Best Golf Courses in Marbella: Our Top Seven

The Costa del Sol has earned its nickname, the “Costa del Golf” with more than 70 golf courses stretching across the region. Marbella’s official tourism guide features 14. That is quite a choice for somewhere better known to some visitors for beaches and long lunches. For golfers, however, the appeal is immediate: Mediterranean scenery, established clubs and the opportunity to keep playing throughout the year. Sunshine may not cure your slice, but it certainly improves the surroundings.

Golf has been part of Marbella’s story for decades. Guadalmina’s South Course opened in 1959, followed by Río Real in 1965 and Las Brisas in 1968. These courses helped establish a sporting tradition that still shapes the area today, particularly in Nueva Andalucía’s aptly named Golf Valley, where fairways weave between residential neighbourhoods.  

For anyone considering a home here, golf brings another dimension to the Marbella lifestyle. Our selection brings together seven exceptional courses in and around Marbella, including neighbouring Benahavís.

Set in the Benahavís hills, Marbella Club Golf Resort deserves the opening spot for its scenery and wonderfully unhurried atmosphere. Dave Thomas designed the 18 holes, which look towards the Mediterranean, Gibraltar and the African coastline. Twelve minutes between tee times help preserve a sense of space, while contoured fairways and carefully positioned hazards keep the game interesting. The elevated final tee makes a memorable finish. Allow time afterwards for lunch at the clubhouse, a fitting end to a round in these peaceful surroundings. (https://www.marbellaclub.com/golf)

One of Golf Valley’s great names, Las Brisas combines a Robert Trent Jones Senior design with a substantial renovation by Kyle Phillips. Water hazards, raised greens and well-positioned bunkers reward thoughtful shot selection. Its remarkable planting, with trees from around the world, gives the course the character of a botanical garden. This is a private members’ club with very limited visitor access, so arrangements require advance planning. (realclubdegolflasbrisas.com)

Designed by Javier Arana and opened in 1975, Aloha is another essential Golf Valley name. Narrow fairways, mature trees and demanding greens call for accuracy and a considered approach. There is plenty here to interest golfers who enjoy working out a hole before reaching for the longest club in the bag. Aloha is also a private members’ club, so non-members need to enquire about guest arrangements before making plans to play. (https://www.clubdegolfaloha.com/)

Another Golf Valley classic, Los Naranjos offers a different interpretation of Robert Trent Jones Senior’s design philosophy. Broad fairways provide an inviting start, but strategically placed bunkers, water and undulating greens ensure that nothing is quite as straightforward as it first appears. Open since 1977, the club combines serious golfing credentials with an appealing social atmosphere. Its clubhouse restaurant makes it a strong choice for players who consider lunch an essential part of the sporting programme. (https://losnaranjos.com/)

In Marbella East, Río Real follows its namesake river towards the Mediterranean. Javier Arana’s 1965 design threads through pines, palms and other mature trees, with coastal holes adding a particularly lovely sense of place. The 18-hole course offers an attractive option for golfers who enjoy walking, as well as those who prefer a buggy. Its proximity to Marbella centre makes it easy to combine a round with the rest of your day. (rioreal.com)

For a round with history, at Marbella’s oldest course, Guadalmina South is hard to overlook. This Javier Arana design helped establish golf on the coast and continues to offer a satisfying test. Narrow fairways framed by mature trees demand accurate tee shots, with positioning crucial to the next approach. It is a course for golfers who appreciate traditional design and the pleasure of playing somewhere with a longstanding club culture and wonderful views across the Med. (https://www.guadalminagolf.com/)

In neighbouring Benahavís, La Quinta offers 27 holes across three nine-hole courses: San Pedro, Ronda and Guadaiza. Designed by the three-time World Champion and Ryder Cup champion Manuel Piñero, the layouts provide different challenges, from more generous fairways to tighter, technical holes. That variety makes it an appealing option for repeat visits. Lessons are available for those refining their swing, while the clubhouse terrace offers an inviting setting to discuss the shots that went exactly as intended. (marriott.com)

Making Marbella your home means these courses can become part of everyday life. At Puente Romano Real Estate, we can help you find a property that brings together your favourite fairways, the beach and everything you enjoy about living here.