Introduction to Costa Calida
Where is Costa Calida?
Costa Calida is located in the south eastern coast of Spain in the Murcia region. The coast itself stretches from San Pedro del Pinitar all the way to the south of Aguilas. It has over 250 kilometres of stunning Mediterranean coastline including rocky coves and white sandy beaches. It is neighboured by the Costa Blanca to the north east and the Costa Almeria to the south west. Below, you’ll find a Costa Cálida map highlighting its main cities and extensive coastline.
Costa Calida Map
Costa Calida Climate
This exquisite region has definitely earned its name Costa Calida which means ‘Warm Coast’. It is blessed with around 320 days of sunshine a year. The average annual temperature is 18°C, with highs of up to 37°C in the summer making this the perfect all year round destination. It’s not uncommon to see locals enjoying the warm waters of the Mar Menor even on Christmas Day. The beautiful year-round climate is one of many reasons Costa Cálida remains a popular choice for homebuyers and tourists, especially beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
What is the Nearest Airport to Costa Calida?
One of the many reasons why property for sale in Costa Calida is in high demand is the convenience of its nearby airports. Most properties in the region are just a 30-minute drive from Murcia’s international airport, while Alicante International Airport, situated in the neighboring region, is only about a 50-minute drive away. Both airports offer numerous daily flights operated by budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet, making travel easy and affordable. This accessibility ensures that a flight from the UK to Spain takes just 2-3 hours, depending on the departure location, making Costa Calida an attractive option for those looking for a quick and convenient escape to a sunny paradise.
Major Towns and Cities
Murcia
As the capital of the Costa Cálida region, Murcia is a blend of historic charm and modern energy. The Murcia Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece that combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The Real Casino de Murcia offers insight into the city’s historical wealth. The city is also known for cultural events such as the Fiestas de Primavera in spring.
Cartagena
With over 2,200 years of history, Cartagena is a must-visit for history buffs. Highlights include the Roman Theater Museum, which showcases ancient Roman ruins, and the Conception Castle, where visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the city and port. The nearby La Manga del Mar Menor provides beach and water sports options, combining history with natural beauty.
Los Alcázares
A popular beach town in the Costa Calida region, Los Alcázares sits along the Mar Menor Lagoon, known for its calm, warm waters, which are ideal for families and water sports. The town is also home to vibrant beach promenades and hosts annual events like the Semana Internacional de la Huerta y el Mar, a festival celebrating local agriculture and seafood.
San Javier and Santiago de la Ribera
Located along the Mar Menor, San Javier is famous for its traditional markets, and Santiago de la Ribera is popular for its golden beaches. San Javier also hosts a renowned international jazz festival each summer, drawing musicians from around the globe.
San Pedro del Pinatar
A nature lover’s paradise, San Pedro del Pinatar is home to the Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar Nature Reserve, a beautiful wetland area ideal for birdwatching, especially flamingos. The town’s mud baths, located on the Mar Menor’s shores, are a popular natural spa experience known for their mineral-rich properties.
Torre Pacheco
Known for its agricultural richness, Torre Pacheco is also a destination for golf enthusiasts, thanks to nearby resorts and courses. The town offers a glimpse into local farming traditions, with frequent agricultural fairs and events.
Mar de Cristal
This small, peaceful town along the Mar Menor is a hidden gem with clean, sandy beaches and tranquil waters perfect for swimming. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, Mar de Cristal is ideal for those seeking a quieter, more secluded beach experience.
Costa Calida Beaches
When choosing a beach to go to, not everyone is looking for the same thing. This is another reason why Costa Calida Spain is such a great place to visit or live. Due to its extensive coastline as previously shown on the Costa Calida map, there are stunning wild beaches such as Playa de Calblanque. You will also find family friendly beaches such as Playa Mistral which is a well recognised beach for its safety and cleanliness standards. If it’s watersports you are seeking then Playa Las Salinas is the one for you, offering canoeing, windsurfing, surfing and many more different sports.
The Costa Calida is also home to the famous Mar Menor; a large salt water lagoon, separated from the Mediterranean sea by a long narrow stretch of land known as the La Manga strip. The Mar Menor is shallow and the water is warmer than the sea making it a popular choice for a dip. It also very popular with families in the area and beyond as it is such a safe option for children.
The La Manga strip offers unique opportunities itself when it comes to beaches. As you make your way up the long stretch of land, you have access to the Mar Menor on your left. You will find many beaches here to enjoy the warm shallow waters. You can then cross the road and enjoy the gorgeous sandy beaches and the Mediterranean Sea to your right.
Golf Courses in Costa Calida
Spain is internationally renowned for its exceptional golf courses, and Costa Calida is home to some of the finest, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe.
Roda Golf
Located near Los Alcázares, Roda Golf is a beautiful course set among palm trees and well-kept greens. The course is beginner-friendly but offers challenges for experienced golfers as well.
La Manga Club
The premier golfing destination in this region is La Manga Club, a luxurious resort that boasts three meticulously designed golf courses catering to players of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros, attracting golf enthusiasts from around the world. These courses are complemented by comprehensive facilities, including state-of-the-art driving ranges, practice putting greens, pitch and putt areas, and full 18-hole courses. The resort also offers golf academies with professional coaching, ensuring players can refine their skills while enjoying the game. Set against a backdrop of stunning Mediterranean scenery and basking in the region’s exceptional weather, La Manga Club provides a golfing experience that is both challenging and breathtaking.
Mar Menor Golf
Mar Menor Golf, part of a larger resort, features a course designed by Jack Nicklaus, renowned for its wide fairways and immaculate greens.
Altaona Golf
Set against a backdrop of mountains, Altaona Golf offers a peaceful yet challenging 18-hole course for players of all levels. Its design incorporates natural landscapes, making it a scenic place to practice your swing.
La Serena Golf
This course, located in Los Alcázares, is unique in that it weaves through several lakes, demanding accuracy and strategy. La Serena Golf is known for its water hazards, adding an exciting element of challenge for advanced players.
Hacienda del Álamo
One of the longest courses in Spain, Hacienda del Álamo near Fuente Álamo has a championship-level course surrounded by lush landscapes. It’s a popular spot for serious golfers looking for a high-level playing experience.
La Torre Golf
Set within a residential resort in Torre Pacheco, La Torre Golf is a shorter course but challenging due to its bunkers and water features, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced players.
Alhama Signature Golf
Designed by Jack Nicklaus, Alhama Signature Golf is part of the Condado de Alhama resort and features a high-quality course with strategically placed hazards, bunkers, and water features, providing an exciting round for golfers.
Sierra Golf
Located in Balsicas, Sierra Golf is a simpler course that offers an affordable golfing option, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed day on the greens.
Camposol Golf
This 9-hole course in Mazarrón is ideal for players seeking a casual game in a scenic, quiet setting. Its shorter layout makes it accessible for all levels and is popular among local residents.
With such a diverse selection of courses, Costa Calida truly spoils golf enthusiasts. Each course offers unique challenges and picturesque settings, ensuring that players have a memorable experience. For those seeking even more variety, the neighboring Costa Blanca region presents additional world-class golfing opportunities, making this area a true paradise for avid golfers. The combination of excellent facilities, stunning landscapes, and a warm, sunny climate makes Costa Calida an irresistible destination for anyone passionate about the sport.
Shopping in Costa Calida
The Costa Cálida region offers a diverse range of shopping experiences, from modern malls and supermarkets to traditional markets and artisan boutiques. Whether you’re after international brands, local crafts, or fresh produce, there’s something for everyone.
Shopping Centres and Supermarkets
There are several major shopping centres in the area, including Centro Comercial Nueva Condomina near Murcia, Dos Mares, and Espacio Mediterráneo. These malls feature a wide selection of shops offering jewellery, clothes, electronics, food, and more. They include both well-known international brands and local Spanish retailers. You’ll also find restaurants, cafés, and free on-site parking to make your visit comfortable and convenient.
For everyday needs, Costa Cálida has numerous local shops as well as large supermarkets like Mercadona (Spain’s equivalent to Tesco or Sainsbury’s), Carrefour, Lidl, and Aldi, many of which are within walking distance in residential areas—especially if you’re considering purchasing property in the region.
Traditional Markets and Artisan Shopping
Local markets are held in towns such as San Javier, Torre Pacheco, and Los Alcázares, offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and handmade crafts. These markets give visitors a real taste of Spanish culture and everyday life. In addition, Cartagena’s Calle Mayor is a bustling pedestrian street filled with artisan shops, fashion boutiques, and cafés—ideal for finding unique ceramics, jewellery, and local crafts.
Culture in Costa Calida
The Costa Calida Spain has much to offer when it comes to culture. The regions capital is the city of Murcia, where culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from centuries of history, rich traditions, and a warm Mediterranean spirit. The city’s architectural gems, including the majestic Cathedral of Murcia and the Almudí Palace, stand as testaments to its historical significance.
Another historical gem located on the Costa Calida Spain is Cartagena. Cartagena is a historic coastal city with a rich cultural heritage. Its roots can be traced back to ancient civilizations, including the Carthaginians and Romans, who left a lasting mark on the city. One of its most notable historical sites is the well-preserved Roman Theater, a testament to its ancient past. Cartagena also boasts a splendid natural harbour and a maritime tradition that has played a significant role in its development. You will find many museums here and a vibrant music and arts scene. Cartagena’s annual festivals, such as the Carthaginians and Romans Festival, bring its history to life through colourful reenactments.
If you prefer a quaint traditional Spanish village, then the Costa Calida is not short of them. You will an abundance of small traditional fishing villages along the beautiful coast as well as many inland all the way to small secluded towns and villages in the mountains.
Travel and Transportation
By Air
The Region de Murcia International Airport (RMU) offers convenient access to the Costa Calida region, with connections to several European cities. The Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC) is another option, located around 90 minutes from Murcia.
By Car
Renting a car is ideal for exploring the Costa Calida region, allowing you to visit both popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations, including beaches, golf courses, and nature reserves.
Public Transportation
Trains and buses connect major cities like Murcia, Cartagena, and the coastal towns, though schedules can be limited in smaller towns.
Property For Sale in Costa Calida
If you are interested in property for sale in Costa Calida then Movehappy are always here to help. We have properties on offer here ranging from luxury apartments to spacious modern villas and everything in between. Prices range from around €110,000 up to multi-million Euro villas. We have something to offer every budget.
The region offers a variety of properties in different locations. Whether you are looking for a beach front apartment with sea views or a villa in a quiet traditional Spanish village, the Costa Calida is sure to deliver.
When you purchase any new build property from Movehappy, it will come complete with our unique Movehappy package, saving you up to €18,000.
To talk to us about property for sale in Costa Calida or anything else at all, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are always here to help.
Conclusion
The Costa Calida region in Spain is a beautiful and diverse destination with something for every kind of traveller. From exploring historical cities like Murcia and Cartagena to relaxing on the beaches of Los Alcazares and Santiago de la Ribera, or golfing at top-tier courses like La Manga Club and Hacienda del Álamo, the region offers an array of experiences. With its mild climate, welcoming communities, and scenic landscapes, Costa Calida promises a memorable journey for anyone in search of relaxation, culture, and adventure.
