A penthouse with a large terrace and sea views: for many buyers, that is the ultimate dream in Marbella. You combine the comfort and security of an apartment with the space and views of a villa, without the worry of a large garden. No wonder penthouses are among the most sought-after properties on the Costa del Sol. In this article you will find out where to find the finest penthouses, what they cost and what to look out for.
Why choose a penthouse?
- Views: on the top floor you often have unobstructed views of the sea, the mountains or the golf course.
- Spacious terraces: many penthouses have terraces of 50 to more than 200 m², sometimes with a private pool or jacuzzi.
- Privacy: no neighbours above you and often just one or two homes per floor.
- Security and convenience: gated developments with security, communal gardens and pools. Ideal if you are not in Marbella all year round.
- Letting: penthouses are popular with tenants and command higher rents.
The best areas for a penthouse in Marbella
Golden Mile
Penthouses in exclusive beachfront developments or in Las Lomas del Marbella Club, within walking distance of the beach and restaurants. The most expensive and prestigious choice. Read more in our guide to the Golden Mile.
Puerto Banús
Penthouses overlooking the marina or the sea, in the heart of lively Marbella. See our guide to Puerto Banús.
Sierra Blanca and Nagüeles
Modern developments higher up the hill, with panoramic views along the coast and plenty of privacy.
Nueva Andalucía
Penthouses overlooking the golf courses and the mountains, often with more space for your budget. Read our guide to Nueva Andalucía.
Marbella East
Beachfront or sea-view penthouses in Los Monteros, Río Real and Elviria, in quieter surroundings.
Benahavís and the New Golden Mile
New developments with large terraces, spectacular views and modern finishes. See our guides to Benahavís and the New Golden Mile.
How much does a penthouse in Marbella cost?
The price depends on the location, the views, the size of the terrace and the quality of the development. As a guide:
- Two-bedroom penthouse in Nueva Andalucía or Marbella East: often from €600,000 to €900,000.
- Sea-view penthouse in a modern development: usually between €1 million and €2.5 million.
- Beachfront penthouse on the Golden Mile or in Puerto Banús: often from €2.5 million to more than €6 million.
For comparison: the average asking price for all property in Marbella was around €5,970 per m² in September 2026, and around €8,330 on the Golden Mile. Penthouses with exceptional views are often well above those averages. You will find more figures in our article on the property market.
What to look out for in a penthouse
- Will the view last? Check that nothing can be built in front of your property. Your lawyer can review the zoning plan.
- Orientation: a south or south-west-facing terrace gives you sun all day and beautiful sunsets.
- Insulation and waterproofing: the roof and terrace sit above your living space. Have their condition checked, especially in older buildings.
- Legal status of the terrace: covered or enclosed terraces do not always have planning permission.
- Lift and access: does the lift go all the way up to your penthouse? Is there a private lift?
- Community fees: penthouses often pay a larger share. Ask for the exact amount.
- Letting rules: check whether holiday lettings are allowed in the development.
New build or resale?
New penthouses offer modern finishes, energy efficiency, underfloor heating, home automation and often a private pool on the terrace. Resale penthouses are more often in established prime locations close to the beach. Browse our new-build property and resale properties to compare.
Finding your penthouse in Marbella
The finest penthouses are scarce and quickly disappear from the market, often before they even go online. We follow the market every day and have access to off-market penthouses. Tell us what you are looking for and we will put together a tailored selection. Browse our Prestige collection or get in touch with us.
Penthouse or villa: which suits you?
Torn between a penthouse and a villa? A penthouse is ideal if you want little maintenance, travel regularly or leave your home empty for part of the year. You have the security of a gated development, the gardens and pools are maintained for you and you can simply lock up and leave. A villa gives you more privacy, your own garden and pool, and more room for family and friends, but it also takes more looking after. Many of our clients start with a penthouse as a second home and later move to a villa when they spend more time in Marbella.
The terrace: your second living room
In Marbella you live outdoors for most of the year, so the terrace of a penthouse matters at least as much as the interior. Look at the depth of the terrace (can you dine there comfortably?), the option of shade with a pergola, privacy from the neighbours and whether there is an outdoor kitchen, jacuzzi or plunge pool. A well-designed terrace with sea views is what sets an exceptional home apart from a nice apartment.
Our tip
Always visit a penthouse at sunset as well. That way you see how the light falls, what the view looks like in the evening and how much privacy you really have on the terrace.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a penthouse in Marbella cost?
From around €600,000 in Nueva Andalucía or Marbella East to more than €6 million for a beachfront penthouse on the Golden Mile.
Is a penthouse a good investment in Marbella?
Sea-view penthouses are scarce and popular with buyers and tenants, so they generally hold their value well.
Where can I find a beachfront penthouse in Marbella?
On the Golden Mile, in Puerto Banús, in Marbella East and along the New Golden Mile.
What is the difference between a penthouse and a duplex penthouse?
A duplex penthouse is spread over two floors, often with the living space and terrace on top and the bedrooms below.
Can I let out a penthouse in Marbella?
That depends on the rules of the development and the applicable rental licences. Have this checked beforehand.
