Sunshine, sea breezes, and world-class greens make Andalucia a dream destination for golf lovers. From the elite fairways of Sotogrande to hidden gems in the hills of Mijas, this is your ultimate guide to the best golf courses in Marbella and across the region.
Elite & Iconic Golf Near Marbella
These are the headline acts — the most prestigious, most celebrated courses in southern Spain.
Real Club Valderrama – Ryder Cup Royalty 🏆
Av. los Cortijos, s/n, 11310 Sotogrande, Cádiz | $$$$ | 18 holes
Arguably the most famous course in Spain, Valderrama hosted the 1997 Ryder Cup and remains a fixture on the DP World Tour. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., the course winds through cork oak forests with a ruthless precision that challenges even the best. The par-5 17th is iconic for its risk-reward water hazard. Valderrama’s exclusivity and championship pedigree make it a bucket-list destination. Read More
Finca Cortesín Golf Club – Solheim Cup Legend 🇪🇺
Club de Golf Finca Cortesin, Ctra. Casares, s/n, km. 2, 29690 Casares, Málaga | $$$$ | 18 holes | Resort
Home of the 2023 Solheim Cup, Finca Cortesín is a showcase of modern luxury and serious golf. The Cabell B. Robinson design stretches across 7,500 yards of sculpted terrain and lush landscaping. Greens are fast and true, with mountain and sea views on nearly every hole. With a luxury resort on-site, it’s the full five-star golf experience. Read More
Los Naranjos Golf Club – Marbella Classic 🍊
Pl. de Cibeles, S/N, Nueva Andalucía, 29660 Marbella, Málaga | $$$ | 18 holes
A Robert Trent Jones Sr. creation, Los Naranjos is a Marbella institution with wide fairways and a championship pedigree. It’s one of the most playable courses in the region, popular with locals, expats, and visiting pros. The course strikes a balance between strategic design and forgiving playability. Its lively clubhouse scene adds to its enduring charm. Read More
Marbella Club Golf Club – Hidden Mountain Retreat ⛰️
KM 3.7, Carreterra de Benahavis, 29679 Benahavis, Marbella | $$$ | 18 holes | Resort
Tucked away in the hills above the Marbella Club Hotel, this course offers privacy and panoramic views over Gibraltar and the Mediterranean. Designed by Dave Thomas, it has a wild natural setting with wide fairways and fast greens. The layout is tranquil, uncrowded, and invitation-only for hotel guests and members. It’s a luxury experience off the beaten path. Read More
La Reserva Club Sotogrande – Modern Masterpiece 🔥
Av/ La Reserva, s/n, 11310 Sotogrande, Cádiz | $$$ | 18 holes
La Reserva is the younger, cooler sibling of Valderrama, with a dynamic layout and sweeping views. Designed by Cabell B. Robinson, the course is long, open, and impeccably kept. It’s hosted LIV events and continues to rise in global rankings. Wide landing areas make it accessible, but subtle greens challenge seasoned players. Read More
Real Club de Golf Las Brisas – Elegant and Exclusive 🌺
C. Londres, S/N, Nueva Andalucía, 29660 Marbella, Málaga | $$$$ | 18 holes
A private members club with rich history, Las Brisas was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and renovated by Kyle Phillips. It’s strategic, serene, and known for its botanical beauty and tough par 3s. Host of multiple Spanish Opens, it’s a course that serious golfers revere. Guest play is limited, so book early if you get the chance. Read More
San Roque Golf Club – Tour-Tested Layouts ⛳
N-340, Km 127, 11360 San Roque, Cádiz | $$ | 36 holes (Old & New)
Once the home of European Tour Q-School, San Roque features two strong courses with varied personality. The Old Course, recently renovated, is traditional and tree-lined; the New Course is wide, modern, and scenic. Both offer great value for their quality and pedigree. San Roque is a must-play if you’re touring the Sotogrande golf corridor. Read More
La Zagaleta Golf Club – Ultra-Private Escape 🔒
La Zagaleta, Km 38,5, 29678 Benahavís, Málaga | $$$$ | 36 hole
This exclusive residential estate has two courses, open only to residents and their guests. The original course was designed by Bradford Benz and is carved through dramatic mountain terrain. It’s quiet, pristine, and free from crowds. If you ever get an invite, drop everything and go. Read More
Real Club de Golf Sotogrande – Spanish Pioneer 👑
Cerca de, 11310 San Roque, Cádiz | $$$$ | 18 holes
One of the oldest courses in Spain, this Robert Trent Jones Sr. gem opened in 1964 and has hosted countless international tournaments. It’s old-school in the best way — long tees, deep bunkers, and minimal frills. The club remains fiercely private and perfectly maintained. Consider it a pilgrimage for golf purists. Read More
Flamingos Golf Course, Villa Padierna – Resort Golf with Style 🦩
Urbanizacion los Flamingos, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga | $$$ | 18 holes | Resort
Part of the Villa Padierna resort, Flamingos is scenic, hilly, and manicured to perfection. It has hosted the European Senior Tour and offers fantastic sea views. The greens are slick and the fairways sculpted, making it feel more like a PGA Tour stop than a holiday round. Add the on-site luxury hotel, and it’s an easy golf getaway. Read More
Local Favourites Near Marbella
Accessible, high-quality courses that offer great value — these are where local golfers, club members, and visiting groups return again and again.
Santana Golf Club – Robinson’s Hidden Gem 🥑
Calle Sand, Carr. de Cádiz, 17, Km 187.5, 29603 Marbella, Málaga | $$ | 18 holes
Designed by Cabell B. Robinson, Santana blends American-style design with Mediterranean views. The course is routed through an old avocado farm and feels effortlessly integrated into the landscape. Wide fairways offer forgiveness, but the greens are slick and well-guarded. It’s a favourite among low-handicap locals and quietly earns respect from pros passing through. A course for those who know. Read More
Santa Clara Golf Marbella – Marbella’s Most Playable 🌴
Calle Sand, Carr. de Cádiz, 17, Km 187.5, 29603 Marbella, Málaga | $$ | 18 holes
This 2001 Enrique Canales Busquets design is one of Marbella’s most accessible courses, especially for mid- and high-handicap players. It’s flat, friendly, and beautifully landscaped, with just enough water and bunkering to keep things honest. Santa Clara occasionally hosts regional events and corporate tournaments, but it’s mostly known as a polished, city-adjacent round. A good warm-up for tougher courses nearby. Read More
Atalaya Golf and Country Club – Old-School with Views 🇩🇪
Av. del Coral, 42, 29688 Estepona, Málaga | $$ | 36 holes
Founded in 1968, the Old Course was designed by German pro Bernard von Limburger, with the New Course added later by Paul Krings. The Old Course is flat and tree-lined, while the New Course climbs hills for ocean vistas and drama. Both are walkable and fun, with excellent practice grounds and a sociable membership. It’s especially popular with German and Scandinavian golfers. A Costa del Sol institution. Read More
Golf Torrequebrada – Seve’s Favourite for Practice 🌊
C. Club de Golf, 1, 29630 Benalmádena, Málaga | $$ | 18 holes
Designed by Málaga-born José “Pepe” Gancedo, a six-time Spanish amateur champion, Torrequebrada opened in 1976 and became one of Seve Ballesteros’ favourite practice venues. The course is short but technical, weaving through palm trees and villas with striking sea views. Its tight landing zones and dramatic elevation changes demand smart shot-making. Known for hosting events in the 70s and 80s, it still feels like a championship course. Vintage charm with bite. Read more.
La Quinta Golf and Country Club – Designed by a Legend 🇪🇸
Av. Tomás Pascual, 22, 29678 Benahavís, Málaga | $$ | 27 holes
Designed by Spanish great Manuel Piñero, a Ryder Cup and World Cup winner, La Quinta offers three 9-hole loops with distinct personalities. The course is set in the “Golf Valley” near Puerto Banús, offering elevation changes, trickier greens, and good variety. It’s the former host of the Benahavís Senior Masters and a training spot for regional pros. With its spacious clubhouse and gym, it feels like a private club — without the hassle. Read More
La Cala Golf – Big, Bold, and Popular 🌍
C. Mirador del Golf, 1, 29649 La Cala de Mijas, Málaga | $$ | 54 holes | Resort
The largest golf resort in Spain, La Cala offers three full-length courses designed by Cabell B. Robinson: America, Asia, and Europe. Each has a distinct vibe — dramatic elevation on America, tighter tee shots on Asia, and rolling links on Europe. The resort has hosted LET and regional championship events and is a regular training ground for elite amateurs. With on-site hotels, a spa, and a lively golf academy, it’s the ultimate all-rounder. Read More
Aloha Golf Club – Home to Champions 🥇
Urb. Aloha Golf, s/n, 29660 Marbella, Málaga | $$$ | 18 holes
Designed by Javier Arana, often called the father of Spanish golf architecture, Aloha is one of the most respected clubs in Marbella. It has hosted the Open de Andalucía and is where many Spanish pros, including Miguel Ángel Jiménez, have trained. Tight fairways, mature trees, and subtle doglegs reward control over power. Elegant but tough, it’s golf with pedigree. Read More
Cabopino Golf Marbella – Short, Scenic, Strategic 📸
Urb. Artola Baja, s/n, 29604 Marbella, Málaga | $ | 18 holes
This shorter 5,170m layout was designed by Juan Ligues Creus and is known for its hilltop tee shots and photogenic holes. Located just east of Marbella, it’s a favourite for fun holiday rounds and twilight golf. The par-4 3rd hole, dropping dramatically down a ravine, is Insta-famous. It may not challenge elite players, but it’s well-maintained and always entertaining. A chill course with serious views. Read More
Chaparral Golf Club – The Only Forest Course 🌲
Urbanización el Chaparral, N-340, km 203, 29649 Las Lagunas de Mijas, Málaga | $$ | 18 holes
The only course on the Costa del Sol set entirely within a pine forest, Chaparral was designed by Pepe Gancedo and reopened with major upgrades in the early 2000s. Narrow fairways and dramatic doglegs require accuracy over distance. It’s a popular stop for visiting golf societies and hosts several amateur tournaments. Set just back from the sea, it’s shaded, tranquil, and very playable. A thinking golfer’s course. Read More
La Hacienda Links Golf Resort – Reborn on the Sea 🌬️
Avenida Pablo Cerezo, s/n, 11360 San Roque, Cádiz | $$ | 36 holes | Resort
Formerly Alcaidesa Links, this club has been transformed into a luxury golf resort with two upgraded 18-hole layouts: the Links (renovated by Kurtis Bowman) and the Heathland (by Dave Thomas). The Links Course now features modern bunkering and a true links feel with unbeatable sea views. It’s been tipped as a future tournament venue, aiming for world-class status. A strong new entry into the upper tier. Read More
Estepona Golf – Relaxed with a View 😎
Av. del Arte, 14, 29680 Estepona, Málaga | $ | 18 holes
A friendly, family-owned course on the west side of Estepona, this 18-hole track is welcoming and low-pressure. The layout is forgiving off the tee but offers enough slope and hazards to stay interesting. Not tied to a big resort, it has an independent vibe. Great for casual rounds or groups looking for affordability with ocean views. Underrated and unpretentious. Read More
Rio Real Golf Course – Marbella’s Original Beauty 🧘
Urb. Golf Río Real, s/n, 29603 Marbella, Málaga | $$ | 18 holes | Resort
Opened in 1965, Rio Real was designed by Javier Arana — Spain’s most revered course architect — and remains one of the most beautiful inland courses in Marbella. The layout follows the Rio Real river down to the sea, offering a mix of open drives and precise iron play. It’s walkable, elegant, and timeless, with a boutique hotel and one of Marbella’s most tranquil clubhouses. Though not long, the design rewards control and creativity. Still a local favourite after nearly 60 years. Read More
Valle Romano Golf Course – Estepona’s Big Value Course 🎉
Valle Romano Golf & Resort, C. Villa Borghese, 1, 29680 Estepona, Málaga | $ | 18 holes
Designed by Cabell B. Robinson, Valle Romano offers PGA-quality greens and generous fairways — all at one of the best value-for-money green fees on the Costa del Sol. It was shortlisted for European Tour events and features long par-4s, elevated tees, and panoramic mountain views. The modern clubhouse and on-site apartments make it popular for group golf breaks. It’s fun, accessible, and surprisingly polished. Don’t let the low price fool you. Read More
El Paraíso Golf Club – Gary Player’s Quiet Classic 🐬
Urb. El Paraiso, Ctra de Cádiz, km 167, 29680 Estepona, Málaga | $$ | 18 holes
Designed by Gary Player in 1973, El Paraíso is one of the oldest and most established clubs on the coast. The parkland layout is nestled between the Sierra Bermeja mountains and the sea, offering a peaceful, mature setting. Fairways are wide but water hazards appear just when you get comfortable. It’s a favourite among members and expats for its friendly atmosphere and walkable design. A gentle, charming course with pedigree. Read More
Los Lagos de Mijas Golf Club – One of Two Mijas Masters 🇺🇸
Av. de Louison Bobet, 1, 3, 5, 29650 Las Lagunas de Mijas, Málaga | $ | 18 holes (Los Lagos)
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., Los Lagos is the flatter and more open of the two Mijas Golf layouts (the other being Los Olivos). As the name suggests, water is a defining feature — nine lakes come into play across the course. It’s forgiving off the tee but punishing around the greens if you miss in the wrong spot. The course underwent a full rebuild in 2012 and is now in great shape. Perfect for a sunny, sociable round without breaking the bank. Read More
Elite & Iconic Golf Courses Around Andalucía
Beyond the Costa del Sol, Andalucía offers legendary layouts from Cádiz to Almería — championship venues, signature designs, and resort-level golf with serious pedigree.
Real Club Sevilla Golf – Championship Layout in the Capital 🏛️
Carretera Sevilla – Utrera, km 3,2, 41500 Alcalá de Guadaíra, Sevilla | $$$ | 18 holes
Designed by José María Olazábal, Real Club Sevilla is widely regarded as one of Spain’s best inland courses. It hosted the Spanish Open multiple times, including in 2004 and 2008, and is a past venue for the World Cup and Andalusia Open. The course is long, flat, and demanding — perfect for low handicappers and tournament play. Fairways are lined with olive trees, and water comes into play on nine holes. It’s a true championship experience near the heart of Seville. Read More
Montecastillo Golf Resort – Jack Nicklaus’ Spanish Signature 🌵
Av. de Montecastillo, Km. 6, 11400 Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz | $$$ | 18 holes | Resort
One of just a few Jack Nicklaus Signature Courses in Europe, Montecastillo is a powerful, tournament-tested track. It hosted the Volvo Masters five years running and challenges players with large bunkers, fast greens, and elevation changes. The on-site Barcelo hotel adds resort comfort, making it a strong base for golf in Jerez. It’s a serious course with pedigree, best suited to confident players. Big, bold, and unforgettable. Read More
Desert Springs Golf Resort – Arizona in Almería 🌅
AL-8104, s/n, 04618 Palomares, Almería | $$ | 18 holes | Resort
Europe’s only desert-style course, Desert Springs blends Arizona-style aesthetics with Spanish sun. Designed by Peter McEvoy, it’s visually stunning and technically challenging, with dry washes, cactus, and wide, fast fairways. It’s been a training ground for European Tour and national teams. The villas and clubhouse have a Wild West vibe with a luxury twist. A one-of-a-kind golf experience in southern Spain. Read More
Islantilla Golf Resort – Coastal Triple Treat 🏖️
P.º Barranco del Moro, s/n, 21440 Lepe, Huelva | $$ | 27 holes | Resort
Located near the Portuguese border, Islantilla features three loops of nine — allowing for a mix of challenges across pine-lined fairways and coastal views. The complex has hosted Challenge Tour events and is known for its mild breezes and beautiful sunsets. The on-site DoubleTree by Hilton is a big plus for golf holidays. Fairly flat and walkable, it’s ideal for groups and casual players. Versatile and scenic. Read More
El Rompido Golf Resort – Riverside Golf in Huelva 🌊
Ctra. Cartaya, km 7, 21459 El Rompido, Huelva | $$ | 36 holes | Resort
El Rompido is one of Huelva’s best-kept secrets — with two 18-hole courses winding through marshlands, pine woods, and riverside scenery. Designed by Alvaro Arana, the layouts are low-impact and environmentally integrated. You’ll likely spot flamingos mid-round. The hotel and golf academy make it a great spot for families and longer stays. A beautiful contrast to the Costa del Sol’s style. Read more.
Costa Ballena Ocean Golf Club – Seve’s Oceanfront Playground 🏌️
Carretera Chipiona, Calle Puerto de Sta. María, km 5, 11520 Rota, Cádiz | $$ | 27 holes | Resort
Designed by Seve Ballesteros, this oceanfront resort mixes wide fairways with exposed sea breezes and excellent training facilities. It’s home to the Spanish Golf Federation’s practice centre and hosts regular international youth competitions. The flat terrain makes it walkable and friendly for all levels. Nearby beaches and on-site accommodation add to the charm. Smart, strategic, and unpretentious. Read More
Sherry Golf Jerez – New-School Favourite in Wine Country 🍷
Calle Suiza, s/n, 11408 Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz | $$ | 18 holes
Opened in 2004, this expansive course was designed to modern standards by Stirling & Martin. Wide fairways, enormous greens, and striking water features make it both forgiving and fun. Located just outside Jerez, it’s popular with both tourists and locals. The course hosts amateur and professional tournaments, with strong conditioning year-round. Great paired with a wine tour. Read More
Arcos Gardens Golf Club – Hilltop Hideaway with Views ⛰️
Ctra. Arcos-Algar km3, 11630 Arcos de la Frontera, Cádiz | $$ | 18 holes | Resort
Set on a ridge overlooking the Andalusian countryside, Arcos Gardens was once a top training venue for national teams. Its undulating fairways and large greens offer a mix of strategy and elevation. The resort is quieter these days but still beautifully maintained. A peaceful escape near one of Cádiz’s prettiest towns. Worth the detour. Read More
Club Zaudín Golf Sevilla – Gary Player’s Andalusian Gem ⛪
Glorieta del Zaudín y Puerta de las Marismas, 41940 Tomares, Sevilla | $$ | 18 holes
This Gary Player-designed layout near Seville’s western edge is lush, walkable, and fun. It’s less known to tourists but loved by locals, with tree-lined fairways and strategically placed bunkers. It’s a popular choice for corporate tournaments and casual rounds alike. Just 15 minutes from the cathedral, it blends city convenience with country calm. A smart option for a golf-and-culture trip. Read More
Real Novo Sancti Petri Golf Club – Seve’s 36-Hole Masterpiece 🎨
11130 Novo Sancti Petri, Cádiz | $$$ | 36 holes | Resort
Designed by Seve Ballesteros, Novo Sancti Petri is a coastal legend with two full 18-hole courses — both known for scenic seaside holes and flowing fairways. The Mar y Pinos course brings pine forests and Atlantic views together, while the Centro course is more open and forgiving. It’s hosted numerous national championships and offers full resort services on site. For many, this is the best golf destination in western Andalucía. Iconic, elegant, and pure Seve. Read More
Best Mini-Golf Courses in Marbella & the Costa del Sol ⛳️
QuizyGolf Mini Golf Marbella – Marbella
C.C. Plaza del Mar, C. Camilo José Cela, s/n, 29602 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
QuizyGolf Mini Golf isn’t your average tourist stop—it’s a quirky, colourful twist on Marbella’s leisure scene. Located just minutes from the city’s buzzy beach promenades, this 15-hole course (9 outdoor, 6 indoor) blends fun design, playful challenges, and a laid-back vibe that’s hard to resist, especially after a beach day or rooftop brunch. Read More
Conclusion
Andalucía is one of Europe’s most exciting golf destinations — home to Ryder Cup legends, world-class resort layouts, and hidden gems scattered across mountains, beaches, and vineyards. Whether you’re chasing championship prestige or laid-back rounds in the sun, this region delivers unforgettable golf with Andalusian soul.
Let me know if you’d like to turn this into a downloadable PDF, Google Doc, or webpage layout — or if you’d like help crafting individual landing pages for each course!
