Los Monteros in Marbella, one of the Costa del Sol’s most sought-after communities, combines the luxury of a seaside lifestyle with the charm of a golden sandy beach, exclusive beach clubs, and world-class golf courses. This in-depth guide to Los Monteros is aimed at anyone interested in a tranquil lifestyle in a prestigious setting near Marbella town and Puerto Banus – whether you’re a buyer, renter, investor or just starting out in Marbella.
Los Monteros remains a very popular area thanks to its range of beautiful beachfront properties, luxurious villas with private pools, modern apartments with large terraces, and gated communities with top-end facilities. You can expect breathtaking sea views, a natural environment, and quick access to the city centre, the Costa del Sol hospital, and top international schools.
Where is Los Monteros Located in Marbella East on the Costa del Sol?
Los Monteros is just a 10-minute drive from the heart of Marbella (city centre), and about 40 minutes from Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport. The area runs from the beautiful beaches of Playa de Los Monteros all the way up to Altos de Los Monteros, with the stunning Bahía de Marbella and the Rio Real river valley nearby, around Río Real Golf. Its prime location makes it perfect for those seeking healthcare, schools, golf, and shopping.
Distances & Drive Times (approx.)
Destination Time by car:
- Marbella town (city centre) 10 minutes
- Puerto Banús 15-20 minutes
- San Pedro Alcántara 20-25 minutes
- Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport 35-45 minutes
- La Cañada Shopping Centre 10-12 minutes
- Hospital Costa del Sol (Costa del Sol Hospital) 5-8 minutes
- Quick and easy access to the A-7/N-340 for fast travel along the coast.
History and Heritage: From Iconic Hotel to Elite Community
Los Monteros’ story began in the sixties, when Ignacio Coca, a famous Spanish banker, opened the iconic Los Monteros Hotel. This luxury resort catapulted Marbella East onto the global stage and attracted a glittering list of VIPs, including Michael Jackson. Its legacy helped shape a community that’s highly sought after by discerning homeowners and full-time residents.
La Cabane, the hotel’s signature beach club, started Marbella’s beach club era with its refined service, elegant sunbeds and a stunning panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea. Its exclusive atmosphere – and other clubs along the shore – have cemented Los Monteros as the benchmark for luxury living in the Costa del Sol.
Who Will Love calling Los Monteros home?
- Discerning individuals looking for a luxurious villa with private pool, plenty of outdoor space and complete peace and quiet.
- Long term residents who want to live a relaxed lifestyle, but still be close to the city, local schools and healthcare.
- Golf enthusiasts looking for a course right on their doorstep and easy access to all the club house facilities.
- Beach lovers who adore golden beaches, stunning ocean views and top-class amenities.
Upscale Real Estate in Los Monteros: From Villas to Apartments
Los Monteros offers a fantastic range of luxury real estate, from beachfront villas to modern apartments, many within gated communities. Expect private pools, large terraces, gardens, and cutting-edge smart home design. The villas in Altos de Los Monteros have some of the most amazing sea views in Marbella, while the frontline villas on Los Monteros Playa are among the most luxurious you’ll find.
Property Types and What You Can Expect
| Property Type | Typical Features | Notes |
| Beachfront villas | Direct sand access, private pools, spacious terraces, stunning sea views | Scarce supply; top-tier pricing |
| Exclusive villas inland | Large plots, lush gardens, privacy, luxury living | Family-friendly and quiet |
| Altos de Los Monteros villas | Panoramic Mediterranean vistas, contemporary lines | Tranquil, elevated settings |
| Luxury apartments | Gated communities, swimming pool, gyms, 24/7 security | Strong lock-and-leave option |
| Modern apartments (hillside) | Energy efficiency, big terraces, modern facilities | Value vs frontline beach |
Price drivers in the entire area:
- Whether you have a frontline beach address or are in a hillside spot
- Whether your sea view is a full sea view or just a glimpse
- The size of your plot and how private it is
- How modern and luxurious your place is
- And of course, what’s nearby – are there golf courses, schools or other key amenities on your doorstep?
Impact on price (higher bar = greater impact)
Schools & Education near Los Monteros
The English International College (a highly respected British international school) is one of the most popular choices for families here. There are loads of private bilingual schools in the area too serving both Spanish and international curricula. Just bear in mind you’ll need to plan ahead and book tours and get on the school bus routes or stagger your departure time to avoid the morning rush hour.
Healthcare, Shopping & Daily Essentials
Hospital Costa del Sol (or Costa del Sol Hospital as it’s often known) is only a few minutes away and has A&E, maternity and specialist clinics. And for shopping, La Cañada Shopping Centre brings all the high street brands and tech together, while El Rosario and Río Real have local supermarkets and specialty stores for all your everyday needs.
Fine Dining, Nightlife, and Day Trips from Home
Feast on some of the best food in town at Los Monteros Hotel, La Cabane, and beachfront restaurants serving up some amazing Andalusian and international cuisine. When the sun goes down, nothing beats heading into Marbella Club, Puerto Banús, and Marbella town for some classic venues, shopping and waterside lounging. And when you want a chill day out, San Pedro Alcántara, the inland villages and the coastline are all just a short trip away.
A Golfers Guide to Río Real Golf, Santa Clara Golf and other top courses near Marbella
Río Real Golf – Los Monteros, Marbella
Río Real Golf is a classic 18 hole course that winds its way past the coast, with holes that tickle the shoreline – a truly beautiful setting. The club house offers all you’d expect: pro shop, restaurant with stunning views, and a comprehensive range of practice facilities. Visiting golfers are welcome all year round, but be sure to book up in peak season, or you might find yourself waiting in the queue.
Santa Clara Golf
If Santa Clara Golf is your game of choice, you won’t be disappointed. Generous fairways, a modern clubhouse and great practice facilities make this an all-round great experience. The golfers who visit here praise the varied green fees, as well as the practice areas and dining options. And look out for the twilight rates and shoulder season deals – you can get a great game at a fraction of the cost.
Other Top Golf Courses just a short hop from Marbella
There are loads of world-class golf courses right on the doorstep of the Costa del Sol, and Marbella is no exception. If you’re planning to get out and play in the autumn or spring, be sure to book up well in advance, or you may find yourself queuing for a tee time – especially if you’re playing on a weekday!
Comparing Marbella Easts best neighbourhoods
The Top neighbourhoods
- Los Monteros Playa: The frontline beach address with golden sands, calm waters, and some of Marbella’s most luxurious villas.
- Altos de Los Monteros: Elevated luxury real estate with stunning views and quiet streets – and it’s a prestigious community with loads of gated communities.
- Bahía de Marbella: Family-friendly streets close to the beach and all the local services.
- Río Real Golf and Golf Rio Real Village: Golf-front homes, green views and a relaxed country club vibe, all just a short walk from the clubhouse.
- El Rosario (just nearby): Shops, cafes, schools and all the everyday essentials you need to get by.
Area By Area Breakdown
| Area | Beach Access | Views | Typical Homes | Vibe |
| Los Monteros Playa | Frontline/golden beaches | Open sea | Beachfront villas, luxury apartments | Prestigious, exclusive |
| Altos de Los Monteros | 5–8 min drive | Panoramic sea | Modern villas/apartments | Quiet, scenic |
| Bahía de Marbella | Short walk/drive | Partial sea | Family villas/townhomes | Residential, calm |
| Río Real Golf Village | Golf-front | Green/river | Villas/apartments | Country club |
| El Rosario | 3–6 min drive | Mixed | Villas, value options | Convenient, local |
How to Buy a Property in Los Monteros – A Clear and Easy Process
Step 1: Search and Shortlist
- Work with a local, luxury real estate expert who knows the area and all the off-the-market deals inside out.
- Decide what your must-haves are – from beachfront to hillside, plot size, bedroom count, modern facilities and community services.
Step 2: The Legal & Financial Essentials
- Get yourself an NIE (tax ID), sort out your financing and appoint an independent lawyer to guide you through the process.
- The steps include making a reservation, signing a private purchase contract with a deposit, visiting a notary to sign, and getting your land registry entry sorted.
- Budget for 10-13% tax and fees, plus community charges and utilities – all on top of your purchase price.
Step 3: New-build vs Resale
- New-builds bring warranties, energy efficiency and modern design – but can often be quite pricey.
- Resales may offer more plot size and mature landscaping in a prime beachfront position – but can be a bit more of a gamble.
At Niche Estates, we have what you need. Contact us now.
Living in Los Monteros: Practicalities, Safety and Community
It’s a car-centric place, but with ride-sharing services and a growing coastal cycling network, you’re not stuck for transport options. Security is top-notch, with gated communities, private patrols and smart home tech keeping you and your family safe. Community life is all about the beach clean-ups, golf tournaments and seasonal markets – there’s always something going on in Marbella East and wider Costa del Sol.
Sustainability and Protecting the Coastline
Los Monteros is all about preserving the area’s natural beauty, with efforts to restore the dunes and protect the coastline. Just remember to follow the local guidelines and paths to preserve the habitats – and in your luxury property, look for solar integration, energy-efficient glazing and native landscaping to keep your carbon footprint down.
Frequently Asked Questions: Los Monteros, Marbella East
- Is Los Monteros good for families?
- Yes, it’s a top choice for families, with proximity to the English International College, safe streets and beach access.
- Are there beachfront villas and luxury apartments?
- Yes, you’ll find beachfront villas and luxury apartments in Los Monteros Playa, with limited stock and top-tier pricing to match.
- How do prices compare in Marbella East?
- In frontline areas, you can expect to pay a premium, but in Altos de Los Monteros you may find larger, modern homes with panoramic views at a relatively lower price per square meter.
- What are the closest golf courses?
- Río Real Golf and Santa Clara Golf are just minutes away – and there are loads of other world-class golf courses scattered across the Costa del Sol.
- How far are the hospital and shopping?
- The hospital is roughly 5-8 minutes away, while La Cañada Shopping Centre is a 10-12 minute drive from most parts of Los Monteros – depending on traffic.
- Can I live here year-round?
- Yes, the climate, services and facilities are always open for business, and the community is perfect for permanent residents.
- Are pets allowed on the beaches?
- Rules vary by season, so be sure to check the latest updates from Marbella Town Hall before letting your furry friends loose on the sand.
Why Los Monteros is Marbella Easts most Prestigious Community
If you’re after a luxurious Mediterranean lifestyle, then the Los Monteros neighborhood in Marbella really is the place to be – it’s got all the natural beauty, a perfect spot, and the sort of top-notch amenities that people with discerning tastes expect & deserve.
From the stunning beachfront properties of Los Monteros Playa to the ultra-exclusive panoramic villas perched on the hillside at Altos de Los Monteros – you can pick the one that’s right for you whether you’re a beach lover, a golf nut or someone who’s after a quieter, more elevated lifestyle.
