Puerto Banus

Puerto Banus was opened in May 1970 by the developer Jose Banus. It is situated only 5km to the east of Marbella and has become one of the most famous ports in Europe with a plethora of super yachts filling the berths and many superstars frequenting the area. It's synonymous with wealth, extravagant parties, high fashion and glitz. I doubt that Jose himself envisaged it would become the magnificent marina that it is today.

The port is extremely picturesque, surrounded by wonderfully white Andalusian buildings and is teeming with multi-million pound yachts, cruisers, speed boats and Ferraris. Sitting on ground floor level are the best designer shops, including names such as Armani, Versace, Ralph Lauren and Gucci to name but a few. In fact there is no other location in Europe that has such a collection of designer names is such close proximity! It's designer shopping heaven! The area also has many excellent open-air restaurants and bars, ideal for people watching and the best nightlife strip on the Costa del Sol including the renowned super-clubs Tibu, Pangea and Aqwamist being close by.

Puerto Banus has been continually branching out behind the marina with more shops, restaurants, and housing developments. There is now an aquarium, a multi-screen cinema, a casino and a five floor El Corte Ingles shopping centre, that's like the Harrods of Spain. Alternatively you could head to the market that is held near the bullring on Saturday mornings which sells local produce and souvenirs alike.

If you get fed up of the shops, then Puerto Banus has several beaches either side of the marina, that have some great fish and grill restaurants and all sorts of water sports are available. All in all, Puerto Banus is a fabulous place to visit or stay and live the life of a film star, that is if you're not already a film star!