Enjoying Marbella’s best golf courses
Costa del Sol is considered the most popular golfing destination in Europe, so much that it is often known as Costa del Golf. With over 70 golf courses stretching the entire coast, Costa del Sol has the highest concentration of golf courses anywhere in Europe and attracts tens of thousands of golfers every year. It also hosts many pro tournaments. With the region’s magnificent weather year-round, there is no offseason and golf is a popular activity no matter what time of year. If you are in the Marbella area, here is a list of some of the best world-class golf courses in and around Marbella.
# Los Naranjos
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., Los Naranjos is ranked one of the best courses in all of Spain. Since its opening in 1977, Los Naranjos has hosted several major competitions such as the Spanish Open and has won several awards such as the course of the year on the Costa del Sol on 2 different occasions. The course lengths start at 5,131 meters and reaches up to 6,532 meters. It is perfect for players of all levels yet includes many challenges such as the intimidating 5 par hole 18. Many holes are wide open whereas some are also tight, so you’ll have the best of both worlds. Enjoy the many facilities of the course such as the clubhouse, golf shop, dressing room, hairdresser the restaurant (one of the most visited restaurants in Marbella) and bar, both open from the early morning to late in the evening. The location of Los Naranjos makes it an ideal golf course for many people, as it is only a 5-minute drive from Puerto Banus and the hustle and bustle of Marbella.
# La Quinta
La Quinta is part of the 5 star Westin resort. Designed by the three-time world champion and Ryder Cup champion Manuel Piñero, the 27 hole golf course is has 3 loops, split into 9 holes each. It is a comfortable course suitable for players at any level, yet includes many challenges such as uneven fairways, deep bunkers and water hazards. Golf course A “San Pedro” for example has 9 holes and 2,459 meters featuring large open areas with wide fairways. Golf course B “Ronda” has 2,444 meters with narrow fairways and technical greens. Golf course C “Guadaiza” has 2,895 meters and is the most technical out of the 3 courses with players having to use a wide range of shots and skills. The driving range has a high capacity of 100 players. Facilities include the resort itself, with a spa and fitness room, the golf clubhouse and shop, and clubhouse restaurant. There are also rentals and lessons available.
# Aloha
Designed by Javier Arana, this very popular course has hosted the PGA Tour 3 times in recent years. The course is a par 72 laid out in a traditional way with 4 par 5’s, 10 par 4’s and 4 par 3’s distributed evenly between 2 nines. At 6,293 meters, the course requires accuracy from the tee and a good touch around the greens. It is one of the best-kept and best-designed courses in the area with trees presenting both a challenge to players all while keeping the course colorful and aesthetically pleasing. The beauty of playing in Aloha is further enhanced by the beautiful views of La Concha (Marbella’s signature mountain). Facilities include the clubhouse, restaurant, pro shop, social and health club and a pool. The location is great as the course is situated only a few minute’s drive from Marbella city center and the world-famous Puerto Banus marina.
# Rio Real
Another course designed by the legendary Javier Arana is one of the more unique course in the area. This spectacular course slopes down to the Mediterranean Sea and provides stunning views as you play. Hole 5 actually comes all the way to the shore. Most of the fairways are separated by trees and the river Rio Real which flows across the course provides a challenging water hazard. With 18 holes and more than 6000 meters in length, it is suitable for any player thanks to its elevated holes, which make it even more appealing as it requires the use of various clubs. Facilities include a hotel, locker room and pro shop. Rentals are also available. The course is situated in a great location east of Marbella City Center and only a 5-minute drive away from the beautiful Old Town.
# Guadalmina Golf Club
Guadalmina is an internationally recognized golf course and has hosted the PGA European Tour Qualifying School several times in its history. It offers two 18 hole courses, the “North” and “South” courses as well as a 9 hole practice course. The north course is known to be the easier course but has more water hazards, while the south course is much tougher. It includes wide fairways with raised greens as well as several earth hazards making it very easy to lose the ball. The south course stretches all the way down to the Mediterranean Sea and provides spectacular views. Facilities include the clubhouse, tennis and padel courts, a pool, cafeteria and services such as its well-known golf school. The golf course is west of Marbella and only a 6-minute drive to the vibrant Puerto Banus.
Marbella is filled with so many more world-class golf courses. Some more include:
- Las Brisas
- El Paraiso
- Los Arqueros
- Marbella Golf Country Club
- Marbella Club Golf Resort
- Flamingos Golf
- Magna