All began when a small group of golfers got their heads together and decided to look for land which was large enough for an 18-hole golf course expandable to 36 in Marbella, and also large enough for a small residential development. Santa María Golf is considered to be one of the best looked after golf courses on the Costa del Sol. It prides itself in being situated between small valleys of pine trees and cork oaks, and less than 200 metres from one of the best beaches in Marbella. The first 9 holes were designed by Antonio García Garrido and the course soon became one of the favorites for a large number of golfers, many of which decided to become Members. The second 9 holes inaugurated in November 1996, were designed by the technical team of the Club. At present, experienced and also beginners, consider it one of the best courses in Marbella. The Clubhouse is an impressive Spanish Cortijo of the 19th Century with two floors and is surrounded by extensive gardens.