Have you ever dreamt of walking on sun-kissed beaches where peacefulness and adventure coexist perfectly? Can you feel how the gentle breeze from the Mediterranean Sea caresses your skin? This idyllic location exists, and it’s none other than the Costa Calida. A place full of natural beauty and rich culture that captures the heart of everyone who visits it. So, if you’re looking for a coastal destination to live in and you’re wondering, “Where is the Costa Calida?” let us show you in this article.
The Costa Calida coastline – with its beaches of fine sands and its crystal-clear waters – is the perfect refuge for people seeking to combine the peace of the sea with Spain’s rich cultural heritage. Here, the gastronomy is a journey in itself, fusing the best of the sea and the land into dishes that will make your palate fall in love. However, what really makes this region special are its deep-rooted traditions, vibrant festivities and, of course, the genuine hospitality of its people who will make you feel truly at home.
At Quadratia, we provide you with a clear, in-depth picture of the Costa Calida’s hidden wonders so that, when you choose this destination, you’ll do so with total confidence and complete security.
The Costa Calida welcomes you with open arms, and we’ll advise you on every detail of this transformative experience. Come and discover it with us!
What is included in the Costa Calida?
Located in the region of Murcia, the Costa Calida extends along an impressive 250 kilometres of coastline that bear witness to the Mediterranean’s majesty. More than a mere strip of coastline, the Costa Calida is a living canvas where each wave tells ancient tales, the golden sands hold secrets of forgotten times, and each sunset gives way to new adventures and unforgettable encounters.
Your journey could begin in the north, at El Mojon, a spot that exudes the Mediterranean’s pure magic. As you move south, you’ll see a landscape that is constantly evolving: immaculate beaches that reach the horizon, hidden coves eager to be explored and towns full of stories and myths. Your final destination is Aguilas, where the immense sea meets the immensity of the sky.
Whether you’re looking for peace, adventure or just a change of scenery, this region welcomes you with open arms, ready to show you everything it has to offer. Let the Costa Calida become your next destination, a refuge where tomorrow’s memories wait to be created.
What cities make up the Costa Calida?
The Costa Calida runs through the region of Murcia. While it would be quite a task to mention each of the places that make up the Costa Calida, here’s a list of the Costa Calida’s most well-known and significant towns and cities:
- Mazarron
- El Mojon
- Aguilas
- Cartagena
- Los Alcazares
- San Pedro del Pinatar
- San Javier
- La Unión
- Lorca
- Puerto de Mazarron
- Isla Plana
- La Azohia
- Bolnuevo
- Los Urrutias
- Los Nietos
- Mar de Cristal
- Santiago de la Ribera
- La Manga del Mar Menor
- Cabo de Palos
- Calabardina
Although these are just some of the most emblematic places, there are other, smaller towns and residential developments that enrich the Costa Calida’s uniqueness and diversity. Although some of these destinations may not be as recognised globally, each one has its magic and uniqueness, adding to the overall charm of this beautiful coast.
Why is it called Costa Calida?
The name “Costa Calida” comes from the mild warm climate that characterises this Mediterranean coastal lagoon located in the region of Murcia. The Spanish expression “calida” means “hot”, and this name refers to the mild and pleasant temperatures enjoyed in the area during much of the year.
The Mar Menor – an essential part of the Costa Calida – is one of the factors contributing to this warm climate, as its shallow waters warm easily and maintain higher temperatures than the open sea.
So, both because of its climate and the region’s natural characteristics, the Costa Calida has earned its evocative name, attracting visitors and residents who wish to benefit from the blessings of its climate and its scenic charm.
Map of the Costa Calida: Where is the Costa Calida (Spain)?
When you look at a map of the Costa Calida, what you see is an impressive coastline that winds from El Mojon in the north to end in the peaceful embrace of Aguilas in the south. However, between these notable locations are lesser-known but equally magnificent jewels: Cartagena, with its aura of history; Los Alcazares and its charming seaside resort; and La Manga del Mar Menor, a natural isthmus of incomparable beauty that celebrates Mediterranean culture in every corner.
At Quadratia, because we recognise the curiosity about this magnificent coastal area where people settle down, we have designed a map of the Costa Calida that goes beyond the conventional. It’s an enriched guide, a compass that points not only to sun-kissed popular destinations, but also to the hidden spots in towns whose stories transcend generations. This tool is essential for people looking to explore the true soul of the Costa Calida.
What is life like in Murcia, Costa Calida?
Murcia is indisputably the shining epicentre of the Costa Calida. Famous not only for its buzzing cultural life – with places such as the Teatro Romea or the Museo de Salzillo – Murcia is also notable for the Catedral de Santa María, a Spanish Baroque masterpiece that dominates the cityscape and is a silent witness to centuries of history.
When you live in Murcia, you find yourself in a harmonious mix of the modern and the traditional. Running through the city, the River Segura adds a fresh touch to the cityscape. The narrow streets of the old town, bustling markets such as the Mercado de Veronicas market and the lively squares such as Plaza Cardenal Belluga are the everyday settings where Murcia’s warmth is palpable in every corner.
So, if you’re looking to explore more what this city can offer you, you can look forward to our next article: What to see and do in Murcia? Come with us on a tour of the city’s most iconic spots and the can’t-miss activities that this city offers both its visitors and to those who decide to call it home.
Which is better, Murcia or Aguilas?
Indeed, Murcia and Aguilas – two iconic destinations on the Costa Calida – have nuances that seduce a variety of tourists and inhabitants. It’s fascinating to explore the pros and cons of each city from the perspective of a foreigner who is considering settling in one of them permanently.
Find out more in our comparison chart!
Comparative table of advantages by city
| Foreign owner | Characteristics | Murcia | Águilas |
| Advantages | Transport | Good transport links to a nearby airport, train and bus stations and express routes to other cities. | It has excellent road links to Murcia and other towns on the Costa Calida, and it has a train station. |
| Ambience | An urban and cosmopolitan atmosphere with a rich history and heritage. Many festivals and cultural events. | A more relaxed coastal vibe with a more traditional touch of the region of Murcia. | |
| Services | A wide variety of services, from hospitals to large shopping centres and entertainment venues. | Basic services available and some spots of interest for tourists, such as the Castillo de San Juan de las Águilas castle and entertainment with a more local ambience. | |
| Nature and beaches | Although it’s an inland city, it’s close to natural areas and a reasonable distance from the beaches of the Costa Calida. | Clean and attractive beaches with access to nearby coves. | |
| Community | Given its university and city status, it has a notable international community. | A growing community of expatriates, particularly northern Europeans, who are looking for a quieter coastal environment. |
Table comparing disadvantages by city
| Foreign owner | Characteristics | Murcia | Águilas |
| Disadvantages | Cost of living | It may be moderately high due to its status as the region’s capital city. | Prices may rise in high season due to tourism demand, but in general more affordable than in large cities. |
| Integration | Although it’s an open city, integrating there might require learning Spanish and getting acquainted with local customs. | Its inhabitants are friendly and are open to communicate with anyone from another town, city or country. | |
| Noise and nightlife | As a lively city, there might be more noise, especially in areas with leisure activities and nightlife. | Generally quiet, but the areas near the seafront promenade may have more ambience during summer nights. |
Beaches on the Costa Calida
The mosaic of beaches on the Costa Calida unfolds majestically across vast kilometres, leaving an indelible mark on the heart of those who discover it. Its coastline – infused with a distinctive character – alternates between extensive golden sands and peaceful coves with clear waters.
For people who appreciate facilities and a wide range of services, urban beaches such as Las Delicias in Aguilas or La Puntica in San Pedro del Pinatar not only stand out for their shimmering sands and unparalleled panoramic views, but also offer a range of gastronomic options and leisure areas for the whole family.
On the other hand, if what you’re looking for is an oasis of tranquillity in tune with the natural environment, hidden coves such as Cala Cortina near Cartagena are the ideal space to disconnect from the daily hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in a genuine seaside setting.
These coastlines are not only a paradise for people looking for a moment of rest in the sun, but are also the perfect setting for a variety of water sports, from snorkelling to sailing. What’s more, a large number of beaches on the Costa Calida have been praised for their excellence, conservation and environmental commitment, obtaining recognitions such as the Blue Flag.
Shortly, in our next article, we’ll offer you a comprehensive guide in our next article, where we’ll take you on a trip to the best beaches and coves on the Costa Calida.
What sea bathes the Costa Calida? What is Aguilas beach like?
Located in the region of Murcia, the Costa Calida is caressed by the serene waters of the Mediterranean Sea and, in one particular part, by the one-of-a-kind Mar Menor, Europe’s largest salt lagoon. As we’ve seen before, this stretch of coastline owes its name – “Calida” – to the sunny climate that characterises it during much of the year.
A charming spot on this coast, Aguilas is home to several beaches that are the delight of its visitors. Las Delicias in Aguilas is an excellent example. With its fine, golden sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect setting to kick back and enjoy. The quality of its waters, services and family atmosphere make it a favourite destination during the summer.
Also, not far from Las Delicias beach, we find the enigmatic Playa Amarilla, an oasis for sun and sea lovers. Gazing out from its coastline, your eyes will be inevitably drawn to Isla del Fraile, a prominent islet that rises from the sea and has been a silent witness to local history over the centuries.
The vestiges of ancient civilisations surrounding it tell stories of times gone by. Nearby archaeological sites provide a unique opportunity to explore the traces of the people who inhabited this land before us. Without a doubt, Aguilas and its surroundings are a treasure that any visitor to the Costa Calida should discover.
Weather on the Costa Calida
So, thanks to its spectacular geographical location, the Costa Calida rejoices over 300 days of splendid sun every year, establishing it as one of the most light-blessed coasts in Spain. Temperatures usually range from 16°C in the coolest months and can reach or exceed 30°C on the warmest days of summer, ensuring a perfect environment for enjoying its beaches and scenery almost all year round.
While rains are not the prevailing pattern, when they do occur, they are most common in the autumn. Despite this, the humidity on the Costa Calida remains within comfortable parameters, which prevents that feeling of crippling heat in summertime peaks.
What’s more, the combination of the Mar Menor’s refreshing breezes and the warm Mediterranean sun not only encourages a diversity of outdoor activities, but is also renowned for its health benefits, helping to relieve respiratory and joint disorders.
To sum up, the Costa Calida’s climate not only attracts tourists, but is also an incentive for people looking for a place to live where summer heat is balanced with winter mildness. Obviously, the benevolent climate in this area is the undisputed star of the area.
Gastronomy on the Costa Calida
Beyond its golden beaches and incessant sun, the Costa Calida stands out as a showcase for gastronomy that reflects the fusion between the treasure trove of the Mar Menor and the authentic ingredients of its land. This gem in Murcia is not only proud of its ensalada murciana as a hallmark, but also of the vast mosaic of seafood and fish that the Mediterranean waters offer, conquering the palates of both those who inhabit it and those who discover it.
Essential dishes of the Costa Calida’s gastronomy:
- Ensalada murciana: a refreshing dish of tomatoes, tuna, egg, onions and olives.
- Arroz caldero: rice cooked with fish in a concentrated broth and served with aioli.
- Michirones: dried beans stewed with ham, chorizo and capsicum.
- Pastel de cierva: although it may sound like meat (“cierva” means “doe”), it’s a sweet cake stuffed with pumpkin jam.
- Zarangollo: a mixture of courgette, onions and sometimes capsicum, all cooked slowly.
- Mar Menor: a variety of seafood and fish caught in the salt lagoon and prepared in multiple ways.
- Paparajotes: lemon leaves dipped in a lemon and sugar batter and then fried.
As far as beverages go, we can’t leave out the exquisite wines of the region of Murcia, which range from the fruity fragrances of its whites to the strong notes of its reds. The Costa Calida’s culinary offering means a trip full of traditions and exquisite flavours that undoubtedly enrich the experience of every visitor to the region.
Homes for sale on the Costa Calida: dream homes on the coastline
In conclusion, for people looking to settle down in a coastal area full of cultural heritage, the Costa Calida is an unbeatable choice, offering a wide range of properties that suit a variety of styles and budgets.
At Quadratia, we understand your desires and make your expectations ours. That’s why we’ve designed premium quality homes for you. These are newly built homes located in the best coastal areas such as the Costa Calida. Let us guide you towards that Mediterranean dream you long for. Let us be your guide to the home you’ve always dreamed of.
Have you been fascinated by the beauty of the Costa Calida, or are you interested in learning about other magical spots in Spain? If so, we suggest you take a look at our previous article, where we highlighted the best cities to live in Spain, ranging from the Costa Blanca to the Costa del Sol.
What do you think of our article on where the Costa Calida is? Share our post and follow us on our social networks!