Explore Mijas

What Attracts People to Mijas?

Mijas is one of the most picturesque destinations on the Costa del Sol, known for its breathtaking views, whitewashed charm, and diverse lifestyle options. Offering a blend of coastal beauty and traditional Andalusian culture, it attracts holidaymakers, expats, and investors looking for a mix of authenticity and modern convenience.

The town is divided into Mijas Pueblo, La Cala de Mijas, and Mijas Costa, each with its own unique appeal. Mijas Pueblo, perched in the mountains, offers cobblestone streets, panoramic sea views, and a vibrant artisan culture. La Cala de Mijas is a lively seaside town with golden beaches, excellent dining, and a relaxed coastal vibe. Meanwhile, Mijas Costa provides modern beachfront living, luxury urbanizations, and easy access to Marbella and Fuengirola.

Mijas is also known for its thriving real estate market, with everything from charming village houses in Mijas Pueblo to luxury villas in La Zagaleta and contemporary beachfront apartments in La Cala de Mijas. Its combination of affordability and exclusivity makes it a top choice for property buyers and investors.

The town’s culinary scene is another major attraction, offering a mix of traditional tapas, fresh seafood, and international fine dining. From local chiringuitos by the beach to Michelin-starred restaurants, Mijas provides an array of gastronomic experiences.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking in the Sierra de Mijas mountains, horseback riding through the countryside, or playing golf at top courses like La Cala Golf Resort and Mijas Golf. Meanwhile, its Blue Flag beaches and proximity to Marbella and Fuengirola make it a prime location for water sports and seaside relaxation.

With its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, excellent amenities, and strong expat community, Mijas remains a highly desirable location for those seeking a balanced Mediterranean lifestyle on the Costa del Sol.

What Was Mijas in Old Times?

Mijas has a deep and fascinating history, shaped by ancient civilizations, Moorish rule, and Andalusian traditions, making it one of the most historically rich towns on the Costa del Sol. Its origins date back to the Iberians, Phoenicians, and Romans, who recognized its strategic location and developed it as an important trading and agricultural hub. Roman influence is still visible today, with remnants of ancient roads, villas, and irrigation systems found in the region.

During the Moorish period, Mijas, known then as Mixa, became a fortified village under Al-Andalus, serving as a key defensive stronghold in the mountains. The watchtowers along the coastline, such as Torre de Calahonda and Torre de la Cala, were built to protect the coast from pirate invasions. The Moors also introduced advanced irrigation techniques, boosting the town’s agriculture, particularly in olive and grape cultivation, traditions that continue today.

After the Reconquista in the late 15th century, Mijas was reclaimed by the Catholic Monarchs, and the town adapted to Spanish rule while preserving much of its Moorish architectural influence. The construction of churches, town squares, and traditional Andalusian homes began during this period, giving Mijas its iconic whitewashed village charm.

By the 19th and early 20th centuries, Mijas remained a small agricultural town, known for its farming, fishing, and artisanal crafts. The production of olive oil, wine, and ceramics was central to the local economy, while its coastal villages thrived on fishing and salt production.

Today, Mijas has evolved into a vibrant yet historic town, with its whitewashed streets, Moorish-era structures, and Roman remnants serving as a reminder of its rich past. Whether in Mijas Pueblo, La Cala de Mijas, or Mijas Costa, the town seamlessly blends history, culture, and modern Mediterranean living, making it a true gem on the Costa del Sol.

What is the Size of Mijas?

Mijas is one of the largest municipalities on the Costa del Sol, covering an area of approximately 148 square kilometers. It stretches from the Mediterranean coastline to the scenic mountains, offering a diverse landscape that includes beaches, golf courses, lush countryside, and traditional Andalusian villages.

The town has a population of around 90,000 residents, which grows significantly during the summer months due to its popularity among tourists and second-home owners.

Mijas is divided into three main areas, each with its own distinct appeal:

• Mijas Pueblo – A historic whitewashed village nestled in the mountains, known for its stunning views, Andalusian charm, and cultural attractions.
• La Cala de Mijas – A lively coastal town with golden beaches, a vibrant culinary scene, and beachfront promenades.
• Mijas Costa – A modern, well-developed area featuring luxury residential communities, golf resorts, and commercial centers, including Calahonda and Riviera del Sol.

With its varied landscapes, rich history, and proximity to Málaga, Marbella, and Fuengirola, Mijas offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern convenience, making it a highly desirable destination on the Costa del Sol.

What Types of Properties Can Be Found in Mijas?

Mijas offers a diverse real estate market, making it a sought-after destination for holiday home buyers, investors, and permanent residents. With a mix of traditional Andalusian charm, modern developments, and coastal luxury, Mijas caters to a variety of lifestyles on the Costa del Sol.

The town features luxury beachfront apartments and penthouses, especially in La Cala de Mijas and Mijas Costa, offering panoramic sea views, spacious terraces, and resort-style amenities. Popular developments like La Cala Golf Resort and Jardinana provide modern designs with pools, gyms, and concierge services.

For those seeking private villas and townhouses, areas such as Mijas Pueblo, La Alquería, and Valtocado offer spacious homes with private pools, landscaped gardens, and breathtaking mountain and coastal views. High-end properties in La Zagaleta and El Chaparral provide exclusive gated communities with top-tier luxury and privacy.

Mijas also boasts golf-front properties, particularly near La Cala Golf, Mijas Golf, and El Chaparral Golf, catering to golf enthusiasts looking for premium residences with direct course access.

The town retains its authentic Spanish character, with traditional whitewashed townhouses in Mijas Pueblo, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Andalusian culture.

With affordable property prices compared to Marbella, a strong rental market, and excellent connectivity to Málaga, Fuengirola, and Marbella, Mijas remains a top real estate destination for investment, holiday homes, and permanent residences on the Costa del Sol.

What is the Average Price to Buy a Property in Mijas?

The cost of property in Mijas varies depending on location, property type, and amenities, with options ranging from affordable apartments to luxury villas. The town’s diverse real estate market, excellent amenities, and strong rental demand make it a prime destination for investors, second-home buyers, and permanent residents.

On average, properties in Mijas are priced around €2,300 per square meter, reflecting its mix of coastal apartments, golf-front residences, and traditional Andalusian homes. Below is a general breakdown of property prices:

• Luxury Villas: Prices start from €900,000, with high-end villas in La Zagaleta, Valtocado, and El Chaparral exceeding €3 million, offering private pools, large plots, and panoramic mountain and sea views.
• Apartments and Penthouses: Typically range from €220,000 to €600,000, with developments like Jardinana, La Cala Golf Resort, and Casa Banderas featuring modern amenities, pools, gyms, and sea views.
• Golf-Front or Hillside Townhouses: Averaging between €300,000 and €750,000, with properties near La Cala Golf, Mijas Golf, and El Chaparral Golf offering spacious layouts, scenic fairways, and gated community benefits.

Mijas remains a highly desirable location for real estate investment, offering a coastal lifestyle, excellent transport connections, and strong rental potential, particularly in La Cala de Mijas and Mijas Costa.

Top Things to Do in Mijas

Mijas is a picturesque Costa del Sol destination, offering a perfect mix of beachfront relaxation, outdoor adventures, and cultural charm.

Explore Mijas’ culinary scene, from traditional tapas in Mijas Pueblo to fresh seafood at beachfront chiringuitos in La Cala de Mijas. Popular restaurants like El Mirlo Blanco serve authentic Andalusian flavors, while modern bistros and international eateries add variety to the dining experience.

Relax on Mijas’ beautiful beaches, including Playa de La Cala, known for its golden sands and vibrant beach clubs, and Playa El Bombo, ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and water sports. The scenic Coastal Path (Senda Litoral) offers a stunning seaside walkway for jogging or cycling.

Golf lovers can enjoy top-tier courses such as La Cala Golf Resort, Mijas Golf, and El Chaparral Golf, offering challenging fairways and breathtaking mountain and sea views.

History enthusiasts can visit Mijas Pueblo, where whitewashed streets, cobblestone alleys, and panoramic viewpoints transport visitors back in time. Landmarks like the Chapel of the Virgin of the Rock (Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña) and the Mijas Bullring highlight the town’s cultural heritage.

Mijas comes alive with traditional festivals, including the Feria de Mijas, filled with flamenco, music, and Andalusian traditions, and the Romería de Mijas, a colorful pilgrimage celebrating local culture.

With its charming mix of history, stunning landscapes, and modern amenities, Mijas is a must-visit destination on the Costa del Sol, offering something for every traveler.

What Sports Can You Do in Mijas?

Mijas is an outdoor sports paradise, offering a variety of land and water activities set against its stunning coastline and mountainous landscapes. With its year-round mild climate and modern sports facilities, Mijas is a top destination for active lifestyles.

Golfers can enjoy world-class courses such as La Cala Golf Resort, Mijas Golf, and El Chaparral Golf, known for challenging fairways and breathtaking views.

For racket sports enthusiasts, Mijas offers tennis and padel clubs like Lew Hoad Tennis & Padel Club and Club del Sol, featuring professional coaching and social tournaments.

The Sierra de Mijas mountains provide ideal conditions for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding, with trails leading to scenic viewpoints and lush countryside.

Water sports lovers can head to the beaches of La Cala de Mijas, where paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and windsurfing are popular. The Coastal Path (Senda Litoral) also offers a perfect setting for running, walking, or cycling along the sea.

For those who prefer indoor fitness, modern gyms, yoga studios, and wellness centers are available, with many luxury resorts featuring spas, pools, and personal training services.

With its excellent sports facilities, diverse landscapes, and ideal climate, Mijas is a top choice for fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers on the Costa del Sol.