nearby, News Café blends the best of both worlds, a relaxed bar early in the evening that turns into a lively club as the night unfolds.

If you prefer an elegant drink with a view, the Benabola Sky Lounge offers one of the best rooftop experiences in Puerto Banús. Astral Cocktail Bar, with its nautical-inspired design and signature drinks, is another local favourite for evening cocktails by the sea.

Whether you’re after a calm night out or a full evening of music and dancing, Puerto Banús delivers it all, always with that unmistakable Marbella energy.

What is life like for kids in Puerto Banus? 

Puerto Banús is surprisingly family-friendly beneath all its glamour. Life here is lively, outdoorsy, and a safe place where children can enjoy the sun and sea while parents enjoy peace of mind. The wide promenade that stretches toward both Marbella Centre and San Pedro de Alcántara is ideal for bike rides, scooters, or sunset walks without worrying about traffic.

The beaches are clean, sandy, and patrolled by lifeguards during summer, making them perfect for swimming and family days out. Nearby parks, playgrounds, and plenty of seaside cafés make it easy to keep kids entertained throughout the year. 

And thanks to its proximity to Marbella’s top international schools, families living in Puerto Banús benefit from a balanced mix of lifestyle, education, and convenience all within minutes of home.

Schools in Puerto Banus

Puerto Banús and its nearby areas offer excellent education options for international families, with schools that cater to a range of curriculums and age groups. Here’s a quick overview of the top choices:

• Svenska Skolan Marbella: Located in La Alzambra Vasari, just a few minutes from the Puerto Banús marina, Svenska Skolan Marbella follows the official Swedish curriculum from preschool through elementary level. It’s an excellent choice for Scandinavian families looking to maintain a smooth educational transition for their children.

• The American College in Spain: Also situated in La Alzambra Vasari, The American College offers an authentic U.S. curriculum for middle and high school students. It even allows students to complete their first two years of university studies in Marbella before transferring to partner universities in the United States.

• Aloha College Marbella: Just a short drive from Puerto Banús in Nueva Andalucía, Aloha College Marbella is one of the Costa del Sol’s leading bilingual private schools. It provides education for children aged 3 to 18, with students completing their final years through either A-Levels or the International Baccalaureate programme.

For families considering relocation, Puerto Banús is ideally positioned close to Marbella’s top-rated schools, ensuring convenience, international standards, and a variety of academic paths to fit every family’s needs.

How close is Puerto Banús to Marbella and its amenities?

Puerto Banús sits on Marbella’s western coast at the edge of the famed Golden Mile, giving it an enviable blend of marina-front luxury and easy access to the city’s best services.

From this prime location, you’ll find renowned resorts, designer shopping, beach clubs and daily conveniences all within minutes. For example:

Distances to Nearby Amenities:

• Golden Mile beaches – 5 min drive (3.5 km)

• Marbella Old Town – 10–12 min drive (7.8 km)

• San Pedro de Alcántara – 5 min drive (3.6 km)

• Malaga Airport –  45 min drive (57–60 km)

Who lives in Puerto Banús?

Puerto Banús is one of Marbella’s most cosmopolitan areas, attracting residents and visitors from all over the world. Its lively atmosphere, year-round sunshine, and luxury lifestyle appeal to a wide mix of people from young professionals and international families to retirees seeking the best of coastal living.

The area’s glamour also draws in a steady stream of celebrities and high-profile figures. Over the years, Puerto Banús has welcomed stars such as Sean Connery, who once owned a villa nearby, as well as icons like Hugh Hefner and Audrey Hepburn during Marbella’s golden era. 

More recently, international names such as Angelina Jolie have been spotted enjoying the area’s exclusive restaurants and seafront views.

Puerto Banús continues to be a magnet for those who love sophistication, sunshine, and the energy of Marbella’s most famous marina

Is Puerto Banús safe?

Yes, Puerto Banús is considered a very safe area. There’s a regular police presence throughout the marina and surrounding streets, ensuring a quick response in case of any incident. Security guards also patrol the harbour and nearby residential complexes, keeping the area closely monitored day and night.

This visible level of security helps create a calm and comfortable environment for both residents and visitors. The nearest police station is located in Marbella Centre, just an 8-minute drive away. Overall, Puerto Banús, like the rest of Marbella, is known for being a secure and welcoming place to live or visit.

Fun facts about Puerto Banus

• The glamour of Beverly Hills inspired the design of Puerto Banús. Its architect, Noldi Schreck, was the same visionary behind parts of Beverly Hills’ layout. He proposed creating an Andalusian-style village with a luxury marina, blending Mediterranean charm with California sophistication.

• Puerto Banús is Spain’s most famous marina, known worldwide for its superyachts, designer boutiques, and buzzing social scene.

• The port’s creator, José Banús, was a close ally of General Franco and earned the nickname “The Regime Builder.” His ambition transformed a quiet fishing village into an international symbol of prestige.

• Puerto Banús Beach proudly holds a Blue Flag certification, meeting strict environmental and quality standards. Nearby, the lesser-known Playa del Río Verde and Playa Nueva Andalucía are equally beautiful spots to explore.

• The shopping district of Puerto Banús has one of the highest concentrations of luxury brands per square metre in Europe, home to the iconic “three V’s” — Versace, Valentino, and Vuitton — along with many other global fashion houses.