There are many good reasons why people choose to move to the Costa del Sol. It may be for work, retirement or to run your own online business. The sunny climate, stunning homes, beautiful beaches and championship golf courses are just some of the perks!
Since the mid-20th century, when package holidays put Andalucía on the map, ex-pats have been flocking to the area in growing numbers, so you’ll quickly settle in.
Once you’ve decided to make the move to Spain, you need to find the best area to suit your lifestyle. Here’s a quick overview of the four main areas in the Costa del Sol that expats move to.
San Pedro
Beachside restaurants and historic landmarks are the main features of San Pedro, an immaculate Spanish town less than a mile from Puerto Banus shops and luxury marina. San Pedro de Alcántara, to give it its full title, is in the shadow of La Concha Mountain. Green parks, traditional plazas and a central shopping area provide a host of local amenities, offering a pleasant lifestyle close to the beach and away from the bustle of larger cities.
Marbella
Marbella is an exclusive upmarket city with a waterfront promenade and port. The traffic-free streets are lined with department stores, high-end boutiques, shops, tapas bars and restaurants. It’s a popular area for UK tourists and expats looking for a more upscale experience of Spanish life. With around 30km of gorgeous sandy beaches, several golf courses and many communities offering luxury apartments, villas and townhouses, expats will quickly settle in this beautiful coastal city. The Old Town is full of character with its cobbled streets, old buildings and independent shops and bars.
Mijas
Perched in the mountains with superb Mediterranean views, Mijas has retained its community feel with traditional whitewashed properties and a Spanish culture. If you’re looking for all the comforts of the UK with the added benefits of an outdoor Spanish lifestyle, you’ll love this area. Along with bars and restaurants, Mijas has a number of golf clubs, gardens and museums. The Town Hall has a department specially for advising expats who are considering moving to Mijas and there is a wide choice of property available for sale. Mijas also has an international Montessori School for families looking to re-locate to the Costa del Sol.
Estepona
Midway between Marbella and Gibraltar, Estepona has retained its authentic Spanish atmosphere while developing as a popular community for expats and holidaymakers. Surrounded by mountains and beautiful Blue Flag beaches, this Mediterranean community has a working fishing port lined with fish restaurants. As well as modest supermarkets and traditional markets, it has many restaurants for al fresco dining. The Old City is clustered around the 15th century San Luis Castle, with narrow streets, pretty homes and courtyard gardens overflowing with bougainvillea. Estepona also has several top golf clubs and an Exhibition and Conference Centre which hosts many events and business fairs.
If you need any further advice about moving to the Costa del Sol, feel free to contact us. We’re happy to help!
