Alhamar Guidebook
1. About the Apartment
The 38 m2 apartment underwent a complete high-end renovation in 2024, with every detail carefully considered, all within a classic building from the 1970s.
Our guests like to stay here because of the views towards the sea and mountains, as well as close access to the beach and the coastal promenade.
Across the road, only a few meters away, you find a coffee shop, a bar, and a restaurant which makes it perfect to enjoy a couple of drinks or something to eat right next to the beach.
If you prefer having breakfast or lunch a little bit further away, there are lots of restaurants and cafes close by. By night, our guests love to explore the coastal promenade which is part of the “Senda Litoral de Mijas” that stretches several kilometers along the Costa del Sol. It connects beaches, coves, and coastal towns, making it perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling.
- Features
You’ll find all the comforts of a home here, including a washing machine, dryer, aircon, big smart TV, and plenty of kitchenware. It’s cozy living, made easy!
Living-room with integrated kitchen
* Stylish Dining & Lounge Space: Features a bar-style dining table with chairs, a cozy sofa, and a chic coffee table for relaxation or meals.
* Entertainment & Connectivity: Enjoy a Smart TV and ultra-fast 600 Mbps Wi-Fi to stay connected and entertained.
* Quiet Workspace for Remote Work: A dedicated workspace is available, perfect for digital nomads and remote workers. 2nd monitor, HDMI and extension cables can be provided.
* Fully Equipped Kitchen: Includes a coffee maker, refrigerator with freezer, and all the essentials for a seamless cooking experience.
* Comfort & Climate Control: Air conditioning with cooling and heating options ensures a pleasant stay year-round.
* Convenient Laundry Facilities: Equipped with a washing machine and dryer for your convenience.
Bedroom
* Cozy Sleeping Area: Features a comfortable 1.6m double bed with plush bedding for a restful night’s sleep.
* Ample Storage: A spacious wardrobe and full-length mirror to keep your belongings organized and help you get ready with ease.
* Relaxing Lounge Space: Includes a stylish lounge chair, perfect for unwinding or reading.
Stylish Bathroom
* Modern Bathroom: Includes a sleek shower and toilet for your convenience.
* Ample Storage: Dedicated space for your makeup, lotions, and toiletries.
* Essential Amenities: Equipped with a hairdryer, fresh towels, and complimentary soap.
* Bright & Airy: A ventilated space with a window for natural light and fresh air.
- Getting There
The address is Calle Alhamar 6, 29649, Mijas, Spain
Please follow the directions below if coming from Malaga airport:
By Car (Toll-Free Route):
– From the airport, take the MA-21 (N-340) and merge onto the A-7 (free coastal road) towards Algeciras/Marbella.
– Stay on the A-7 for about 35–36 km.
– You need to go around the roundabout heading opposite direction towards Malaga- Take the Alhamar exit (Exit 1028 A).
– Take the Alhamar exit (Exit 1028 A).
By Malaga Airport Bus:
– At Terminal 3 (Arrivals) at Malaga airport, head straight out; the ‘Avanza’ intercity bus stop and ticket office are just outside the arrivals doors.
– Take the direct Avanza bus towards Marbella. Journey time is approximately 30 minutes, and departures run every 20–30 minutes daily. Ticket price ranges from around €6–9. Purchase at the ticket office or online in advance.
– Get off at the bus station in Alhamar, walk to Calle Alhamar — it should be within easy walking distance of 5 to 10 minutes.
- Check-In
The keys will be available for pickup in front of the apartment building between our regular check-in times which are usually 3pm and 9pm. Either me or one of our property managers will be happily to meet you at a suitable time for you.
If for some reason you happen to arrive outside our agreed check-in hours, you will be required to pick up the keys from one our local key concierge service providers where guests can pick them up at their convenience using a unique code. Further information will be provided if you wish to pick up your keys this way.
- Parking
The apartment doesn’t come with its own private parking space. However, there is free on-street parking available for cars and motorcycles around the building complex and surrounding streets. Just note, it is generally speaking ‘easier’ to find parking early in the day until about 5pm when most residents return from work.
Another popular free on-street parking area is across the N-340 freeway. It is about a 7 min walk away from the apartment.
2. Calahonda Amenties & Fun
You’ll find plenty to enjoy in the area – beautiful sandy beaches just a short walk away, a great selection of restaurants and tapas bars offering both local and international cuisine, and cozy cafés to relax in. There are also several supermarkets, shops, and convenience stores nearby for anything you might need during your stay. If you enjoy a bit of nightlife, there are bars and beach clubs within walking distance, and Marbella and La Cala are only a short drive away for even more dining and entertainment options.
- Around the Apartment
The apartment is conveniently located in ‘Calahonda’, a charming coastal neighborhood offering everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Whether you’re here to relax on the beach, explore local cuisine, or find everyday essentials, everything is within walking distance from the apartment.
Beaches & Outdoor Activities
• Calahonda Beach (Playa de Calahonda) – Just a short stroll away, this beautiful sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying the scenic Coastal Boardwalk (Senda Litoral) that connects nearby beach towns.
• Cabopino Beach & Dunes – A stunning natural beach with golden sand and a relaxed vibe, located just a 5-minute drive away.
Restaurants & Bars
• ‘Chiringuito Royal Beach Pirata’. – A very typical authentic Spanish eatery, famous for its grilled fish, paella, and seafood, that sits right next to the beach. Food, service, and prices are very good.
• El Rincon de Cuba – The menu features a variety of Cuban and international dishes. Guests have praised the quality of the food and the friendly service.
• Mesón de Calahonda – A must-visit for delicious Spanish tapas and traditional Andalusian flavors.
• Little India Restaurant – Highly rated for its authentic Indian dishes and warm hospitality.
• La Estancia – Argentinian Steak house “La Estancia” is a 13 min walk from the apartment. The steaks are fabulous there, and prices are reasonable.
• Bogart’s Tapas Bar – A lively Spanish restaurant and cocktail bar, perfect for a relaxed evening with live music.
• Restaurante Max Beach – A stylish beachfront spot for cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine with sea views.
Coffee Shops & Cafés
• Cocora Coffee – If you are into Specialty Coffee. At the moment, Cocora only serves take-away. For coffee lovers, it is still a must-visit!
• Mona Lisa Bistro – A cozy spot for morning coffee, pastries, and fresh juices.
• Royal Beach Café – Enjoy a coffee or cocktail right by the sea.
Supermarkets & Convenience Stores
• Mercadona – A large supermarket offering fresh produce, groceries, and household items.
• Supercor (Open late) – Perfect for last-minute essentials, snacks, and drinks.
• Lidl & Aldi – Affordable grocery stores within a 5-minute drive.
Pharmacies & Essentials
• Farmacia Del Sol – A well-stocked pharmacy with knowledgeable staff.
• Medical Center ‘Centro Medico El Zoco’ – Nearby medical assistance available if needed.
Transport & Connectivity
• Bus Stop – Located nearby, with routes connecting to Marbella and Fuengirola.
• Taxi Stand – Available at El Zoco and other key locations.
• Car Rental Services – Easily accessible for those wanting to explore the Costa del Sol.
Golf & Leisure
• La Siesta Golf Club – A short drive away, perfect for a relaxed round of golf.
• Miraflores Golf Club – A championship course with stunning views.
• Tennis & Padel Courts – Available at Club del Sol for sports enthusiasts.
- Things To Do in And Around Marbella
A) Wander the Old Town of Marbella
If somehow you only have time for one quick stop in Marbella, let it be the charming old town.
It’s still a mystery to me why most visitors head straight to the busy seashore and ignore this area altogether.
It’s such a beautiful tangle of cobbled alleys and flower-filled squares, perfect for taking some cute Instagram photos, soaking up the vibe, and just wandering with no particular agenda in mind.
B) Visit the Puerto Banus Marina
Puerto Banús has become one of the most famous entertainment centres in the Costa del Sol, known for its luxurious lifestyle, high-end shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
You can enjoy luxury shopping at designer boutiques, dine at upscale waterfront restaurants, and experience vibrant nightlife at trendy bars and clubs.
Visitors can also partake in yachting, water sports, and relax at chic beach clubs. Additionally, the area hosts cultural events and offers scenic marina walks with views of impressive yachts and exotic cars.
C) Walk the coastal Golden Mile
Walking along the Golden Mile is unquestionably one of the best things to do in Marbella. Although a natural extension of the louder and more familiar Paseo Maritimo, this stretch of coastline has a decidedly different vibe.
The 5 km long, palm-lined promenade curves photogenically around the Mediterranean shoreline from western Marbella to Puerto Banús and is home to some of the most exclusive resorts and restaurants in town, including El Chiringuito de Puente Romano, which is my favorite place to rest and refuel (with a platter of crispy calamari rings) along the way. I hear their beach club got a chic red-and-white striped makeover by Fendi this year.
D) Hit this beach club
The coast of Marbella is littered with fancy beach clubs, but very few, if any, are as delicious as La Plage Casanis.
Building on the success of its Old Town sister restaurant, Casanis Bistro, this elevated chiringuito serves up equally splendid food in an all-new atmosphere.
More happening than Chiringuito Puente Romano, yet classier than Champagne-spraying Nikki Beach, this chic beachside venue hits the right notes – rustic-chic aesthetics, breezy Mediterranean vibes, and stellar food.
E) Have a cocktail at Gauguin
It takes a certain type of bar to make me a regular. It’s not just the drinks or the decor. It’s not even the vibe, or the music, or the crowd.
It’s the magical alchemy of all those things, and that’s what you’ll find at Gauguin, a characterful tiki bar adorned with Polynesian-inspired designs down a restaurant-lined street in the city center.
Pull up a stool at the bamboo-framed bar or take a seat at a sidewalk table, and you’ll understand why it’s survived in Marbella longer than others.
It’s an absolute gem to stop by on your way to or from dinner or even to spend an entire evening catching up with your friends or mingling with the cool locals over fruity rum-infused libations served in ceramic coconut cups and sculptural mugs depicting mythical creatures.
F) Watch a sunset over sand dunes
If life in Marbella becomes too much – and if you’re constantly trying to keep up with its social scene, it will – head out for a sunset stroll amid protected sand dunes in Cabopino.
Just 14 km to the east of Marbella, the Dunas de Artola Natural Monument is the last remaining virgin stretch of coast in the province of Málaga.
That means there’s no modern development in sight, just a beautiful sandy beach with clean, shallow waters bordered by pine trees and natural sand dunes sculpted by coastal winds over time.
Along the elevated wooden walkway, there are benches to sit on and native vegetation to gaze at, and you may even spot a wild rabbit jumping around.
G) Hike La Concha
Hiking La Concha is a must-do for any nature lover visiting Marbella, so put on some sunscreen, pack plenty of water, lace up your boots, and embark on an exhilarating outdoor escapade.
It’s not an easy walk, but the views from the top make it all worthwhile.
I) Sip specialty coffee at Art Bakery & Wine
Finding good coffee in Marbella isn’t the easiest task, but not totally hopeless either.
My favourite place to grab a cup lately is Art Bakery & Wine, a stylish café-meets-patisserie-meets-wine-bar in a tranquil residential area above Marbella bus station.
They use specialty beans from legendary German roaster The Barn, and although the coffee menu is quite simple, each espresso is consistently extracted with just the right strength, flavour, and crema.
J) Eat seafood with the locals
The best seafood in Marbella can be found at the unassuming eateries crammed into the maze of tiny alleyways of its fishing quarter, Barrio de Pescadores.
Nestled at the seafront promenade’s eastern end, just past the wide Playa de la Bajadilla and next to the old fishing port, this historic seaside district is mostly popular with locals who linger over long, casual dinners with friends and family.
K) Take a day trip.. or more
As tempting as it may be to laze in the sun all day, sipping cocktails on a sunbed while working on your tan, I would strongly advise against it.
I’d recommend taking at least one day trip into the surrounding region.
After all, this is Andalusia – the land of picturesque pueblos blancos and monumental cities like Seville, Córdoba, and Cádiz.
From culture-filled Málaga to Hemingway-praised Ronda to windswept Tarifa, there’s no shortage of easy and amazing day trips from Marbella.
Just a short drive away, Mijas Pueblo has quaint whitewashed streets flooded with craft shops and potted geranium, while a little further northeast, stunning Granada serves up a slice of street life as grand as the Alhambra palace towering above it.
3. Eating & Drinking
Marbella offers a range of delightful dining and drinking options, including cozy coffee shops for a relaxing brew, charming brunch spots for a perfect mid-morning meal, tapas bars, exquisite restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, and vibrant bars for enjoying lively nightlife. Below are a couple of my personal recommendations.
- Coffee & Brunch
Ground – Artisan Cafe & Bakery
If you are into specialty coffee, then this is the place to go to! This is personally
my favourite place to have specialty coffee in Marbella.
Address: C. los Lirios, Nueva Andalucía, 29660 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Art Bakery & Gourmet
A great breakfast place serving not only specialty coffee, but also a range of amazing cakes and pastries
Address: C. León, 29602 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Rosas Café
A very good specialty coffee shop with beautiful in- and outdoor furniture! It is the go-to place for influencers in Marbella. Not only the coffee is great, but the brunch menu is lovely as well.
Address: Gaviotas IV, Av. Playas del Duque, Local 3, 29660 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Mi Casa Tu Casa
Great coffee, great brunch, great service. You won’t be disappointed.
Address: Av. Antonio Belón, 26, Local 12, 29602 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Zoco Café
Coffee and breakfast are spectacular at Zoco!
Address: N-340, Km. 175, Local 2, C.C, Nueva Andalucía, 29660 Rimesa, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Bruncheo Marbella
Highly recommended brunch and coffee! One of my favourites.
C/ Jacinto Benavente, 11, local 5, 29601 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Brunchit
Another very good breakfast and brunch place.
Address: C. Francisco Nte., 5, 29602 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Organic Market & Food Marbella
If you are specifically into organic coffee and food, then this might be your place to go to. There is also a little supermarket with takeaway options attached to it.
Address: Centro Comercial Expo 14, Av. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso de Hohenlohe, s/n, 29602 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
IKIGAI
If you happen to be in Estepona which is not very far from Marbella, then I’d highly recommend going for brunch at IKIGAI. It’s right next to the beach and the food is outstanding.
Address: Av. España, 3, 29680 Estepona, Málaga
Google Maps Link
- Tapas Bars
La Taberna del Pintxo Marbella
A beautiful Spanish-style interior and an airy open patio in the heart of Marbella beckon. “Pintxo’ is a Spanish word for ‘small snack’. It’s traditionally served in Northern Spain’s Basque country.
Address: Av. España, 3, 29680 Estepona, Málaga
Google Maps Link
El Patio de Mariscal
My second favourite establishment when it comes to tapas bars is this traditional restaurant located in the city’s Old-Town. It’s a hidden gem just steps away from the main square.
Address: Calle Virgen de los Dolores, 3, BAJO, 29601 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
La Tienda Casa Curro
Encounter a mouthwatering selection of traditional tapas at La Tienda Casa Curro. Eat inside at the bar or outside on highchairs and authentic wooden barrels.
Address: C. Pantaleón, 5, 29601 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Bodega La Venencia
Looking for a blast of full flavour? Taste the best in Iberian meats, sausages, eggs, greens, and more at Bodega La Venencia. If you love cured meats, this is definitely the place to go!
Address: Av. Miguel Cano, 15, 29601 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Taberna La Niña del Pisto
Taberna la Nina del Pisto is another bar located in the center of Marbella’s old quarter. This establishment can be a bit tricky to find as it’s located down a narrow street that’s easy to miss. Keep looking for it, however- it’s worth it!
Address: C. San Lázaro, 1, 29601 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
- Restaurants
“Soleo” – Mediterranean Cuisine soleomarbella.com
Located directly on the beach with a wonderful atmosphere.
Mediterranean-style dishes, fresh seafood, grilled fish, paellas, vibrant salads, tapas, and locally sourced ingredients. The menu beautifully captures the essence of Andalusian coastal dining.
Google Maps Link
For secure parking, visit this Google Maps link
Approx. 2 minutes walk to the restaurant.
“Playa Europa” – Mediterranean & Seafood
restauranteplayaeuropa.com
Another excellent seafood & pealla restaurant located directly by the sea.
Specializes in Mediterranean seafood dishes, grilled fish, seafood platters, traditional paellas, and local Andalucian seafood specialties. Known for its fresh catches and authentic flavors.
Google Maps Link
For secure parking, visit this Google Maps link
Approx. 7 minutes walk to the restaurant.
“Restaurante Los Tres Pepes” – Spanish & Andalusian
Website: restaurantelostrespepe.es
A great choice for authentic regional cuisine and relaxed dining. Traditional Spanish and Andalusian dishes, featuring grilled meats, fresh seafood, paellas, classic tapas, and local specialties.
For secure parking, visit this Google Maps link
Approx. 7 minutes walk to the restaurant.
“Origen Asador Argentino” – Argentinian Steak house
Website: https://origenasador.com/
This is another great steakhouse in Marbella. My wife and I have been there 3 to 4 times and we simply love the food, service, and athmosphere. Everything is top, and prices are reasonable.
Restaurant El Cortijo
A typical Spanish restaurant with excellent paella, seafood and fish. Reasonable prices.
Address: C. Remedios, 5, 29601 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
El Boqueron
Another Spanish restaurant with excellent food for reasonable prices. Recommended.
Address: C/ de la Cruz, 5, 29601 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Buenos Aires Steak House
Excellent steaks, wine in the centre of Marbella!
Address: Tetuán, 1, 29601 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Playa Europa
This would be the place to enjoy some authentic paella right next to the Maritimo boardwalk.
Address: Playa La Fontanilla, s/n, 29602 Marbella, Málag
Google Maps Link
If you like to experience a bit more “fine dining” in Marbella, I’d recommend you visit Nueva Andalucia which is a sort of upper-class neighbourhood. In Nueva Andalucia you will find lots of bars and nightclubs. It’s a great place for a night out!
Mogli The Key
I personally haven’t been there, but I have certainly heard very good things about this place which is a combination of restaurant and nightclub in one.
www.moglimarbella.com
Address: Av. del Prado, 37, Nueva Andalucía, 29660 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Mosh Fun Kitchen
Located in Nueva Andalucia, I’d recommend visiting Mosh Fun either on a Friday or Saturday as the venue hosts a range of dance performances and live DJs. It’s basically a restaurant, bar and club combined.
moshfunkitchen.com
Address: Av. del Prado, 3, Nueva Andalucía, 29660 Marbella, Málag
Google Maps Link
Nomad Restaurant
Excellent food in the best location of Marbella.
www.nomadmarbella.es
Address: Tetuán, 1, 29601 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Cascada Cocina & Bar
If you would like to experience a romantic dinner surrounded by nature and a cascade waterfall in the hills of Marbella, then this is the place to go to. The atmosphere, food, and service are just outstanding.
cascadamarbella.com/
Address: Urb. Montua, 39, 29602 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Maa Indian
Upscale Indian Restaurant with great reviews.
Address: Avenida del Prado S/N Aloha Garden. Bloque 11, Local 9, 29660 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
- Beach Clubs
You will find various beach clubs across Marbella and the Costa del sol – There is simply too many to choose from. Below I have listed my personal best starting with the ones closest to the apartment.
Amare Beach Club
It’s an easy 7 min drive or 25 minutes’ walk away from the apartment. The food, drinks, and the vibes whether during or at night are spectacular.
amarehotels.com
Address: P.º Alfonso Cañas Nogueras, 29603 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
NAO Pool Club
Situated in the centre of Nueva Andalucia, this club provides top-notch facilities starting from two massive pools, restaurant, bar, dance floor. The athmosphere is great and so is the service.
www.naopoolclub.com
Address: C. los Tilos, Nueva Andalucía, 29660 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Dune Beach Marbella
Discover the perfect combination of a beach club and an exclusive gastronomic experience. Dune Beach is about a 15 minutes’ drive away from the apartment.
dunebeachmarbella.com
Address: Av. Cervantes, S/N, 29604 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Bono Beach Club
This beautiful venue sits right next to Dune Beach and is only a short walk away!
www.bonobeachmarbella.com
Address: Avenida Cervantes s/n Urb. Costa Bella, 29604 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Nikki Beach Marbella
Extended lunches, an incredible ambiance, unforgettable music and entertainment and barefoot luxury vibes.
marbella.nikkibeach.com
Address: Carr. de Cádiz, km 192, 29604 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Ocean Club
This club is right at the beach near Puerto Banus and incorporates a restaurant and bar.
oceanclub.es
Address: Av. de Lola Flores, s/n, Nueva Andalucía, 29660 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Sublim Beach Club
This one is a little bit outside of Marbella located in beautiful Estepona. It has only been open since April 2024, and is gaining popularity in the Marbella area. Definitely worth a visit!
www.sublimbeach.com
Address: Playa Padron, Autovía del Mediterráneo, Km 159, 29680 Estepona, Málaga
Google Maps Link
4. Others
Below you will find a selection of a number of ‘other’ recommendations, such as rental companies and gyms.
Car Rentals
Centauro Car Hire Malaga
If you are on a budget, then you might want to consider Centauro.
Address: Calle Pascal, 42, Churriana, 29004 Málaga
https://www.centauro.net/en/cheap-car-hire/spain/malaga-airport/
Google Maps Link
MalagaCar
Address: Avenida del Comandante García Morato, 34, Churriana, 29004 Málaga
www.malagacar.com
Google Maps Link
Helle Hollis Car Rental
Address: Avenida del Comandante García Morato, 14, Churriana, 29004 Málaga
www.hellehollis.com
Google Maps Link
Scooter Rentals
Riderlix Rent a Scooter
Address: INSIDE PARKING EL MOLINO bottom of the ramp, left side, C. de Ramón Gómez de la Serna, 2, 29602 Marbella, Málaga
https://motorfastrent.com/
Google Maps Link
Alquiloscooter Marbella
Address: FRENTE AL PUESTO DE CONTROL / JUST IN FRONT POINT OF CONTROL, AVDA ARIAS MALDONADO PARKING OCCIDENTAL (INSIDE PARKING, GROUND 1 PLANTA -1 / GROUND 1, 29601 Marbella, Málaga
https://alquiloscooter.com/
Google Maps Link
Bicycle Rentals
Bikestardo Bike Rental
I highly recommend this bicycle rental in Mijas which delivers bicycles straight to the apartment without having them to be picked up.
www.bikestardo.com
Phone: 673287733
Google Maps Link
Kamaga Bike Tours & Rentals
www.kamagabike.com/
Address: C. la Rampa, 29601 Marbella, Málaga
Google Maps Link
Gyms
I am personally very much into fitness and exercising and can therefore recommend the following gyms in Marbella. Please note, a single day pass in any of those gyms cost about 15-25 Euros. If you are in Marbella only for a couple of days, I’d suggest you contact the gyms directly and ask if they offer multi-day or weekly passes.
Oxygen Sports & Wellness Club
If you are keen to visit the biggest gym on the Costa del so, then you need to visit Oxygen. The gym is a mere 5 minute drive from the apartment. It features 3 floors, an outdoor gym, 6 padel courts, and has its own restaurant and coffee shop.
www.oxygen-sportsclub.com/
Address: Avenida de España, 24, 29649 Calahonda, Málaga
Phone: 951745610
Google Maps Link
Max Fitness Gym
This gym is a 3 minute walk from the apartment.
www.maxfitnessgym.es
Google Maps Link
