Lifestyle

Blue Flag beach on the Costa del Sol, Spain, highlighting Spain's record 794 Blue Flag beaches awarded in 2026 for water quality, safety, accessibility and environmental protection.

Spain Sets New Blue Flag Beach Record in 2026 – Another Reason People Choose the Costa del Sol

When people think about buying a property in Spain, the first things that often come to mind are the sunshine, relaxed lifestyle, excellent food and beautiful beaches. However, there is another factor that makes Spain one of the most desirable places in Europe to live and invest. In 2026, Spain set a new record by receiving 794 Blue Flag awards, including for 676 beaches. This made it the country...

Sotogrande marina and luxury villas showcasing the international community lifestyle on the Costa del Sol

Sotogrande Population: International Community & Local Insights

Sotogrande is one of the most international residential destinations on the Costa del Sol. Although Sotogrande is part of the San Roque municipality in Cádiz and does not have its own census category, population estimates based on relevant INE census data suggest that the wider Sotogrande area has around 3,292 residents, a figure which increases during the holiday season. One reason for Sotogrande's...

How many golf courses are in Spain golfers walking on Costa del Sol golf course

How Many Golf Courses Are There in Spain?

With over 580 golf courses across the country, Spain is one of Europe’s leading golf destinations. Thanks to the warm climate and long hours of sunshine, people can enjoy golf almost all year round. Many of these golf courses are on the Costa del Sol. There are over 70 in a relatively small area. That’s why people often call the region the “Costa del Golf.” Why the Costa del Sol Is...

Top golf courses on the Costa del Sol Spain golf guide

Top 10 Golf Courses on the Costa del Sol (Where to Golf in Spain)

If you're wondering where to play golf in Spain, the Costa del Sol is often called the Costa del Golf for good reason. This region boasts over 70 golf courses and some of Europe's most prestigious clubs. I am in and around golf courses on the Costa del Sol every day, but not to play. I sell golf front properties and look for new listings for golfers from the UK, Sweden, Germany and other...

Map of Spain showing regions to buy property including Costa del Sol Alicante Valencia and Murcia

Where to Buy Property in Spain: Comparing the Main Regions

Although Spain has many beautiful places to buy property, not all regions offer the same lifestyle, climate or long-term investment potential. From my experience of working with international buyers on the Costa del Sol over the years, I have noticed that many people initially consider several areas before eventually focusing on one that best aligns with their priorities. When we first came to Spain,...

How far is Estepona from Malaga Airport – travel distance and airport access on the Costa del Sol

How Far Is Estepona from Malaga Airport?

I drive clients along this road almost every week and I always enjoy the views on the way to Estepona. It's about an 80 km (49 miles) journey, and it usually takes between 55 minutes and an hour and 15 minutes, depending on which route you take and the traffic conditions. You can either take the paid AP-7 motorway or the free A7 road, as well as the free section of the AP-7. Both routes follow the...

International schools on the Costa del Sol – 27 best schools compared in Marbella, Málaga and Sotogrande

Top International Schools on the Costa del Sol (Guide for Expat Families)

As a father of two with a third child on the way, I understand how frustrating and confusing it can be to move your children to a new country and have to choose a school. When my family and I started considering life on the Costa del Sol, one of the first things we thought about was education. International schools here offer a variety of programmes, languages and learning styles. For parents, this can...

Best cities to buy property on the Costa del Sol Spain real estate guide

Buying Property on the Costa del Sol: City Guide (2026)

Prices, lifestyle and the best areas to buy property this year Having lived on the Costa del Sol for over nine years, raising two children here, I have experienced the entire process of relocating from scratch, including finding schools, understanding the property market and getting to know each area. Over the years, I’ve helped many international buyers purchase property here, and I’ve learned...

Best places to invest in Spain real estate – Costa del Sol property investment guide 2026

Where to Invest in Spanish Real Estate

Spain has many attractive locations for real estate investment, but the Costa del Sol is one of the most stable and in-demand markets internationally. If you want to get an overview of all the Spanish regions, here's an article you can check out. Remember that there are different types of investment, which depend on your strategy, lifestyle and budget. Here, you can invest in short-term rentals,...

Short-term rental rules in Spain 2026 guide explaining tourist license regulations for property investors

Short-Term Rental Property on the Costa del Sol: 2026 Rules, Licenses (VUT), and Smart Investment Tips

I have a friend who rents out a one-bedroom apartment in Málaga's historic center. She maintains a 90% occupancy rate and earns an average of €1,000–€1,500 per month after covering all costs. She keeps it simple. She placed the listing on Airbnb and manages most of the service herself, only hiring specialists for special cases. Yes, that's possible in Málaga if you buy a property with an...