Benamara Area Guide
Benamara is a charming beachside community on the prestigious New Golden Mile, perfectly positioned between Marbella and Estepona. Known for its quiet leafy streets, direct access to the sea, and relaxed Mediterranean vibe, Benamara offers a mix of traditional Andalusian villas and modern apartments just steps from sandy beaches and beach clubs. It’s a favourite among families, retirees, and second-home buyers who want authentic coastal living with excellent connections.
At a Glance
- Vibe: Peaceful, authentic, and family-friendly with a relaxed beachside charm.
- Highlights: Direct beach access, traditional villas, chiringuitos, and proximity to Marbella and Estepona.
- Who loves it: Families, retirees, and lifestyle buyers looking for a quiet community near the sea.
Location & Connections
- Where: New Golden Mile, between San Pedro/Guadalmina and Cancelada, just west of Marbella.
- Estepona Town: ~10 minutes by car.
- Marbella Town: ~15 minutes.
- Puerto Banús: ~10 minutes.
- Málaga Airport: ~50 minutes via A-7/AP-7.
- Gibraltar Airport: ~40 minutes.
- Access: Excellent road connections; quiet residential streets lead directly to the beach.
Lifestyle & Amenities
Benamara offers a calm, easy-going lifestyle where everything revolves around the beach. You’ll find a mix of local restaurants, cosy cafés, and beach clubs nearby, while shopping and schools are just a short drive away.
- Dining: Beachfront chiringuitos like Salduna Beach and Sonora Beach, plus nearby fine dining on the New Golden Mile and in San Pedro or Estepona.
- Shopping: Local supermarkets, pharmacies, and boutiques within minutes; La Cañada Mall and Puerto Banús luxury shops ~15 minutes away.
- Wellness: Fitness studios, yoga, and beachside activities; spas and wellness retreats nearby.
- Healthcare: Estepona and Marbella private clinics and hospitals within 10–15 minutes.
Beaches & Coastal Living
Benamara sits directly on the New Golden Mile’s golden beaches. Residents enjoy easy access to quiet stretches of sand, beach bars, and the scenic promenade — ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling towards Marbella or Estepona.
Golf & Outdoor Life
- Golf: Surrounded by top courses including El Paraíso, Atalaya, Guadalmina, and Los Flamingos.
- Outdoor living: Swimming, paddleboarding, cycling, and hiking in nearby hills.
- Leisure: Close to beach clubs, tennis clubs, and the glamour of Puerto Banús just 10 minutes away.
Schools
Benamara is attractive for families thanks to its safe residential feel and proximity to excellent international schools.
- Nearby options: Atalaya International School, Mayfair Academy, Laude San Pedro International College, and Colegio San José in Estepona.
Property Styles
Benamara offers a charming mix of property types — from Andalusian villas to modern apartments and townhouses — all just a short stroll to the beach.
- Traditional Villas: Whitewashed Andalusian homes with private pools and mature gardens.
- Modern Renovations: Upgraded villas and homes with contemporary interiors while keeping Mediterranean charm.
- Townhouses: Family-friendly gated communities with shared pools and gardens.
- Beachside Apartments: Stylish, low-rise residences with terraces and easy beach access.
Market Snapshot
Benamara is one of the New Golden Mile’s hidden gems, offering excellent value compared to Marbella while still being beachfront. Renovated villas and modern apartments are in high demand, and the area’s calm, walkable atmosphere makes it popular for both permanent living and rentals.
- Value drivers: Beach proximity, plot size, mature gardens, and modernised interiors.
- Investment appeal: Steady rental demand and long-term appreciation as beachfront land becomes increasingly scarce.
Who It Suits
- Families: Quiet streets, nearby schools, and larger homes with gardens and pools.
- Retirees: Peaceful seaside lifestyle with easy access to healthcare and amenities.
- Second-home buyers: Relaxed beach living without Marbella’s higher prices.
- Investors: Strong demand for renovated villas and holiday rentals in a prime coastal spot.
Buyer Tips
- Beach proximity: Properties on or very near the beach hold long-term value and rental appeal.
- Renovation potential: Older villas can be modernised for excellent ROI — check local planning permissions.
- Community amenities: Gated townhouses with shared pools are highly desirable for families and holiday lets.
- Parking: Homes with private parking or garages are more attractive to buyers and renters alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Benamara a quiet area?
Yes — it’s a peaceful residential neighbourhood with a relaxed beachside atmosphere.
How far is Benamara from Marbella and Estepona?
About 15 minutes to Marbella, 10 minutes to Estepona, and 10 minutes to Puerto Banús by car.
Are there new developments in Benamara?
Most homes are established villas and low-rise apartments, but some modern renovations and boutique developments are available.
Is Benamara good for investment?
Absolutely — renovated villas and beachside apartments see strong demand and offer good long-term appreciation.
Start Your Benamara Property Search
From traditional Andalusian villas to stylish renovated homes and beachside apartments, Benamara offers a calm, authentic lifestyle on the New Golden Mile. Contact us for expert guidance and access to the best properties in this desirable seaside community.