We’ve moved! After living two years in Madrid, Spain as an American family who became digital nomads, we now call a new area of Spain home: Estepona, Spain. Since we moved in July, this whole experience just feels like we’re on vacation so it’s hard to believe that living near the Mediterranean Sea is our actual real life now. While there are things we instantly missed about Madrid life (like authentic Spanish speaking daily, walkability, friends and our urba), we also can immediately see things that we’ll love about life here.

I am keeping this post as a quick resource for people wondering what the best activities are to do near and in Estepona. These will all be within a 30-minute drive of the city of Estepona, mas o menos 😉 I’ll update through the years with the best recs for outdoor activities, restaurants and more!

By the Sea

We have found our favorite local playa, Punta de la Chullera. This dreamy, rocky coastline became an instant favorite for our family because there are many rock jumping areas, fish to see when snorkeling and gorgeous aqua blue water. Do not miss this gem!

We also love Playa de las Piedras de la Paloma in Casares. Casares Costa is the perfect beach getaway away from the crowds.

Best Food

We had the best langostinos al pil pil experience at a local restaurant in Cancelada at Tresantier Restaurante. Truly, they were remarkable and we’ve had great gambas all over Spain. Do not miss them!

Best Experiences

We had done a Sazon experience in Madrid where we dined at a local’s home to experience local flavors. We had a second amazing experience in Belair, too, at a local chef’s home. Some of the best homemade paella, tapas and wine. We highly recommend this experience!

The Towns of Cancelada and Estepona

It’s hard not to fall in love with old school Spanish charm in the city of Cancelada and its big sister, Estepona. Cancelada is a personal favorite and truly the vibes there are just wonderful. Spend an afternoon sitting outside having tapas and enjoying a cafe in Cancelada. In the city of Estepona you can enjoy many more options but also being right on the sea.

Best Outdoor Adventures

Wow, we’re in love with Benahavís and the Rio Guadalmansa. To find it, type in “Puddle of Mozas”. This gem of a fresh water river in the mountainous town of Benahavís was a memorable one and is also completely pet-friendly. We hope to take the whole river ride soon!

I also could not love Casares Pueblo more! This whitewashed town is absolutely worth a visit!