In a new travel series called Pit Stop Spain, The Spanish Eye editor Laurence Dollimore visits the country’s lesser known towns, cities and sites that can be enjoyed in 24 hours or less.
It’s one of the few Costa del Sol towns to still retain some of its old school Spanish charm, despite the rapid urban development around it.
Indeed tucked between Marbella, Puerto Banus and Estepona, San Pedro de Alcantara is often overlooked in favour of its flashier neighbours.
Yet for those seeking authenticity, this once-sleepy fishing village manages to blend Andalucian character with modern amenities, and all just minutes from Marbella.
Once surrounded by sugarcane plantations, at the heart of San Pedro is a compact old town of narrow streets, whitewashed houses and shaded plazas where locals linger over coffee.
The main square, Plaza de la Iglesia, is dominated by the 19th-century church, while small family-run tapas bars offer traditional Andalucian fare at prices far more reasonable than those in Marbella’s Old Town.
It’s no surprise then that over the past few years it has become one of the hottest property markets on the coast, with many new developments popping up along its boulevard and in the back of the town.
Where to eat
Having spent many a summer here in my youth, there are a few restaurants that have stood the test of time and are definitely worth visiting.
La Bodega del Cantinero is hard to beat in terms of quality food and service.
The Spanish restaurant has been operating out of the charming Marbella town for well over a decade and has won a series of accolades.
Just last year it received a Traveller’s Choice Award from TripAdvisor, which ranked it five stars, as well as a coveted Sluurpy prize.
The eatery is owned and managed by wine expert Alberto Morito, who has travelled around the world for food inspiration, while his charming wife, herself a Ukrainian, is the head chef.
The menu is strictly an Andalucian affair, with some foreign inspiration. All the seafood is caught fresh and is available when only in season, underlining Alberto’s commitment to excellence.
Other highlights include the historic Bar Guerra, which has been serving traditional tapas for decades, plus La Tizona, which boasts an impressive gourmet cheese and wine collection.
For Brits looking for a taste of home, don’t miss the great Sunday roast at the Hogan Stand (and its delectable Eton Mess dessert).
Major regeneration
San Pedro has undergone major regeneration in recent years, most notably with the creation of the San Pedro Boulevard, a landscaped pedestrian zone stretching more than a kilometre.
With footbridges, fountains, children’s play areas and cafes, it has become a lively meeting point for residents and visitors alike, particularly in the evenings when families gather for a paseo.
San Pedro’s beachfront is another highlight. Its long, wide promenade is far less crowded than Marbella’s Paseo Maritimo, lined with palm trees and beachside chiringuitos serving fresh espetos (sardines grilled over open fire).
The beach itself is family-friendly, and from here you can walk or cycle along the seafront all the way to Puerto Banus and Marbella.
History enthusiasts will also find much to explore. Just outside the town are the remains of Las Bovedas Roman baths and a 16th-century watchtower, reminders of the area’s strategic coastal role.
The nearby Guadalmina Roman villa preserves intricate mosaic floors, offering a fascinating glimpse into life nearly 2,000 years ago.
For those wanting to venture inland, San Pedro is the gateway to the Serrania de Ronda, with its dramatic mountain landscapes, hiking routes and picturesque white villages such as Benahavis and Ronda itself.
What makes San Pedro particularly appealing is its balance: modern facilities and easy access to Marbella, yet with a slower pace and a stronger sense of community.
It’s a place where you can enjoy tapas with locals, relax on a quiet beach, and still be within minutes of the Costa del Sol’s luxury hotspots.
Read more travel news at the Spanish Eye.
