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Only 12 km from Marbella and 14 km from Fuengirola, it's hard
to believe that a hidden jewel such as Cabopino exists in the
heart of the Costa del Sol. With an attractive beach, relaxed
atmosphere, pleasant harbour and renowned restaurants, Cabopino
is undoubtedly the Coast's best kept secret.
Cabopino (Pine Cape) is just that. In a part of the world where
forests are usually of the concrete variety, the first thing
that strikes you as you turn off the N-340, is that the forest
of pine trees comes right down to the sand dunes along the beach.
Parking is easy and close to the beach, but if you feel like
leaving the car for the day, frequent buses from Marbella and
Fuengirola make this an easy option too. But why bother going
to Cabopino when there are plenty of other beaches? Quite simply,
because Cabopino is unlike anywhere else on the coast. Development
has been strictly controlled here, and the tower blocks which
are so characteristic along the Costa's shore-line are noticeable
by their absence at Cabopino. An old fortified watchtower still
stands proudly by the sand dunes alongside the beach. From its
priviledged position it is possible to see all along the coast
to Marbella and Gibraltar and Africa beyond, a spectacular backdrop
for a spectacular beach.
Cabopino is well sheltered and protected from the elements,
and artificial reefs on either side of the beach keep the waves
and wind at bay. Lifeguards - on duty throughout the summer
- combined with the beach's gentle slope into the sea, make
Cabopino child-friendly and safe. The sand is well maintained,
clean and of a superior quality to other beaches along the Costa
del Sol, making Cabopino the ideal place for the child in all
of us to build our very own sandcastle in the sun.
Chiringitos (beachside bars and restaurants) are plentiful
here and are renowned for their excellent quality. Costa del
Sol residents come from far and wide to sample Cabopino's specialty,
superb seafood at prices that won't break the bank. Cabopino
is home to an exciting range of restaurants, with fine cuisine
from all over the globe. From traditional Spanish favourites
such as paella and pizza. and from Chinese to international
cuisine, all palates are catered for and there's even an unusual
Victoria theme restaurant offering more than just a feast -
a feast for the eyes. Vegetarian menus are also available.The
many restaurants are based in two main locations, chiringitos
along the beach, and a host of restaurants around the delightful,
beautifully proportioned harbour.
The pretty port, with its small boatyard, attractive architecture
and choice of restaurants may be a secret for some, but for
those in the know, it's not to be missed. Small and tranquil,
it may be, but Cabopino gets busy at lunchtime, especially at
weekends, and whether you are after an ice-cream at the beach,
or a cocktail at the marina, Cabopino's evening buzz is hard
to resist.
The small scale of Cabopino's development makes accommodation
hard to come by, but the enviable location makes it a perfect
place to spend the day. Not surprisingly, Cabopino's 169 moorings
are always occupied by exclusive yachts.

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