Costa del Sol – Spain's sunny south coast

Costa del Sol – Costa del Sol in Spain

The Costa del Sol is one of Europe's most popular destinations – and it's easy to see why, where you'll be greeted by over 300 days of sunshine a year, golden sandy beaches, charming coastal towns and a relaxed pace of life that attracts holidaymakers and residents from all over the world. With a pleasant climate all year round, it is no wonder that the weather on the Costa del Sol is often described as one of Europe's best. The winter months offer 18–20 degrees and the summer is warm but rarely oppressive thanks to the sea breeze.

But the Costa del Sol in Spain is much more than just sun and swimming. The region offers culture, world-class golf courses, tapas bars around every corner – and a lifestyle that makes many dream of a home of their own in the heat.

Are you looking for a holiday home, are you planning to move permanently or do you want to invest in an apartment on the Costa del Sol? There are many cities to choose from and each has its own personality and charm. Below we guide you to some of the most beloved resorts on the Costa del Sol.

Marbella – luxury, history and golden beaches

Marbella is the crown jewel of Spain's Costa del Sol. The city has long had a reputation for being exclusive – but behind the yachts of Puerto Banús and the glittering shops there is a genuine Andalusian soul.

In the old town, Casco Antiguo, cobbled streets wind between whitewashed houses and flower pots on every corner. The Plaza de los Naranjos square smells of orange blossom and freshly brewed coffee, while the tapas bars serve local classics such as fried eggplant with honey and fresh sardines from the coast.

Marbella also offers one of the most diverse coastlines on the Costa del Sol. It offers quiet family beaches and exclusive beach clubs such as Nikki Beach and Ocean Club. Golf enthusiasts can choose from more than 20 courses in the area, and nature lovers will find hiking trails in the mountains just behind the town.

Hint! If you are looking to buy an apartment on the Costa del Sol, Marbella offers everything from modern sea view apartments to traditional townhouses in charming neighborhoods. It is a place for those who want both sun, city life and style.

Málaga – cultural capital with a beachfront location

Málaga is much more than just the airport many people pass by on their way to the coast – it is a vibrant, cultural and colourful city that has blossomed into one of Spain's most attractive destinations.

The city offers history around every corner: the Moorish fortress Alcazaba, the Roman theatre below and the mighty cathedral right in the centre. At the same time, Málaga is a modern coastal city with designer hotels, trendy rooftop bars and a thriving restaurant scene.

For art lovers, there's the Picasso Museum – an obvious tribute to the city's most famous son – and the Centre Pompidou Málaga, a colourful glass building by the harbour.

The coast around Málaga offers several beaches within walking distance, such as Playa de la Malagueta, where locals sunbathe after work and eat grilled sardines straight from the charcoal grill.

Hint! If you are looking for city life, culture and proximity to the sea, Málaga is a perfect place to buy an apartment on the Spanish south coast.

Fuengirola – family-friendly and vibrant all year round

Fuengirola is one of the most popular destinations for Swedes on the Costa del Sol in Spain – and it's not hard to see why, and you'll be greeted by a long, wide promenade that stretches over seven kilometres. a wide range of restaurants and shops, as well as a vibrant city life all year round

The town is particularly popular with families thanks to its international schools, its safe location and its well-kept beaches such as Playa de Los Boliches and Playa de Carvajal.

Fuengirola also has an active Swedish community with the Church of Sweden, Swedish schools and Scandinavian restaurants – which makes the transition to life in Spain easier for many. At the same time, the city retains its Spanish charm, with tapas bars and local markets in the center.

Hint! The range of homes is wide – from modern new developments with sea views to charming apartments in old quarters. Many people find their first apartment on the Costa del Sol right here, thanks to reasonable prices and good infrastructure.

Nerja – the picturesque pearl of the east

If you want to experience the genuine side of the Costa del Sol, Nerja is the place for you. This charming coastal town in the eastern part of the region offers a more traditional and relaxed atmosphere than the larger resorts further west.

The most iconic landmark is the Balcon de Europa, a viewpoint that stands out over the sea with miles of panoramic views. Just outside the city are the famous Nerja Caves – an underground system of stalactites, salons and even a natural concert hall.

Nerja is also known for its small bathing bays, where cliffs meet turquoise water. Playa Burriana is the most popular, with restaurants, water sports and sun loungers, but there are plenty of hidden gems to discover along the coast.

Here you live a quiet, Spanish everyday life where the siesta is still taken seriously. Local restaurants serve fresh seafood, paella and wine from the nearby mountains of Frigiliana.

Hint! Many people choose to buy a property here precisely for the genuine feeling – apartments on the Spanish Costa del Sol in Nerja combine tranquility, beauty and proximity to nature.

Estepona – the flower city that has blossomed

Estepona is one of those cities that has really changed in the last ten years. From being a sleepy fishing town, Estepona has grown into a trendy, well-kept and charming coastal town with an international atmosphere.

In the old town, you'll be greeted by cobbled streets, colourful flower pots on every façade and small tapas bars where locals gather in the evenings. Along the coast, long sandy beaches spread out, with the popular Playa del Cristo in the west as a favorite for families with children.

The town has also been nicknamed The Garden of the Costa del Sol thanks to its floral splendour, but also because of its green parks, art galleries and new promenades.

Hint! Estepona is one of the most attractive places to live on the Costa del Sol right now – combining tranquillity, quality and proximity to Marbella with more affordable housing.

Torremolinos – classic holiday resort with new energy

Torremolinos was one of the first resorts to put Spain's Costa del Sol on the map back in the 1950s, and in recent years the city has enjoyed a modern renaissance. Behind the façade of a classic charter resort hides a vibrant city with genuine neighbourhoods, newly launched hotels and an increasingly strong focus on culture, food and sustainable tourism.

Here you will find some of the best beaches on the Spanish Costa del Sol, such as Playa de la Carihuela and Playa del Bajondillo, where chiringuitos serve fresh fish straight from the grill. The old fishing village of La Carihuela is still the soul of the city – full of seafood restaurants, colourful houses and an evening life that attracts locals and visitors alike.

Torremolinos is also one of the most inclusive towns on the Costa del Sol, known for its welcoming atmosphere and international diversity. For families with children, there is the Aqualand water park and the lush Parque La Batería park, while nature lovers appreciate the proximity to both the sea and the mountains.

Hint!The housing market here is very varied – everything from affordable apartments near the beach to newly produced homes with a pool and sea views. For those looking for an apartment on the Costa del Sol with proximity to both Málaga and Fuengirola, Torremolinos is an excellent choice.

Do you dream of living on the Costa del Sol?

Buying a property on the Costa del Sol in Spain is not just an investment in sun and sea – it is an investment in quality of life. Whether you're looking for a modern beachfront apartment or a charming residence in one of the white villages, there's something for everyone.

At SkandiaMäklarna Spain, we help you find the right property on the Costa del Sol. Our agents have extensive experience in the housing market in Andalusia and will guide you safely through the entire buying process – from viewing to keys in hand.