A Family Weekend in Estepona Old Town

Estepona does not get the attention it deserves. While Marbella and Puerto Banús dominate the guidebooks, Estepona has quietly become one of the nicest towns on the Costa del Sol — especially for families. The old town has been beautifully restored over the past decade, with flower-lined streets, a stunning orchid house, and a mural trail that turns a simple walk into an art gallery. We have spent many weekends here, and it never disappoints.

Saturday Morning: The Old Town

Start in the old town, which is compact enough to explore on foot with children of any age. The streets are pedestrianised, flat, and lined with flower pots — the town famously maintains over 50,000 plants throughout the centre. Kids love counting the different flowers, and the shaded streets keep everyone cool.

The Mural Route (Ruta de los Murales) takes you past dozens of large-scale paintings on the sides of buildings. Some are classical, some modern, some just plain fun. Our kids have always enjoyed spotting them and it gives the walk a sense of purpose — essential when you are trying to keep small legs moving.

The Orchidarium

The Orchidarium (Orquidario de Estepona) is the highlight for most families. It is a striking glass dome housing hundreds of orchid species, a waterfall, and tropical trees. Children are fascinated by it — the dome itself is impressive, the plants are colourful, and there are fish in the ponds. Entry is cheap (a few euros for adults, free for young children) and you can easily spend 45 minutes to an hour inside.

Saturday Afternoon: Playa del Cristo

After the old town, head to Playa del Cristo — arguably the best family beach on the entire Costa del Sol. It is a small, sheltered cove with incredibly calm water, almost like a lake. The beach has Blue Flag status, lifeguards in summer, and a couple of chiringuitos for lunch.

The water is shallow for a long way out, which makes it perfect for toddlers and nervous swimmers. We have seen children as young as 18 months splashing happily here while their parents actually relax. That alone makes Estepona worth the drive.

Saturday Evening: Dinner in the Old Town

Estepona's dining scene is more traditional Spanish than Marbella's international mix, and that is a good thing. For families, we recommend:

• Restaurante La Escollera on the port — excellent fresh fish, outdoor seating overlooking the marina, and staff who adore children
• Taberna El Mero in the old town — proper tapas, generous portions, and a relaxed atmosphere where kids can be kids
• Heladería Massai for dessert — possibly the best ice cream on the coast, with creative flavours that change regularly

Dinner at 7pm is easy in Estepona. The town has enough of an international community that early dining is normal, and the streets are alive with families well into the evening.

Sunday Morning: Market and Play

The Sunday market runs along the port and seafront. It is a mix of local produce, clothes, crafts, and random bits — the kind of market where kids will find something they desperately need (a wooden sword, a giant lollipop, a hat shaped like a shark). The atmosphere is relaxed and it is a lovely way to start a Sunday.

After the market, the Parque de los Pedregales playground near the bullring is one of the best in the area. It has modern climbing equipment, swings, a zip line, and enough space for kids to run properly. There is a café next door where you can sit outside and watch them play.

Getting There and Parking

From Marbella, take the AP-7 motorway west. The drive is about 30 minutes and straightforward. Parking in Estepona is easier than in Marbella — there is a large underground car park on Avenida Juan Carlos I, right next to the old town. On Sundays, street parking is often free.

The Bottom Line

Estepona is the kind of place that makes you wonder why you do not visit more often. It has the charm of a traditional Andalucían town, the facilities of a modern resort, and a pace of life that suits families perfectly. If you have not been recently, this weekend is a good time to go.