Sabinillas & the Western Costa del Sol

Sabinillas is an authentic Andalusian fishing village that has not been over-touristed. While the rest of the Costa del Sol has been transformed by mass tourism, Sabinillas has kept its character. Locals fill the bars at lunchtime on weekdays. Spanish families still holiday here in August. The Friday and Sunday markets draw crowds from across the region.

The pace here is relaxed — shops close for siesta, evenings do not start until after 9pm, and nobody is in a rush. It is the kind of place where the waiter remembers your order from yesterday, and the fisherman on the promenade waves as you walk past each morning.

This is not Marbella, and that is exactly the point. Sabinillas offers the sunshine, the beach, and the Mediterranean food — but without the crowds, the inflated prices, or the pretension.

The apartment sits on the first line to the beach — it is a 30-second walk from the front door to the sand. Sabinillas beach holds the Blue Flag award, with golden sand that never feels overcrowded, even in the peak of August.

Along the beach you will find chiringuitos (traditional beach bars) where fresh fish is cooked over wood fires right on the sand. Order sardines espeto-style and watch them grill while you look out at the Mediterranean.

The seafront promenade is lined with tapas bars, chiringuitos, and restaurants. La Casita is the top-rated restaurant in Sabinillas on TripAdvisor, serving Mediterranean cuisine right next to the apartment.

For the day's catch, skip the street markets and head to the town's pescaderías — Pescadería Dieguichi in the old fishermen's neighbourhood has sold fish from the Estepona auction and local boats for over 40 years. The apartment's fully equipped kitchen is perfect for cooking it with a sea view.

The town also offers excellent international dining: Indian, Chinese, Italian, Argentinian, Moroccan, and British options are all within walking distance.

Markets are a way of life in Sabinillas. The Sunday market is the largest in the area, stretching along the paseo with stalls selling fresh vegetables, artisan olive oils, handmade jewellery, clothing, and local crafts. Arrive early for the best selection.

Sabinillas and the wider Manilva municipality celebrate some of Andalusia's most vibrant fiestas. From bonfires on the beach at midsummer to decorated fishing boats parading through the waves, these events offer an unforgettable glimpse into local culture.

Sabinillas is perfectly positioned on the western Costa del Sol, making it an ideal base for day trips. Gibraltar, Ronda, and the white villages are all easily reachable, and even Seville and Tangier (Morocco) are possible as day excursions.