Guide to Estepona

Estepona, Shaping the Future of the Costa del Sol

Estepona FAQ´s

Where is Estepona located?

Estepona is located on the Costa del Sol in the province of Málaga, Andalusia, southern Spain. It is approximately 80 kilometres southwest of Málaga and about 30 kilometres west of Marbella.

How do I get to Estepona?

Estepona is easily accessible by car via the AP-7 and A-7 highways. The nearest major airport is Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, about an hour’s drive away. There are also regular bus services connecting Estepona with other cities along the Costa del Sol.

What is the climate like?

Estepona enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The town averages over 320 sunny days per year, making it an ideal destination for year-round outdoor activities.

What are the main attractions?

Key attractions include the Old Town (Casco Antiguo), Estepona Marina, Selwo Aventura safari park, the Orchidarium botanical garden, and numerous Blue Flag beaches such as Playa del Cristo and Playa de la Rada.

Is IT a good place for families?

Yes, Estepona is very family-friendly with its safe, clean beaches, numerous parks, and family-oriented attractions like Selwo Aventura and playgrounds along the Paseo Marítimo. The town also has good international schools and healthcare facilities.

What types of properties are available?

What is the real estate market like?

The real estate market in Estepona is diverse and growing, with prices varying by location and property type. The market features new developments, luxury properties, and opportunities for renovation projects. Prices generally range from €2,500 to €5,000 per square meter, with higher prices for luxury properties in prime locations.

What are the best neighbourhoods to live in?

What is the lifestyle like?

The lifestyle in Estepona is relaxed and outdoor-oriented, with a strong emphasis on enjoying the natural beauty and climate. Residents and visitors enjoy activities like beach outings, golfing, hiking, dining in local restaurants, and exploring the historic old town.

Are there good investment opportunities?

Yes, Estepona offers several investment opportunities, especially in new developments and luxury properties. The rental market is also strong, providing good returns on vacation rentals and long-term rentals. The town’s growing popularity and continuous development make it a promising area for property investment.
Estepona

Golf Courses

Estepona offers a range of golf courses that cater to different skill levels and preferences. From the friendly atmosphere of Estepona Golf to the professional challenges of Valle Romano, golfers can enjoy a variety of experiences all within the scenic beauty of the Costa del Sol. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Estepona has a course that will meet your needs.

Golf Courses

Estepona offers a range of golf courses that cater to different skill levels and preferences. From the friendly atmosphere of Estepona Golf to the professional challenges of Valle Romano, golfers can enjoy a variety of experiences all within the scenic beauty of the Costa del Sol. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Estepona has a course that will meet your needs.

Estepona Golf

  • Location: Located in the western part of Estepona.
  • Features: Estepona Golf is known for its friendly atmosphere and challenging course. It offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and the Sierra Bermeja mountains.
  • Facilities: Includes a pro shop, clubhouse, restaurant, and driving range.
  • Website: Estepona Golf

Valle Romano Golf & Resort

  • Location: Situated just a few minutes from the centre of Estepona.
  • Features: This 18-hole course is designed by Cabell B. Robinson and is known for its challenging layout and excellent condition. It has hosted professional tournaments.
  • Facilities: Modern clubhouse, golf academy, pro shop, and restaurant.
  • Website: Valle Romano Golf & Resort

La Resina Golf & Country Club

  • Location: Located on the New Golden Mile, just east of Estepona.
  • Features: This 9-hole course is set within a stunning natural landscape, offering a mix of challenging holes and beautiful scenery.
  • Facilities: Clubhouse, pro shop, and restaurant.
  • Website: La Resina Golf & Country Club

4. El Paraiso Golf Club

  • Location: Located between Estepona and Marbella.
  • Features: Designed by Gary Player, El Paraiso is one of the Costa del Sol’s most established courses, known for its beautiful layout and excellent maintenance.
  • Facilities: Clubhouse, restaurant, pro shop, and practice facilities.
  • Website: El Paraiso Golf Club

5. Atalaya Golf & Country Club

  • Location: Situated on the border of Estepona and Marbella.
  • Features: Atalaya offers two 18-hole courses, the Old Course and the New Course, providing a variety of challenges for golfers of all skill levels.
  • Facilities: Extensive practice facilities, clubhouse, restaurant, and pro shop.
  • Website: Atalaya Golf & Country Club

6. Doña Julia Golf Club

  • Location: Located near Casares, just a short drive from Estepona.
  • Features: An 18-hole course designed by Antonio Garcia Garrido, offering a mix of technical holes and stunning sea views.
  • Facilities: Clubhouse, restaurant, and practice facilities.
  • Website: Doña Julia Golf Club

What other sports can you do?

Estepona offers a wide array of things to do and sports is no exception. Keeping fit here is really easy as there is so much to enjoy right on your doorstep.

Other Sports

Water Sports

  • Sailing and Yachting: Estepona Marina provides opportunities for sailing and yachting, with various charters and sailing schools available.
  • Windsurfing and Kitesurfing: The town’s beaches are ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to favourable wind conditions.
  • Diving and Snorkelling: Clear Mediterranean waters make diving and snorkelling popular activities. Several diving schools and centres offer courses and equipment rental.
  • Kayaking and Paddle boarding: These activities are available at several beaches, with equipment rental and guided tours offered.

3. Tennis and Padel

  • Tennis Clubs: Estepona has numerous tennis clubs, such as Estepona Tennis Club, offering courts, coaching, and tournaments.
  • Padel Tennis: Padel is extremely popular in Spain, and Estepona has many padel clubs and courts available for play.

4. Hiking and Cycling

  • Sierra Bermeja Mountains: The nearby mountains offer excellent hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty, providing stunning views of the coastline and the countryside.
  • Cycling Routes: Estepona has several cycling paths, both along the coast and inland. Bike rentals and guided cycling tours are available.

5. Horse Riding

  • Equestrian Centres: There are multiple equestrian centres in and around Estepona, offering riding lessons, trail rides, and horse boarding facilities.
  • Trails: The countryside surrounding Estepona is perfect for horseback riding, with scenic trails through rural landscapes and along the coast.

6. Fishing

  • Sea Fishing: Estepona’s marina is a hub for fishing charters, offering trips for deep-sea fishing, sport fishing, and family-friendly fishing excursions.
  • Shore Fishing: Fishing from the beaches and piers is also popular, with various spots along the coast known for good catches.

7. Football and Other Team Sports

  • Local Clubs: Estepona has local football clubs and teams, with facilities for both training and competitive matches.
  • Sports Centres: The town’s sports centres offer facilities for basketball, volleyball, and other team sports.

8. Yoga and Fitness

  • Yoga Studios: Numerous yoga studios and wellness centres offer classes for all levels, often held outdoors to take advantage of the beautiful weather.
  • Gyms and Fitness Centres: Estepona has a variety of gyms and fitness centres equipped with modern facilities and offering various classes.

Estepona

Restaurants

Estepona’s dining scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a wide range of options for different tastes and preferences. Whether you are looking for traditional Andalusian tapas, authentic Italian cuisine, or fresh seafood, Estepona has something to offer.

Restaurants

La Casa del Rey

  • Cuisine: Tapas and Mediterranean
  • Location: Calle Raphael, Estepona Old Town
  • Features: La Casa del Rey is known for its creative tapas and extensive wine list. The restaurant offers a cozy ambiance with a charming interior and a pleasant outdoor seating area.
  • Highlights: Try the octopus carpaccio and the beef tenderloin with foie gras.
  • Website: La Casa del Rey

El Rincon Toscano

  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Location: Calle Real, Estepona
  • Features: This family-run Italian restaurant is famous for its authentic pasta dishes and pizzas. The friendly service and cozy atmosphere make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
  • Highlights: The truffle pasta and the seafood risotto are highly recommended.
  • Website: El Rincon Toscano

Amura

  • Cuisine: Mediterranean and Fusion
  • Location: Estepona Marina
  • Features: Amura offers a stylish dining experience with stunning views of the marina. The menu features a mix of Mediterranean and international dishes, all beautifully presented.
  • Highlights: The tuna tataki and the black Angus beef are standout dishes.
  • Website: Amura

Bodeguita del Chato

  • Cuisine: Andalusian and Tapas
  • Location: Plaza del Reloj, Estepona
  • Features: This restaurant is known for its traditional Andalusian tapas and local wines. The setting is charming, with a lovely outdoor terrace in a historic square.
  • Highlights: Try the Iberian ham, grilled prawns, and the chorizo in cider.
  • Website: Bodeguita del Chato

La Escollera

  • Cuisine: Seafood
  • Location: Puerto Pesquero, Estepona
  • Features: La Escollera is a popular seafood restaurant located in the fishing port. It is known for its fresh fish and seafood, directly sourced from local fishermen.
  • Highlights: The grilled sardines, paella, and mixed seafood platter are must-tries.
  • Website: La Escollera

Private Schools

Estepona and its surrounding areas offer a variety of high-quality private schools, each with unique curriculums and features to cater to diverse educational needs. Whether you are looking for a British curriculum, bilingual education, or the International Baccalaureate, there are excellent options available to ensure a comprehensive and enriching educational experience for children of all ages.

Private Schools

The International School Estepona

  • Location: Located in El Paraiso, Estepona.
  • Curriculum: British National Curriculum.
  • Ages: Nursery to Key Stage 2 (ages 2-12).
  • Features: Small class sizes, individual attention, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
  • Website: The International School Estepona

Mayfair International Academy

  • Location: Situated in Atalaya Park, Estepona.
  • Curriculum: British National Curriculum and International GCSEs and A-levels.
  • Ages: Ages 3-18.
  • Features: Strong emphasis on languages, with additional support for non-native English speakers.
  • Website: Mayfair International Academy

San José International School

  • Location: Estepona.
  • Curriculum: Bilingual education combining the Spanish and British systems.
  • Ages: Kindergarten to Secondary (ages 3-18).
  • Features: Focus on academic excellence and personal development, with a wide array of cultural and sports activities.
  • Website: San José International School

Atalaya International School

  • Location: Near the border of Estepona and Benahavís.
  • Curriculum: British National Curriculum from Nursery to Year 13.
  • Ages: Ages 2-18.
  • Features: Modern facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports fields.
  • Website: Atalaya International School

International School of Sotogrande

  • Location: Approximately 30 minutes from Estepona, in Sotogrande.
  • Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB) from Primary Years Programme to Diploma Programme.
  • Ages: Ages 3-18.
  • Features: World-class facilities and a strong focus on holistic education and global citizenship.
  • Website: International School of Sotogrande

The Real Estate Market

Estepona’s real estate market is expected to continue growing, driven by its attractive lifestyle, favourable climate, and investment potential. The ongoing development of infrastructure and amenities, along with the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, will likely enhance its appeal to both domestic and international buyers and is poised to remain a top destination on the Costa del Sol.

Real Estate

Estepona, located on the Costa del Sol, is increasingly becoming a hotspot for real estate investment. Known for its charming old town, beautiful beaches, and growing number of high-quality amenities, Estepona is attracting both local and international buyers. Here is an in-depth look at the real estate market in Estepona.

Market Dynamics

Demand and Buyer Profile

The demand for real estate in Estepona is on the rise, with a diverse mix of buyers. These include retirees looking for a peaceful coastal retreat, families seeking a relaxed yet well-serviced environment, and investors capitalizing on the area’s growth potential. International buyers from Northern Europe, particularly from the UK, Scandinavia, and Germany, are a significant part of the market.

  • New Developments: Estepona has seen a surge in new residential developments, particularly in the west of the town and along the New Golden Mile. These modern apartments and villas often feature contemporary designs and luxury amenities.
  • Traditional Homes: The charming old town of Estepona, with its narrow streets and whitewashed houses, remains popular for those seeking traditional Andalusian architecture.
  • Beachfront Properties: Properties along Estepona’s extensive coastline are highly sought after, offering stunning sea views and easy access to the beach.

  • Average Prices: The average price per square meter in Estepona varies depending on the location and type of property. In prime beachfront areas and new luxury developments, prices can range from €3,000 to €5,000 per square meter. In the town center and older residential areas, prices are more affordable, ranging from €2,000 to €3,000 per square meter.
  • Price Growth: Estepona has experienced steady price growth over the past few years, with increases averaging around 5-8% annually, reflecting its growing popularity and the quality of new developments.

Investment Opportunities

Estepona offers numerous investment opportunities, including:

  • Off-Plan Developments: Investing in off-plan properties can provide significant returns, especially as Estepona continues to grow and develop.
  • Renovation Projects: Older properties in the town center present opportunities for renovation and resale at a higher value.
  • Rental Market: Estepona’s appeal as a holiday destination ensures a strong rental market, both for short-term holiday rentals and long-term leases.

Market Influences

Economic Factors

  • Tourism: Estepona’s tourism sector is a significant driver of the real estate market. The town’s beaches, golf courses, and cultural attractions draw visitors year-round.
  • Economic Stability: The overall stability of the Spanish economy and favorable mortgage conditions support the real estate market’s growth.

Infrastructure and Amenities

  • Transport Links: Estepona benefits from excellent transport links, including proximity to Malaga Airport and the AP-7 motorway.
  • Amenities: The town offers a wide range of amenities, including international schools, medical facilities, shopping centers, and recreational options.

Challenges

While the Estepona real estate market is generally strong, it does face some challenges:

  • Market Competition: As Estepona grows in popularity, competition for prime properties increases, which can drive up prices and limit options for buyers.
  • Economic Fluctuations: The market can be influenced by broader economic conditions, both in Spain and internationally.

Future Outlook

The outlook for the Estepona real estate market remains positive. Continued investment in infrastructure, the development of new luxury projects, and the town’s appeal as a desirable coastal destination are expected to sustain market growth. Additionally, the increasing popularity of Estepona as an alternative to more expensive areas like Marbella contributes to its attractiveness.

In summary, Estepona’s real estate market offers a blend of traditional charm and modern luxury, making it an appealing destination for a wide range of buyers. The combination of a strong rental market, steady price growth, and diverse investment opportunities makes it a promising area for real estate investment on the Costa del Sol.

Our Estepona Listings

View our latest listings of luxury properties for sale in Estepona, whether you want to be on the beach or set further back, we have access to over 1,500 available properties and even off market opportunities.
Newly built two-bedroom apartment just a short walk from Estepona’s best beach.
Estepona Town · JUST-2340

Newly built two-bedroom apartment just a short walk from Estepona’s best beach.

  • 2 beds
  • 3 baths
  • Interior: 78.57 m²
€689,000
New two-bedroom apartment just steps away from the beaches in the center of Estepona.
Estepona Town · JUST-2339

New two-bedroom apartment just steps away from the beaches in the center of Estepona.

  • 2 beds
  • 2 baths
  • Interior: 72 m²
€549,000
Luxury Renovated Apartment With Views
Bahía del Velerín – Estepona East · JUST-00865P

Luxury Renovated Apartment With Views

  • 3 beds
  • 2 baths
  • Interior: 120 m²
€1,995,000
See more