Why Americans Are Coming to Spain’s Costa del Sol

September 9, 2024

By David Bornstein

The Costa del Sol, Spain’s sun-drenched southern coastline, has long been a favorite getaway for European travelers, but in recent years, it’s caught the attention of more Americans too. The region first made waves with U.S. visitors decades ago when celebrities and wealthy tourists discovered its charm. Its world-class beaches, endless golf courses, and vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle were impossible to resist. Today, the Costa del Sol is not only a hotspot for luxury vacations but also for real estate investment. More and more Americans are choosing to visit and even buy homes along this stunning stretch of Spanish coastline.

The Allure of the Costa del Sol

What’s behind the surge of American interest in the Costa del Sol? For starters, it offers an irresistible blend of relaxation and luxury. Imagine beginning the day with a round of golf at one of the region’s many championship courses, followed by lunch at a beachside chiringuito or an afternoon exploring charming Andalusian villages. The area offers a lifestyle that combines the best of both worlds—luxury living and a laid-back Mediterranean pace.

And the weather? You can’t beat it. The Costa del Sol enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year, making it a year-round destination for those looking to escape colder climates. Whether it’s January or July, you’ll find pleasant temperatures perfect for outdoor activities, making it an ideal place for both vacations and permanent relocations.

There’s also the food. Andalusian cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. From locally caught seafood to the famous gazpacho, the region is a paradise for food lovers. Many visitors fall in love with the Costa del Sol over long, relaxed meals, where dishes like jamón ibérico, grilled prawns, and fried calamari are paired with a crisp glass of Spanish wine.

And it’s not just a destination for short getaways. The Costa del Sol has become a top choice for Americans looking to invest in second homes or even relocate. Many are drawn to the idea of owning property in a place that offers both luxury and natural beauty at prices that, compared to many U.S. real estate markets, can be surprisingly affordable.

Where Exactly Is the Costa del Sol, You Ask?

The Costa del Sol stretches over 185 kilometers (115 miles) along Spain’s southern Mediterranean coast, mostly in the province of Málaga but extending into the province of Cádiz, within the larger region of Andalucia. Once a series of quaint fishing villages, the area transformed in the mid-20th century into a world-renowned tourist destination. Place names like Málaga, Torremolinos, Benalmádena, Fuengirola, Mijas, Marbella, Benahavís, Estepona, Sotogrande, and Alcaidesa have become synonymous with resort-style living and luxury real estate.

Marbella: A Shining Star on the Mediterranean

Marbella, in particular, has long been a favorite destination among the rich and famous. Known for its high-end resorts, designer shopping, and fine dining, more Americans are now discovering the magic of this glamorous town. María Albarral from Sur in English recently reported that “Marbella recorded the highest number of overnight stays by foreign tourists in seven years,” and a significant number of those visitors are from the U.S. (Sur in English).

Marbella’s exclusive neighborhoods like the Golden Mile and Sierra Blanca are only a couple of names on a long list of Costa del Sol locales offering some of the most sought-after real estate in Europe. These areas are attracting more American buyers, who are drawn to the region’s blend of luxury, security, and Mediterranean charm. As El País highlights, property prices are rising, but demand continues to grow, particularly from international buyers, including many Americans (El País).

Málaga: The Gateway to the Costa del Sol

At the eastern end of the Costa del Sol is the city of Málaga, home to the region’s international airport. A city of nearly 600,000, Málaga is far more than just a gateway to the rest of the region. It’s a vibrant cultural center full of history, art and architecture, as well as a growing technology hub. Whether you’re wandering the streets of its historic center, visiting the Picasso Museum (Málaga is Picasso’s birthplace), or enjoying a night out along the waterfront, Málaga has something for everyone. And with its appealing property prices compared to U.S. and other European cities, it’s no wonder that Americans are also showing interest in owning real estate here. Pilar Martínez of Sur in English highlights that “the number of Americans visiting Málaga has nearly doubled in recent years, placing the U.S. as the second-largest market after the UK” (Sur in English).

Why the Costa del Sol Should Be on Your Radar

Whether you’re thinking about a holiday escape, long-term investment, or a new address, the Costa del Sol is hard to beat. The combination of Mediterranean beauty, rich cultural experiences, and sophisticated living is unlike anything else. Americans are increasingly drawn to the area for both short vacations and permanent moves, and it’s easy to see why. With direct flights, an inviting lifestyle, and plenty of opportunities in the real estate market, now is the perfect time to join the growing number of Americans calling the Costa del Sol their home across the Atlantic.

Further Reading:

1. Pilar Martínez, “USA is now the second-largest tourist source market for Málaga, after the UK”, Sur in English.
2. Cristina Lladó, “The United States rediscovers Marbella”, El País.
3. María Albarral, “Marbella records highest number of overnight stays by foreign tourists in seven years”, Sur in English.