Pilar De La Horadada • Movehappy

Introduction

Pilar de la Horadada is a charming coastal town located at the southernmost tip of the province of Alicante, on Spain’s Costa Blanca. It sits right on the border with Murcia, giving it a unique blend of Valencian and Murcian influences. This beautiful area enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year, mild winters, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle that attracts both visitors and residents from across Europe.

The town is perfectly positioned between the Mediterranean Sea and the inland countryside, offering the best of both worlds, with long stretches of sandy beaches, fertile farmlands filled with citrus groves, and nearby mountain ranges ideal for walking and cycling.

The name “Pilar de la Horadada” comes from its historical significance as a fortified area (“la Horadada” meaning “the pierced one”), referencing the ancient watchtower built to defend the coast from pirate raids. Today, the tower still stands proudly by the sea in the nearby hamlet of Torre de la Horadada, one of the area’s most popular coastal spots.

Originally part of the municipality of Orihuela, Pilar de la Horadada gained independence in 1986, becoming one of the youngest municipalities in Alicante. Despite its modern growth, it has managed to maintain its authentic Spanish charm, friendly atmosphere, and strong sense of community.

Whether you are looking for a tranquil place to retire, a new family home in Spain, or simply a sunny holiday retreat, Pilar de la Horadada offers an unbeatable combination of natural beauty, modern amenities, and traditional Spanish living.

Location

Weather in Pilar de la Horadada

Pilar de la Horadada enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, pleasant winters. Average summer temperatures reach around 30°C (86°F), while winter averages between 10°C and 17°C (50–63°F).

The area boasts over 300 days of sunshine per year, which makes it one of the sunniest destinations in all of Spain. Rainfall is minimal and usually confined to the spring and autumn months. Thanks to its coastal location, sea breezes moderate the heat during the summer, providing comfortable conditions even at the height of the season.

This consistent weather is one of the main reasons why so many Europeans choose Pilar de la Horadada as a destination for both holiday homes and permanent residences.

Airports Near Pilar de la Horadada

Reaching Pilar de la Horadada is quick and convenient thanks to its excellent access to two major airports:

Alicante–Elche Airport (ALC) – Approximately 55 minutes’ drive to the north via the AP-7 motorway.

Murcia–Corvera Airport (RMU) – Only about 35 minutes’ drive to the south.

Both airports are well-served by low-cost and national airlines, including Ryanair, easyJet, and Vueling, providing frequent and affordable flights to the UK and other major European destinations.

Typical flight times from the UK range between 2 and 3 hours, meaning that weekend getaways or quick family visits are perfectly feasible. With both airports offering modern facilities, car hire options, and easy parking, travelling to and from Pilar de la Horadada is hassle-free.

Local Amenities in Pilar de la Horadada

Despite being smaller than some neighbouring resorts, Pilar de la Horadada offers everything you could need for comfortable living or a relaxing holiday.

Shopping

The town centre is home to a range of shops, supermarkets, bakeries, pharmacies, and boutiques. For larger shopping trips, the Dos Mares Shopping Centre in nearby San Javier and La Zenia Boulevard (one of the largest malls in the province) are just a short drive away, offering hundreds of international and Spanish brands including Zara, Mango, and Primark.

Every Friday, the town hosts a vibrant street market selling fresh produce, clothes, home goods, and local delicacies — a great place to experience authentic Spanish market culture.

Dining and entertainment

You’ll find countless cafés, tapas bars, and restaurants scattered throughout the town and along the coast. From traditional Spanish cuisine to international dishes, there’s something for every palate. Torre de la Horadada’s beachfront promenade comes alive in the evenings, perfect for dining with sea views.

Other amenities

The town has excellent infrastructure, including:

A modern sports complex with gym, swimming pool, and tennis courts.

A public library and cultural centre hosting local events.

A medical centre and several private clinics, plus easy access to hospitals in Torrevieja and San Javier.

A full range of essential services — banks, vets, mechanics, lawyers, and beauty salons.

Nearby towns and attractions

Pilar de la Horadada’s location makes it easy to explore nearby destinations:

Torrevieja – 20 minutes north

Cartagena – 45 minutes southwest

Murcia city – 50 minutes west

La Manga strip & Mar Menor – 35 minutes south

Alicante – about 1 hour north

Whether you’re seeking a city break, a cultural day trip, or a nature escape, all are within easy reach.

Golf Courses Near Pilar de la Horadada

Pilar de la Horadada is a golfer’s paradise, surrounded by some of the best golf courses on the Costa Blanca and Costa Cálida. Within a 15–30 minute drive you’ll find:

Lo Romero Golf – Just 10 minutes from the town, often called “the golf island” for its unique 18th hole surrounded by water.

Las Colinas Golf & Country Club – A world-class resort course offering luxury facilities.

Las Ramblas Golf – Set among pine trees and ravines for a more challenging round.

Campoamor Golf Club and Villamartín Golf – Both highly regarded and located nearby.

La Finca and Vistabella Golf – Slightly further north but still within 30 minutes.

Many local accommodations and property developments offer golf packages or are located within minutes of these courses, making Pilar de la Horadada an ideal base for golf enthusiasts.

Pilar de la Horadada Beaches

Stretching over 5 kilometres of coastline, Pilar de la Horadada boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa Blanca. Many are awarded Blue Flag status for their cleanliness, safety, and facilities.

Playa de las Higuericas

One of the most popular beaches, Higuericas offers golden sand, clear waters, and a lively promenade lined with beach bars and restaurants. It’s perfect for families, and during the summer you’ll often find music and local events taking place.

Playa del Conde

Located beside the historic watchtower in Torre de la Horadada, this beach is smaller and more intimate, with calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming. It’s also one of the best spots to enjoy sunrise views over the Mediterranean.

Playa de Mil Palmeras

As its name suggests (“a thousand palm trees”), this wide beach is framed by palms and dunes. It’s great for water sports and families alike, with excellent facilities and plenty of nearby dining options.

Playa Jesuitas and Playa del Puerto

Both are centrally located in Torre de la Horadada and easily accessible on foot. Playa del Puerto sits next to the marina, where you can watch boats come and go or rent a kayak for an afternoon paddle.

All beaches are kept spotless and provide lifeguard services in summer, accessible pathways, showers, and playgrounds. Whether you prefer quiet coves or lively family beaches, Pilar de la Horadada offers the perfect setting for sea and sun lovers.

Culture in Pilar de la Horadada

Although modern and cosmopolitan, Pilar de la Horadada maintains a strong cultural identity rooted in Spanish traditions.

Festivals and events

The town celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, the most famous being the Fiestas Patronales in honour of Nuestra Señora del Pilar every October. The celebration includes music, dancing, fireworks, and parades. In summer, the coastal areas host open-air concerts and night markets along the promenade.

Local cuisine

Food is a central part of life here. Typical dishes include:

Arroz a banda (rice cooked in fish broth)

Gazpacho manchego (game stew with flatbread)

Caldero del Mar Menor (a rice and fish dish popular in nearby Murcia)

Turrón and toñas for dessert

Local restaurants and tapas bars make excellent use of the region’s fresh produce — from the sea, nearby orchards, and vineyards.

Museums and heritage

Don’t miss the Gratiniano Baches Archaeological and Ethnological Museum, which showcases artifacts from Roman and medieval times. The Torre de la Horadada watchtower, built in the 16th century, remains an iconic symbol of the area’s history.

Property for Sale in Pilar de la Horadada

The property market in Pilar de la Horadada has grown steadily in recent years, offering one of the best combinations of quality, location, and value on the Costa Blanca South. Through Movehappy, you’ll find a wide range of new build and modern resale properties, all designed to suit a variety of lifestyles, whether you’re looking for a permanent residence, holiday home, or investment opportunity.

Buyers are particularly drawn to this area for its beautiful beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and excellent amenities. Many developments are located within walking distance of the coast, golf courses, or town centre, making day-to-day living easy and enjoyable.

Types of Property Available

Pilar de la Horadada offers an excellent mix of property styles:

Modern apartments – Ideal for low-maintenance living, often set within attractive gated communities with landscaped gardens, swimming pools, and underground parking. Many include large terraces or private solariums.

Bungalows and maisonettes – Popular with holidaymakers and investors, these typically feature ground-floor gardens or top-floor solariums, providing plenty of outdoor space to enjoy the sunshine.

Townhouses and semi-detached homes – Perfect for families or those seeking more room, often including private pools, terraces, and parking spaces.

Detached villas – Offering maximum privacy and luxury, these homes frequently feature private gardens, swimming pools, and high-spec finishes. Many are found near the beaches of Torre de la Horadada or within peaceful residential areas like Pinar de Campoverde or Lo Romero Golf.

For Sale