When dreaming about moving to Spain’s Costa del Sol, three towns inevitably top the list: Mijas, Marbella, and Estepona.

Each offers a unique lifestyle, vibe, and opportunities. But which one is truly the best fit for you?

In this special episode of Costa Insights, three local experts from Hi Homes — Matt, Kian, and Sam — go head-to-head defending their hometowns. Expect honest comparisons, insider tips, and a lively discussion covering lifestyle, real estate, beaches, nightlife, connectivity, and outdoor spaces.

Let’s dive in!

🌴 Mijas: Traditional Charm Meets Family Vibes

Matt champions Mijas — a place that holds deep personal meaning for him. Having spent every summer of his life in Mijas Pueblo, he calls it his true home.

Mijas offers a unique blend of:

• Traditional whitewashed villages (like the famous Mijas Pueblo)

• Family-friendly suburban living

• Accessibility to major hubs

Unlike the centralized structure of Marbella, Mijas consists of multiple charming pockets spread across a large area — from Torreblanca to Calahonda. Despite its size, Mijas feels intimate, community-driven, and laid-back.

Lifestyle in Mijas:

• Laid-back and authentic

• Excellent amenities: zoos, aquaparks, Miramar Shopping Centre, Lew Hoad Tennis Club

• Family-centric outdoor spaces

Fun Fact: Mijas is geographically bigger than Marbella, though it doesn’t feel sprawling.

If you dream of a traditional Spanish lifestyle, family activities, and living close to everything without the city rush, Mijas might steal your heart.

🌟 Marbella: International Glamour & Top-tier Living

Kian steps up for Marbella — the undisputed jewel of the Costa del Sol.

Marbella is famous worldwide for:

• Luxury real estate

• Upscale shopping

• High-end dining

• Glitzy nightlife

But it’s not just glamour — Marbella offers genuine Spanish charm in its historic Old Town and a wealth of green spaces just minutes from the coast.

Lifestyle in Marbella:

• Sophisticated and dynamic

• Best beaches on the Coast: Cabopino, Los Monteros, Marbella Centre beaches

• Premium amenities: La Cañada Shopping Centre, El Corte Inglés, Real Club Padel

Business and Innovation Hub:
Marbella is increasingly attracting entrepreneurs oraz digital nomads, thanks to facilities like The Pool Marbella and a thriving business ecosystem.

Whether you’re seeking a glamorous life by the sea, upscale schools for your kids, or a thriving business network, Marbella ticks all the boxes.

🌊 Estepona: The Authentic Rising Star

Sam passionately defends Estepona — the town many call the Costa del Sol’s rising star.

Unlike Marbella’s full internationalization, Estepona strikes a perfect balance between authentic Andalusian charm oraz modern living.

Lifestyle in Estepona:

• Genuine Spanish atmosphere in the Old Town

• Modern developments and new infrastructure

• Wide, family-friendly beaches like Playa del Cristo

• Outdoor living: Climbing walls, parks, and new sports facilities

Fun Fact:
Despite its booming popularity, 70% of Estepona’s population is still Spanish, creating a truly authentic vibe.

Major town hall investments — including a €60 million boulevard project and extended promenades — are rapidly transforming Estepona into a world-class coastal city.

If you want authentic Spain with modern conveniences and future growth potential, Estepona is calling your name.

🏖️ Beaches: Who Takes the Crown?

When it comes to beaches:

• Marbella wins for sheer quality — white sandy beaches like Cabopino are shallow, family-friendly, and lively.

• Mijas offers lovely options like La Cala de Mijas, although the beaches can slope steeply.

• Estepona shines with quieter beaches and easy access to Tarifa and Conil, Spain’s surfing and kitesurfing paradises.

🚗 Accessibility and Connectivity

Best for airport access?
👉 Mijas — only 20–30 minutes to Málaga Airport.
👉 Marbella — around 35–40 minutes.
👉 Estepona — about 50 minutes.

Mijas benefits from a direct train line to Fuengirola (the end station), which is a huge plus for car-free connectivity.

However, wherever you live, owning a car is recommended — especially if you want to explore the entire Costa del Sol easily.

🎉 Nightlife: Where’s the Party?

• Marbella dominates nightlife with Puerto Banús, countless beach clubs, and glamorous venues.

• Mijas and Fuengirola have a more relaxed nightlife scene — Spanish bars, international pubs, and family-friendly evenings.

• Estepona offers a nice mix: traditional Spanish nightlife in the Old Town and growing modern hotspots.

Fun Tip:
For a more affordable Marbella-style beach party, check out Los Álamos beach clubs in Torremolinos!

🌄 Outdoor Spaces and Nature

All three towns offer incredible access to nature and the outdoors:

• Mijas: Mountain trails, parks, and the upcoming Gran Parque de Mijas.

• Marbella: The iconic La Concha mountain, lush pine forests, and countless hiking trails right by the sea.

• Estepona: Sierra Bermeja Mountain Ridge, sprawling green parks, and the expanding coastal boardwalk.

Plus, Malaga’s long-term vision of connecting all these towns via the Senda Litoral boardwalk means future even better coastal access!

🏡 So, Where Should You Live?

It depends entirely on your lifestyle goals:

✅ Choose Mijas if you want laid-back family life, traditional charm, and unbeatable airport access.
✅ Choose Marbella if you want a cosmopolitan, high-energy life with luxury amenities and international community.
✅ Choose Estepona if you want authentic Spain, future growth potential, and modern living by the sea.

🌟 Final Thought

The truth?
No matter where you choose — Mijas, Marbella, or Estepona — you’re living on one of Europe’s most beautiful, sun-drenched coastlines.

You can easily visit all three towns no matter where you live. Each offers something uniquely magical, and the Costa del Sol lifestyle is truly second to none.

Ready to find your perfect place in the sun?
👉 Contact Hi Homes today to start your Costa del Sol journey!