La Quinta Area Guide

23rd July 2025 · 12 min. read · by Carmen de Arriaga

Situated in Benahavís, La Quinta is one of the most exclusive residential areas on the Costa del Sol. Boasting stunning views of the Mediterranean, peaceful surroundings and excellent access to amenities, it offers a unique blend of elegance, privacy and nature.

Though well known for its luxury golf courses and panoramic villas, this area is much more than just a prestigious address. La Quinta represents a new model of residential living that combines sustainability and high-quality design with a deep connection to the Andalusian landscape.

La Quinta is the perfect place for those looking to enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle in a secure and peaceful setting, while still being within easy reach of Marbella’s restaurants, beaches and social scene. Whether you are looking for a main residence, a second home or an investment opportunity, La Quinta stands out as a refined choice for modern living.

• Table of contents
• Where is La Quinta?
• Why choose La Quinta as a place to live or invest?
• What type of properties can I find in La Quinta?
• Does La Quinta have sea views?
• What is the environment and landscape like in La Quinta?
• What is the connectivity and accessibility like in La Quinta?
• What services and amenities are in La Quinta?
• Best restaurants near La Quinta
• What international schools are near La Quinta?
• What else can I do in La Quinta and its surroundings?
• Is La Quinta safe to live in?
• Our top reason to choose La Quinta:

La Quinta is located in the foothills of the Sierra de las Nieves, in one of the most sought-after corners of the Costa del Sol. Its elevated position allows for open views over the Mediterranean, while still being just 10 minutes from the coastline and the glamour of Puerto Banús.

The area is easily accessed via the AP-7 motorway, and lies within a short drive of the Golden Mile, Marbella town centre and San Pedro de Alcántara. This privileged location offers both natural beauty and practical connectivity, making it an ideal base for enjoying the best of the coast.

1. Privileged location: La Quinta enjoys a strategic location within the municipality of Benahavís, one of the most prestigious areas on the Costa del Sol.
2. Unspoilt natural surroundings: Framed by mountains and open countryside, La Quinta offers a tranquil atmosphere just minutes from the coast. Residents enjoy hiking trails, sea views and lush, green surroundings that change with the seasons.
3. Low-density urban planning: Developments here are carefully designed to preserve space, light and views. Properties are generously spaced, with landscaped gardens and a strong emphasis on outdoor living.
4. High-end infrastructure: Home to some of the region’s most prestigious golf courses, wellness centres and resorts, La Quinta offers a five-star lifestyle with everything from tennis clubs to fine dining on your doorstep.
5. Architectural excellence: Properties in La Quinta showcases leading-edge design, energy-efficient construction and premium materials.
6. Outstanding views: On clear days, residents can see as far as Gibraltar and the Moroccan coastline. The sunsets are particularly spectacular, bathing the hills and sea in golden light.
7. Strong investment profile: High demand and limited availability make La Quinta a secure choice for investment. Properties here tend to retain their value well and enjoy solid rental appeal among international tenants.
8. Cosmopolitan atmosphere: The area attracts an international mix of residents and holidaymakers, creating a refined yet friendly community where multiple languages and cultures coexist naturally.
9. Sustainable vision: The area stands out for its commitment to eco-conscious development, with initiatives such as green roofs, renewable energy systems.
10. Mild year-round climate: With over 300 sunny days per year and average temperatures around 19°C, La Quinta is perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle in every season.

La Quinta offers a refined selection of high-end properties, thoughtfully designed for those who value comfort, privacy and exceptional architecture in a natural hillside setting.

The area’s signature homes are its villas, private estates set on generous plots with landscaped gardens, infinity pools and sleek architectural lines. These villas range from modern, minimalist masterpieces to elegant Andalusian-inspired residences, all built with premium materials, energy-efficient systems and cutting-edge technology.

For those seeking a more compact yet equally luxurious lifestyle, the area also features spacious apartments and penthouses within secure gated communities. These homes are characterised by open-plan interiors, expansive terraces, and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame sweeping views of the sea, mountains or golf courses. Many developments include access to shared amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centres and concierge services, enhancing the residential experience.

Additionally, La Quinta offers a selection of exclusive plots for those wishing to build their dream home from the ground up. These prime sites allow buyers to collaborate with top architects and developers to create custom-designed residences that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.

Yes, many properties in La Quinta boast sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea, especially the ones situated on elevated plots. Thanks to the area's natural topography, sea views are a common feature and often extend as far as Gibraltar and the North African coast on clear days.

As well as coastal views, residents can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, golf courses, wooded valleys, and the varied natural terrain that makes this area so charming.

La Quinta is defined by its natural beauty and elevated position, nestled between the rolling foothills of Benahavís and the Mediterranean coastline. The landscape is a harmonious blend of rugged mountain views, manicured golf courses and carefully preserved green spaces, creating a peaceful and scenic setting that feels both secluded and expansive.

The area is characterised by Mediterranean and subtropical vegetation. Towering pine trees, ancient olive groves, carob and oak trees offer shade and texture, while palm trees, bougainvillaea and cypress lines give the landscape its unmistakable southern charm.

La Quinta’s elevated position provides ever-changing light and air quality, with sunrise and sunset bathing the hillsides and sea in soft golden tones. The overall atmosphere is one of tranquillity, with minimal traffic and ambient noise, allowing residents to enjoy a lifestyle rooted in peace, privacy and connection with the outdoors.

La Quinta enjoys excellent connectivity while maintaining a peaceful, secluded atmosphere. The area is easily reached via the AP-7 motorway and is well connected to the key destinations along the Costa del Sol.

From La Quinta, the iconic Golden Mile and Puerto Banús are just 10 to 15 minutes away by car, while Marbella town centre can be reached in under 20 minutes. The charming village of Benahavís, known for its gastronomy and mountain scenery, is also nearby.

The Málaga-Costa del Sol International Airport is approximately a 45-minute drive away, offering direct flights to major European cities. For those travelling by train, Málaga María Zambrano station connects to the high-speed AVE network, linking the Costa del Sol to Madrid, Barcelona and beyond in just a few hours.

Supermarkets and gourmet food shops:

While La Quinta itself is residential and peaceful, a short drive takes you to a wide selection of supermarkets, gourmet food shops and specialised delicatessens. El Corte Inglés in Puerto Banús features premium international brands, while organic markets and boutique wine stores are available in nearby Nueva Andalucía and San Pedro.

Fashion and interior design:

The world’s leading fashion houses are within easy reach. In Puerto Banús, you will find flagship boutiques from Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Bvlgari, Versace and Cartier, alongside luxury car dealerships including Ferrari, Maserati and Lamborghini. Local designers and home decor studios also add to the retail offering in Marbella town.

Healthcare and wellness:

Residents benefit from access to several top-tier private hospitals and clinics. Nearby facilities include Quirónsalud Marbella, HC Marbella International Hospital and Vithas Xanit in Benalmádena, all offering multilingual care and advanced medical technology. Wellness is also a core feature of daily life here, with holistic centres, yoga studios, nutritionists and spa retreats located both in and around La Quinta.

Sports facilities:

La Quinta is synonymous with golf, home to the renowned La Quinta Golf & Country Club as well as neighbouring courses such as Los Arqueros Golf, El Higueral, and Marbella Club Golf Resort. Other sports facilities include tennis courts, paddle clubs, equestrian centres and fully equipped fitness centres, some of which offer tailored programmes for residents and guests.

Dining in and around La Quinta is defined by relaxed sophistication and scenic charm. While the area maintains a residential character, it offers a select group of restaurants that cater to those who appreciate well-executed cuisine in peaceful, natural surroundings.

Within La Quinta itself, Sunsa Restaurant at The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort serves Mediterranean dishes with a seasonal, healthy twist, perfect for long lunches or light evening meals. Its bright, garden-view setting and attentive service make it a firm favourite among residents.

Just a short drive away in Monte Halcones, you’ll find Prado Halcones, a cosy, high-quality bistro offering a fusion of Spanish and international cuisine with warm service and generous portions. At the foot of Benahavís, just ten minutes away, Amanhavis Restaurant stands out for its charming Andalusian setting and market-inspired tasting menus, while Los Abanicos is a long-time favourite known for hearty local dishes, impeccable service and an authentic village atmosphere.

La Quinta is ideally positioned for families seeking high-quality international education. The area is within easy reach of some of the most prestigious private schools on the Costa del Sol, many of which follow British or international curricula and offer multilingual programmes.

Aloha College Marbella
Located just 15 minutes away, Aloha College is one of the most established international schools in the region. It offers a British-style education for students aged 3 to 18, with a strong academic reputation and a welcoming, multicultural environment.

Swans International School
Situated in Marbella, Swans follows the British curriculum and offers education from Early Years up to IGCSEs and A-Levels. It is known for its academic rigour, language support and inclusive ethos.

The British School of Marbella
Catering to children aged 2 to 12, this school offers a full British curriculum in a nurturing environment. Small class sizes and a personalised approach to learning make it a popular choice among expatriate families.

Laude San Pedro International College
A modern and dynamic school offering the British curriculum alongside the Spanish system. Located just 10 minutes from La Quinta, it provides education for children aged 3 to 18, with a strong focus on bilingual learning and global citizenship.

While La Quinta is renowned for golf and nature, it also offers a wide variety of activities for all ages and lifestyles, from wellness and outdoor pursuits to beach leisure and cultural outings. Golf remains a central attraction, with several world-class courses nearby, including La Quinta Golf & Country Club, Los Arqueros and El Higueral. But beyond the greens, residents can enjoy tennis, paddle tennis, horse riding and scenic hiking routes that wind through the Sierra de las Nieves.

Families benefit from a wide range of options too, such as equestrian centres, climbing walls, fitness parks and cycling trails across the hills of Benahavís. Many local country clubs also host seasonal events, social gatherings and wellness workshops for both adults and children.

In less than 15 minutes, residents can access some of Marbella’s finest beaches, perfect for relaxing, socialising at beach clubs, or enjoying water sports such as paddleboarding, snorkelling or jet skiing. The nearby marina in Puerto Banús also offers yacht charters and sailing excursions.

Yes, La Quinta is among the safest residential areas on the Costa del Sol. Security is a top priority, with gated communities, 24/7 surveillance and strict access control systems in place across most developments.

Many properties also include private security systems, alarm monitoring and concierge services. The peaceful, low-density layout of the area further enhances its sense of calm and privacy, making it especially attractive for families, retirees and high-profile residents.

• A private hillside enclave with panoramic views and refined living: La Quinta offers a rare combination of serenity, sophistication and sustainable design in one of the most prestigious corners of the Costa del Sol. Elevated above the bustle of the coast, yet just minutes from Marbella and Puerto Banús.
• A strategic location between sea and mountains: La Quinta combines the peaceful beauty of inland Andalusia with easy access to the coast, international schools, golf resorts and the airport, ideal for both full-time residents and second-home owners.
• A lifestyle built around wellness, design and nature: From its golf courses and country clubs to walking trails, fine dining and spa experiences, La Quinta promotes a healthy, elegant and nature-oriented way of life, in harmony with its surroundings.
• A property market defined by quality and exclusivity: Whether you’re seeking a contemporary villa, a panoramic penthouse or a bespoke home on your own plot, the properties in La Quinta are designed to impress with architecture, views and finishes that meet the highest standards.
• A secure and international community: With excellent security, strong infrastructure and a culturally diverse population, La Quinta is a welcoming, discreet and well-connected place to call home.