10 Things To Do in San Pedro de Alcantara Marbella

San Pedro de Alcantara, also called San Pedro, is between the lively towns of Marbella and Estepona. It’s actually considered part of Marbella, but bear in mind that it’s almost a 20-minute drive from Marbella city centre.

In my opinion, San Pedro feels more like an independent town rather than a part of Marbella.

My first impression was that San Pedro isn’t as popular among tourists as Marbella because there aren’t major attractions, and tourism hasn’t developed as well in this area. That doesn’t mean travellers don’t come to San Pedro; it’s perfect if you love a more laid-back atmosphere. 

It also feels more like an Andalusian town. However, many expats have chosen San Pedro as their new home.

If you wonder what to do in San Pedro de Alcantara, you’ll find the main activities in this guide.

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Things to do in San Pedro de Alcantara

1. Explore the historic centre of San Pedro

San Pedro de Alcantara has a small historic centre, but you can still see some of its main buildings, statues, and several cafes and shops.

Avenida Marqués del Duero is San Pedro’s liveliest street, where you can do some shopping and stop for a meal or coffee. It goes all the way down to the Boulevard.

It isn’t picturesque like Marbella Old Town (anyway, it’s difficult to beat it!), but it’s nice to stroll and grab a coffee.

I stopped at Hustle n’ Flow eatery because it caught my eye, and I fancied something different from the traditional Spanish cafes I sometimes visit. I had a blue spirulina drink with almond milk, and it was surprisingly very good.

2. Visit Iglesia de San Pedro

Iglesia de San Pedro is an emblematic building located in Plaza de la Iglesia. This beautiful square is a regular meeting point for locals, and some of the main events occur here.

This church dates back to 1866; however, it has been refurbished a few times since then because of a fire.

It’s a simple but beautiful church with a Colonial architectural style. While you’re in San Pedro, it’s worth checking it out.

3. Enjoy a meal with a sea view

Who doesn’t like to have a meal with a view? I absolutely love doing that everywhere I go.

It involves paying more than usual because of the location, but when you’re on holiday, you want to treat yourself.

One of my favourite places to have either breakfast or brunch with a sea view is Playa Nini. It’s located at the beginning of the San Pedro beach promenade and is the type of place that gives you that bohemian and beach vibes.

It’s expensive compared to restaurants in the old town of San Pedro, but again, you can’t beat the views.

I ordered an orange juice and avocado on toast for breakfast. I loved the avocado on toast with cherry tomatoes, but to be honest, I’ve had better orange juices.

During the summer, they also have cosy Balinese-style sunbeds where you can spend the day.

4. Stroll along the San Pedro beach promenade

The beach promenade is one of the most beautiful places in San Pedro. If you go in the early morning, you can see locals and expats running, exercising, or even dancing Zumba. The atmosphere is great.

Across the promenade, you’ll find beautiful beach clubs and restaurants where you can stop for a coffee or meal. However, not all of them are open all year round.

During my visit to San Pedro, I loved sitting down and having breakfast with a view while listening to music and soaking up the sunshine. It felt so relaxing and a great start to the day.

Also, did you know you can walk from San Pedro to Puerto Banus? Yes, that’s right. If you feel active, you can walk all the way to the luxurious and famous port in Marbella. See the expensive yachts, and maybe even book a cruise, treat yourself, and enjoy the lavish atmosphere.

5. Take a photo of the elephant statue

While you’re on the San Pedro beach promenade, you might want to take some photos. The big palm trees, serene water and sunshine make it so beautiful. 

But did you know there is a giant statue of an elephant? It’s located near the beginning of the beach promenade.

6. Visit Bulevar San Pedro Alcántara

The Bulevar of San Pedro de Alcaranta is a new space in the town. This urban park divides the north and the south of San Pedro.

Within the Bulevar, you’ll find green spaces, playgrounds, cafes and other places to relax. What I love the most is the wooden bridge that goes over the road. You can get stunning views of La Concha mountain.

7. Learn about the ruins of Basílica Paleocristiana de Vega del Mar and the Roman thermae of Las Bóvedas

If you love archaeological sites, you can find two in San Pedro. I have personally visited the ruins of the basilica, which was declared good of cultural interest in 1931. 

Both sites are only open for a few hours in the morning, so I recommend checking out Google Maps for times. I made the rookie mistake of not checking the times, but I was lucky that the ruins of the basilica were opening in 15 minutes when I arrived.

You can wander the ruins at your own freedom and pace, but you also can get a mini tour and brief history of the basilica for free. The man, unfortunately, I don’t remember his name, was very friendly and knowledgeable.

He will explain everything to you, from the materials used for this religious building to how people were baptised and buried. 

I highly recommend it if you have the time. It’s definitely one of the best free things to do in Marbella for anyone who loves visiting archaeological sites.

8. Relax at Los Tres Jardines Park

During my time in San Pedro, I didn’t have time to visit Los Tres Jardines Park. It’s located at the top of the town.

The park has plenty of green spaces, a lake with ducks, a spacious playground and places for barbecues; however, you’re only allowed to have a BBQ from the 15th of October to the 1st of June.

Despite the fact they organise events, including concerts, in the park, I’ve heard mixed reviews of it, and some people think certain areas of the park could be better maintained. 

9. Play golf at Real Club de Golf Guadalmina

If you or a loved one likes playing golf, Real Club de Golf Guadalmina is one of the places to add to your list.

This golf course has two 18-hole courses and offers accommodation too. Guadalmina is one of the best golf spots in the Costa del Sol and hosts several competitions.

Unsurprisingly, it is a very popular choice among golf lovers.

10. Go on a hike to La Concha Peak

Marbella area is well-known for its beaches, but amazing natural spaces also surround it, and if you love hiking, you have easy to challenging hiking trails to do during the off-season (I wouldn’t recommend hiking in summer because of the heat, and there’s a chance of fire in some places).

La Concha is, without a doubt, one of the most impressive hikes while also being challenging. If you’re up for it, be prepared for a 12-kilometre hike which starts in Hotel Refugio de Juanar.

The views from the peak are breathtaking! You can see the coast, the Strait of Gibraltar and North Africa.

How to get to San Pedro de Alcantara

The easiest way to get to San Pedro de Alcantara is by car if you’re travelling from Malaga. The car journey takes 55 minutes when taking the toll. 

If you’re travelling from Marbella city centre is a 20-minute drive, and from Puerto Banus is a 10-minute drive.

Although it’s possible to travel to San Pedro by bus, it’ll take you longer, and you won’t be able to move with ease within Marbella and its surroundings. I highly recommend renting a car.

Frequently asked questions about San Pedro de Alcantara Marbella

Conclusion on San Pedro de Alcantara Marbella

San Pedro de Alcantara is a lovely part of the coastal town of Marbella with a more local laid-back vibe. 

If you have time to visit it, you can spend a few hours leisurely walking and visiting its beach. However, if you don’t have much spare time, you won’t miss out much. For me, the best of San Pedro de Alcantara is its beach promenade.

Do you have any questions about Marbella? Drop them in the comments. And if you’d like help planning your trip to the Costa del Sol, check out my itinerary services.

Enjoy your trip!

Cristina x

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Top things to check before visiting Marbella and Costa del Sol

• Check out cheap flights to Malaga Costa del Sol Airport here.
• Have a look at this Malaga food guide to indulge yourself in eating the best typical food in the area.
• Are you looking for the best accommodation in Marbella? Check out this guide to discover amazing hotels in Marbella.
• Rent a car to travel with ease around Marbella and Costa del Sol.
• Book travel insurance for your trip. It’s a must for any holiday.

Read more about Marbella

• Is Marbella Worth Visiting? A Local’s Top Reasons to Visit
• The Ultimate Weekend in Marbella
• A Guide To Marbella Old Town (With Local Tips)
• The Best Time to Visit Marbella
• Best Places to Eat in Marbella (A Local’s Review)
• 13 Fantastic Day Trips From Marbella
• How To Get From Malaga to Marbella Guide
• 13 Best Hotels in Marbella For a Memorable Holiday
• The Best Marbella Boat Trips
• Malaga Vs Marbella: Which Place Is Best To Visit?

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