
Marbella, the jewel of the Costa del Sol, has long been a magnet for the rich and famous, and among its most legendary residents was the incomparable Sean Connery. Known worldwide as the original James Bond, Connery’s connection to Marbella adds a touch of Hollywood glamour to the area’s illustrious history. His time in Marbella perfectly encapsulates the luxury, exclusivity, and charm that define this Mediterranean paradise.
Sean Connery owned a magnificent beachfront villa between Puerto Banús and San Pedro, aptly named Casa Malibu. This beachfront estate reflected Connery’s impeccable taste and appreciation for privacy. With stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and direct access to Marbella’s golden sands, the villa was a true sanctuary for the star.
During his time in Marbella, Connery was known for hosting elegant parties attended by international celebrities such as Richard Burton, Michael Caine, and Omar Sharif. These gatherings added to the town’s growing reputation as a glamorous destination. Connery was also a regular on the golf courses of Las Brisas, Aloha, and Los Naranjos, further cementing his connection to Marbella’s luxurious lifestyle.
Sean Connery and his wife, Diane Cilento, at Casa Malibu, 1960s
Connery’s villa, Casa Malibu, became synonymous with Marbella’s appeal as a destination for those seeking luxury, exclusivity, and natural beauty. However, in the early 1990s, Marbella underwent significant urban development under the direction of a new mayor. A rebuilding programme introduced apartment blocks overlooking Connery’s villa—a change that did not sit well with the famously private actor. He famously quipped, “I don’t want all these people looking at me in my underpants.” Eventually, he reluctantly succumbed to the inevitable and sold his villa, which was later demolished to make way for a luxury complex of 72 apartments. The development retained the original name, “Malibu,” as a nod to its iconic past.
After selling the property in 1999 for £5.5 million, Connery moved to the Bahamas, distancing himself from the changes in Marbella’s landscape. The Malibu development later became embroiled in a legal scandal, the case being called “Goldfinger,” involving town planning irregularities and money laundering, although Connery distanced himself from the controversy and denied any wrongdoing.
Connery’s connection to Marbella still remains a cherished part of its cultural and historical fabric. His presence contributed to the town’s transformation into a magnet for global icons and film producers.
The reasons Sean Connery chose Marbella are the same ones that attract high-profile residents today:
Connery valued privacy above all else. He also liked being beachfront and waking to the soothing sound of the surf each morning. We have selected this spectacular beachfront mansion located in the exclusive urbanisation of Los Monteros, which perfectly aligns with his tastes. Set on a quiet stretch of beach, this residence offers unparalleled tranquillity. Its quirky décor complements Connery’s bohemian flair, while an indoor pool ensures he won’t be seen in his underpants and his cherished privacy is maintained. It’s a property worthy of the original James Bond himself:
At Cilo Marbella, we specialise in connecting clients with properties that offer the same allure and exclusivity that drew Sean Connery to Marbella. Whether you’re searching for a luxurious villa near the beach, a property in an exclusive neighbourhood, or a short-term rental with Hollywood-level charm, we’re here to make your dream a reality.
Discover the magic of Marbella and walk in the footsteps of legends. Contact us today to explore our exclusive collection of rental and sales properties.
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