Sabinillas is the heart of the Western Costa del Sol for all native Spaniards and the many settlers who fell in love with its charm and traditions. Sabinillas still remains largely undiscovered by most tourists. However once visited its charm is embracing and you are hooked by its small town atmosphere with promenade cafes, local Tapas bars and friendly ‘Churinguitos’ which are the Spanish beach bars serving freshly caught fish and local delicacies.
Less than 25 years ago Sabinillas was simply a fishing village and as its main industry 90% of Sabinillas’ workforce worked on the local boats that can still be seen dotted across the shoreline. Sabinillas’ popularity has boomed due to vast development in local areas and this has lead to an increase in tourism and heavy investment has turned this once small fishing village into a fantastic tourist destination.
Today Sabinillas has developed into a charming beachside town and one of the few that has not succumbed to mass tourism and over development. The contrasts can be seen and most appreciated in early morning when the fishermen are pushing out there wooden boats ready to get the catch of the day. Families are out walking along the promenade watching the sun rise and the recently established bars, patisseries and cafes are opening ready to receive locals and tourists meeting for a relaxing day on the expansive beachfront promenades.
The busiest day by far in Sabinillas is Sunday when thousands come to visit the Sunday craft market. This is one of the most popular markets along the coast and definitely one not to be missed.
Sabinillas beach is one of the beaches in the Costa del Sol to be honoured with the prestigious “blue flag” beach award. This certifies that as well as exceeding European environmental, health and safety standards the beach also offers the best in facilities and activities. The weekend is when Sabinillas beach really comes to life. The beach volleyball courts and table tennis tables are popular with those keen to show off their skills. Beach lovers and sun worshippers gather in droves to enjoy the ambience and beautiful scenery. Sabinillas beach enjoys a great location, great atmosphere and to add views can stretch from Africa to Marbella making this a stunning destination.
This fast growing and bustling town offers much to the holiday maker. The recently constructed Paseo Maritimo, which already extends for 2 Km to Castillo village, will in time be further extended to reach the port of Duquesa. This offers a great opportunity for an uninhibited flat for a walk for a distance of about 3 to 4 kilometres. In the town are many squares and gardens as well as bars, cafés and restaurants that encourage you to watch the world go by.
The blue flag beach stretches for 1650 metres between the Puerto de la Duquesa and the Rio Manilva and includes the entire frontage of the town of Sabinillas. It is also a “working beach” as local fishermen still launch their boats here recovering them to the beach on return via capstan winches.
The beach is cleaned daily throughout the summer and several lifeguards and first aiders are available to offer help where and when required. Hence this is a popular beach for tourist and locals alike. The café and restaurants that face the beach are varied and plentiful, offering a range of cuisine that should meet the needs of all
The local fishermen launch small boats from the beach, returning at night, or day, with their catch. You will often see restaurateurs waiting for their return to select the day’s menu.
Currently a new sports complex is being constructed that will allow the residents and tourists to participate in sports such as indoor football, swimming, paddle tennis and squash. The associated underground car parking will enhance the ability to locate a space.