The enduring popularity of Puerto Banus.
There is no doubt that the once tiny fishing port renamed Puerto Banús after its founder José Banús, remains a byword for the luxurious lifestyle of the Costa del Sol. Apart from Marbella, there are few other places in Spain that symbolise a hedonistic and highly desired way of living in quite the same way that Puerto Banús does. Indeed, the history of this village turned international mecca for the jet set is a fascinating one. In 1970, local property developer José Banús launched his concept for a luxury marina and shopping complex. Guests at the launch party included King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia of Spain, as well as Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco, plus a host of other celebrity guests. José Banús hoped that this 915-berth marina, surrounded by boutiques stocking the very best in luxury brands from around the world, would boost Marbella’s economy and attract wealthy visitors. It was an idea that worked, and has kept on succeeding to the present with little hint that the exclusive reputation of ‘The Port’, as local residents call it, has dimmed in any way. The yachts of the super-rich are still moored in the marina and Lamborghinis, Maseratis, Bentleys and Rolls-Royces cruise along the frontline. It’s a wonderful spot to sit and watch high net worth individuals at play. And recreation is undoubtedly one thing that Puerto Banús is renowned for. Sinatra’s Bar has sat at the western end of the frontline for decades and like Harry’s Bar in Venice, it is one of the iconic places to enjoy an early evening drink or a daytime coffee while people watching, having a well-deserved break from shopping, or before going to dinner at one of the many top quality restaurants that are to be found throughout the port area. Other popular bars for a drink—where you might just spot a celebrity—are News Café and Astral Cocktail Bar. Eating out in Puerto Banús ranges from Picasso’s, a firm family favourite serving exceptional pizzas, to the refined Italian cuisine of A1 Aretusa. El Gran Gatsby offers panoramic views of the port and if you are looking for something more traditionally Spanish, then Los Bandidos fits the bill, as does La Taberna del Pintxo. Puerto Banús is ‘the’ place to visit for its nightclubs. Pangea, Tibu and Aqwamist are amongst the area’s most popular and exclusive, attracting a regular stream of celebrity clientele, as well as international performers year round. And, if Tinie Tempah isn’t quite to your taste, then Joy’s piano bar has been entertaining visitors and residents alike for many years. Shopping in Puerto Banús could easily rival Rodeo Drive, Bond St. or 5th Avenue. The list of famous fashion labels includes Fendi, Versace, Prada, Giorgio Armani, Dior and Carolina Herrera, as well as new names such as Tom Ford and Custo Barcelona. The Marina Banús shopping mall and El Corte Inglés department store enhance the port’s shopping experience further and have created a retail destination that retains its air of prestige, luxury and exclusivity. All these elements, and we have only touched on a select few, are the secrets of Puerto Banús’s enduring popularity with visitors and residents from around the globe. If you would like to live in or close to Puerto Banús please contact Altavista Property for a top selection of the best properties for sale in Marbella.
