You know you’ve settled into Spain when you stop saying “the coast” and start referring to the Costa Blanca, the Costa del Sol, or perhaps the Costa Brava, Costa Verde…—each with its own personality, history, microclimate, and favourite spots.
For expats in Spain, especially those living along the sparkling shores of Costa Blanca (focus of this blog series), getting to know the other Costas is like meeting the extended -and rather glamorous- family.
So, grab your sun hat and a splash of humour—we’re setting off on a whirlwind tour of mainland Spain’s 10 most iconic and popular Costas (with plenty more hidden gems beyond), stretching along nearly 6,000 km of sun-kissed shoreline.
Costa Brava: Where cliffs meet creativity
The “Wild Coast” of Catalonia lives up to its name, with rugged cliffs and secret coves that seem straight out of a romantic novel. Salvador Dalí wandered these shores—possibly lost, possibly inspired. Expect dramatic scenery and that unmistakable northern charm.
Costa Dorada: The golden child
South of Barcelona lies the “Golden Coast,” with miles of soft sandy beaches perfect for families. Tarragona adds a Roman touch, just in case you want a side of history with your sunbathing.
Costa del Azahar: Citrus-scented serenity
Translated as the “Orange Blossom Coast,” this stretch through Castellón is perfumed with citrus and surprisingly quiet. Think of it as the Costa Blanca’s more introverted cousin—less bustle, more birdsong.
Costa Blanca: The expat favourite
Costa Blanca truly feels like home sweet home for many expats. From Alicante’s vibrant city life and Benidorm’s bustling beaches to Altea’s whitewashed charm and the peaceful inland comarcas, this region offers a relaxed lifestyle, excellent healthcare, and a welcoming international community.
With golden sands, stunning countryside, over 300 days of sunshine a year—and even HP sauce on the supermarket shelves—it’s no surprise Costa Blanca is Spain’s most popular region for expats (source: INE).
Costa Cálida: Warmth in every sense
Murcia’s “Warm Coast” features the Mar Menor lagoon, a shallow saltwater haven perfect for gentle dips and paddleboarding. It’s so warm, it’s practically a bathtub—with palm trees.
Costa Tropical: Spain’s subtropical secret
Granada’s coastline enjoys a rare subtropical microclimate, where avocados grow and winter forgets to arrive. It’s like the Caribbean popped over for a weekend and decided to stay.
Costa del Sol: The original expat haven
With more golf courses than rainy days, Málaga’s “Sun Coast” has been wooing tourists and retirees for decades.
It’s glamorous, it’s warm, and it knows it.
Costa de la Luz: Windswept and wonderful
Down south in Andalusia, the “Coast of Light” practically glows. Facing the Atlantic, it’s a paradise for windsurfers and seafood lovers alike.
On a clear day, you can almost wave at Morocco.
Costa Verde: Lush, green, and wildly underrated
Northern Spain’s “Green Coast” stretches from Galicia to the Basque Country. Imagine beaches framed by forests and cows grazing just metres from the sea.
Rain? Quite often.
Charm? Always.
Costa Vasca: Surf, cliffs, and cinema
Dramatic cliffs, bold waves, and unforgettable pintxos define the Basque Coast. The waters are brisk (this is not the Med!), so don’t forget your wetsuit. And for film lovers, San Sebastián hosts one of Europe’s top seaside festivals.
Which Costa Is Calling You?
From the rugged cliffs of the Costa Brava, the paella and relaxed lifestyle on the Costa Blanca to cider by the sea in Asturias, Spain’s coastlines offer a veritable smorgasbord of coastal and inland experiences. Whether you’re planning a weekend away or considering a full-on move, there’s a Costa that feels just right.
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