Originally one
of the main fishing towns, Estepona is one of the few coastal towns that has succeeded in maintaining
its local charm and character, even though all the tourist facilities are here in abundance. The many street cafes and tapas bars serve traditional fayre and the steep, cobbled little streets give the
impression of being for horse and carriage, rather than cars. It is a great place to forage for unusual shops and dodegas.
A small fishing fleet still operates from the west side of the port and some of the boats will still sell direct to
the public.
The Port, as with so many along the coast, is now one of the main places for bars, restaurants and
nightclubs, plus the marina, home to many expensive yachts. Charter boats leave here for fishing and dolphin watching, so
common in the Straights of Gibraltar. There is also a good Sunday morning market selling leather goods, jewelry,
pottery and other such paraphenalia.
There are good beach options:
La Rada Beach
The most
popular and central. Long and edged by a modern sea front promenade, full of beach bars serving traditional fare, such as
paella, just caught sardines & a choice of international dishes. The Marina is located at the west end of the beach
and is a great night spot.
El
Cristo Beach
Set to the west of the Marina in a lovely sheltered cove,
great for kids. With long hours of sunshine this beach has become increasingly popular and can be too crwoded on weekends
in season. Atmospheric with the beach bars playing music.
El Padron Beach
Very popular in
summer with a large car park and two beach bars.
Quieter beaches can be found
a few km to the east or west of the town, such as Playa del Castor to the east, or Rio Castor - a much more lonely spot as
it takes a little effort to get there and is lacking the almost obligatory bars.
Last but definately not least
is Spains first purpose built naturist complex, east of the town, The Costa Natura. For members only with temporary membership
available, but the beach itself is open to all, officially classed "naturist".
The town also boasts three museums illustrating its history and development:.
One in the bullring dedicated to bullfighting paraphernalia- including traditional costumes
and associated items. Next door is the museum exhibiting articles from Estepona's farming and fishing past.
