Costa del Sol has always been the go-to place for those looking to live in an exclusive community. The Mediterranean lifestyle has captured its fair share of dreamers who find that true wealth is having freedom, enjoying the activities you’re passionate about and sharing meals with the people you love. There is nothing more luxurious than a good time by the seaside.
Beyond the famous beaches and resorts in the Costa del Sol is a galaxy of towns that offer an elegant blend of culture and history, upwardly premium amenities for sports and activities, and good potential for real estate investment. Read on to find the most exclusive towns and communities that are the best places to live and invest in southern Andalusia in 2024.
- Classic Marbella
Marbella has always been the synonym for high living on the Costa del Sol. With pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, and gourmet dining, Marbella provides a way of life for its residents to be living both a sophisticated and relaxed lifestyle. The town's Golden Mile, paralleling the beach, is extraordinarily famous for luxurious villas, private estates, and upscale shopping.
Address: 29602 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
Website: www.marbellagoldenmile.com
Activities: Dinner with a view of the beach, luxury shopping Golfing at Marbella Club Golf Resort, Carretera de Benahavís, Km. 3.7, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga, Spain
Hours: Most of the Shops and restaurants open from 10 AM to 8 PM
Undoubtedly, Marbella City is one of the strongest property markets in Spain today, being endowed with everything needed to reside and invest in. Areas like Sierra Blanca and La Zagaleta are particularly favourable among buyers and investors alike because they can offer the perfect mix of luxury and gregarious social fun.
2. The Quiet Luxury of Sotogrande
The next location is perfect for people who love peace and serenity: Sotogrande is private and relatively secluded. Being only 25 kilometres from Gibraltar, this luxurious location has a private marina, world-class golf courses, and understated luxury. Sotogrande is ideal for those who want to take things at a slower pace without being restrained in getting excellent standards of service and facilities.
Location: 11310 Sotogrande, San Roque, Cádiz, Spain
Website: www.sotogrande.com
Activities: Yachting at Marina Sotogrande: Paseo del Mar s/n, 11310 San Roque, Cádiz, Spain. Golfing at Real Club Valderrama: Avda. de los Cortijos, 11310 Sotogrande, Cádiz, Spain
Hours: The Marina and golf courses are open from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily
Sotogrande's luxury homes, large plots, and tranquil ambience make the place very appealing to residents and investors who want to bask in maximum privacy and exclusivity.
3. Gorgeous Estepona
Estepona may not be as easily recognizable as Marbella, but it quickly grows in those who prefer a more genuine Spanish way of life. A charming old town, lively marina, and beautiful beaches are what this place is known for. It is where tradition meets modern luxury.
New Golden Mile
Address: 29680 Estepona, Málaga, Spain
Website: www.estepona.es
Activities: Visit Estepona Marina – Av. Luis Braille, 23, 29680 Estepona, Málaga, Spain, Explore the Orchidarium – Calle Terraza 86, 29680 Estepona, Málaga, Spain
Hours: Most attractions are open daily from 09:00 AM – 20:00 PM
Having new luxury developments on the New Golden Mile, Estepona is a more relaxed place for living in luxury, but there is less upmarket investment to be had here.
4. Benahavis and Its Scenic Views
This enclave is located in the hills above Marbella and Estepona, full of beautiful views, fine dining, and luxurious properties. Ideal for those looking for isolation yet only within reach of the action.
Address: 29679 Benahavís, Málaga, Spain
Website: www.benahavis.es
Activities: Play golf at La Zagaleta, Carretera de Ronda, Km 38, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga, Spain; dine at El Lago, Urb. Elviria Hills, Av. Las Cumbres, s/n, 29604 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
Hours: Places for golf and dinner at restaurants are usually open from 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Communities in Benahavís, such as La Zagaleta and El Madroñal, are highly coveted by people with a high net worth. These high-net-worth individuals value their privacy where they gain complete security and are treated to a luxurious standard of living.
5. The Classic Meets Luxury in Mijas
Mijas finds that balance well between the typically Andalusian flair and modern-day luxury. Mijas offers visitors two different experiences: the white-washed village of Mijas Pueblo, perched on the mountainside, and Mijas Costa, the coastal area, lively with people and featuring beautiful beaches.
Address: 29650 Mijas, Málaga, Spain
Website: www.mijas.es
Activities: Discover Mijas Pueblo, Plaza Virgen de la Peña, 29650 Mijas, Málaga, Spain; Golf in La Cala Resort, Urb. La Cala Golf, s/n, 29649 Mijas, Málaga, Spain
Hours: Points of interest are open every day from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
If there is anywhere in the world that epitomizes bringing together a mix of tradition and modernity, it must be Mijas. Sprawling, roomy villas and gated communities make the most of luxury living possibilities in a brilliantly eclectic environment.
6. Life across the Coast in Fuengirola
Fuengirola started life as a fishing village but has developed to become one of the most significant towns on the Costa del Sol. It has a large promenade, great beaches, and a social scene that is hard to match. Here you will find all the positive points of contemporary coastal living with all amenities on tap.
Address: 29640 Fuengirola, Málaga, Spain
Website: www.fuengirola.es
Activities: Walks along the Paseo Marítimo Promenade, Paseo Marítimo Rey de España, 29640 Fuengirola, Málaga, Spain, and Fuengirola Street Market, Recinto Ferial, Av. Sta. Amalia, 29640 Fuengirola, Málaga, Spain
Hours: The promenade is open 24/7, while the markets operate.
At the other end of the spectrum, while Fuengirola offers something for everyone, for the luxury market it's the hottest destination for foreign investors.
Conclusion
The Costa del Sol remains one of the most desirable addresses on the whole of the European continent, with each of its towns boasting something a little special. Marbella's glamour? Sotogrande's privacy? Estepona's up-and-coming appeal? There's a spot on this gorgeous coastline, no doubt all of its own—exactly the right fit for your lifestyle and your investing aspirations: here are some of the top towns in Spain's brightest region to consider when planning your next move in 2024.