Chiringuito Chic

Summer in Marbella means only one thing; time to fling on your flip flops and head to the beach!

Beach culture on the coast has undergone a dramatic change since the hedonistic, hippie and somewhat hazy days of the 60s, 70s and 80s. Traditional beach bars and restaurants – chiringuitos in Spanish – dotted the sands. While many were excellent, serving fresh seafood and delicious salads washed down with a jug or three of sangria, others were more ramshackle. The bathroom facilities might best be described as basic. I will draw a discreet veil over that particular subject. 

The authorities decided something had to be done, and many of the traditional chringuitos upgraded their facilities. At the same time, the beach became somewhere, not to recover from the excesses of the night before, but a place to get the party started early. Traditional venues transformed into big money Beach Clubs, with Balinese beach beds, live DJs and the infamous champagne spray parties. Laid back they were not.

Although the traditional chringuito may be hard to find on the coast – head west of Estepona or east towards Cabopino to finds those – some venues still have that “chringuito chic”. 

The Funky Hideaway

Sonora Beach has carved a niche for itself as an “environmentally funky” establishment, with its quirky charm since its early days as a bohemian, if basic, beach bar. Sundays at Sonora in those days were legendary, with live DJs, well known bands playing sets and an overall atmosphere of cool chaos. Despite moving to a larger venue, Sonora has preserved its laid-back vibe and eclectic style. The beach is often dubbed the “best-kept secret that everyone knows,” a tribute to owner Javi and his team. The combination of sun, sand, and good tunes makes Sonora a perfect spot to unwind and soak up the Marbella sun.

The Beachside Institution

Victor’s Beach has been a staple of Marbella for over 40 years. Located on the walkway from Banus to the Hotel Puente Romano, the clientele is particularly loyal. At the end of the working week, you’ll find Marbella locals of all ages kicking back, winding down and enjoying a drink as the sun sets. The more energetic can dance to the popular DJ sessions, cooling off with a quick dip in the Mediterranean.  A Marbella Beach Life Institution, Victor´s has been frequented by celebrities, aristocrats and rock stars. Set beneath eucalyptus and palm trees, Victor’s Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere, sunbeds, and a menu famous for its Sangria, grilled seafood, and legendary BBQ ribs.  Savour it while you can, however. A number of high-profile luxury developments have been constructed nearby, and there have been rumours that Victor’s might soon be brought out and turned into another “Beach Club”.

Mistral Magic

If you want to enjoy fabulous food while feeling the sand beneath their feet, Mistral Beach is an essential stop. The setting, complete with tables on the beach shaded by palm trees, is relaxed, yet the service and cuisine are top-notch. Mistral is particularly acclaimed for its spare ribs and Crème Brulé and the food is one of the reasons that it becomes extremely busy during the high season. If you have the tempting prospects of a long lunch at Mistral, a sensible move might be to book a shaded sunbed, so that you can enjoy a siesta after the meal!

Marbella Style

Trocadero Group has a number of well-known beach restaurants along the coast, from Benalmadena to Sotogrande. Trocadero Arena, just down from the ancient watchtower at Rio Real, is where a certain Cristiano Ronaldo likes to hang out when he is hanging out at one of his two Marbella mansions. Trocadero Playa, located between the Marbella Club Hotel and the Hotel Melia Don Pepe, however, is where the locals hang out. You will find familiar faces from the 80s and 90s – a little older, but certainly no wiser! -  holding court in the beautiful wooden beach bar. This beach club offers a unique atmosphere, enhanced by its stunning decor and uninterrupted sea views. Dining at Trocadero Playa is not just about the food; it is about embracing Marbella’s beach life!