The Costa del Sol is well known for having some of the world’s greatest golf courses – and if you consider yourself a golfer, you’re certain to want to check a few of them out. If you’re looking for the best golf course in Marbella and surrounds, you’re in for a treat. This region offers some of the most beautiful and challenging courses in Spain, and even one of the most iconic Bond actors loved golfing here – stay tuned to find out which one!
While there is a lot to love about this stunning destination, it’s hard to deny that many of those who live here are fans of the sport. The main reason for this is that there are just so many opportunities for someone to either get further into the hobby or even be introduced to it, which is the case for a variety of residents and holidaymakers alike.
How many golf courses are in Marbella?
Even if you don’t think golf is your thing, it’s well worth a try – and with a large number of world-class golf courses (more than 70, in fact), a beautiful climate, and plenty of great clubs and instructors, this is the perfect place for you to get started!
Looking for the best golf course in Marbella? Let’s narrow it down a little…
What is the best golf course in Marbella?
With several excellent golf clubs and courses, there’s no end to the opportunities available to you in the Marbella region. If you’re interested in what’s on offer, be sure to peruse a few of the different courses here. While we can’t explicitly tell you the best golf course in Marbella, we can give you our top 10:
Alhaurín Golf Resort
First up on our list of contenders for the best golf course in Marbella is Alhaurín Golf Resort. Nestled between the majestic Mijas mountain range and the Mediterranean Sea, this venue offers some truly fantastic scenery. Just 20 minutes away from Mijas Costa and close to Málaga’s main airport, this resort feels like a secluded paradise. Designed by Severiano Ballesteros, this 18-hole course features stunning architecture and lush surroundings, making every game an enjoyable experience.
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La Cala Resort
Located in the picturesque foothills of the Sierra de Mijas, La Cala Resort boasts three exceptional courses: Campo Asia, Campo America, and Campo Europa. Each course offers unique challenges and breathtaking views of the natural park and the Mediterranean Sea. Beyond the golf, the resort features a luxurious spa, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and recreation.
La Quinta Golf & Country Club
Situated near the bustling area of Puerto Banús, La Quinta Golf & Country Club is one of the region’s busiest and most popular resorts. The clubhouse offers a gym, swimming pool, beauty centre, and more, but the highlight is the golf course itself. Designed by Antonio Garrido and Manuel Piñero, this course is suitable for all skill levels, ensuring an enjoyable game for everyone.
Marbella Club Golf Resort
Found within the hills of Benahavís, Marbella Club Golf Resort is a gem designed by Dave Thomas. This 18-hole course is known for its simplicity and beauty, offering outstanding views of Gibraltar, the surrounding mountains, the Mediterranean, and even the African coastline. The magnificent landscaping and excellent architecture make it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
Santa Clara Golf Club Marbella
Santa Clara Golf Club Marbella blends seamlessly with the natural environment, respecting the local wildlife and vegetation. This 18-hole course, a par 71 of 5,878 meters, is designed to be both technically challenging and straightforward, making it ideal for golfers of all skill levels. The beautifully designed course promises an exciting round with each hole.
Villa Padierna Golf Club
Set in the stunning landscape of Benahavís, Villa Padierna Golf Club features three remarkable courses: Alferini Golf, Flamingos Golf, and Tramores Golf. Each course offers exceptional beauty and a unique playing experience. The club is also home to the Villa Padierna Michael Campbell Golf Academy, perfect for beginners and advanced players looking to improve their skills.
Aloha Golf Club
Designed by Javier Arana, Aloha Golf Club in Marbella offers a variety of holes set against breathtaking scenery. The beauty of the courses can be quite distracting, so be prepared to focus on your game! This club is highly regarded and considered a top candidate for the best golf course in Marbella and the Costa del Sol.
Chaparral Golf Club
Located in Mijas Costa, Chaparral Golf Club boasts a beautiful landscape with stunning views from every hole. The courses are known for their excellent playing conditions, making it a favourite among golfers looking for a top-notch experience.
Club de Golf Almenara
Designed by Dave Thomas, Club de Golf Almenara is famous for its third nine holes, which opened in 2001. The course layout and landscape are fantastic, offering some of the best tee shots in Europe. The stunning scenery adds to the overall experience, making it a must-play for golf enthusiasts.
Country Club La Zagaleta – Los Barrancos
Located in the luxury resort of La Zagaleta, Country Club La Zagaleta – Los Barrancos offers exclusive access to some of the most fantastic courses. The challenging holes, diverse landscape, and variety of playing options make this an excellent spot for golf. Many consider it the best golf course in Marbella and the Costa del Sol.
El Paraíso Golf Club
Rounding out our list of clubs vying for the best golf course in Marbella is the El Paraíso Golf Club. Set in the Paraíso Valley, this club, designed by Gary Player, is perfect for those who don’t live in the region year-round. The club’s overseas membership program allows guests to reserve tee times for when they visit. The course is often cited as one of the best in Marbella and the Costa del Sol.
Where did Sean Connery play golf in Spain?
Fun fact: 007 himself, Sean Connery, who played James Bond seven times, had strong links to Marbella. He owned a property in the resort for many years and played a charity tournament at Rio Real Golf one summer.
Final thoughts on the best golf course in Marbella
Practically anyone living on the Costa del Sol who knows a thing or two about the sport will agree that if you’re looking for the best golf course in Marbella, there’s nowhere better than this fantastic Spanish region. There are a variety of different courses that you could try; ranging from simpler ones that are ideal for beginners to those that are far more complex and are perfect for those who are a bit more experienced and looking for a challenge.
You may even see some professional golfers here too – since it’s not uncommon for big names to practice and even just relax in the 5-star hotels that are located across the region. It’s also worth noting that some of the courses here host global events and competitions, like the Ryder Cup.
Hopefully, you’ve gained some invaluable insight from our deep dive into the best golf course in Marbella. If you’re also looking for somewhere beautiful to live, it’s time to talk to the team at Luxury Property Finder Marbella. Our passion is finding the perfect property for our clients, tailored to your specific needs and desires, so we welcome you to share your vision with us. If you have any questions at all, reach out to us today!
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