Estepona is one of the most charming of the Costa del Sol’s many towns. Its magnificent San Luis castle and colorful streets make it the ideal destination for being immersed in Spanish history and culture.
Estepona’s authenticity and value for money mean it is now on the radar of many tourists who want to explore somewhere less commercial than big resorts like Marbella and Torremolinos.
I’ve had a fantastic time exploring Estepona’s historic town center, roaming its pristine beaches, and, of course, over-indulging in delicious Spanish cuisine.
There’s something for everyone in Estepona, from walking to watersports.
Now I want to share 21 things to do in Estepona that showcase the very best of this Málaga gem!
21 Things to Do in Estepona
I had a fantastic time in Estepona. Visiting this more relaxed resort region was a smart move as there is so much going on and everything is easy-going and accessible.
Take a look at my comprehensive guide to learn more about this great destination:
So, here are 21 amazing things to do in Estepona for a taste of the coastal Andalucia lifestyle and a real change of pace and scene.
1. Discover the Estepona Old Town
Estepona Old Town is about a 15-minute walk from the town Marina and well worth exploring at a leisurely pace. Estepona is beautiful but in the past was heavily fortified to protect this coastline.
As you walk you’ll see traces of this in the Castillo de San Luis (see below) and the seven watchtowers of Estepona.
You’ll enjoy roaming the winding narrow streets and alleys and looking at the charming houses that have been beautifully decorated by locals.
The municipal council (Ayuntamiento) provides flower pots for each house, and each street is color coordinated.
2. Bag a Bargain at Estepona’s Street Markets
You can browse Estepona’s Wednesday morning street market between 9 am and 3 pm at C. Polonia, 8, 29680 Estepona (the old fairground site).
It is great for leather goods and delicious olives. There is also a Sunday street market held at the marina, which attracts more tourists.
3. Walk Around the Castilo de San Luis Ruins
You’ll find the remains of the Castilo de San Luis, built in 1457 by Enrique IV, near the Plaza Augusto Suarez.
This all-but-ruined castle was once the central fortification of Estepona, and you can trace its outline and remaining bulwarks on a circular walk around them.
Beneath the main remaining wall at Plaza Casa Cañada, is a flower garden and drinking fountain with seating for a quick rest.
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4. Stroll Over to la Torre Del Reloj (Estepona Clock Tower)
La Torre del Reloj, Estepona’s clock tower is almost 700 years old and built by Enrique IV on the site of a Mosque.
The clock tower is all that remains of the 15th-century church building as was updated with a sundial and clock face in the 1940s.
The bandstand and square beneath the tower known as Plaza del Reloj hosts concerts on summer evenings and the countdown on New Year’s Eve.
5. Relax at the Estepona Marina
You can spot superyachts at the Estepona Marina, which is favored by the rich because of its discrete and authentic Andalusian character.
I loved the nautical atmosphere, glamorous boats, and the opportunity to watch fishermen working on their nets and auctioning their catch.
The marina is just a short walk from Estepona Old Town and has a long promenade which you can walk, cycle, or rollerblade with ease.
Stop off at some of the local bars for a coffee or some of the abundant seafood available there.
6. Pause at Plaza de Las Flores de Estepona
The Plaza de las Flores is a great location to take in local life in the town.
There are beautiful floral displays and blossoming trees that are perfect for a selfie. Relax and people-watch at one of the cozy bars that line the square.
7. Visit the Estepona Orchid House
In my opinion, this is Estepona’s best attraction and a must-visit destination for visitors to the Costa del Sol.
This is Spain’s biggest glass dome and Europe’s largest orchid house with 1,300 different orchid varieties to admire and a further 5,000 tropical plant species to view.
This amazing botanical garden also has a 17-meter-high waterfall and breathtaking fountains. Take a look:
Just remember that it’s closed on Mondays.
8. Hire a Kayak and Tour the Estepona Coastline
Kayak hire is available from reputable watersports hire companies at El Saladillo Beach near the Villapadierna Beach Club.
Enjoy a peaceful paddle along the Estepona coastline from this point heading southwards and back. Remember to wear a lifejacket at all times.
9. Admire the Murals of Estepona
Estepona has a thriving art scene that is evident in the numerous murals and urban art exhibits that you’ll find throughout the town.
Right now, there are more than 50 murals in the town that are spread among the different neighborhoods and architectural styles.
Here are some must-see highlights of the Murals Route you can take through the town:
10. Buy a Bottle of Aguardiente de Ojén
If you’re looking for a souvenir bottle of spirits from your Estepona trip, try (and buy) Aguardiente de Ojén.
This anise-flavored spirit originated in Ojén, just a 30-minute drive from Estepona. It is the main ingredient in an Ojen cocktail, along with syrup, Peychaud’s bitters, and ice.
11. Avoid Wearing Red at the Estepona Bullring
Bullfighting is still legal in Spain and Estepona has one of the 70 bullrings that remain in Andalucia.
However, if you visit the Estepona Bullring, you’re unlikely to see any bulls or fighting as these events take place only a few times each year.
In the summer months, the Estepona Bullring is an open-air cinema and popular concert venue, which has hosted great acts like Kool and the Gang, and Boney M.
But just in case there are some rampaging bulls, don’t wear red!
12. Play a Round of Golf at Estepona Golf Course
If you get the chance, leave the family at the pool and sneak off for a round of golf at Estepona Golf Course.
The town has a beautiful 18-hole, par 71, 5857-yard golf course with outstanding sea and Sierra Bermeja mountain views.
It offers great play for golfers of all standards with competitive rates for a single round or week.
Read Also – Is it Expensive to Stay In Estepona?
13. Take an Excursion to Selwo Aventura
Selwo Aventura is Estepona’s safari park, which provides world-class animal conservation and the opportunity to get up close to some of the world’s most endangered and exotic animal species.
The climate and terrain are just right for showcasing famous African wildlife like lions, giraffes, zebras, and meerkats, with a 4×4 truck, and expert-guided tours around the Great Lakes Reserve where they are kept.
Here’s what you can expect at Selwo Aventura:
14. Journey to Estepona’s Lighthouse Punta Doncella
If you enjoy walking through Estepona’s harbor area, you’ll probably come across the Faro de Punta Doncella, an old lighthouse that is very beautiful. Sadly we found it inaccessible and the gardens are a bit neglected.
However, you can sit near the lighthouse base and we enjoyed the views and peaceful atmosphere on the early summer evening we visited it.
15. Sunbathe on Estepona’s Beaches
Estepona has 17 beaches that have superb fine white sand and crystal-clear warm water.
Even if you’re not a beach bum, you’ll need to set aside at least half a day to soak up the morning or late afternoon sun on pristine beaches like La Rada Beach, El Cristo Beach, or the popular Playa del Angel.
Just remember to get there early to get a great spot and rent a cabana with towels and drinks.
16. Cruise the Bay of Estepona
I’m not a boat person (yet!) but I love any and every opportunity to get out onto the water in experienced hands.
Live like the 1% and charter a boat, at least for an hour or two, and cruise the Bay of Estepona, enjoying a drink, sunbathing, and spotting dolphins. Boat charters are available at Estepona Marina.
17. Do the Educational Thing and Visit a Museum (Or Two)
Make sure the kids do a bit more than work on a tan and take them to the fantastic museums in Estepona.
I found two museums worth visiting, the Museo Arqueológico (Estepona Archaeological Museum) in the old Town Hall on Plaza Blas Infantes, and the world-famous Museo Paleontológico de Estepona (Estepona Paleontological Museum) that is one of Europe’s largest fossil museums.
18. Enjoy Estepona’s Vibrant Nightlife
I enjoyed evenings in Estepona. The cooler temperatures bring the whole town out and there is a great vibe as you stroll the town’s streets after a meal.
If you’re into the live music scene, you’ll find plenty of bars and venues to choose from including:
- Louie Louie Rock Estepona: a rock music bar
- O’ Donoghues Irish Pub: live music on Thursday nights
- Jazz Pub: sit-down jazz club with singers
- Tolone Street Bar: popular cocktail bar with delicious snacks
- El Duende: a cool Flamenco bar
19. Go for a Hack on Beautiful Spanish Horses
Equestrians will love visiting the renowned Escuela De Arte Ecuestre Costa Del Sol, one of Spain’s best riding schools.
This riding school is located just outside Estepona and offers a wide range of riding lessons, shows, and demonstrations.
The facilities are excellent to tour even if you don’t ride and you can visit the restaurant and well-stocked store for horse-riding supplies.
20. Try the Delicious Local Cuisine of Estepona
Andalucian cuisine is some of the world’s finest and I can still remember the amazing colors, aromas, and flavors I experienced with Estepona food throughout my trip.
The food served in the many restaurants, bars, and cafes of the country is 100% local and fresh.
Here are the most distinctive Estepona foods to try:
- Fritura malagueña – small sprat-like fish, battered and fried
- Gambas a la plancha – crisp, grilled prawns seasoned with salt
- Arroz con mariscos – a paella-like rice seafood dish
- Almejas – cooked clams with garlic, white wine, and parsley
- Barbecued meats
- Jamón serrano
- Fresh fruit and veg including lemons and oranges are growing from the trees in public areas. Mangoes and chirimoyas are successfully grown in this region too.
Only 12.4 km from Estepona – Castillo de la Duquesa
21. Play with a Pro at Bel Air Tennis Club
Do you remember Sergio Gómez, the Spanish tennis player back in the ‘90s?
Well, he is the owner of Estepona’s Bel Air Tennis Club, which offers tennis lessons and holidays under his expert guidance.
The sessions are outstanding value for money, given the caliber of the tuition and the quality of the facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some hidden gems to explore near Estepona?
There are some great excursions out of Estepona, especially if you drive. I enjoyed visiting the cliff-side village of Casares with its picture-postcard whitewashed buildings and impressive Moorish fortress, under an hour away from Estepona.
Another hidden gem is the Laguna de la Fuente de Piedra, a saltwater lagoon that is home to a large population of flamingos.
Estepona is only a mile away from the Sierra Bermeja mountain range with breathtaking views and outstanding natural beauty.
What are the best restaurants in Estepona?
If you talk to locals you’ll get many recommendations. Pescatarians will love El Pescador, Estepona’s premier seafood restaurant located right on the seafront. Chef Alfonso serves the freshest and finest locally caught seafood in dishes like Arroz a la Marinera (Seamen’s rice), and Shrimp Tortilla.
Other great finds include La Escollera, which offers stunning harbourside views of the Mediterranean, and Casa del Rey for classic Spanish home cooking in a 200-year-old building.
We also tried the local Pizza Takeaway on the beach front which on a Thurs sells a large family pizza for 6 Euros.
What are the best beaches to visit in Estepona?
The playas (beaches) of Estepona are all amazing – great for kids as they stay clear and shallow with no steep areas. Must-visit beaches include the popular (read: busy) Playa Burriana and the much quieter Playa de la Rada.
Estepona vs Marbella: What’s the Difference?
I’m not a big shopper, but if you are, you should be able to shop till you drop in Calle Real, the main shopping precinct in Estepona.
There you’ll find a range of shopping options, from local markets to high-end boutiques. You can also drive to Puerto Banus Marina, an exclusive retail district known for its luxury shops and designer brands.
What makes Estepona unique compared to Marbella?
Everyone heads to the glamorous resort Marbella, but Estepona offers a more laid-back and authentic Spanish experience. The town has retained its traditional charm, with narrow streets and whitewashed buildings rather than big resort development. In my opinion, you’ll have a more relaxing time in Estepona.
Read next – Cost of Living in Marbella
Rounding Up
For me, Estepona is one of Costa del Sol’s most underrated towns. But that’s a good thing. It’s no fun queuing in the heat and walking through the big resorts at a snail’s pace for what I think is a bit of an artificial experience.
I have to re-emphasize the authenticity you can expect in this beautiful town and surrounding region that showcases the best of Spain’s southern coast.
With its stunning beaches, rich history, and endless activities, Estepona will leave you with unforgettable memories and have you returning again and again.
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