Cabopino and the Artola dunes
Just past the Mijas border, towards Marbella, lies one of the loveliest stretches of coast on the whole Costa del Sol: Cabopino, with its cosy marina and the protected Artola dunes behind it. We like coming here on a quiet day, because the coast still feels a little wild here. Here is what you will find.
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.
The beach
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.
The marina
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.
How to get there
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.
Where is Cabopino?
Cabopino is on the border of Mijas and Marbella, just past Calahonda, with its own exit off the A-7. From La Cala de Mijas you are there in about fifteen minutes by car.
Are the Artola dunes protected?
Yes, the Dunas de Artola are a protected natural monument with living sand dunes. Wooden boardwalks lead you through, and on top stands the old Torre Ladrones watchtower.
Is Cabopino beach a naturist beach?
Part of Cabopino beach is a naturist beach, the rest is a regular beach. So take a look at where you lay your towel.
Is Puerto Cabopino worth visiting?
Definitely, it is one of the smallest and most charming marinas on the coast, with white cottages and a handful of restaurants around the water. Lovely for a drink on a summer evening.
Looking for a place to stay in Riviera del Sol? See the Coral Mijas Stay penthouse