Considerations for families who either already live in Marbella or are thinking of relocating here are no different from families the world over. While it’s wonderful for children to live close to the beach and grow up in a safe, healthy environment, parents’ number one concern will always be schooling, with the quality and location of educational establishments taking priority.
Fortunately, the region offers an excellent selection of bilingual and international institutions, many of which follow British, American, German or IB curricula. Choosing the right place to live involves balancing lifestyle preferences with convenient access to these schools.
At Kore Estates, we work closely with families to match them with neighbourhoods that align with their educational and day-to-day priorities. Below is our expert guide to some of the most desirable areas for families, with standout schools and practical tips to help with your decision-making.
Nueva Andalucía – Golf Valley and academic prestige
Situated just inland from Puerto Banús, Nueva Andalucía is a well-established area popular with international families. With attractive, leafy avenues, top-class golf courses, sports clubs and excellent services, it offers a secure and comfortable setting for year-round living.
This area is home to Aloha College Marbella, one of the region’s most respected schools. It caters to students from age 3 through 18, offering the British National Curriculum, IGCSEs, A Levels and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
Tip: Properties in the Las Brisas, La Cerquilla or Parcelas del Golf areas offer quiet, residential environments within a few minutes of the school, perfect for morning commutes and afternoon activities.
Sierra Blanca – Elite homes with top-tier education nearby
Sierra Blanca is Marbella’s most exclusive residential enclave, located in the foothills of La Concha mountain. It offers a collection of gated communities with panoramic views, exceptional security and architect-designed villas.
Here you’ll find Swans International School, which delivers the British curriculum and IGCSEs, with students completing their education through the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The school is well regarded for its small class sizes and international atmosphere.
Tip: Consider neighbouring Camoján or Marbella Hill Club for similar prestige and outstanding build quality, while maintaining easy access to Swans and Marbella centre.
Marbella East – Elviria and La Mairena
East Marbella combines natural beauty with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Elviria is particularly well serviced with restaurants, shops and beach clubs, while nearby La Mairena offers a peaceful mountain village feel with expansive views.
The English International College (EIC) is based in Elviria and is highly regarded for its academic excellence, consistently achieving strong exam results and university placements. The school follows the British system through to IGCSE and A Level.
Tip: Families seeking more privacy often choose properties in the upper parts of Elviria or La Mairena, where generous plots and sea views are paired with a short drive to EIC.
The Golden Mile – Marbella’s most iconic address
Running between Marbella and Puerto Banús, the Golden Mile is synonymous with luxury and prestige. It offers direct beach access, iconic hotels, and some of the coast’s most desirable gated communities.
Here you’ll find The British International School of Marbella (BISM), which follows the British National Curriculum, and Swans Primary School, which also adheres to the British system. These schools are especially appealing for families with younger children and are known for dynamic, supportive environments.
Tip: The gated developments around Puente Romano and Lomas del Marbella Club provide central access to both schools, along with a luxury lifestyle close to the sea.
San Pedro Alcántara – Traditional charm, modern convenience
San Pedro blends Andalucian character with modern infrastructure, making it a popular choice for families. Its flat terrain, parks and beach promenade create a walkable environment that’s perfect for children.
The area is home to Laude San Pedro International College, which offers a bilingual British-Spanish education. Students follow the British curriculum with IGCSEs and A Levels, or they can pursue the Spanish Bachillerato route in the final years.
Tip: Guadalmina Baja is a standout for families. It’s quiet, leafy and within a five-minute drive of Laude, while also being close to golf, shops and the beach.
Benahavís – Space, privacy and access to excellence
For those seeking more space and natural surroundings, Benahavís offers a peaceful alternative to the bustle of Marbella. With its mountain setting, luxury golf resorts and new developments, it’s ideal for families who value privacy without being far from town.
A key educational option here is Colegio Atalaya, a bilingual private school located just off the Benahavís road. It combines the Spanish curriculum with the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, offering multilingual instruction in a modern and dynamic learning environment.
Tip: Developments like La Alquería, El Paraíso Alto and Los Flamingos place you within easy reach of Colegio Atalaya, while offering large plots and contemporary family homes.
Choosing the right base for your family
Every family has different priorities when it comes to education, commuting times, and the type of lifestyle they want to lead. Marbella and its surroundings offer the rare luxury of being able to choose between beach, golf, mountain or town – all while staying close to top-performing international schools.
At Kore Estates, our local expertise and personalised service ensure you find not just a property, but a location that supports your family’s future. Whether you’re relocating permanently or planning a long-term base in Spain, we’re here to guide you at every step.
Contact us today to start your journey towards finding the ideal family home in Marbella.