Things To Do
in Manilva
Manilva is a small municipality on the western Costa del Sol, located near the border with Gibraltar. It blends hillside vineyards with kilometres of sandy beaches along the Mediterranean. The area is divided between the coastal Sabinillas and the hillier Manilva Pueblo, each offering its own character and charm.
With easy access to La Duquesa marina and neighboring towns like Estepona and Marbella, Manilva makes a relaxed base for exploring the coast and countryside (coordinates: 36.3833, -5.25).
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Manilva and settle into your accommodation with views over the Mediterranean Sea. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Take a stroll along the beach to soak in the sun and the soothing sound of the waves.
After a refreshing swim, enjoy lunch at a beachfront restaurant where you can taste local seafood delicacies. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming coastal paths or engage in water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding. Alternatively, relax on the sand with a good book.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at an outdoor restaurant while watching the vibrant colors of the sky transform. Sample traditional Andalusian dishes, and if you're in the mood, try some tapas paired with local wine. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely walk along the beach, feeling the gentle breeze.
Begin your day with a visit to the charming old town of Manilva, walking through its narrow streets lined with traditional whitewashed houses. Explore the small local shops and enjoy breakfast at a quaint café, where you can mingle with locals. Don’t miss a visit to the historic Church of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios.
After lunch at a local eatery, head towards the nearby archaeological site of Las Mulas, which offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history. Spend some time hiking in the surrounding hills to enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. Capture your memories with photographs of the stunning landscapes.
Return to Manilva for dinner at a local restaurant known for its hearty paella. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you dine al fresco, mingling with fellow travelers and locals alike. Finish the night at a nearby bar, sipping on refreshing sangrias under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍷Three-course meal for two | $25-50 |
| 🛏️One night in mid-range hotel | $70-150 |
| 🚕Taxi start fare | $2-3 |
| 🧺Monthly groceries for two | $180-350 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery with easy access to beaches and countryside
- Relaxed, welcoming Andalusian towns with authentic cuisine
- Not a nightlife hub; those seeking loud clubs should go to nearby Marbella or Estepona
- Some areas are hilly; a car helps for exploring inland vineyards and viewpoints
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "Disculpe" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Manilva
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic ruin with sweeping views over the marina and coast; best at golden hour.
Photograph the masts and reflections of boats against the warm evening sky from the promenade.
Long coastal walkway ideal for sunrise photography and candid shots of local life.
Terraced hills with vineyards provide a classic Andalusian countryside landscape.
Food in Manilva
Manilva Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sardines skewered and grilled over open flame; a coastal specialty found at beachside chiringuitos and seaside taverns.
Must-Try!
A variety of small fried fish, typically enjoyed with lemon and a cold drink at beach bars.
Refreshing cold tomato soup, perfect for warm days and widely available in cafés and tascas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh seafood, vegetables, fruits, cheeses, and regional products; great for sampling local produce.
Casual street-food options along the Sabinillas and La Duquesa promenades, including fried snacks and small tapas bars.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A brief handshake is common in formal settings; friends may greet with a kiss on both cheeks. Address people politely as señor/señora unless invited to use first names.
Lunch and dinner tend to be later than in some countries; tapas and shared plates are common. Keep voices at a moderate level in public spaces and on public transport.
Casual but neat attire is typical for most venues; respect privacy in residential areas and avoid loud, disruptive behavior in quiet neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Manilva
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory in Spain. Round up bills or leave 5-10% for good service at sit-down restaurants; small cafes may not expect tips. In bars, a few coins for bartenders is common if service is good.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Have a small amount of cash for markets and small kiosks that may not take cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and comfortable humidity; ideal for hiking and outdoor markets.
Hot and dry with plenty of sun; beaches and outdoor dining dominate. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen; sea breezes help but afternoons can be very warm.
Pleasant conditions with cooling evenings; grape harvest season adds to vineyard visits and wine-tasting experiences.
Mild and relatively quiet with occasional rain; great time to explore town centers and inland viewpoints without crowds.
Manilva at Night
Hiking in Manilva
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal paths and hillside routes with views over the Mediterranean and the countryside; routes vary in difficulty and offer vineyard vistas.
Airports
How to reach Manilva by plane.
Major international hub about 90-110 minutes by car depending on traffic; extensive connections to Europe and beyond.
Nearby smaller airport offering regional flights; convenient for quick hops to nearby destinations, with road access to Manilva via the coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for beach days, safe promenades, and nearby kid-friendly activities.
Seasonal and year-round retirees enjoy a relaxed pace, golf, and coastal living.
Visitors seeking a quieter base on the Costa del Sol, with easy access to nearby towns and nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Several nearby courses, including La Duquesa Golf & Country Club and Valle Romano, attract golf enthusiasts with coastal and hillside layouts.
Kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding options are available along the coast and from La Duquesa Marina.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Manilva.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Spanish dishes are flexible for vegetarians; look for gazpacho, salads, escalivada-style vegetables, grilled vegetables, and paella with vegetables. When ordering, ask for 'sin carne' (no meat) or 'vegetariano' and confirm if cheese contains animal rennet if strict veganism is required.