Looking for a getaway that promises sunshine, plenty of chances to relax and even more places to party? Basically, somewhere where you can let loose and forget the consequences? Marbella’s definitely the place to go then. With A-list clubs, sun-drenched beaches and awesome water sports, this Costa del Sol gem is the complete package.
Let Rip on the Water
Find out who are the posers and who are the plain amateurs in the group with some rounds of cable skiing on the beautiful lake at Guadalmina Alta in San Pedro de Alcantara. You can either waterski, wakeboard or kneeboard while cables pull you around the lake. See who can make it the full minute without wiping-out!
If you haven’t tried canyoning yet, you’re missing out. Involving climbing, jumping, scrambling, abseiling and swimming, it’s a demanding yet exhilarating challenge where teamwork can help push you and your mates over that jump to take the plunge. The incredible gorges of Andalucía are the perfect place for this high-octane sport.
The reefs around Marbella are great for scuba diving, for beginners and the more experienced alike. Alive with marine life and the odd shipwreck or two, perhaps you can make some new fishy friends, before it’s time to get partying…
Hit the Clubs
If you and the gang didn’t wipe-out on the water, then don’t worry. There are plenty of chances to lose your inhibitions at one (or all!) of these awesome clubs.
La Suite Nightclub – when people talk about Marbella’s glam nightlife, they’re really talking about La Suite Nightclub, next to La Plaza Village – it’s not uncommon to see a big name or two in the house. But even if you don’t manage to spot a celeb, ample consolation comes from the great range of plush cocktails and top DJs.
Tibu Banus – international DJs and free entry before midnight make Tibu Banus one of Marbella’s best and busiest. Book in advance for this one and enjoy some heavy clubbing into the small hours. Right on Puerto Banus’s main square, it’s easy to find and centrally located: perfect if you’re feeling a little worse for wear after giving yourself some vodka-TLC.
Funky Buddha – 10 minutes’ taxi ride out of Puerto Banus is Funky Buddha. Its Eastern theme and dark interiors make this a seriously cool place – just don’t get here before 3am, unless you’re happy being the only ones in. Once you’ve arrived, lounge in the shisha bar and soak in some laidback tunes in the company of other cool customers.
*Top tip: Many of Marbella’s nightclubs don’t shut their doors until the sun’s rising, so if you’re set on a late one then pace yourself or go home early!
Binge on Brunch
There’s no shortage of restaurants and cafés for party animals to soak up the alcohol the morning after. No gimmicks, no frills, just proper hearty breakfasts and brunches!
Café de Ronda – take a pew at this locals’ favourite and gorge on Spanish omelette, baguette and the fantastic eggs benedict. It’s the perfect way to set yourself for a day of recovery before the fun starts all over again…
Dezentral – all right, I did say no gimmicks but hear me out. If you want to begin the detox process early, then treat yourself to avocado on toast and a wheatgrass shot at Dezentral. Or if you just want a liquid breakfast (of the strictly non-alcoholic variety) the coffee alone makes this lovely spot and its peaceful garden worth a visit.
Pan y Mermelada – pop a chill pill and wash it down with eggs benedict, pancakes and sandwiches at this laidback spot. No-nonsense, filling fare: exactly what every clubber needs.
Blue Palm Café – run by two British expats, Blue Palm Café brings in plenty of holidaymakers thanks to its winning combination of comfort food, welcoming feel and beach location. Take your pick from a brunch menu that includes salmon and scrambled egg, and (of course) a full English.
How to Get to Marbella
Marbella is easy to get to and flights into Malaga (AGP) airport from London’s airports are covered by budget favourites easyJet and Ryanair. All it takes is two and a half hours of flying and you’ll be on the sunny Spanish coast.
To get straight into the Marbella madness, pre-book a Shuttle Direct transfer from the airport to your hotel. With a journey time of only 40 minutes, you won’t be wasting any valuable party time.
Where to Stay
Hostel Bohemia – What it lacks in sense of geography, the Hostel Bohemia more than makes up for in location and comfort. Six minutes’ walk from the beach and close to plenty of bars and restaurants in the centre, it’s got free WiFi and a lovely sun terrace if heading to the beach is a stretch too far.
About Shuttle Direct
As the premier provider of airport transfers in Europe and North Africa, there are many reasons why Shuttle Direct is regularly chosen by so many holidaymakers. For starters, our fixed price transfers are exactly that – no dodgy hidden fees or unexpected charges. We’re also reliable and punctual, and we know that’s what matters when you’ve arrived in a foreign country and want to get your holiday started as soon as possible. So book your transfer on our user-friendly website, and we’ll do the rest!
