By Nourah Khan
Travel Writer
The Times Kuwait
Nikki Beach is not just a beach club; it is a lifestyle. Since opening its first location in Miami in 1998, the brand has expanded across the globe to destinations such as Saint-Tropez, Ibiza, Dubai, Mallorca, and Marbella. Built on the philosophy of ‘Celebration of Life’, Nikki Beach blends music, dining, fashion, and hospitality into a seamless experience of relaxed luxury.
The concept itself was born out of love and memory. Founder Jack Penrod created Nikki Beach in Miami as a heartfelt tribute to his daughter Nicole, who passed away at a young age. What began as a single beachside venue in Miami has since transformed into a global lifestyle brand, with each location carrying the same essence: to celebrate life through joy, connection, and meaningful moments.
On Spain’s southern coast, Nikki Beach Marbella stands as one of the brand’s most iconic destinations. Set on the golden sands of the Costa del Sol, this beachfront property perfectly captures the spirit of Marbella’s vibrant yet refined lifestyle. The first impression is striking: crisp white cabanas, elegant wooden accents, a sparkling turquoise pool, and an atmosphere that feels both glamorous and serene. From the moment I entered, the service reflected true hospitality—professional, attentive, and delivered with a warm smile that instantly made me feel at home.
Spending the day here is a journey through comfort and style. I settled into a plush sunbed, shaded by flowing white drapes, with the Mediterranean breeze setting the tone for pure relaxation. The vibe was sophisticated but never pretentious— international guests enjoying the sun, soft music playing in the background, and staff who anticipated needs before I even voiced them. The attention to detail impressed me: chilled water offered the moment I arrived, perfectly adjusted umbrellas for shade, and small gestures that made a big difference. It was luxury without excess, elegance with ease.
Dining at Nikki Beach Marbella was one of the highlights of our visit. The menu reflects the region’s Mediterranean bounty, featuring fresh seafood, vibrant salads, and globally inspired creations. My son truly enjoyed the variety of seafood dishes, from the classic Andalusian prawns pil-pil to beautifully presented sushi platters.
As for myself, being vegetarian, I was delighted to find that the kitchen crafted a selection of creative plant-based options just for me. Fresh heirloom tomato and burrata salad, colorful grilled vegetable platters, and a light quinoa salad bursting with flavor made my meal just as memorable. The balance between indulgence and lightness was perfect, proving that Nikki Beach Marbella caters gracefully to every palate.
After lunch, I took time to stroll around and explore the property further. The boutique was an elegant extension of the Nikki Beach identity, filled with chic resort wear, statement accessories, and limited-edition collaborations with international designers. I left with thoughtful keepsakes—a stylish beach hat emblazoned with the Nikki Beach logo, a refined beach bag, and a few elegant accessories—that will always remind me of this day.
As the afternoon unfolded, the atmosphere subtly shifted. The music gained a livelier rhythm, with a saxophonist joining the DJ near the pool. Groups of friends clapped along, while visitors captured photos in the club’s most iconic white corners and décor. Yet the sophistication of the venue never faltered. I found myself smiling at the energy in the air—a blend of celebration and serenity. By late afternoon, the sun dipped lower, casting golden light across the Mediterranean. Reclining on my sunbed, I watched the horizon shimmer, and felt time slow down.
What makes Nikki Beach Marbella truly special is not just the setting or the food, but the feeling it creates. There is a soulful quality here, a reminder to slow down and celebrate life’s simple joys in a beautiful way. From poolside relaxation to gourmet dining and stylish shopping, everything is designed to elevate the experience without ever losing its sense of authenticity.
As the sun finally set, I felt deeply grateful for the day I had spent here. Nikki Beach Marbella is more than a destination—it is a philosophy of living well, wrapped in elegance and joy. For those seeking not just a beach escape but a lifestyle experience, this is where the art of living beautifully truly comes to life.
Noura Khan, a travel influencer and content creator, is a Kuwaiti national, holds a degree in law from Kuwait University and has worked as a journalist prior to taking up a position in the government. In 2018 she started blogging on travel and visited more than 57 countries since. She has more than 105k followers on her blog post @nourajtraveller is well appreciated for content and travel information. Noura writes exclusively for The Times Kuwait on her travel visits.
