Marbella in January: best activities to enjoy the Costa del Sol in winter

Marbella in January is one of those well-kept secrets known only to those who return year after year. Far from the summer hustle and bustle, the city presents its most elegant and authentic version: clear skies, mild temperatures, tables available at the best restaurants, and an agenda of plans to be enjoyed without rush.

January is the perfect month to experience Marbella with calm, quality, and depth, combining outdoor sports, high-end gastronomy, maritime experiences, wellness, and culture. It is an ideal destination for both a winter getaway and longer stays. Here, we tell you what to do in Marbella in January, with real plans, local recommendations, and experiences that are truly worth it.

Outdoor sports in Marbella in January: the great winter luxury

With average temperatures ranging between 16°C and 20°C, Marbella stands as one of the best European destinations for practicing outdoor sports during the winter.

Golf in Marbella: iconic courses and perfect weather

January is one of the best months to play golf on the Costa del Sol. The courses are in excellent condition, and there is more availability for tee times.

• Los Naranjos Golf Club: a course designed by Robert Trent Jones, technical and with a strong social atmosphere.
• Aloha Golf Club: one of the most prestigious clubs in Marbella, highly valued by international golfers.
• Real Club de Golf Las Brisas: a classic surrounded by nature with a great sporting tradition.
• Santa Clara Golf Marbella: more accessible and especially pleasant in winter.

Paddle tennis in Marbella in winter: where to play and why it’s the best month

Marbella is one of the top European destinations for paddle tennis, and January is undoubtedly one of the best months to practice it. The mild weather allows you to play outdoors all day, clubs are less crowded than in spring or summer, and it is much easier to integrate into the local community.

Here is our selection of the three most recommended paddle clubs in Marbella, depending on the type of experience you’re looking for:

Nueva Alcántara Club

Located in Nueva Alcántara (San Pedro de Alcántara), just a few minutes from Puerto Banús, it is an internationally renowned club. It stands out for its hybrid, professional, and social approach.

Nueva Alcántara Club offers bilingual high-level coaches, an official M3 Padel Academy school, NAC Matches system for competing after leveling, and court reservations via the Taykus app, ideal for those spending a season in Marbella.

Real Club Pádel Marbella

A perfect option for those seeking a premium experience combining sport and social life. Real Club Pádel Marbella has state-of-the-art courts, training programs, competitive leagues, and social events in a well-maintained environment.

Club de Tenis Puente Romano

Located in the heart of the Golden Mile, inside the iconic Puente Romano resort, it is considered one of the most prestigious clubs in Southern Europe and is affiliated with the RFET.

Club de Tenis Puente Romano has 4 paddle courts, 8 clay courts, and 2 plexipave courts, and has hosted competitions such as the Davis Cup, ATP and WTA tournaments, and the World Padel Tour.

Cycling in Marbella: road, mountain, and e-bikes

Marbella in January is a true paradise for cycling enthusiasts. Whether pedaling freely along the sea or exploring the inland with a guide, there are options for all levels.

The Marbella Promenade is ideal for peaceful routes with views of the Mediterranean. The Senda Litoral allows you to extend the route towards San Pedro or Puerto Banús, especially recommended with an e-bike or gravel bike.

You can also opt for a guided excursion. Operators like Sun Bikes, Civitatis, and GetYourGuide offer the Marbella – Istán route with a guide. This is one of the most iconic bike routes, about 40 kilometers long, with a 700-meter elevation, taking between 3 and 4 hours to complete.

For MTB and e-MTB, routes in Sierra Blanca, Ojén, Monda, and Monte Mayor are ideal for exploring the mountains with safety and local knowledge.

Bicycle rentals: where and indicative prices

• Marbella Rent a Bike: road, promenade, mountain, and electric bikes. From €20/day. Online booking and delivery to various points.
• Faro Bikes Marbella: classic bikes, tandems, and e-bikes. From €13/day, with options for children.
• Sun Bikes Marbella: classic and electric bikes. From €30/day, with guided tours available.

Types of bikes available for rent:

• Road bikes: ideal for long, hilly routes.
• E-bikes: perfect for enjoying without effort or tackling uphill routes.
• Mountain bikes (MTB): for trails and mountain routes.
• Gravel bikes: versatile, for both asphalt and rural tracks.

Maritime experiences: sail and dolphin watching in January

The Mediterranean in winter surprises with its calm and light. Catamaran or speedboat trips from Puerto Banús allow you to enjoy the sea with a high probability of dolphin sightings. Reservations are available on platforms such as Civitatis.

• Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
• Includes drinks and snacks.
• Price: from €55 per person.

In addition to the excitement of seeing dolphins in their natural habitat, this experience offers a unique perspective of the Costa del Sol, with panoramic views of the coast and surrounding mountains. The mild winter climate and calm sea make this plan an ideal way to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings without the summer crowds. It’s a perfect opportunity to relax, learn about marine life, and capture unforgettable memories.

Adventure in nature: quad tours in Marbella and Ojén

Quad tours are ideal for those seeking a more active experience. They take you along rural roads and natural viewpoints in the interior of Marbella and Ojén. These are available on specialized platforms.

In addition to enjoying stunning landscapes, the tours allow you to explore lesser-known corners of the mountain range, where you can fully connect with nature. During the tour, you can stop to take photos, breathe fresh air, and, in some cases, even spot local wildlife such as horses and birds. It’s a perfect option to connect with nature during your holidays.

• Duration: 2 hours.
• Small groups.
• Guide included.
• Price: from €70.

Fine dining: Michelin-starred restaurants in Marbella

January is the best month to enjoy fine dining in Marbella without long waiting lists. If you’re a fan of high-end gastronomy, there is no better time than January to try these exclusive restaurants. Each offers a unique experience, blending local ingredients with innovative techniques that will make you rediscover flavors.

Additionally, as it’s off-season, you’ll enjoy more personalized attention and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for savoring each dish without rush. Ideal for a special celebration or simply to indulge in a luxurious meal.

• Skina (2 stars): contemporary fine dining in the Old Town. Tasting menu from €195.
• Messina (1 star): creative Mediterranean cuisine by chef Mauricio Giovanini. Tasting menu from €120.
• Nintai (1 star): contemporary Japanese cuisine with an omakase menu. From €150.
• BACK (1 star): modern and elegant proposal. Tasting menu from €110.

Wellness in Puerto Banús: rituals to start the year

If you’re looking for a beginning to the year filled with serenity, renewal, and wellness, there are several wellness options in Marbella to recharge your energy. From the luxury of an Arab hammam to holistic therapies that balance body and mind, these experiences are designed to provide you with a total disconnection. Here are some of the best options for a well-deserved rest on the Costa del Sol.

Arab Hammam at Glow Beauty Puerto Banús

A reference hammam in Marbella combining Arab tradition with a luxury spa and high-end cosmetics like La Sultane de Saba. This ancient ritual offers a relaxing and purifying atmosphere, perfect for starting the year feeling renewed.

• Traditional Glow Hammam: from €230.
• Luxury Glow Hammam: from €340.
• Royal Glow Hammam: from €460.

You can also enjoy these experiences in a couple’s format, making it a perfect plan to share a special moment while relaxing in a luxurious environment.

Holistic wellness at Narybu

Narybu is a centre specializing in body-mind balance, where relaxation and harmony are the priority. They offer a variety of Ayurvedic treatments and personalized massages, such as Chakra Massage, Stress Fix, and rituals with AVEDA products, known for their natural quality. These treatments are ideal for relieving tension, improving mood, and restoring physical and mental well-being. Perfect for those looking for a deep relaxation experience, away from everyday stress.

Where to stay in Marbella in January

If you want to enjoy Marbella with complete freedom and comfort, opting for an apartment or villa is one of the best decisions. In January, not only will you find more availability, but prices are also generally more competitive, making this time of year perfect for peaceful getaways or longer stays.

At Banus Rentals, we offer apartments and villas in Puerto Banús, Nueva Andalucía, Marbella’s city centre, and quiet residential areas, ideal for winter stays. Our accommodations are designed to provide a comfortable and relaxing winter experience with all the amenities needed for a memorable stay. The tranquility of Marbella in winter awaits you!