The hype
Guests love the location and the new modern aesthetic, but many feel the service is still catching up to the new 5-star price tag.
Melia Marbella Banus
$250-550/ night
Book this if You want the Puerto Banús lifestyle without the 4 AM techno thumping through your walls.
Why People Love It
- Walking distance (5 mins) to Puerto Banús marina but quietly tucked away
- Three distinct pool areas including a chill adults-only zone
- The Level (ME+) service offers free-flowing cava and snacks that actually justify the upgrade
Quick Take: It’s currently in a 'glow-up' phase from a family-friendly Melia to a chic ME, so expect fresh paint smells and some closed facilities.
Reviewed by @travelsbypaige: I stayed here for the location and it didn't disappoint—only a 15-minute walk to Puerto Banus! The family-style room with two beds was perfect for sharing with my friend, and I was obsessed with the Rituals toiletries. It’s the ideal mix of beach relaxation and nightlife access.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'garden view' rooms on the ground floor often lack privacy, with guests walking right past your terrace.
- You want to be near the yachts and designer shops but sleep in silence
- You appreciate a good pool scene with Bali beds and chill house music
- You are traveling with a dog (very pet-friendly with welcome kits)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Daily and thorough; guests rave about the 'sparkling' rooms post-renovation.
- Bathroom hygiene: Immaculate marble, rain showers are pristine.
- Maintenance: Generally excellent due to the recent refurb, though some 'teething issues' like broken AC or closed facilities occur.
- Linens & towels: High thread count, crisp and new.
- Odors & scents: Signature ME scent in the lobby (very perfumed), fresh paint smell in corridors.
Sleepability™
8.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway noise from late-returning guests
- Morning renovation/maintenance sounds in some wings
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is a 5-10 minute walk to the actual marina; it is not *in* the port.
- Breakfast is not included in standard rates and costs ~€30 per person.
- Valet parking is available but expensive (~€40/day); street parking is scarce.
What to pack
- Designer swimwear for the pool scene (it's a fashion show)
- Earplugs just in case you get a room near the elevators
- Walking shoes for the promenade stroll to Marbella Old Town (approx. 6km)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Superior ME+ Junior Suite Oasis View (upper floors for pool views and privacy)
- The Level (ME+) rooms for access to the private lounge and open bar
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor 'Garden View' rooms near the main pathways (zero privacy)
- Rooms facing the street side if you are a light sleeper (though traffic is low)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a room on an upper floor facing the 'Oasis' pool area. Please avoid the ground floor near the walkways. If possible, a room away from any ongoing renovation work would be appreciated.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
The indoor pool is heated but currently reported as closed for maintenance. The outdoor pools are unheated and refreshing (read: cold) in the off-season.
Is it worth upgrading to The Level (ME+)?
Yes. Reviews consistently cite the private lounge with free drinks and tapas as a highlight that pays for itself if you enjoy a few cocktails.
How far is the beach?
It is technically beachfront, but you have to walk out the back gate and cross the promenade (about 2 minutes) to hit the sand.
Is it a party hotel?
No. Unlike other ME locations, this one is described as 'mellow' and a 'retreat'. The party is a 5-minute walk away in the port.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, it is very pet-friendly. Expect a fee (around €50/night) but they provide a bed and bowls.
Is there a resort fee?
No explicit 'resort fee' is listed, but parking and breakfast are significant add-ons.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Walk 5 minutes west along the promenade to find 'Chiringuito' beach bars that are half the price of the hotel bar.
- ✨
The 'Oasis' pool is the chill one; the main pool can get busier with families.
- ✨
You can walk to the 'Villa Romana de Río Verde' ruins just 250m away for a quick culture fix.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Sea View' is often a 'Side Sea View' blocked by palm trees or other buildings.
💡The indoor pool area is surprisingly small and often dominated by kids when open.
💡You can smell fresh paint in the hallways due to the recent rebrand/renovation.
💡The walk to Puerto Banús is lovely by day but can feel a bit dark/quiet late at night.
💡Room service prices are steep, even for a 5-star hotel (think €25+ for a burger).
Local Playbook
Map
See where Melia Marbella Banus is located and what's nearby.