Cabopino and the Artola dunes

The Dunas de Artola are a protected natural monument: real, living sand dunes, a rarity on this built-up coast. Wooden boardwalks lead you through the dunes without damaging the vegetation, and on top stands an old watchtower, the Torre Ladrones, from the days when pirates sailed this coast.

It is a short, easy walk, perfect for late afternoon. Stick to the paths, as the dunes recover only slowly.

Cabopino beach is wide, golden and a good deal more natural than the manicured town beaches further along. There is a section where naturism is allowed, so take a look at where you lay your towel. Otherwise it is a lovely, spacious beach with a couple of good chiringuitos for lunch with your feet in the sand.

You will find more beaches lined up in our guide to the beaches of Mijas.

Puerto Cabopino is one of the smallest and most charming marinas on the coast. No flashy megayachts like in Puerto Banús, but white cottages, little boats and a handful of restaurants and bars around the water. On a summer evening it is a delight to linger here with a drink and a view of the boats.

At weekends there is sometimes a small market. The little port is small enough to walk around in half an hour, and just big enough to make you stay.

Cabopino lies just past Calahonda, on the border of Mijas and Marbella, with its own exit off the A-7. From La Cala de Mijas you are there in about fifteen minutes by car. There is parking at the marina and at the dunes, but in summer it fills up early.

Combine it easily with a day in Marbella, see our guide to Marbella.