Port Guide | Spain | Worth a Wander
Puerto Banus
Alexis Tonken | Editor
Published on 2025-01-06
Welcome to Puerto Banus, the gleaming yacht-infested watering hole on Spain's glitzy Costa del Sol-think Monaco, with a dash of flamenco flair and a side of jamon iberico. Founded by Jose Banus in the swinging '70s as a playpen for Europe's jet set, this Andalusian port took that mission seriously: here, the supercars almost outnumber tapas bars, and boutique windows display price tags that might make even a seasoned oligarch wince. But fear not, intrepid cruiser-beneath its polished veneer of Gucci handbags and mojito-fueled dance marathons lies Southern Spain's warm, unabashed spirit. Sure, it gets crowded during peak season (so be prepared for some fascinating sociological insights while people-watching), but escape comes easy: Wander through nearby Marbella's charming old town, rent a Vespa to explore the rolling hills dotted with olive groves, or just plant yourself seaside with a glass of local sherry, practicing your best blase look as you watch yachts so massive they probably have their own postal codes float by. You've arrived-let the stylish Andalusian chaos begin.
Spain has 8 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Puerto Banus is known for its luxury yachts, high-end shopping, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors should be mindful that it can become quite busy during peak tourist season.
Where do cruise ships dock in Puerto Banus?
Port Name Puerto Banus
Country Spain
Region Southern Europe (Andalusia)
Ship Terminal Puerto Banus Marina
Port Type Dedicated port with marina facilities
Accessibility Located in the heart of the Costa del Sol, Puerto Banus is easily accessible from Malaga International Airport, about 40 minutes away by car (approximately 45 km). It is also very close to Marbella, approximately 7 km.
What's the weather like in Puerto Banus?
Best Season to Visit Spring and summer months (April to October) are the most popular for cruise visits.
Climate Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters.
Weather Notes While it is generally sunny, occasional rain showers can occur in autumn. No extreme weather patterns such as typhoons or hurricanes affect this area.
Temperature Range 68F to 86F (20C to 30C)
High Temp 92F
Low Temp 46F
Average Temp 68F
What do I need to know about Puerto Banus?
Language Spanish
Currency Euro (€)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population Approximately 6,000 (residents), but increases significantly with tourists.
Timezone Central European Time (CET) UTC+1 / Central European Summer Time (CEST) UTC+2
How do I get around Puerto Banus?
Taxis, local buses, and car rentals are available. Tour operators also provide excursions to nearby attractions.
What are The Best Things to do in Puerto Banus?
Discover what you should do while you're in Puerto Banus.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Puerto Banus Yacht Spotting
N/A
Watch the luxurious yachts at Puerto Banus Marina, attracting celebrities and personalities worldwide.
Distance from Terminal: 0.1 miles
Tapas Tour of Andalusian Cuisine
Various venues, Old Town Marbella
Explore local bars for savory and authentic Andalusian tapas, savoring regional culinary traditions.
Distance from Terminal: 4.3 miles
Puerto Banus Luxury Shopping
Puerto Jose Banus
Browse luxury designer boutiques amidst Mediterranean glamor unique to Puerto Banus.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Visit Gibraltar's Ape Colony
Upper Rock Nature Reserve, Gibraltar
Experience Europe's only wild monkey population atop Gibraltar's iconic rock.
Distance from Terminal: 46.6 miles
Spanish Olive Oil Tasting
Finca La Torre, Malaga
Discover the essence of Andalusia through guided tastings at a local olive oil estate.
Distance from Terminal: 40.2 miles
A Little Extra
Sunset Beach Clubbing
Ocean Club Marbella, Av. Lola Flores, s/n
Party at a luxurious beachfront club, enjoying vibrant nightlife mixed with Mediterranean charm.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Sightseeing Puerto Banus by Segway
N/A
Discover Puerto Banus and Marbella's scenic areas via an entertaining Segway tour.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Flamenco Evening at Tablao Ana Maria
Plaza Santo Cristo, Marbella
Experience traditional Andalusian flamenco dance in an authentic tablao environment.
Distance from Terminal: 4.3 miles
The Alcazaba Moorish Fortress in Malaga
Malaga City Centre
Tour historic Moorish fortress ruins set against the Mediterranean, steeped in Andalusian history.
Distance from Terminal: 36.4 miles
Marbella Art Walk
Old Town Marbella
Wander charming streets lined with vibrant street art and galleries only found in Andalusia.
Distance from Terminal: 4.5 miles
Overnight Trips
Visiting Ronda - Cliffside City
Ronda, Andalusia, Spain
Enjoy spectacular views from the impressive Puente Nuevo and historic bullring in Ronda.
Distance from Terminal: 26.7 miles
Casa de Pilatos Seville Day Trip
Casa de Pilatos, Seville
Visit an exemplary Renaissance Andalusian palace combining styles and lush gardens.
Distance from Terminal: 123.7 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Hiking El Caminito del Rey
El Caminito del Rey, Ardales
A thrilling hike along elevated paths and hanging bridges with awe-inspiring canyon views.
Distance from Terminal: 36.9 miles
La Concha Mountain Trek
N/A
Ascend Marbella's iconic peak for panoramic vistas of the Costa del Sol coastline.
Distance from Terminal: 6.5 miles
Horse Riding through Andalusian countryside
Ranch Siesta Los Rubiales, Estepona
Traverse scenic landscapes on horseback, embracing Andalusia's countryside charm.
Distance from Terminal: 11.5 miles
Paddle Surf (SUP) at Puerto Banus Beach
Puerto Banus Beach, Marbella
Enjoy SUP in crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, a perfect sport for sunny Andalusian days.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Marbella Historic Bike Tour
Marbella Old Town
Cycle through Marbella's charming old quarter and beachside areas, enjoying local history.
Distance from Terminal: 4.6 miles
Spain Regional Tip
Gluten-Free Look for 'sin gluten' indications. Tapas like tortilla española or grilled seafood dishes are usually safe choices, but clarify with 'Soy celíaco/celíaca' (I have celiac disease).