Estepona Area Guide

Welcome to Estepona – an elegant seaside town on the western Costa del Sol that has quickly become one of southern Spain’s most desirable places to live and invest. Once a quiet fishing village, Estepona has evolved into a lifestyle destination that blends Andalusian authenticity with modern sophistication. Whether you’re searching for a full-time residence, a second home, or a high-yield property investment, Estepona offers sunshine, serenity, and smart opportunity in equal measure.

Where is

Estepona?

Estepona is located on the western end of the Costa del Sol in Málaga province, nestled between Marbella and Manilva, with the Sierra Bermeja mountains behind and the Mediterranean Sea stretching ahead. It’s a well-connected base for international living.

Malaga
Airport

82 km / 55–60
minutes

Gibraltar
Airport

47 km / ~40
minutes

Marbella
City

28 km / 25
minutes

Highways

Quick access
via the AP-7
and A-7

Malaga
Airport

82 km /
55–60
minutes

Gibraltar
Airport

47 km / ~40
minutes

Marbella
City

28 km / 25
minutes

A Brief History

of Estepona?

Estepona’s story stretches back thousands of years, from Phoenician trading outpost to Roman fishing village and Moorish stronghold. You can still see traces of its multicultural heritage in the whitewashed Old Town, the restored clock tower, and the 15th-century Castillo de San Luis. In recent decades, Estepona has reinvented itself with public art, urban renewal, and luxury developments, without losing its village soul.

What is Life

Like in Estepona?

Affectionately called the “Garden of the Costa del Sol,” Estepona blends beachside ease with village charm. Its palm-lined promenades, colourful Old Town streets, family-friendly marina, and laid-back social scene make it one of the most livable towns on the coast.

You’ll find a thriving year-round community, a growing expat population, and something for everyone, nature lovers, digital nomads, young families, and retirees alike.

Residential Areas &

Neighbourhoods

Estepona is home to some of the most attractive and well-established residential areas on the Costa del Sol. Each one offers its own distinctive mix of coastal charm, lifestyle, and modern living:

Estepona east

Running toward San Pedro de Alcántara, this prestigious stretch features high-end beachfront apartments, gated villa communities, and resort-style developments. It’s ideal for buyers seeking lifestyle and luxury close to Marbella.

Estepona West

A quieter, more residential zone known for excellent value, low-rise developments, and close access to both the coast and countryside. Costa Natura—a naturist resort—is also located here, adding to the area’s diversity.

Estepona
Old Town

Full of charm and walkability, the historic centre is filled with flower-lined streets, artisan shops, plazas, and cafés. It’s ideal for those who want community life within steps of the sea.

Estepona
north

Neighbourhoods like Cancelada, El Paraíso, Atalaya, and Benamara are perfect for full-time residents. These areas offer suburban comfort with schools, golf, shops, and easy motorway access.

Not sure which area suits you best?

Living in Estepona:

What You Need to Know

Population

Approx. 78,590 residents, with a diverse and welcoming expat community, around 25% of the population are international, including more than 3,000 British residents.

Climate

Estepona enjoys over 320 days of sunshine per year, with average temperatures around 19°C. The town’s position at the base of the Sierra Bermeja provides a stable microclimate.

Transport & Accessibility:

Quick access to both Málaga and Gibraltar airports, reliable bus routes, and proximity to key destinations like Marbella, Ronda, and Puerto Banús.

Wellness & Sports:

Estepona is home to gyms, yoga studios, hiking routes, paddle courts, and wellness spas. Golfers have access to courses like Valle Romano and Estepona Golf. Horseback riding, cycling, and sailing are also popular.

beaches

in Estepona

Estepona offers over 21 km of well-kept coastline and 17 beaches:

  1. Playa El Cristo: A sheltered cove ideal for kids
  2. El Saladillo: A quieter stretch, popular with walkers and kite surfers
  3. Playa de la Rada: Central, long, and lively, great for families and sun-seekers
  4. Purobeach (Laguna Village): A high-end beach club with loungers, cocktails, and Mediterranean cuisine

Dining Scene:

Estepona is an emerging culinary hub. From rustic tapas to Michelin-starred dining, you’ll find variety and flair:

  1. Tapas & Seafood: La Bulla Gastrobar, El Pescador, Taberna Miguel
  2. Fine Dining: La Casa del Rey, Kabuki Raw at Finca Cortesín
  3. International: Masala (Indian), Peggotty’s (British), La Alcaria de Ramos (Mediterranean fusion)

Shopping:

From designer to day-to-day essentials:

  1. Laguna Village & Diana Park: Fashion, décor, and lifestyle shopping
  2. Centro Comercial Carrefour / CostaSol: Groceries and home needs
  3. Old Town & Weekly Markets: Handcrafts, antiques, and fresh produce

Property Market

Investment Insight

1. why invest in Estepona?

Estepona is one of the Costa del Sol’s fastest-growing property markets thanks to:

  • Competitive pricing compared to Marbella
  • Strong rental demand from tourists and expats
  • Diverse housing options, from off-plan apartments to luxury villas
  • A Extensive urban investment in green spaces, walkways, and cultural

2. what can you Expect to Pay?

Estepona is one of the Costa del Sol’s fastest-growing property markets thanks to:

  • Contemporary apartments: from €300,000 (e.g., South Bay Las Mesas)
  • High-spec new builds: from €455,000 (e.g., Ayana)
  • Beachfront luxury homes: from €1.25M (e.g., The Edge)
  • New townhouses: from €400,000

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Why Choose

Estepona?

Estepona offers a rare combination of authenticity and innovation, ideal for anyone looking to live or invest in southern Spain. With its blend of natural beauty, lifestyle convenience, and property potential, it remains one of the most attractive destinations on the Costa del Sol.

Why Work With

Greystone in
estepona?

At Greystone International Group, we help you access Estepona’s finest homes—from stylish beachfront developments to tranquil hillside villas and off-plan opportunities. Our expert team offers:

  1. Exclusive listings and early-release projects
  2. In-depth market insight and legal guidance
  3. Seamless service from first contact to final signature

Whether you’re buying, relocating, or investing, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Let Greystone help you find your perfect property in Estepona.

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