San Pedro

What is San Pedro de Alcántara?

San Pedro de Alcántara, often simply called San Pedro by locals, captures the true spirit of Andalusian coastal living. Located between Marbella and Benahavís, this charming town blends traditional Spanish character with modern convenience, creating a lifestyle that feels both authentic and relaxed.

Unlike the glamour of nearby Puerto Banús or the exclusive estates of Sierra Blanca, San Pedro retains its distinctly local feel. Cobbled streets, family-owned restaurants, and lively plazas define its core, while just minutes away lie beautiful beaches, boutique hotels, and contemporary developments that add a touch of sophistication.

It’s a town where children still play in the squares, cafés stay busy until late, and the rhythm of daily life flows at an unhurried pace. For many, San Pedro represents the perfect balance of genuine Spanish atmosphere, enhanced by Marbella’s cosmopolitan flair right on its doorstep.

Where is San Pedro de Alcántara?

San Pedro de Alcántara is located on the western side of Marbella, just 5 minutes from Puerto Banús and 10 minutes from Marbella’s historic Old Town. It’s positioned between the Mediterranean coast and the foothills of the Sierra de Ronda mountains, it offers the best of both coastal and countryside living.

The town is divided into two main zones:

• North San Pedro (Old Town): The traditional heart of San Pedro filled with Andalusian-style apartments, small townhouses, and local eateries.

• South San Pedro: This seaside area stretches toward the promenade and beach, featuring modern apartments, contemporary villas, and the popular San Pedro Boulevard, a family-friendly hub with restaurants, play areas, and open-air events.

Its location makes San Pedro incredibly well-connected. The A-7 coastal highway and AP-7 toll road provide quick access to all major Costa del Sol destinations, while Malaga and Gibraltar airports are both under an hour away.

Distances from San Pedro de Alcántara:

• Puerto Banús – 10 min drive (4.8 km)

• Marbella Centre – 10 min drive (11 km)

• Marbella Old Town – 10 min drive (11 km)

• Estepona – 20 min drive (20 km)

• Malaga Airport – 45 min drive (60 km)

• Gibraltar Airport – 1 hr drive (64 km)

What is the history of San Pedro de Alcántara?

San Pedro de Alcántara has one of the most fascinating and recent histories of the Marbella region. Unlike many neighbouring areas with ancient Moorish or Roman origins, San Pedro was born out of an ambitious 19th-century agricultural project with a vision to transform farmland into a thriving, self-sustaining community.

The town was founded in 1860 by Manuel Gutiérrez de la Concha y Irigoyen, the Marquis del Duero, a prominent Spanish general and statesman. He purchased a large estate between Marbella and Estepona with the goal of modernising agriculture and providing work for local families. The project quickly flourished, attracting settlers from across Andalusia and establishing San Pedro as one of the most successful farming colonies of its time.

The town’s name honours Saint Peter of Alcántara, a 16th-century Franciscan friar known for his humility and piety. The Marquis also named it in tribute to his mother, Petra de Alcántara, adding a personal touch to its identity.

Throughout the late 19th and 20th centuries, San Pedro evolved from an agricultural settlement into a bustling town. Sugar cane and cotton were once its main exports, supported by a local sugar mill that operated until the 1950s. As Marbella’s tourism industry began to grow, San Pedro gradually shifted from farming to residential and service-based living.

Today, traces of its past remain visible in the Old Town’s architecture, traditional plazas, and historical landmarks like the Marquis del Duero statue and Plaza de la Iglesia. San Pedro de Alcántara now stands as a vibrant town that successfully blends its rural roots with modern Mediterranean life — authentic, family-oriented, and full of character

How big is San Pedro de Alcántara?

San Pedro de Alcántara spans roughly 5 to 6 square kilometres, making it one of the largest and most established urban areas within the Marbella municipality. The town stretches from the foothills of Benahavís down to the Mediterranean coast.

At an elevation of around 30 metres above sea level, San Pedro enjoys open mountain views to the north and sea views to the south. The Boulevard de San Pedro, inaugurated in 2014, acts as the town’s central artery connecting the traditional Old Town with the modern beachfront area while serving as a hub for leisure, dining, and social life.

The population today is estimated at around 35,000 residents, a mix of Spanish locals and an increasingly international community of families, professionals, and retirees. Despite its steady growth, San Pedro has maintained a strong sense of local identity, where everyday life still reflects the authentic Andalusian rhythm.

What style of homes can you find in San Pedro de Alcántara?

San Pedro de Alcántara offers a diverse range of properties that reflect its blend of authentic Spanish charm and modern coastal living. The town’s architectural landscape transitions seamlessly from traditional Andalusian homes in the Old Town to contemporary beachfront villas and stylish apartment complexes closer to the sea.

In the Old Town, properties typically feature classic Andalusian architecture. These homes often house generations of local families, preserving the area’s original character and sense of community.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional townhouse full of Andalusian character or a cutting-edge villa by the sea, San Pedro de Alcántara provides a rare combination of cultural authenticity and modern comfort all within a relaxed, family-friendly environment

How much does it cost to buy a house in San Pedro de Alcántara?

Property prices in San Pedro de Alcántara are as diverse as the area itself, reflecting its mix of authentic town living and modern coastal development. The market offers something for every lifestyle, from traditional Andalusian homes in the heart of town to newly built luxury villas near the beach.

Apartments and townhouses in the centre typically start from €300,000 to €800,000, offering great value for those who appreciate the town’s walkable charm and local energy.

In more modern, beachside areas such as Nueva Alcántara and Linda Vista, semi-detached homes and villas range between €1 million and €3 million, often featuring contemporary architecture, private gardens, and pools.

Exclusive frontline beach properties, as well as newly built luxury villas with sea views, can reach €4 million to €5 million, depending on size, finish, and proximity to the promenade.

How much does it cost to buy a plot in San Pedro de Alcántara?

Available plots in San Pedro de Alcántara are limited, especially in the Old Town, where most land is already developed and protected by planning restrictions. However, opportunities can still be found in the newer southern zones closer to the beach and in areas bordering Guadalmina Alta and Nueva Alcántara.

Prices typically range from €400,000 to €3,000,000, depending on location, plot size, and proximity to the sea. For reference, buildable land in central or beach-adjacent areas is usually priced between €800 and €1,500 per m².

Larger plots suitable for villas near the promenade or golf courses command a premium, while smaller urban plots inland remain more affordable for those looking to build townhouses or boutique projects.

Does San Pedro de Alcántara have sea views?

San Pedro de Alcántara enjoys an enviable coastal setting, with much of the town located just a short walk from the beach. The southern part of San Pedro, particularly Nueva Alcántara and Linda Vista,  offers a selection of homes and apartments with direct sea views or easy access to the promenade and sandy beaches.

While properties in the Old Town and northern areas may not have direct sea views, many enjoy open vistas of the mountain range and townscape, creating a balanced mix of scenery. The beachfront promenade stretches for kilometres, connecting San Pedro to Puerto Banús, and is one of the area’s highlights for walking, cycling, or dining by the water.

In essence, San Pedro offers both a lively town atmosphere paired with the relaxed charm of coastal living, all within minutes of the Mediterranean.

Is San Pedro de Alcántara a popular place to live?

San Pedro de Alcántara is one of Marbella’s most sought-after residential areas, prized for its authentic Andalusian feel, family-friendly environment, and convenient location. It attracts both locals and international residents who appreciate a slower pace of life without sacrificing access to Marbella’s luxury amenities.

The town’s layout encourages community living, with wide pedestrian streets, local markets, and family-run cafés creating a strong sense of belonging. At the same time, its southern neighbourhoods have evolved into modern coastal zones with elegant villas, boutique developments, and a thriving promenade scene.

San Pedro is also incredibly well-connected, just 5 minutes from Puerto Banús, 10 minutes from Marbella, and 45 minutes from Málaga Airport. Families, retirees, and professionals alike value its blend of local culture, convenience, and coastal tranquillity.

What is there to do in San Pedro de Alcántara?

San Pedro de Alcántara is one of those rare coastal towns where life unfolds at an unhurried pace, yet there’s never a shortage of things to do. Whether you’re after outdoor activities, authentic gastronomy, or family-friendly leisure, San Pedro offers a balanced mix of Spanish tradition and modern living.

The Boulevard – the heart of local life

The San Pedro Boulevard is one of the town’s defining landmarks. It’s a wide, landscaped park built over the A-7 highway. It features playgrounds, walking trails, open-air cafés, and an amphitheatre that hosts concerts and community events throughout the year. Families gather here daily, making it a vibrant social hub and a symbol of San Pedro’s family-oriented character.

Beach and Promenade

San Pedro’s beachfront promenade is another special highlight. Stretching seamlessly toward Puerto Banús in the east and Guadalmina in the west, the wide pathways are perfect for walking, cycling, or rollerblading, lined with chiringuitos (beach bars) serving freshly grilled fish and local seafood. With its calm waters and wide sands, the beach is ideal for families and morning jogs alike.

Gastronomy and Local Flavour

Food is at the heart of San Pedro life. The Old Town is filled with tapas bars, bakeries, and traditional restaurants, where locals gather for long lunches or evening strolls. Nearby, in the Nueva Alcántara area, you’ll find a more modern dining scene with gastro bars, fusion cuisine, and elegant beachfront eateries offering Mediterranean and international dishes.

Culture and History

For those with a taste for culture, San Pedro hides fascinating historic gems, including the 4th-century Paleochristian Basilica of Vega del Mar and the Roman Baths of Las Bóvedas among Marbella’s oldest archaeological sites. These remnants of the region’s ancient past add depth to the town’s otherwise contemporary charm.

Sports and Recreation

San Pedro’s sports centre (Polideportivo) offers football pitches, tennis courts, and fitness facilities, while the surrounding area is popular for cycling, golf, and paddle tennis. The nearby Guadalmina Golf Club and La Quinta Golf are both within minutes, offering world-class courses set against mountain and sea views.

Festivals and Local Life

Every October, San Pedro celebrates its famous Feria (fair),  a week-long festival with live music, parades, amusement rides, and traditional flamenco performances. It’s one of the most anticipated events of the year and a true expression of the Andalusian spirit. 

What is life like for kids in San Pedro de Alcántara?

Life for children in San Pedro de Alcántara is relaxed, active, and family-oriented. The town’s pedestrian-friendly layout, abundance of parks, and proximity to the beach create a safe and engaging environment for kids to grow up in. Parents enjoy peace of mind knowing that children can explore, cycle, and play freely in neighbourhoods with minimal traffic and strong community ties.

San Pedro’s Boulevard Park and beachfront promenade are at the heart of family life filled with playgrounds, skate areas, and open-air cafés where children can play while parents unwind. The local sports complex (Polideportivo Municipal) offers football, basketball, tennis, and swimming facilities, encouraging an active lifestyle from a young age.

The local town hall regularly organises family-friendly activities, including open-air theatre shows, holiday fairs, and cultural workshops throughout the year. And with the beach just minutes away, outdoor fun is endless from sandcastles and swimming to cycling along the seafront.

Schools in San Pedro de Alcántara

Education in San Pedro de Alcántara is one of its strongest advantages for families. The area hosts several prestigious international and bilingual schools, offering excellent academic options from early years through secondary education.

Within San Pedro de Alcántara:

• Laude San Pedro International College – A leading bilingual school (English & Spanish) for ages 4–18, offering British and Spanish curricula in a modern campus environment.

• Colegio San José – A respected private primary school located on the western edge of San Pedro, known for its strong academic foundation and cultural values.

• Saint George’s School – A small private school for children from kindergarten to Year 3, providing a nurturing, personalised approach.

• Casa del Mar Montessori School – The only Montessori school in Marbella, offering education from 15 months to 12 years old, promoting independence and creativity.

Nearby Schools:

• Swans International Primary & Secondary Schools – 11 km (15–17 min drive)

• Aloha College Marbella – 6.8 km (10 min drive)

• The British School of Marbella – 9 km (16 min drive)

• English International College (Elviria) – 24 km (25 min drive)

• Sotogrande International School (boarding/day) – 46 km (50 min drive)

How close is San Pedro de Alcántara to Marbella and its amenities?

San Pedro de Alcántara enjoys one of the most convenient locations on the Costa del Sol. Perfectly positioned between Marbella, Puerto Banús, and Estepona, it offers residents the charm of a traditional Andalusian town with immediate access to the area’s most prestigious beaches, restaurants, and golf courses.

The town connects directly to both the A-7 coastal highway and the AP-7 toll road, allowing effortless travel to Marbella, Málaga Airport, and Gibraltar. This accessibility makes San Pedro ideal for families and professionals who want a peaceful residential lifestyle without being far from Marbella’s cosmopolitan pulse.

Nearby, you’ll find Puerto Banús just a short drive away, home to luxury shopping, waterfront dining, and vibrant nightlife. The Golden Mile and Marbella Club offer world-class restaurants and beach clubs, while Benahavís and its famous gastronomy are minutes inland.

Healthcare, education, and leisure amenities are also easily within reach, from private clinics and hospitals to international schools and sports clubs. Whether commuting, socialising, or relaxing, everything is close enough to enjoy with ease.

Who lives in San Pedro de Alcántara?

San Pedro de Alcántara is one of Marbella’s most authentically Spanish areas, home to a strong local community and an increasingly international mix of residents. The town centre remains predominantly Spanish, with generations of local families preserving its Andalusian charm and traditions. Meanwhile, the beachside and Nueva Alcántara areas attract a growing number of Northern Europeans, British, Scandinavians, Russians, and South Americans, creating a lively, multicultural atmosphere.

The area’s excellent schools, easy access to Marbella and Puerto Banús, and family-friendly infrastructure make it a popular choice for professionals and young families looking for everyday comfort within minutes of the coast. Its walkable streets, parks, and vibrant community life offer a relaxed alternative to Marbella’s more glamorous neighbourhoods, while still being perfectly connected.

Over the years, San Pedro has also attracted its fair share of notable residents. Among them was Formula 1 champion James Hunt, known for his vibrant social life, and actor Sean Connery, who lived in his villa “Casa Malibu” for over two decades, often hosting friends like Richard Burton and Michael Caine.

Is San Pedro de Alcántara safe?

San Pedro de Alcántara is widely regarded as one of the safest towns on the Costa del Sol. The area has its own police headquarters, ensuring a constant presence and rapid response to any emergencies.

The community benefits from both local and national police patrols, maintaining a secure and peaceful environment day and night.

For healthcare, residents have access to the Ambulatorio Public Health Centre and several private clinics, such as Clínica del Río, all within minutes of most residential areas.

Many beachside urbanisations and apartment complexes feature 24-hour gated security, while homeowners often choose to install private systems for added peace of mind. Families particularly appreciate San Pedro’s pedestrian-friendly streets and safe crossings, allowing children to walk or cycle to school with confidence.

What is the difference between Guadalmina and San Pedro de Alcántara?

Although often mentioned together, San Pedro de Alcántara and Guadalmina have distinct identities.

• San Pedro de Alcántara is a full-fledged town, complete with schools, supermarkets, restaurants, businesses, and cultural venues. It’s the social and administrative hub of the area, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a true sense of Spanish daily life.

• Guadalmina, by contrast, is a residential enclave just west of the town, known for its two golf courses (Guadalmina Alta and Baja) and luxury villas. It has a quieter, more exclusive feel, with leafy streets and gated communities that appeal to those seeking tranquillity and privacy.

Some locals consider Guadalmina part of San Pedro’s greater area, while others see it as a separate, high-end residential district. In practice, they complement each other, San Pedro provides the buzz, Guadalmina offers the calm.

Fun Facts about San Pedro de Alcántara

• The Paleochristian Basilica of Vega del Mar, located near San Pedro, dates back to the 6th century, making it one of Spain’s oldest examples of Christian architecture.

• The town’s main square, Plaza de la Iglesia, is home to a church built in 1869 that remains a central gathering point for locals.

• Marquis de Duero, San Pedro’s founder, named the town after his mother, Petra de Alcántara, and the saint San Pedro de Alcántara.

• Historically, the area’s economy was based on sugar cane cultivation until 1881, when agricultural production shifted.

• The San Pedro Feria, held every October, is one of the region’s most beloved annual festivals, celebrating Andalusian culture with music, food, and flamenco dancing.

• San Pedro Beach proudly holds a Blue Flag certification, stretching 1,400 metres long and 35 metres wide, known for its clean sands and calm waters.

• A life-sized elephant statue on San Pedro Beach has become one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks and a popular photo spot.