Alicante harbour by night

Costa Blanca

Living on the Costa Cálida

  • The Costa Cálida – literally the “warm coast” – stretches for more than 250 kilometres along the Murcia region. Unlike the better-known Costa Blanca, this area is quieter, more authentic and often more affordable. From Águilas in the south to San Pedro del Pinatar in the north, the Costa Cálida is famous for the Mar Menor, the largest saltwater lagoon in Europe.

For home buyers and expats, Costa Cálida is attractive thanks to its mix of modern developments, affordable apartments and villas, and a lifestyle focused on sun, nature and relaxation.

Location and accessibility

Murcia-Corvera International Airport offers direct flights to many European destinations. Alicante Airport, about an hour away, is also frequently used. The AP-7 motorway connects the coastal towns, while train and bus routes link Murcia, Cartagena and the coast.

Beaches and nature

  • Mar Menor: shallow, warm lagoon, ideal for families and water sports.
  • La Manga del Mar Menor: a 21 km land strip with beaches on both sides.
  • Mazarrón: beaches like Bolnuevo and Playa de la Isla.
  • Águilas: quiet coves, authentic Spanish feel.
    Natural areas include Calblanque (unspoilt coastline) and Sierra Espuña (mountain park for hiking and cycling).

Key towns

  • Cartagena: historic port city with Roman theatre.
  • Murcia city: university city, culture, international schools.
  • La Manga: popular with resorts and apartments.
  • Mazarrón: affordable, popular with expats.
  • Águilas: traditional Spanish living.
  • San Pedro del Pinatar: salt lakes and natural reserve.

Amenities

  • International schools in Cartagena, Murcia, La Manga.
  • Hospitals and clinics.
  • Golf resorts (La Manga Club, Hacienda del Álamo).
  • Shopping centres, local markets and festivals.

Property

  • New builds: modern apartments near golf courses or beaches.
  • Resale properties: coastal apartments, villas inland.
  • Prices: from €100,000 for apartments, €200,000+ for villas.

Lifestyle

More than 320 days of sun, dry climate, quiet lifestyle. Growing expat community with a balance between international and Spanish authenticity.

Key points to note

  • NIE number required.
  • Legal check essential.
  • Rental licences vary by municipality.

Why Costa Cálida?

  • More affordable than Costa Blanca
  • Quiet beaches and authentic cities
  • Good infrastructure and services
  • Golf, nature and sunshine
  • Attractive for families, expats and investors

Ready to discover the Costa Cálida as your new home?

Haven’t found it yet?

Get personalized property help

Speak with our experts today to narrow down your options and find your perfect match.

Cookies

We use cookies to improve your experience. You can choose which cookies you want to accept.