Estepona, Costa Del Sol: Area Guide for Property Buyers

Estepona is a charming town located on the western edge of the Costa del Sol in the province of Málaga, Spain. With its beautiful beaches, picturesque old centre, and laid-back lifestyle, proximity and connection to other big cities and airports in Málaga and Gibraltar, it's no wonder that Estepona is a popular destination for foreign property buyers.

Want to know more about Estepona, what it has to offer and which areas are popular for property buyers? Keep reading.

Charming town on the Costa del Sol

Known for its picturesque old town, golden beaches, and vibrant marina, it has become a popular destination for expats.

One of the biggest draws of Estepona is its beautiful beaches. The town has over 21 kilometers of coastline, with golden sand and crystal-clear waters. Some popular beaches include Playa del Cristo, Playa del Rey, and Playa del Padrón. These beaches offer a wide range of activities, from sunbathing and swimming to water sports such as jet skiing and windsurfing.

Another highlight of Estepona is its historic old town. This charming area is filled with narrow streets, traditional white-washed houses, and colorful flowers. Visitors can wander through the old town and discover charming plazas, quaint cafes, and local shops. One of the most iconic landmarks in the old town is the Church of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, which dates back to the 18th century.

Estepona's marina is also a must-see attraction. This lively area offers a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as a variety of water activities. Visitors can take a boat tour, go fishing or even rent a jet ski. The marina is also home to several luxury yachts and some of the best seafood restaurants in the area.

Real Estate in Estepona

For property buyers, Estepona offers a wide range of options. From modern apartments with sea views to traditional Spanish villas, there is something for everyone. Prices can vary greatly depending on location, size, and condition of the property. It is recommended to consult with a local real estate agent to ensure you find the property that best suits your needs.

When it comes to the cost of living, Estepona is considered to be more affordable than other popular destinations on the southern coast of Spain, such as Marbella. The town offers a wide range of supermarkets, bakeries, and local markets, where you can find fresh produce and traditional Spanish products at reasonable prices.

A Brief History of Estepona

Estepona has a long and rich history dating back to the Phoenicians, who founded the town around 1000 BCE. Throughout the centuries, the town has been influenced by a number of different cultures, including the Romans, Moors, and Christians.

During the Roman period, Estepona was an important port town known for its salt production. The town was later conquered by the Moors, who named it "Salduna" and established it as a major center of trade. After the Christian reconquest of Spain in the 15th century, Estepona became part of the Kingdom of Castile and was renamed "Estepona."

Throughout its history, Estepona has been an important cultural and economic hub in the region. Today, the town is a vibrant and thriving community that is proud of its rich history and cultural heritage.

Popular Neighborhoods in Estepona for Foreign Property Buyers

Estepona is made up of a number of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and amenities. Some of the most popular neighborhoods in Estepona include:

• El Paraíso: Located just west of the town center, El Paraíso is known for its beautiful beaches and upscale real estate. This area is popular with affluent buyers and second-home owners.
• El Cristo: Just east of the town center, El Cristo is known for its picturesque old town and charming streets. The area is popular with buyers looking for a more traditional, Spanish way of life.
• Old Town: Calle Real is a charming street with a number of restaurants, bars, and shops. The street is also home to a number of cultural landmarks, including the Estepona Palace.
• Selwo: On the eastern edge of Estepona, Selwo is known for its beautiful beaches and family-friendly amenities. The area is popular with families and second-home buyers.

Things to do in Old Town Estepona:

1. Explore the streets: Old Town Estepona is a great place to wander and explore the narrow streets and charming squares. The area is home to a number of small shops, restaurants, and bars, and is a great place to get a feel for the town's laid-back lifestyle.
2. Visit the Estepona Palace: Located in the heart of Old Town Estepona, the Estepona Palace is a beautiful example of Andalusian architecture. The palace is open to the public for tours and offers a glimpse into the town's rich history.
3. Check out the churches: Old Town Estepona is home to a number of churches, including the Church of Our Lady of Remedies and the Church of the Immaculate Conception. Both churches are beautiful examples of Andalusian architecture and are worth a visit.
4. Grab a drink or a bite to eat: Old Town Estepona is home to a number of bars, restaurants, and cafes, offering a range of options to suit all tastes. Whether you're looking for a traditional Spanish tapas bar or a cozy cafe, you'll find it in Old Town Estepona.
5. Visit the Plaza de Toros: Located in the heart of Old Town Estepona, the Plaza de Toros is a historic bullfighting arena that hosts a number of cultural events throughout the year. The plaza is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience traditional Spanish culture.

Nightlife in Estepona

Estepona is a lively town with a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. The town is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a range of options to suit all tastes. Whether you're looking for a quiet dinner in a cozy restaurant or a night out on the town, Estepona has something to offer.

Population Demographics

Estepona has a diverse population made up of both Spanish residents and foreign expats. The town has a large expat community, with many foreign property buyers choosing to make Estepona their permanent home. About 25% of the population is made up of expats, with the Spanish locals making up about 75% of the inhabitants.

Popular Tourist Destinations

Estepona is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, picturesque old town, and laid-back lifestyle. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Estepona include:

• Estepona Old Town: Located in the heart of the town, Estepona's old town is a charming and picturesque neighborhood with narrow streets, colorful houses, and a number of cultural landmarks.
• Estepona Beach: Located just to the west of the town center, Estepona Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline with a range of water sports and activities available.
• Selwo Adventure Park: Located on the eastern edge of Estepona, Selwo Adventure Park is a popular tourist destination with a range of animal exhibits and adventure activities.

• Plaza de Toros: In the heart of Estepona, the Plaza de Toros is a historic bullfighting arena that hosts a number of cultural events throughout the year.
• Estepona Marina: West of the town center, Estepona Port is a popular destination for boat enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy the town's vibrant nightlife.
• Estepona Lighthouse: At the westernmost point of Estepona, the Estepona Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding coastline.
• Estepona Palace: In the town center, the Estepona Palace is a beautiful example of Andalusian architecture and is open to the public for tours.
• Estepona Golf: Just east of the town center, Estepona Golf is a popular destination for golf enthusiasts, with a range of courses to choose from.
• Estepona Beach: Estepona Beach to the west of the centre is a beautiful stretch of coastline with a range of water sports and activities available.

Where is Estepona situated on the Costa del Sol?

Around 50 kilometers west of Málaga, which is the nearest major city and home to Málaga Airport, which is approximately a 45-minute drive from Estepona, making it easy for visitors to get to and from the town. Estepona is also within easy driving distance of a number of other major cities, including Seville, Granada, and Córdoba.

Estepona is a great destination for those who want to enjoy a traditional Spanish lifestyle, with all the modern amenities. The town is well-connected, with easy access to the rest of the Costa del Sol and the rest of Spain via the A-7 motorway, and nearby airports such as Málaga and Gibraltar. The town is also well-connected to the rest of Europe with regular flights.

Lesser known facts about Estepona

1. Estepona was a major center of salt production in the 19th and early 20th centuries, with salt pans covering much of the town's coastline.
   
2. In addition to its well-known beaches, Estepona is home to a number of hidden beaches that are only accessible by foot or boat. They are often less crowded and offer a more secluded and peaceful experience.
3. Estepona is a popular destination for birdwatchers, with a number of species of migratory birds passing through the area.
4. It is home to a number of hidden gardens that are only accessible to the public by appointment. The hidden gardens offer a peaceful and serene escape from the bustle of the town.
5. It has a thriving arts community, with a number of galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists.
6. Known for its beautiful flowers and plants, the town has a thriving flower market located in the town center. The market is open on Wednesday and Sunday mornings and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
   
7. Just north of Estepona sits the Sierra Bermeja - a mountain range with a number of hiking trails and protected natural areas, including the Los Alcornocales Natural Park, which is known for its dense forests and diverse plant and animal life.

Overall, Estepona is a charming and vibrant town that is popular with foreign property buyers looking for a laid-back lifestyle in a beautiful setting. With its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife, Estepona has something to offer for everyone who want  to live and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.