For more than a decade, Marbella’s La Bajadilla Port has been a symbol of stalled ambitions — a high‑profile marina expansion that never materialized. Today, that story has changed. In September 2026, the regional government of Andalucía officially unlocked and awarded a new 40‑year concession to redevelop and expand the Puerto de La Bajadilla, marking the first real progress in 16 years.
This redevelopment is not just a local infrastructure upgrade — it is a strategic transformation that will reshape Marbella’s coastline, tourism ecosystem, and real estate market for decades to come.
A New Era for Marbella’s Marina Infrastructure
The Junta de Andalucía, through the APPA (Agencia Pública de Puertos de Andalucía), has awarded the concession to Marina Internacional de Marbella, a consortium of local Costa del Sol entrepreneurs. The new operator will take over the port on January 1st, 2027, initiating a multi‑year redevelopment plan valued at over €200 million.
Key Highlights of the New La Bajadilla Project
- Investment: €200+ million
- Concession period: 40 years
- Boat berths: Increase from 268 to approx. 750
- Capacity: Yachts up to 70 meters, plus cruise ship terminal
- Engineering works:
- Main breakwater: 1.13 km
- Counter‑breakwater: 450 m
- New facilities:
- Commercial areas (10,400 m²)
- 1,000 parking spaces
- Modernized fishing zone
- Varadero (shipyard)
- Cruise terminal with integrated passenger walkway
- Environmental actions: Sand regeneration for beaches Venus, La Bajadilla, El Cable, and El Faro
This is a scaled‑down but smarter version of the original 400M plan proposed over a decade ago — now optimized to meet environmental, legal, and coastal protection requirements.
Why This Project Matters for Marbella
1. A Major Boost to Nautical Tourism
Marbella has long needed a modern marina capable of hosting large yachts and cruise vessels. With Puerto Banús operating at near‑full capacity, La Bajadilla’s expansion will:
- Attract high‑net‑worth visitors
- Increase nautical traffic
- Strengthen Marbella’s position as a luxury Mediterranean destination
2. A New Commercial and Leisure Hub
The addition of retail zones, restaurants, and maritime services will create a new waterfront district — similar to Puerto Banús, but more modern and integrated with the city’s eastern coastline.
3. Economic Growth and Job Creation
The Junta de Andalucía describes the project as a “revulsivo económico” — an economic catalyst that will generate:
- Construction jobs
- Long‑term marina employment
- Tourism‑driven business opportunities
4. A Strategic Upgrade for Marbella’s Urban Identity
The redevelopment aligns with Marbella’s long‑term vision:
- More premium tourism
- Better coastal infrastructure
- Stronger international brand positioning
Impact on Real Estate: What Buyers and Investors Should Know
At Nook Homes, we track how infrastructure projects influence property values — and La Bajadilla is one of the most significant developments in Marbella’s recent history.
1. Rising Demand in East Marbella
Areas likely to benefit:
- El Cable
- La Bajadilla
- Avenida del Mar / Centro
- El Rosario & Las Chapas (indirect uplift)
Expect increased interest from:
- Investors seeking early‑stage appreciation
- Buyers wanting marina‑adjacent homes
- Short‑term rental operators targeting nautical tourism
2. Premiumization of the Waterfront
The new marina will create a luxury corridor stretching from the old town to the eastern beaches. This typically leads to:
- Higher price per m²
- More boutique developments
- Stronger rental yields
3. Commercial Opportunities
With 10,400 m² of new commercial space, the area will attract:
- Hospitality brands
- Retail operators
- Marine service companies
This will increase foot traffic and overall neighborhood value.
Timeline: When Will the New Marina Be Completed?
- 2027: Operator takeover + technical studies
- Late 2027 / Early 2028: Construction begins
- 2031: Estimated completion of the full marina redevelopment
This timeline makes 2026–2028 a strategic window for early investors.
For more information on buying property in Marbella and Costa del Sol, visit Nookhomes for expert guidance and listings that meet your criteria.
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