Estepona has been transformed in recent years, from a quiet seaside holiday spot in the shadow of its glamorous neighbour Marbella to a thriving, modern town with the charm of the beautiful old village at its heart.
A townhall project named the ‘Garden of the Costa del Sol’ has seen its streets festooned with blooms, roadside verges lush with shrubs, and walls throughout the town decorated with outsize murals and polka-dotted plant pots filled with primary-coloured flowers.
There is much to recommend about this wonderful location at the westernmost end of the Costa del Sol, from the wide, golden beaches, to the picturesque mountains that act as a backdrop to the town itself. Its quaint cobbled streets and pristine white buildings add to the charm of this delightful area.
Modern development has been thoughtful, with a brand new sports stadium surrounded by football pitches and basketball courts, a new hospital and a wide paseo that has transformed the town centre with a garden-like public space that is the envy of Europe.
Read on to find out more about one of our favourite spots on the Costa del Sol.
What is the Weather Like in Estepona?
The Costa del Sol is famed for its idyllic climate, with mild, sunny winters and hot, dry summers. The hottest months are July and August, where temperatures can reach as high as 30°C (86°F), perfect for beachgoers and sun-seekers. Winters are mild, with January being the coolest month, averaging around 15°C (59°F), although as the region typically sees an average of 320 days of sunshine a year, even when the temperatures drop, the days will be sunny with blue skies.
Rainfall is modest throughout the year but peaks during the cooler months from November to March. The dry and sunny climate runs from June to August, which are also Estepona’s busiest tourist months due to the enviable weather conditions that are ideal for swimming and outdoor activities.
Where is Estepona?
Estepona is situated at the westernmost point of the ‘Golden Triangle’, which includes Marbella to the east and Benahavís to the north. This trio forms the most prestigious real estate region on the Costa del Sol. The town is accessible from Gibraltar Airport, located 35.4 km away, while Malaga Airport is 64.7 km distant, which works out at just over an hour’s drive via the AP7 toll road. Estepona’s municipality extends from Marbella’s western border at San Pedro Alcántara to Casares in the east, framed by the Sierra Bermeja mountains and the scenic Los Reales peak.
Who Lives in Estepona?
Estepona is a town of 67,000 people, with a cosmopolitan nature made up of a wide range of nationalities.
What To Do in Estepona
Estepona retains a delightful Spanish charm. Throughout the town, the streets are bordered with trees and vibrant flowers, making it a delightfully idyllic setting.
The Old Town, an authentic tangle of cobbled streets and white-washed houses, is the historic heart of Estepona, giving way to the expansive Paseo Marítimo, or seaside promenade, to the town’s southern edge. It is a bustling locality, with families, residents and holiday-makers enjoying the shade and the superb views of the Rock of Gibraltar and Africa on the horizon.
Estepona’s expansive beaches rank among the best-maintained in the region, dotted with numerous chiringuitos – beachside restaurants – where visitors can enjoy the freshest fish and seafood. In 2023, the Paseo Marítimo was enhanced with the addition of El Mirador del Carmen at its western end. Designed by Salvador Moreno Peralta, a recipient of the National Urbanism Award, this modern, avant-garde facility functions as a balcony to the sea and embodies a significant investment nearing €15 million. El Mirador del Carmen has quickly become a key cultural and tourist hub, enriching the seaside promenade with its unique vistas and cultural exhibits.
Another prominent attraction in Estepona is the Orchidarium, with its striking glass domes that house a variety of climate-controlled environments. This botanical garden is dedicated to orchids, showcasing an extensive array of species along with other plant varieties, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Just a short distance away, Selwo Aventura offers a unique blend of nature, wildlife conservation, and adventure. Home to over 2,000 animals, the park features zip-lining, bridge walks, and educational tours, making it a perfect destination for family fun and learning.
As this is the Costa del Sol, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention golf. Known as the ‘Costa del Golf’ thanks to the number and variety of courses across the region, Estepona has several top class golf clubs on the doorstep, including Finca Cortesín, Los Flamingos and Valderrama, amongst many others.
The town is rich in public sports facilities, including a modern athletics stadium and various courts for basketball and tennis, providing plentiful recreational options. Estepona’s recent infrastructure expansions also include the Recinto Ferial (the Estepona Fair Ground), the new theatre, an updated parking network and the new City Hall.
What To Eat In Estepona
Estepona’s dining scene reflects its sizable international community, featuring a wide array of culinary offerings. Seafood is a staple, with restaurants like Restaurante La Rada and Restaurante El Pescador firm favourites for their fresh seafood dishes, scenic views and local flavours that are a hit both with tourists and locals.
For a more relaxed setting, Chiringuito El Madero provides a beachside dining experience where guests can enjoy their meals with sand between their toes.
Estepona also hosts numerous high-end dining options, including gourmet restaurants in luxury hotels including the Kempinski and Las Dunas Health House. The Plaza de las Flores, with its charming Andalucian ambience, is a wonderful spot for an evening meal, surrounded by flowers, fountains, and orange trees.
Real Estate Insights
Estepona’s real estate market spans a broad spectrum, appealing to a variety of preferences and budgets. It is a cosmopolitan location, with many nationalities living side-by-side, and boasts property to suit all pockets.
The town and its environs feature luxurious, beachfront properties that offer expansive terraces, stunning sea views, and exclusive amenities, catering to those seeking an exclusive taste of Costa del Sol life. Meanwhile, it also presents more accessible options that combine practical living with comfort, located in vibrant communities.
These properties blend modern amenities and feature traditional as well as contemporary design, providing an enviable quality of life. For potential homeowners ranging from high-end buyers to those looking for value and practicality, Estepona’s housing market offers diverse opportunities, all benefitting from the scenic surroundings of the Costa del Sol.
Estepona has truly come into its own, boasting a unique mix of traditional charm and modern practicalities. Whether you’re looking for a holiday destination or a place to call home, Estepona provides a compelling blend of beauty, recreation, and lifestyle. Its beaches, cultural offerings, and real estate opportunities make it a standout on the Costa del Sol.
For those considering a visit or potential relocation, Estepona represents a blend of lifestyle and investment opportunities that are well worth exploring. Why not get in touch with our real estate agents in Estepona.
