Best Luxury Hotels in Marbella

The 193-room Gran Melia Don Pepe is a luxury seafront resort that's a six-minute drive from Marbella's Old Town. There's a lot to like here -- most of all the elegant style -- and the resort has a lovely beach with a beach club cafe, indoor and outdoor pools, a children's pool, and a kids' club. The rooms feature elegant contemporary decor, marble bathrooms, and modern comforts like minibars, 37-inch flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi -- but some can be a bit small for a hotel of this caliber. The attractive spa offers a range of treatments, and there's a bright fitness center with modern equipment and tennis courts. Several restaurants and bars provide varied dining options. 

With a world-class tennis club featuring 10 courts and lessons; three pools with towel and drinks service; large, elegant rooms with high-end amenities; seven restaurants, including one by twice Michelin-starred chef Dani García; and access to a beautiful beach, Puente Romano Beach Resort Marbella is easily one of the most luxurious properties in the region. Celebrities and well-heeled couples have chosen this hotel since it opened in 1979 for its relaxing, classy vibe, upscale amenities, and location right on a quiet sandy beach near Puerto Banús. The only thing missing is a full spa.

Don Carlos Leisure Resort & Spa is a luxury resort located a 10-minute drive from Marbella's Old Town. The Don Carlos has lush grounds and superb facilities like a beach club, two outdoor pools and a children's pool, a full-service spa, tennis club, and several restaurants and bars. Its 243 modern rooms come with plush beds, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi -- though some can be small and the decor in a few is a bit dated. Spacious villas and Oasis Rooms come with extras like personal butlers and high-end sound systems.

The Vincci Seleccion Estrella del Mar is a quiet luxury hotel with a host of amenities. It has direct beach access, but the hotel is somewhat isolated, with few restaurants within walking distance. Its Beach Club includes a top-notch spa, restaurant, fitness center, and multiple pools, but all these amenities, except for the restaurant, requires an extra fee. Its 137 rooms are spacious, with lovely marble bathrooms, minibars, and 24-hour room service. But in-room Wi-Fi comes with a fee, and many rooms lack coffeemakers. The hotel is a good overall value for vacationing families and couples, as its rates are lower than many area hotels in its category, but the fees can add up.