Costa Blanca South Property Guide
Where the sun shines 320 days a year and the World Health Organization recognizes the climate as one of Europe's healthiest, Costa Blanca South has quietly become Spain's most popular destination for international property buyers. This isn't the Costa Blanca of high-rise tourism—this is something different.
Costa Blanca South stretches from Guardamar del Segura to the Murcia border, offering Europe's healthiest climate (WHO-recognized), 20+ golf courses, Blue Flag beaches, and property prices 25-40% lower than Costa Blanca North. Main areas include Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, and inland towns like Algorfa and Ciudad Quesada. Properties from €145,000.
Region Overview
Geography
Costa Blanca South occupies the southernmost portion of Alicante Province, stretching roughly 60 km from Guardamar del Segura in the north to Pilar de la Horadada at the Murcia border. The coastline alternates between sandy beaches and rocky coves, while inland rises gently toward agricultural hinterland dotted with golf courses and residential developments.
Climate
The region enjoys a semi-arid Mediterranean climate with average temperatures of 10-16°C in winter and 26-32°C in summer. Rainfall averages just 300mm annually, with most precipitation falling October-December. The famous salt lakes create a microclimate with exceptionally clean, mineral-rich air—hence the WHO recognition.
Population
Torrevieja alone has 80,000+ residents representing 100+ nationalities. The wider region houses significant British, German, Scandinavian, and Dutch communities alongside Spanish residents. During summer, the population swells with tourists and second-home owners.
Accessibility
Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) serves the region, with flights to 150+ European destinations. Drive times range from 20 minutes (San Fulgencio) to 50 minutes (Pilar de la Horadada). Murcia-Corvera Airport (RMU) offers an alternative for southern areas. The AP-7 motorway runs the length of the coast.
Towns & Areas
Torrevieja
The regional capital with 80,000+ residents, famous salt lakes, full hospital, and Friday market. Urban coastal living with excellent amenities.
Orihuela Costa
15km of coastline including La Zenia, Cabo Roig, Playa Flamenca, Campoamor, and Punta Prima. The heartland of Costa Blanca South property.
Villamartin & Golf Triangle
Famous Plaza, three championship courses within 5 minutes, established expat community. The golf capital of Costa Blanca South.
Guardamar del Segura
11km of natural beaches backed by protected dunes and pine forests. Closest to airport, most natural environment.
Inland Towns
Algorfa, Ciudad Quesada, San Miguel de Salinas, Rojales, Los Montesinos, Benijofar. 25-40% cheaper than coast with golf and nature access.
Golf in Costa Blanca South
Costa Blanca South is one of Europe's premier golf destinations with 20+ courses within 30 minutes of any property. Year-round playing conditions, competitive green fees, and courses designed by legends make this a golfer's paradise.
Top Courses
Las Colinas Golf & Country Club
Designed by Cabell Robinson
Award-winning course consistently ranked among Spain's best.
Lo Romero Golf
Designed by Jack Nicklaus
Jack Nicklaus design with American-style layout and lake features.
Villamartin Golf
Designed by Robert Putnam
Historic course opened 1972, hosted European Tour events.
La Finca Golf
Designed by Pepe Gancedo
Championship course with challenging layout and excellent facilities.
Beaches
From the wild dunes of Guardamar to the rocky coves of Cabo Roig, Costa Blanca South offers remarkable beach variety. Blue Flag status is common, waters are calm and warm, and crowds are manageable outside peak August.
Guardamar Beaches
11km of golden sand backed by protected pine forests and dunes.
Cabo Roig & Cala Capitán
Dramatic coastline with rock pools, clear waters, seafood restaurants.
La Zenia & Playa Flamenca
Calm shallow waters, full facilities, Blue Flag quality.
La Mata
Long beach near salt lakes with protected dunes and birdlife.
Property Market
Costa Blanca South offers exceptional value in the Spanish property market. Prices run 25-40% below Costa Blanca North and significantly below Costa del Sol for equivalent properties. Strong international demand has driven appreciation, but value remains compelling.
| Property Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Apartments | €145,000-350,000 |
| Townhouses | €180,000-450,000 |
| Villas | €280,000-850,000 |
| Luxury Properties | €600,000+ |
Investment Potential
Strong rental demand from tourism and the international community creates investment opportunities. Holiday lets perform well near beaches and golf; long-term rentals suit inland towns. Yields of 4-7% are achievable with good property selection and management.
Lifestyle in Costa Blanca South
Life on Costa Blanca South follows the Mediterranean rhythm: morning coffee, beach or golf, long lunches, siesta, evening paseo, late dinners. The pace is slower, the stress lower, the sun constant.
Practical Information
Healthcare
Hospital Universitario de Torrevieja serves the region with English-speaking staff. Private clinics and dentists throughout. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and S1 forms provide access for UK/EU citizens.
Transport
Alicante Airport 20-50 minutes depending on location. Car recommended but not essential in larger towns. Bus network connects coastal areas. Taxi and ride-share available.
Cost of Living
Generally 20-30% lower than UK/Germany/Scandinavia. Monthly costs for couple: €1,200-2,000 including accommodation, food, utilities, entertainment. Restaurant meals from €10-15, beer €2-3.
Language
English widely spoken in tourist/expat areas. Spanish helpful and appreciated. German and Scandinavian languages also common. Official documents require Spanish or translation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Costa Blanca South cheaper than Costa Blanca North?▼
What is the best area in Costa Blanca South?▼
Is Costa Blanca South good for retirement?▼
How far is Costa Blanca South from Alicante Airport?▼
Can I live in Costa Blanca South without speaking Spanish?▼
What are property taxes in Costa Blanca South?▼
Is rental income possible from Costa Blanca South property?▼
What is the weather like in winter?▼
Are there international schools in Costa Blanca South?▼
How does Costa Blanca South compare to Costa del Sol?▼
Summary
Costa Blanca South rewards those who look beyond the obvious. Yes, the sunshine is abundant and the prices attractive—but the real appeal lies in the lifestyle: the morning golf, the afternoon beach, the evening tapas, the community that welcomes newcomers, the space to breathe and live well. Whether you seek a holiday home, investment property, or permanent residence, this sun-blessed corner of Spain delivers remarkable value and genuine quality of life.
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