Things to Do in Nerja that You Just Can’t Miss
Sun and sand: the two things for which Nerja is most famous. And many visitors to the area don't get beyond them. Which is a shame, really, as there's much more to the area than just a great flop…
Want to tick off all the best parties around the globe? Serious clubbers know to hit Las Vegas, Miami, Ibiza and the legendary club nights in Marbella. This glamorous town is the last word in sophisticated clubbing, an adult playground where party boats steam off into blazing sunshine, beautiful people drink cocktails on day beds and world-class artists pump music into the small hours.
Think miles of silky sand dotted with buzzing bars and beach clubs, where cocktail quaffing is actively encouraged, comperes dare you to spray as much Champagne as you drink, and raucous closing parties round off the clubbing season. There’s no party like a Marbella party – it’s just a matter of knowing where to go and when. Going out in Marbella is about relaxing and let your hair down, so we’ve done the hard work for you – read up, dress to impress and head out into the sunshine…
Unmissable Club Nights and Parties
There’s so much to do, it can be hard to choose where to party in Marbella. Allow us to give you an overview of the huge events you’d be devastated to miss, from artist residencies to weekly ladies days via the biggest celebrity appearances.
Aqwa Mist
One of the best clubs in Marbella, Aqwa Mist sits directly under La Sala bar. It’s open daily from 1am until dawn, with an unrivalled sound system and 30ft waterfall. Book ahead if you can – it has a large VIP area, complete with a private hot tub.
DON’T MISS:
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Charlie Sloth – Friday 4th August 2017
Pirate radio DJ turned BBC Radio1Extra producer jets over from North London to spin grime, dancehall and R ‘n’ B.
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Kid Ink – Friday 14th August
Brian Todd Collin AKA Kid Ink brings his unique brand of hip hop all the way from LA.
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Craig David presents TS5 – Friday 25th August 2017
The beloved multi-platinum rapper has enjoyed the most talked about chart resurgence of the year. Hear his latest tunes and old school classics for one night only at Aqwa Mist.
Mirage
Complete with a Funktion One audio system, cutting edge laser show and floor to ceiling video screens, Marbella’s newest club goes all out on the tech decor – and the celeb bookings.
DON’T MISS:
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Lil’ Wayne – Saturday 5th August 2017
The world-renowned rapper will no doubt perform hits like ‘Lollipop’ to the biggest crowd Mirage has ever seen.
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Paris Hilton DJ set – Saturday 12th August
The reality star turned disc jockey brings her Gold Rush tour to Marbella – That’s hot!
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Jason Derulo – Thursday 24th August
Following an immense Marbella show in 2015, the ‘Ridin Solo’ singer performs all his biggest hits.
Tibu
Tibu is sleek and upmarket, with a spacious open-air terrace if you need a breather. Start the week with Tropicana Mondays, Marbella’s biggest industry night, or head to Cirque Marbella on Wednesdays – prepare to get glitter bombed.
DON’T MISS:
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Y Not Ladies Night – every Thursday
The only ladies night in Marbella offers a free cocktail on arrival, live music and nostalgic 90s garage. Don’t forget your heels.
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Sintillate VIP Terrace Party – every Saturday
Celebrate the weekend with a VIP table – pop bottles from 11pm.
Pangea
Sintillate parties run from Thursday to Sunday night at Pangea, with amazing views of the harbour bursting with chic super yachts.
DON’T MISS:
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OC Champagne Party Afterparty – Sunday 27th August 2017
Expect eye-popping entertainment and the most extravagant Champagne sprays.
Olivia Valere
Open every night of the week from 9pm to 7am, OV is housed in a Moorish castle, and the setting is nothing short of breath-taking. The newly attached pool club Nao promises to keep things wet ’n’ wild.
DON’T MISS:
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Bob Sinclair – Sunday 6th August 2017
Put simply: We’re gonna rock this party, dance everybody!
Boat Parties
Marbella boat parties are nothing short of wild. Turn up the tempo on dreamy summer days with beautiful people, flowing drinks, glittering waters and a gentle breeze, then party into the night back on dry land. The world’s best DJs provide the soundtrack to a day of debauchery, where you’ll find a fully stocked bar and an electric atmosphere. The best parties in Marbella happen on water, and they’re perfect for special occasions – we recommend planning one for a birthday, hen party and stag do you’ll never forget (but struggle to remember).
DON’T MISS:
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Candypants – every Saturday until 9th September 2017
Simply the best boat parties Marbella has to offer, Candypants’ legendary booze cruises are unrivalled. Let the Candygirls host you for a daytime drinking session like no other, checking in at Babilonia at Puerto Banus from 1.30pm and coming in to shore at 4.30pm. Making waves in destinations across Europe and now Dubai, the home of Candypants will always be Marbella. Finishing up this early leaves you plenty of time to get polished for round two that evening – going out in Marbella doesn’t stop until you want it to.
Pool Parties
For the full experience, you can’t head home without hitting a Marbella pool party. Pack your glitziest swimsuit and highest wedges because this is your moment to get noticed (‘no carbs before Marbs’ suddenly makes a lot of sense – there’s a lot of skin on show). A sea of bronzed bodies and brunch platters, days start off pretty chilled as party-goers snooze off hangovers on squidgy beds in the sun. As the heat turns up, so does the bass – the weather forecast says Champagne showers – and when it rains, it pours.
Nikki Beach
Open every day from 10am, head straight here for the ultimate pool party Marbella style. Every Tuesday is Ladies Day, so get in touch to secure your free day bed.
DON’T MISS:
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H2Oh! – 19th August 2017
Think bright swimsuits in tropical prints – this is THE place to get that snap of you lounging in a flamingo pool float, drink in hand.
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Anchors & Sailors – 23rd August 2017
Anchors away! Don your captain’s hat for an adventure on the high seas.
Sisu Boutique Hotel
Sisu’s intimate, must-book pool parties start at 11.30am right through to sunset at 7.30pm. Events vary from Black Diamond to Laurent Perrier, and the music is soulful house with live accompaniment.
DON’T MISS:
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Disturbing Marbella With Giggs – Saturday 5th August 2017
A live performance from London rapper Giggs, whose career hit new levels in 2017.
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Disturbing Marbella With Tinie Tempah & DJ Charlesy – Saturday 19th August
Following hugely successful stints at Ushuaia Hotel and Disturbing Dubai at White Nightclub, Tinie’s coming to party – and he’s bringing friends.
The Secret Villa
As the name might suggest, this super exclusive party takes place in a secret location revealed when the time is right.
DON’T MISS:
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Super Brunch & Secret Pool Party – every Saturday until 23rd September 2017
From 12-3pm enjoy an open bar and canapés, before DJs turn up the heat for a scorching party until sunset.
Ocean Club
The most (in)famous party in Marbella for a reason, this is where Champagne parties were born – the original hub of poolside excess. Order a platter of sushi to line your stomach before cocktails, cocktails and more cocktails.
DON’T MISS:
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Tom Novu – Tube & Berger – 10th August 2017
Ocean Club Marbs celebrates its 10th anniversary the only way it knows how – you don’t want to miss this.
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Bank Holiday Champagne Party – 27th August 2017
Get ready to get soaked.
Closing Parties
Read on for the hottest Marbella closing parties 2017 has to offer. Watch an incredible season come to climax at one of these outrageous celebrations, where dancers, flame throwers, acrobats and fireworks will compete for your attention – not to mention thumping beats and beautiful people throwing themselves into one last Marbella fiesta.
DON’T MISS:
Ocean Club
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Black & Gold Closing Party – 30th September 2017
Closing parties in Marbella are a big deal, and Ocean Club’s firework display is seriously impressive. Don your slickest black outfit with accents of gold (or vice versa, if you really want to turn heads) and get ready to shine until sunset. As darkness falls, the venue goes from laid-back daytime hangout to a downright decadent evening joint.
Nikki Beach
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Red Party – Party 1st October 2017
One of the biggest closing parties Marbella can offer, expect glamorous guests as far as the eye can see (and a few famous faces, too) – all dressed strictly in red, of course.
To get yourself on the guestlist, book the best table and receive VIP treatment on arrival, contact our concierge.
Need some retail therapy after all that partying? See our guide to the best shopping spots in Marbella.
Ben Cooper
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[post_content] => Sun and sand: the two things for which Nerja is most famous. And many visitors to the area don't get beyond them.
Which is a shame, really, as there's much more to the area than just a great flop and drop break.
From wonderful walks to fabulous fiestas and, yes, some of the most beautiful beaches around, we've picked out just a few of the very best things to do in Nerja.
Happy exploring.
1. Laze on the Beach
There's a pretty solid chance that if you're after tips for what to do in in the vicinity of Nerja, then a beach day is going to be fairly high on your checklist.
Thankfully, there are no fewer than 12 beaches to choose from in and around Nerja. Three of our favourites in town are Playa de Calahonda, Playa de Burriana and Playa El Chorrillo.
2. catch the sunset from the Balcon de Europa
After a long, lazy afternoon on the beach, there's only one place to head: the Balcon de Europa.
Grab an ice-cream, saunter down to the end of the promenade and watch the sun slowly melt into the Mediterranean. Altogether now... WOW.
3. Be amazed by the caves of Nerja
Funnily enough, the sun doesn't even shine in Nerja's biggest attraction. But that doesn't make it any less spectacular.
The Caves of Nerja is a 5km complex of caverns that includes the largest stalagtite in the world, some Bronze Age remains and, it's thought, mankind's oldest artwork - which dates back some 42,000 years. Remarkable.
(Carretera de Bajada a Playa de Maro, s/n, 29787 Nerja, open 0930/1000-1530.)
4. Go Snorkelling from One Cove to Another
Just a mile or two to the east of Nerja the sparkling coves of the Acantilados de Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural park stretch away.
Snorkeling, sea kayaking or paddle boarding (see below) trips set off from Playa Burriana or Playa Carabeo for you to enjoy the crystal-clear sea teeming with sea life.
5. explore the coast by paddle Board
The beaches of Nerja itself are urban, which comes with the distinct plus side of there being plenty of bars and restaurants on hand to choose from.
But running away to the east is a stunningly wild, cove-lined coast that's great for exploring via paddle board. Rental and guided tours are available from Playa Burriana and Playa de Maro.
6. get out to a nearby village
Venture from Nerja and the idyllic whitewashed mountain villages of the Axarquia are within easy reach. Competa, Maro and the lovely Frigiliana (pictured) are some of the most inviting.
7. Eat Fresh Fish Cooked on a BBQ on the Beach
Espetos de sardinas - sardines skewered and cooked on a BBQ until they're deliciously tender - are a local delicacy.
One of the best spots to try them in Nerja is at the far westernmost end of town in Chiringuito Mauri (Playo Playazo, 29780 Nerja). Best washed down with an icy beer or two, of course.
8. walk the rio chillar
Even by southern Spanish standards Nerja is surrounded by some pretty top-notch walking. Soaring above the town are the jagged peaks of the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Mountains.
For something just a little less adventurous, the most famous walk around Nerja is up the Rio Chillar.
You follow a beautiful, ankle-cooling river as it babbles its way down from the hills, discovering narrow ravines, waterfalls and rock pools along the way.
9. Devour Baby squid at El Pulguilla
OK, so you don’t have to have baby squid - although we highly recommend you do - but you definitely should grab a quick tapas and a beer/wine in this stalwart of a restaurant in Nerja.
Elegant fine dining it ain't, but it is a great way to experience a typical Malaga fish restaurant. (Calle Almte. Ferrándiz, 26, 29780 Nerja; 952 52 13 84)
10. View the Aqueduct
This 19th century aqueduct was built to supply the surrounding sugar cane factories with water.
During the summer it's a sweaty 10-minute walk from the centre of Nerja, but (as you can see in the image above) it makes for a spectacular photo opportunity when you get there.
11. Pause for Thought in Ermita de las Angustias
Built in 1790 this church is the home of Nerja’s patron saint, Our Lady of Anguish (Plaza de la Ermita, 11, 29780 Nerja).
It might not be the grandest of churches, but it is a lovely, cool little spot to catch your breath in for five minutes or so on a hot summer's afternoon.
12. Plan a Trip Around a Fiesta
Nerja is in Andalucia. Which means, inevitably, it's a place that's serious about letting its hair down every once in a while.
The five festivals that Nerja goes for in a big way are Easter, Carnival (February), San Isidro (May), Virgen del Carmen (July 16th) and the Epiphany (5th January).
Nominally religious they may be, but trust us, they're also really just a good excuse to P-A-R-T-Y.
13. See Authentic Flamenco
Nearby Velez-Malaga has one of the most vibrant flamenco scenes in Malaga province, thanks to the efforts of local flamenco-cultural initiative, Flamenco Abierto (Flamencoabierto.com).
So if you want to catch some real flamenco, as opposed to the tourist nonsense that's so often served up, the Peña Flamenca Niño de Vélez on a Friday evening is the place to head.
14. Eat at Sollun
Before opening this lovely little restaurant in Nerja chef Juan Quintanilla helped put Skina in Marbella on the Michelin-starred map.
As soon as you sit down, though, it's clear that Sollun is an even more personal project. If you choose to work from the short menu, the chef himself will come out of the kitchen and recommend what's particularly good that day.
The tasting menu is a thing of beauty: it features a selection of dishes with a heavy local focus, each paired with a suitable wine.
(Calle Pintada, 9, 29780 Nerja; 653 68 94 52)
Like our pick of things to do in Nerja and looking for more recommendations on the Costa del Sol? Have a browse through a few of our favourite Marbella day trips.
Alternatively, if you're after a beautiful country villa nearby, check out our Axarquia luxury villas collection, here.
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[post_content] => Marbella: the perfect spot for a lazy, sun-soaked break in southern Spain. But what is there to do should the pull of the pool begin to wear thin?
From beautiful beaches and natural parks to dazzling white villages and grand, historic cities, there are plenty of great day trips from Marbella to keep you busy.
1. Caminito del Rey
This incredible gorge-clinging walk offers some light exercise, incredible views and is a great day out for the whole family. Tickets need to be bought beforehand - book here.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 15 minutes
2. Ronda
Head inland to the north west of Marbella and you come to a beautiful town perched on a gorge. This is Ronda. See the oldest bull ring, Moorish baths, a lovely old palace or two and, if you have time, whip round a quick wine tour.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 5 minutes
3. Gibraltar
Crossing the border from Spain to the UK at Gibraltar is certainly a novelty. This slice of Britain in Spain is interesting enough, but scratch a little deeper and there's a fascinating history to uncover, too.
Don't miss the caves or the wild apes while you're on what locals fondly call 'The Rock'.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 5 minutes
4. Antequera
Known as the 'Town of Churches', Antequera has more places of worship than any other town in Andalucia. The fortress at the top of the town (pictured) and cathedral are the highlights, but don’t miss the ancient dolmens on the edge of town, either. Eat at Arte de Cozina (Artedecozina.com) and you'll have a thoroughly Andalucian day out.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 10 minutes
5. Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park
With a mix of jaw-dropping 2000-metre peaks and labyrinths of caves, this natural park near Ronda is truly spectacular. There are plenty of opportunities to go trekking, caving, 4x4 touring, mountaineering, mountain biking or horse riding. Nearby villages El Burgo, Istán, Monda, Parauta, Tolox and Yunquera are all worth a visit, too.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 15 minutes
6. Los Alcornocales Natural Park
Spanning Cadiz and Malaga provinces, Los Alcornocales is very different to the Sierra de las Nieves. Famed for its cork oak trees and humid conditions, it’s actually the rainiest place in southern Spain and so has a large network of rivers and streams. Organise a hike through this park with lunch in one of the area's pretty, remote villages.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 25 minutes
7. Tangier
Yes, Africa is a realistic day out from Marbella! You can charter a boat and travel to Tangier in Morocco for a day. On top of the fantastic boat ride across the Mediterranean, it's wonderful for lunch and a spot of souk shopping. (Or see our trusted partner Toma & Coe's Tangier trip, here.)
Distance from Marbella by car and boat: 3 hours
8. Rio Guadalmina
If you like a bit of adventure, walk the Guadalmina river and jump into rock pools, shower under waterfalls and hike through the gorgeous countryside. A guide can be arranged.
Distance from Marbella by car: 25 minutes
9. Casares
This picture-perfect whitewashed village makes for a lovely day out. Stroll about, take in the views and have a spot of traditional villagers’ lunch. A great contrast to the more sophisticated and cosmopolitan Marbella.
Distance from Marbella by car: 40 minutes
10. Setenil de las bodegas
A trip to Andalucia is as much about hanging out in small towns and villages as ticking off the big historic sights in cities. Setenil de las Bodegas has an incredible street where the houses are built into and under an overhanging rock face (pictured above). An utterly unique place.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 20 minutes
nearby cities
Five of Andalucia's finest cities are within easy reach of Marbella. Each has their own allure...
11. Malaga
Malaga is a city with A LOT going on. With plenty of great restaurants, historic sights and art galleries to pop in and out of, there's more than enough to keep you busy all day long. (For more information on Malaga, see our guide.)
Distance from Marbella by car: 55 minutes
12. Granada
If there's one thing you have to see above and beyond all others in Andalucia, it's the Alhambra Palace.
A breathtakingly romantic 12th-century Moorish palace, it’s beautiful whether you're inside, outside or looking onto it from the pretty Albayzin area of town (pictured). Make sure you buy tickets before you go. (See our guide to Granada here.)
Distance from Marbella by car: 2 hours
13. Jerez de la Frontera
A great day trip from Marbella is Jerez de la Frontera. A relativity small city, it's perfect for strolling old streets lined with handsome palaces or lingering in lovely, historic squares. Don’t miss the Spanish Riding School (Realescuela.org) or one of the Sherry bodegas for a tour and a tasting.
Distance from Marbella by car: 1 hour 50 minutes
14. Cadiz
Southern Spain's longest continually inhabited city, Cadiz has great beaches and a lively but laidback vibe. Visit the cathedral, eat in the market and see the city from above via the 'Camera Oscura' (Torretavira.com).
Distance from Marbella by car: 2 hours
15. Cordoba
As the Alhambra is to Granada, so the Mezquita is to Cordoba. A cathedral inside a mosque, it's a mesmerising building. There’s also a Roman Bridge, a beautiful 17th-century main square, the Plaza de la Corredera, and a network of narrow old streets to explore, too.
Distance from Marbella by car: 2 hours 10 minutes
So, that's our pick of the best day trips from Marbella. You can plan your day yourself or get in touch with us and we can organise it all for you. One way or the other, though - happy exploring!
Alternatively, if you're looking for a beautiful villa in Marbella to rent, check out our selection.
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Perfect Day Trips from Marbella
Marbella: the perfect spot for a lazy, sun-soaked break in southern Spain. But what is there to do should the pull of the pool begin to wear thin? From beautiful beaches and natural parks to…