Cabopino is one of those places on the Costa del Sol that feels like a secret, even though it’s just minutes away from Marbella. Known for its golden beach, cozy marina, and relaxed lifestyle, it’s perfect if you’re looking for something quieter than Marbella town but still close to everything. This guide is here to help you understand what Cabopino is really like — from property options and prices to lifestyle, schools, and future developments.
Quick Facts about Cabopino
- Location: East Marbella, Costa del Sol, Spain
- Municipality: Marbella
- Distance to Airport: 35 minutes to Málaga Airport
- Population: Small, mainly expats and second-home owners
- Typical Buyers: Families, retirees, holiday-home seekers, golfers
- Average Prices: Apartments from €350k | New Developments from €800k | Villas €800k+ | Plots from €300k (limited)
- Sea-View Premium: Around 15–25% (depending on location)
- Best Neighborhoods: Cabopino Marina, Artola, Golf Cabopino area
Why Cabopino is Special
Cabopino is often described as Marbella’s “hidden gem.” Unlike Puerto Banús or Marbella center, Cabopino’s vibe is slower, friendlier, and more relaxed. Its small marina has an almost village feel, with restaurants and cafés right on the water. Families love it because it’s safe and walkable, while retirees and expats enjoy the peace and greenery. For investors, the area is appealing because supply is limited, which keeps demand strong.
Property Overview
Types of Properties
In Cabopino, you’ll find a mix of apartments, townhouses, and villas. Apartments near the marina are popular for holiday homes. Around the golf course, gated communities and new-build developments are becoming more common. Villas are usually in the Artola area, where plots are bigger and some properties have direct views of the sea.
Architecture & Finishes
Older properties tend to have Andalusian-style features, with whitewashed walls and terracotta roofs. Newer builds lean towards modern designs, with open-plan layouts, large glass windows, and energy-efficient finishes. Most apartments are well-kept, though some resales may need light renovation.
Sizes & Conditions
Apartments usually range from 80 to 120 m² with two or three bedrooms. Villas typically start at 250 m² and go up from there. Townhouses are often 3–4 bedrooms with private gardens. Buyers can choose between resale homes full of character or modern new builds ready to move in.
Prices & Market Snapshot
Average Costs (2025)
- Apartments: from €350,000
- New Developments (apartments): from €800,000
- Villas: €800,000 – €2.5M+
- Townhouses: €400,000 – €750,000
- Plots: Limited availability, from €300,000
Sea View vs Inland
A property with a clear sea view usually costs about 15–25% more than one without. Villas on elevated plots near the golf course often come with panoramic sea views.
Rental Yields
Holiday rentals are strong thanks to the marina and beach. Expect 4–6% annual yields for well-located apartments, especially near the sea. Villas with pools also rent well in summer to families and groups.
Where Cabopino is Developing
New Developments
Several new apartment and townhouse complexes are rising around Cabopino Golf. These developments offer modern amenities like pools, gyms, and underground parking. Prices for new-build apartments start from €800,000, reflecting their luxury finishes and sea-view locations.
Infrastructure
The A7 motorway makes Marbella center just 10 minutes away. Schools, supermarkets, and healthcare facilities are improving nearby, making Cabopino more attractive for year-round living.
Investment Outlook
With limited building space around the protected dunes of Artola, supply will always be restricted. That makes Cabopino an attractive option for long-term investors. Buyers are mostly from Northern Europe — especially the UK, Germany, and Scandinavia.
Lifestyle & Amenities
Beaches & Coastline
Cabopino Beach is famous for its golden sand and family-friendly vibe. Next to it are the Artola Dunes, a protected natural area with wooden walkways. It’s quieter than Marbella’s main beaches, which is a big plus.
Restaurants & Nightlife
The marina is lined with international restaurants and bars. Nightlife is low-key compared to Marbella or Puerto Banús, but you’re just a short taxi ride away if you want more action.
Sports & Golf
Cabopino Golf is right next door, offering sea-view fairways. You’ll also find tennis courts and gyms nearby.
Shopping & Essentials
For daily needs, there are small supermarkets and shops. For bigger shopping, Marbella center or La Cañada mall is a 15-minute drive.
Healthcare
Private clinics and hospitals are within 15–20 minutes. Public healthcare is also accessible in Marbella.
Schools
Several international schools are within a 20-minute drive, including English International College and Laude San Pedro International.
Transport & Connectivity
Cabopino is well connected. Málaga Airport is just 35 minutes by car. The AP-7 toll road makes getting to other towns on the coast easy. While there’s no train station in Cabopino, nearby Fuengirola has a direct train to Málaga. Local buses and taxis also run regularly.
Neighborhood Breakdown
- Cabopino Marina: Best for apartments, walk-to-everything lifestyle.
- Artola: Quieter, more natural, with villas and direct dune access.
- Golf Cabopino: Popular for new developments and modern homes.
Who Buys in Cabopino
Cabopino attracts a mix of families, retirees, and investors. A young family might choose a townhouse near the golf course for around €500,000. Retirees often prefer apartments by the marina, starting around €350,000. Luxury buyers go for villas with sea views, often spending €1.2M or more. Investors are drawn to new developments starting from €800,000, which promise modern design and strong rental appeal.
FAQs
Is Cabopino family-friendly?
Yes, the beach is safe and shallow, and the marina is car-free and easy to walk around.
How far is Cabopino from Marbella?
It’s about a 10-minute drive to Marbella center.
Do properties have sea views?
Many apartments and villas do, especially around the golf course.
Are there plots available?
Yes, though limited. Most are near the golf course, starting from €300,000.
What’s the vibe compared to Marbella?
Cabopino is smaller, quieter, and more relaxed — ideal if you want peace but still be close to the action.
Next Steps
Thinking about buying in Cabopino? Get in touch for tailored advice, a market update, or to arrange property viewings. You can also request our full PDF guide with listings, price breakdowns, and neighborhood maps.
