Nestling among the pine trees on the edge of the Mediterranean sits the beautiful Port of Cabopino, Marbella.

When I first visited this picturesque Marina in 1985, it really was an oasis of peace and calm, and sitting at the water´s edge surrounded by the woods reminded me of a tropical paradise – virtually undiscovered and untouched by commercialism. My family knew there was great potential here and bought a restaurant on the sea front, which they ran successfully until selling up to buy a hotel 5 years ago.

On leaving the A7 road West bound about 2 kilometres from Calahonda, the road into the port winds down passing lush gardens and cobbled squares to the impressive Marina area. With over 100 luxury cruisers and pleasure boats moored here, this is a fabulous place to wander round and see how the other half live. We were once lucky enough to be invited on a trip to Gibraltar aboard a fabulous 50 metre luxury Sunseeker from here and what a day that was!

Cabopino also boasts the best sandy beach in the area – particularly safe for children with a couple of fabulous chringuitos overlooking the Mediterranean. Andy´s Beach Bar is my favourite and is open from 9am for fresh coffee and breakfast till late in the Summer season. From lunchtime serving an array of beautiful fresh tapas such as grilled prawns, octopus, fresh mussels and also more snacky menus with hot dogs, burgers, roast chicken and a great selection of sandwiches and salads. This place enjoys a superb atmosphere, an unbeatable location and casual dining at its best.

But this gem of a place also boasts some fabulous bars and restaurants which are perfect for an evening meal after a hard day´s sunbathing. Situated in the main square are the Port´s most well known and established bars – La Plaza and The Shebeen – both of which have been successfully run by the present owners for many years. La Plaza opens from 5pm till later and offers a superb range of drinks and cocktails – ideal for before or after dinner. Boasting a spacious, South facing terrace, this is the perfect place to sip a sundowner whilst looking over the attractive square, and wondering where to go for dinner. The Shebeen is situated just below here and this warm and friendly bar opens from 1pm till late every day. Offering a good choice of lighter meals and probably the best pint of Guinness outside of Dublin, you are guaranteed a good time here.

You really are spoilt for choice where restaurants are concerned but Alberts on the Port is always value for money and great fun – offering an enormous menu to suit every taste, including many children´s choices, and live music at the weekends. Established for 15 years and very well run, this popular eaterie is always full in the summer season and early booking is recommended.

Giuseppes, just two doors down from Alberts on the Marina front, offers probably the best pizzas in Marbella – try the pepperoni and onion - plus a whole lot more. Home made pasta dishes include Tagliatelle Vongole with fresh seafood, Spaghetti Putanesca for the lovers of more ´picante´ pasta, and a superb Lasagne Bolognese. Also great fish and meat dishes including Baked Chicken with White Wine and Lemon Sauce and Escalopes of Veal with Marsala Wine Sauce. The owners of this restaurant make everyone feel welcome and the personal touch is always in evidence.

Beautiful apartments abound in Cabopino, and many are available for holiday rentals. This can be arranged through agents within the village. There is also a superb campsite – Cabopino Camping – situated just at the exit of the main A7 road – boasting onsite cottages and spaces for mobile homes, caravans and tents. Very well presented and clean, this is one of the better sites in the area – offering bathrooms, a great bar restaurant, 2 swimming pools and good security plus a general store. Five minutes walk from the Port and the Beach, this site also enjoys a fabulous location.

Cabopino boasts a superb Marina location, some of the best restaurants in Marbella and a fabulous sandy beach. This really is the perfect location for a fantastic holiday or a super day out!