Local Guide: Starlite Marbella 2025 returns with music legends

Starlite Marbella festival enters its 14th year

Summer on the Costa del Sol means one thing: Starlite Marbella transforms the Cantera de Nagüeles into one of the longest-running boutique festivals. From 13th June to 29th August, you'll find music legends performing beneath the Andalusian stars in what's become one of the most anticipated cultural experiences in the area.

A legacy that spans decades

Since 2012, Starlite has hosted legendary performers including Elton John, Lionel Richie, Andrea Bocelli, and Lenny Kravitz. The festival's three-month duration makes it Europe's longest-running summer music event, whilst its intimate setting has earned recognition as one of the world's most exclusive cultural experiences.

The concept originated in 1983 when Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe, Julio Iglesias, and Plácido Domingo first envisioned concerts in this magical setting. Today, founders Ignacio Maluquer and Sandra García-Sanjuán continue elevating the standard for luxury music festivals.

A venue carved from stone and starlight

Starlite is set in a former quarry nestled in the hills above Marbella, where 60-metre-high rock walls create natural acoustics that amplify every note. The open sky serves as your ceiling, and just 3,500 guests share this intimate space with global superstars. It's impossible to get a bad seat when the venue itself is carved from ancient stone.

The 2025 lineup brings together musical excellence

This year's lineup represents one of Starlite's most ambitious and diverse collections of artists, blending international superstars with beloved Spanish performers.

Here are some of the headline acts that will grace the Cantera stage:

International headliners include

• Will Smith (July 26) - The multi-talented entertainer brings his charismatic energy to Marbella
• Camila Cabello (June 21) - The global pop sensation kicks off the festival in style
• Marc Anthony (July 3 & 4) - The salsa king performs across two spectacular nights
• Duran Duran (July 9) - New wave legends deliver their timeless hits
• Santana (August 3) - Guitar virtuoso Carlos Santana's transcendent performance
• Pet Shop Boys (July 16) - Electronic pop pioneers headline with their greatest hits
• Scorpions (July 21) - German rock legends rock the quarry
• The Beach Boys (July 28) - California sunshine meets Andalusian nights
• Tom Jones (August 5) - The Welsh crooner's powerful voice under the stars
• Clean Bandit (August 6) - Electronic crossover hits in an intimate setting

Latin music powerhouses

• Nathy Peluso (June 20) - Argentine-Spanish sensation's dynamic performance
• Gente de Zona (July 2) - Cuban reggaeton meets Mediterranean vibes
• Jhayco (July 18) - Puerto Rican urban music star
• Alejandro Fernández (August 20) - Mexican music royalty graces Starlite

Spanish favourites

• Raphael (July 5) - The legendary Spanish crooner returns
• Miguel Bosé (July 23 & 24) - Two nights with the Spanish pop icon
• Amaral (August 8) - Beloved Spanish rock duo
• Los Secretos (August 14) - Madrid rock veterans from the Movida era
• Fangoria y Nancys Rubias (August 23) - Spanish pop culture icons unite

Rising stars and unique acts

• Emilia (June 13) - Opens the festival with fresh energy
• Duki (June 14) - Argentine trap sensation
• Carolina Durante (August 15) - Spanish indie rock darlings
• Guitarricadelafuente (August 7) - Flamenco-influenced singer-songwrite

Accessibility meets sustainability

The festival demonstrates a genuine commitment to inclusivity – the venue is fully adapted for guests with reduced mobility, with dedicated areas near the auditorium stage. Comprehensive sustainability initiatives include waste reduction programmes, recycling efforts, and sustainable materials throughout the event.

As tickets for this exclusive festival are in high demand, early booking is essential to secure your place.