What to do in Estepona
‘You have a few days to get to know the city of Estepona and you want to know key things like where to eat, what monuments to visit or what activities you can do, either individually, as a couple or as a family.’
‘In this post, we will provide you with all the necessary guidelines to make your experience in Estepona the best possible.’
In this article we will answer the following questions:
Where to have breakfast in Estepona?
Where to have lunch and dinner in Estepona?
What activities can I do in Estepona? Individuals, couples and groups.
What are the monuments and areas of interest in the city of Estepona?
Where to relax in Estepona?
First of all, let’s solve the last question: where to relax in Estepona? Thanks to Full Vitality Spa, you can enjoy your moment of relaxation wherever and whenever you want. Our mobile team will come to your hotel, holiday rental or residence in less than an hour to offer you the best spa services in the comfort of your home. We are available every day of the year, from 8:00 to 23:00.
Full Vitality Ranking of the best coffee shops and breakfast places in Estepona
5 Neli G’s
We would like to highlight this café on the outskirts of Estepona for its classic British breakfasts. If you want to experience an authentic British breakfast, you can’t miss the opportunity to have breakfast at Neli G’s Estepona.
4 MADUBAR Estepona
Would you like to have breakfast in a charming place in the heart of the old town? Don’t miss this beautiful establishment, which offers a delicious selection of exquisite cakes and pastries.
3 Sem’s Cafetaria
On this occasion, we move to the extraordinary seafront promenade of Estepona to enjoy a breakfast overlooking the sea. This family business of Dutch origin, based in this beautiful town in Malaga, offers breakfasts prepared with love and dedication.
2 Café – Bar El Caliente
We reserve the first two positions for emblematic cafés in Estepona, and in this case, we highlight El Caliente. Since 1970, this place has become a true point of pilgrimage for locals and visitors alike. Tradition, efficiency and quality meet in the heart of Estepona.
1 Churrería La Cordobesa
If you ever have to queue for churros or a catalana, this time it’s more than justified. We give the top spot to this traditional churrería in Estepona, which combines good workmanship, the most traditional neighbourhood atmosphere in town, attention to detail and top quality products. If you want an authentic village experience, this is the café for you.
The best places to eat and dine in Estepona?
This is perhaps one of the most complex answers to resolve, because Estepona, in gastronomic matters, has become a reference point on the Costa del Sol. The town welcomes a very demanding tourist profile in terms of good food, which has resulted in a very high level of variety and quality in its culinary offer.
Estepona not only offers a wide range of restaurants and cafés to satisfy the most sophisticated palates, but also stands out for its ability to fuse tradition with innovation. From the most traditional Andalusian dishes to the most avant-garde proposals, Estepona’s gastronomy is a reflection of its rich culture and commitment to excellence.
Moreover, the town prides itself on having establishments that not only care about the quality of their products, but also about offering a complete gastronomic experience. The welcoming atmosphere, attentive service and dedication to detail make every meal in Estepona a memorable occasion especial.
Ranking of the best restaurants in Estepona
15. Las Brasas de Alberto
Today it’s meat! This restaurant, specialised in meats and roasts, is highly appreciated for its matured T-bone steak and its carabinero croquettes. With a cosy family atmosphere, Las Brasas de Alberto has become a reference point for meat lovers in Estepona.
14. La Rada
This place, highly appreciated in Estepona since 1989, offers a wide selection of fish and seafood. Its specialities include rice dishes, grilled meat, Galician meat and its famous Joselito ham. La Rada is a gastronomic reference in the city, combining tradition and quality in every dish.
13. La Bulla
In Plaza Ortiz you will find this avant-garde restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine fused with modern touches. It is an ideal place for both lunch and dinner, and also for enjoying good cocktails in front of the sea.
12. El Campanario
We head to the outskirts of Estepona to evaluate and recommend this exclusive restaurant, located in an elegant and cosy enclave. It is highly recommended for an evening with your partner. Renowned chef Manuel Marín will take you by the hand to a unique gastronomic experience in Estepona, combining creativity and tradition in every dish.
11. El Palangre
Located in the port of Estepona, El Palangre offers a traditional seafood menu. This charismatic corner of Estepona is ideal for family and friends gatherings. A family business that is distinguished by its love and passion for gastronomy.
10. Tipico Andaluz
This emblematic establishment on Calle Caridad deserves, by tradition, products and its own merits, to be in this ranking. If you want to enjoy an authentic gastronomic experience, based on local meats, sausages and vegetables, prepared in the most traditional and typical Andalusian way, you must visit this beautiful corner of Estepona.
9. El Rey
This newcomer has burst onto the gastronomic scene in Estepona, offering a different and fun concept. It is especially recommended for lively dinners, where you can enjoy innovative cuisine, combined with cocktails and a lively and relaxed social atmosphere.
8. Huber – Art & Food
Spend an evening at Huber, an establishment that stands out for its delicate fusion of performing and visual arts, in a cosmopolitan atmosphere recreated inside a typical Estepona house. Enjoy live music on weekends.
7. Chiringuito Paco
Back to a classic. This chiringuito, located in the centre of Estepona since 1997, has become, thanks to its good work, a must if you come to Estepona. If you are looking for a chiringuito where you will always have a good experience, this is the place. Ideal for a midday visit with the family.
6. El Cazador
We moved to the port of Estepona to treat ourselves to a delicious meal! Typical Spanish food and abundant, with excellent meats. It is an ideal recommendation for a relaxed meal in a group or as a couple.
5. El Pescador
When you combine experience, tradition, good views, a large space, good service and high quality products, what can go wrong? Year after year, this restaurant remains one of the benchmarks of the city of Estepona. A must-visit
4. La Casa del Rey
If you are looking for the perfect combination of good food, elegance and an endless wine list by the glass, you can’t miss this beautiful corner of Estepona. Here you can enjoy tapas with excellent wines as well as a complete dinner. We recommend its interior patio for couples and its central table for groups.
3. The Escollera
We return to the port of Estepona to visit ‘El sitio’. You haven’t been to Estepona if you haven’t passed by La Escollera. Since 1940, this fishermen’s place has become, over the years, a symbol of the town. This Estepona restaurant welcomes locals and foreigners from all over the world on a daily basis. It is an endearing place where today’s grandparents used to come when they were children with their parents.
2. The Oliva
We would like to highlight and recognise this restaurant in Caridad Street. It offers a well-balanced menu with very good quality products, excellent service and an elegant atmosphere. It is an ideal place for an evening with a couple or a group, with relaxed and intimate evenings, and good music in the background. A 10 for the Oliva restaurant in Estepona.
1. Alma de Miguel
When all is well, this Restaurant with different rooms and atmospheres, this place is ideal for couples, families and groups. It is only fair to highlight the management of Miguel Perez for his constant development and progress, offering more and more and better from this corner in Caridad street. It is impressive how they manage to offer so much to so many. Countless diners are served daily in this establishment, where seafood, rice, fish and meat of excellent quality are tasted.
What outdoor activities can you do in Estepona?
Thanks to its privileged geographical location, Estepona offers unique conditions to practice a wide variety of outdoor activities. Let’s discover all the surprises that this charming town of sea and mountains has available for you, so that you can turn your visit to Estepona into an unforgettable adventure.
8. Buggy tours in Estepona
Explore the stunning scenery of Estepona with our exciting 4×4 quad tours. From mountain routes to coastal rides, we have options for all levels of experience. Our routes are adapted for any level and age, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this adventure.
These activities are led by passionate and knowledgeable guides who will ensure you have a safe and enriching experience.
Tour details:
Duration: 1, 2 and 3 hours.
Meeting point: Estepona Marina.
Times: Daily departures, morning and afternoon.
Requirements: No previous experience necessary. Minimum age: 18 years old with driving licence.
7. Golf in Estepona
It goes without saying that the Costa del Sol is a world reference for its magnificent golf courses, many of them located within the municipality of Estepona.
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Here are some of the most outstanding:
Valle Romano Golf & Resort: This exceptional 18-hole course is prepared to host the most demanding and prestigious golf tournaments. Its design guarantees the enjoyment of both amateur and professional golfers, taking care of every detail to offer an unparalleled experience.
Estepona Golf: With wonderful sea and mountain views, this course offers fun regardless of the player’s handicap. It is known for its fabulous and consistent greens, and has several par 3s, including the famous and challenging 14th hole with the Sierra Bermeja in the background.
Azata Golf: A technical but accessible course for all levels. Its holes invite you to think and play different types of shots, while enjoying the spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Sierra Bermeja.
El Paraíso Golf Club: This 18-hole course is known for its unbeatable conditions and spectacular views. It is an ideal place to enjoy a sensational morning of golf.
Atalaya Golf & Country Club: It offers two 18-hole courses, the Old Course and the New Course, both with hard and fast greens, and a natural grass driving range which is one of the best in the area.
La Resina Golf & Country Club: A 9-hole course offering a unique golfing experience in a natural and well-kept environment.
Doña Julia Golf Club: This 18-hole course offers a challenging round with breathtaking views and a layout to suit all skill levels.
These are just some of the magnificent golf courses you can find in Estepona. Each one offers a unique experience, ensuring that locals and visitors alike can enjoy the sport in spectacular surroundings.
6. Hiking in Esterpona
Estepona, with its privileged location between the sea and the mountains, is the perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts. Its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity offer a unique experience for all levels of hikers. Here are some of the most outstanding routes not to be missed:
Peak Los Reales from Loma del Infierno
Distance: 11,94 km
Altitude: +876 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: This route takes you up the Pico Los Reales, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Sierra Bermeja.
Padrón river and Charca de la Extranjera pond
Distance: 7.32 km
Difference in altitude: +149 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: A circular route that follows the course of the River Padrón, ideal for cooling off and enjoying nature.
Punta Doncella Lighthouse from Estepona Port
Distance: 7.73 km
Gradient: +30 m
Difficulty: Easy
Description: A leisurely stroll along the coast offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Location
Charco de Las Nutrias from the Camino del Rio del Castor
Distance: 6,64 km
Gradient: +130 m
Difficulty: Easy
Description: An easy and accessible walk for all levels, perfect to enjoy with the family.
Paseo de los Pinsapos and Integral de los Reales
Distance: Variable
Difficulty: Variable
Description: This route takes you through the only Spanish firs that exist in the world, a botanical jewel of the Sierra Bermeja.
5. Cycling
Estepona, with its unique combination of sea and mountains, is the perfect destination for cycling enthusiasts. Its varied routes and breathtaking scenery offer an unforgettable experience for cyclists of all levels. Here are some of the most outstanding routes not to be missed:
From Estepona to Casares – Circular route via EuroVelo 8
Distance: 45,6 km
Elevation gain: 760 m
Difficulty: Difficult
Description: A challenging route that takes you from Estepona to the picturesque village of Casares, with stunning views along the way.
Coastal Path and Beach Bike Path – Circular Route from El Saladillo
Distance: 29,1 km
Gradient: 110 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: A moderate walk along the coast, ideal for enjoying the sea views and the sea breeze.
Promenade and Incredible Swamp Views – Circular Route from Sun Beach
Distance: 84,9 km
Elevation gain: 1,240 m
Difficulty: Difficult
Description: A challenging route offering spectacular views of the marsh and coastline, ideal for experienced cyclists.
Estepona – Puerto de Peñas Blancas – Jubrique – Gaucín – Casares – Estepona
Distance: 100,67 km
Altitude: 3.111 m
Difficulty: Very difficult
Description: A spectacular route that includes the ascent of three mountain passes, perfect for cyclists looking for a real challenge.
4. Tennis and Padel in Estepona
Estepona, with its privileged climate and spectacular surroundings, is the ideal place for tennis and paddle lovers. Its high quality facilities and friendly atmosphere offer an unrivalled sporting experience for players of all levels. Here are some of the best options not to be missed:
Estepona Tennis and Paddle Tennis Club
Facilities: 10 tennis courts, 5 on clay and 5 on hard surface.
Description: This club is known for its excellent facilities and family atmosphere. It offers private and group lessons, as well as tennis mix-in and individual and doubles matches.
Services: Court rental, tennis academy, tournaments and social events.
Bel Air Tennis & Padel Club
Facilities: Several high quality tennis courts.
Description: Situated close to Puerto Banús and Marbella, this club is perfect for those looking for an exclusive and well kept environment.
Paddle Tennis Courts in Estepona
Estepona Tennis and Paddle Tennis Club
Facilities: 5 World Padel Tour padel courts and 1 synthetic grass court.
Description: This club offers high performance facilities for players of all levels. It organises padel tournaments and padel mix-in throughout the year.
Services: Court rental, padel academy, tournaments and social events.
Padel N Sports Estepona
Facilities: 4 paddle tennis courts.
Description: This sports centre is known for its modern facilities and dynamic atmosphere. It offers paddle classes and other sports services.
Las Mesas Sports Centre
Facilities: Several paddle tennis courts.
Description: This centre is ideal for those looking for a complete place to practice sport, with high quality facilities and a welcoming atmosphere.
3. Nautical Activities in Estepona
If there is one thing that characterises Estepona, it is its connection with the sea. Here is a list of exciting nautical activities that you can enjoy during your holiday in Estepona:
Boat trips: Relax and enjoy a boat trip along the beautiful coast of Estepona. Ideal to admire the scenery and unwind.
This experience is ideal for individuals, couples or groups.
Sport fishing: Experience the thrill of deep sea fishing. Take part in fishing days and catch different marine species.
Scuba diving: Immerse yourself in the fascinating underwater world. Discover the rich marine biodiversity with diving activities for all levels.
Paddle surfing: Paddle surf in the calm waters of Estepona. It’s a great way to exercise and enjoy the sea.
Kayaking: Kayak and explore the coastline at your own pace. Perfect for enjoying the scenery and the tranquillity of the sea.
Wakeboarding: Feel the adrenaline of wakeboarding. Glide over the water and perform thrilling stunts.
Jet skis: Rent a jet ski and ride along the coast at full speed. An activity full of excitement and fun.
Sailing: Take part in regattas or enjoy a relaxing sailing trip. A unique experience for sea lovers.
Surfing: Learn to surf or improve your skills on the waves of Estepona. Ideal for the adventurous and sport lovers.
Big SUP: Enjoy paddle surfing in a group with a big board. Perfect for family activities or with friends.
Water inflatables: Have fun with banana boat rides and other inflatables. A fun option for all ages.
Estepona has many companies dedicated to this fun experience, here are some references:
Puerto Deportivo de Estepona: In this port you can find a variety of nautical activities such as boat trips, sport fishing, diving, paddle surfing, kayaking, wakeboarding, jet skiing, sailing, surfing, Big SUP and water inflatables.
Acrojet Estepona: This company specialises in offering premium nautical leisure experiences, including jet skis and boat trips. They are located in the Marina Estepona Marina.
Turismo Marinero Costa del Sol: They offer various nautical activities, including boat trips and sport fishing.
Dynamic Windsurfing Center: In addition to windsurfing, they offer boat trips, paddle surfing, kayaking and other water activities.
South Ole Sails: Specialising in sailing experiences, they also offer other nautical activities such as paddle surfing and kayaking.
Real Club Náutico de Estepona: They offer sailing courses and dinghy hire, as well as other activities such as kayaking and cruising.
2. Estepona Climbing Wall.
The Estepona Climbing Wall is a Climbing Lover’s Paradise.
Since 2023, Estepona boasts an impressive 662 square metre climbing wall, located in the Parque Ferial y Deportivo de Estepona. This facility has become a real magnet for climbing enthusiasts from the surrounding towns and beyond. Open to the public, this climbing wall offers a unique experience for all enthusiasts of heights and climbing.
Features of the climbing wall
The Estepona climbing wall stands out for its high-tech structure and innovative design. Here are some key details:
Total Surface Area: 662 square metres.
Climbing areas:
Speed: 115 m².
Difficulty: 363 m².
Block: 184 m².
Structure: High-pressure 3D modelling with a self-stable structure of 130 tons of steel and a luminous cladding.
Activities and courses
The climbing wall offers a variety of activities and courses adapted to different levels and ages:
Levels:
Beginners: For beginners.
Intermediate: For climbers with some experience.
Advanced: For experienced climbers.
Age range:
Youth: From 8 to 17 years old.
Adults: From 18 years old.
Timetables
The activities are managed by the Club Grupo de Montaña de Estepona (GRUME) and take place at the following times:
Monday to Friday: 16:00 – 22:00.
Saturdays: 10:00 – 14:00.
This climbing wall is not only a place to practice climbing, but also a place to learn, improve and enjoy this sport in a safe and exciting environment. Don’t miss the opportunity to challenge your limits and reach new heights at the Estepona climbing wall.
1.Horse riding in Estepona
An Unforgettable Experience, Whether you are a horse lover or simply looking for a new adventure, Estepona has a lot to offer you. Although this activity may still be unknown to many visitors, the trails and schools available in this beautiful town will allow you to enjoy fantastic horseback rides along the coast and in the mountains.
Costa del Sol School of Equestrian Art
This school is a reference in the region. Open every day from 09:00 to 22:00, it offers a wide range of services:
Riding Lessons: From beginners to advanced levels.
Grooming: Complete care and attention service for horses.
Events and Celebrations: Weddings, communions and other special events.
Equestrian Shows: Magnificent dressage and riding shows.
Restaurant and Catering: Catering services for events.
Pony Club: Activities for children.
The facilities are modern and complete, with an Andalusian design that harmonises perfectly with the natural surroundings between Sierra Bermeja and the sea.
Espona Equestrian Centre
Horse Riding: Rides on the beach and in the countryside.
Riding Lessons: For all levels.
Special Events: Organisation of equestrian events.
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Enjoy guided horseback rides along the beach in Estepona, ideal for contemplating the coastal scenery and the dunes. No previous knowledge is required, so it is a perfect activity for everyone.
Cultural and leisure activities in Estepona.
Events and Festivals in Estepona.
Costa del Sol International Fantastic Film Week: An annual festival celebrating fantastic cinema with screenings, talks and related activities.
Additional information
Flamenco Festival: Estepona hosts several flamenco events throughout the year, including singing, dancing and guitar performances.
Book Fair: An annual event where you can find books of all genres, as well as activities such as book signings and workshops.
Exhibitions and Museums.
Estepona Orchidarium: A botanical garden with an impressive collection of orchids and other exotic plants.
Casa de Las Tejerinas: Exhibition space that houses contemporary and traditional art exhibitions.
Archaeological Museum: Located in the Casa del Aljibe, it offers an insight into the ancient history of the region.
Music and Theatre in Estepona
Teatro Auditorio Felipe VI: Offers a variety of shows, from theatre and concerts to dance and opera.
Louie Louie Live Estepona Concerts: This establishment offers high quality live music, with a large line-up of varied and renowned artists.
Courses and Workshops in Estepona
School of performing arts and dances in Estepona, El Taller del Arte is a creative project that was born from the hand of these dancers, in which they intend to design a space where we can enjoy art in all its possible aspects.
Chess, Belly Dance and Latin Dance courses: Offered by the Delegación de Cultura de Estepona.
Handicraft and Ceramics Workshops :
Ceramics, in Estepona we have a fantastic training in ceramics by Studio Cerámica.
General information about Estepona
The name ‘Estepona’ has several theories about its origin. One of the most widely accepted is that it comes from the Arabic ‘Astabbuna’ or ‘Istabbuna,’ meaning ‘place of rest,’ reflecting the town’s hospitality to travellers in ancient times1. Another theory suggests that the name may derive from a Celtic enclave dedicated to the goddess Epona, and would later be known to the Romans as ‘est’ (Latin for ‘to be’) Epona.
Dimensions and Location
Estepona is a town and municipality in the Costa del Sol region of southern Spain. It is located in the province of Málaga, within the autonomous community of Andalusia. The municipality covers an area of 137 km² and is situated in a fertile valley crossed by small streams and mountainous areas dominated by the Sierra Bermeja mountain range.
Climate
Thanks to its natural environment, surrounded by the sea and the mountains, Estepona enjoys a microclimate with more than 325 days of sunshine per year2. This makes it a popular destination all year round, with warm summers and mild winters.
History
The Estepona area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with stone tools and dolmens discovered in the region2. During Roman times, the area was occupied, but a tidal wave destroyed the Roman town or villa in the 4th century. In 1342, the Battle of Estepona took place in the bay of the town between the fleet of the Crown of Aragon and the Marinid dynasty. In 1457, Henry IV of Castile captured the town from the Moors, and a church was built over what had been the town’s mosque.
Current Situation
Today, Estepona is best known for its beaches, which stretch along some 21 km of coastline2. The town boasts two EC Blue Flag beaches, a modern marina with numerous tapas bars and restaurants, and a historic centre with white houses adorned with flowers and picturesque squares.
Estepona combines its rich history with a stunning natural environment and a vibrant cultural offer, making it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.
I hope this information is useful for your stay in Estepona and remember that wherever you go, your moment of relaxation and rest goes with you with Full Vitality Spa.
