Calahonda
A thriving coastal community between Fuengirola and Marbella — the Costa del Sol's best-kept secret.
Welcome to
Calahonda
Calahonda is a small coastal neighbourhood nestled between the vibrant towns of Fuengirola and Marbella on the stunning Costa del Sol. Part of La Cala de Mijas in the municipality of Mijas, it has become one of the most sought-after residential and holiday destinations in the region.
With its mix of holiday villas, townhouses, and apartments, numerous golf courses, and an abundance of leisure facilities, Calahonda offers a lifestyle that perfectly blends relaxation with activity. The area is particularly popular with international buyers, especially from the UK, Ireland, Germany, and Scandinavia.
Calahonda owes its development to the vision of Don Jose de Orbaneja, who arrived on the Costa del Sol in the 1960s, acquired vast tracts of land, and built the thriving community we see today — earning it the prestigious Best Spanish Urbanisation Award in 2001–2002.
Why Calahonda?
- Prime location between Fuengirola and Marbella
- Beautiful beaches for all preferences — family, secluded and nudist
- Three world-class golf courses within minutes
- Diverse international dining scene
- Excellent international schools nearby
- Strong short-term rental market
- Direct A-7 motorway access to the whole coast
- Málaga Airport approximately 40 km away
- Vibrant community of residents and holiday visitors
- Award-winning urbanisation with all amenities
What the Area Offers
Dining & Nightlife
Calahonda boasts a diverse culinary scene with restaurants serving English, Italian, Indian, Swiss, and authentic Spanish cuisine. From El Oceano Beach Club on the hillside to beachside eateries, there is something for every palate. The El Zoco complex offers intimate evening venues, while Cabopino marina is just a taxi ride away for those seeking more.
Shopping
Calahonda has three main shopping areas. Calypso features everyday essentials including banks, hair salons and a petrol station. El Zoco — the most well-known commercial centre — offers supermarkets, a vet, restaurants, bars and a taxi rank. Doña Lola is a large beachside complex with shops, tennis, a pool, restaurant and bar.
Golf
Golf enthusiasts are exceptionally well served in Calahonda. Renowned courses within easy reach include Miraflores Golf Club, La Siesta Golf, and La Cala Nova Golf. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player, the quality and variety of courses on this stretch of the Costa del Sol is outstanding.
Sports & Activities
As a popular sunshine destination, Calahonda offers a full range of outdoor activities — sailing, water sports, padel, tennis, cycling, and hiking. There is a good selection of gyms, health clubs, group fitness classes and swimming pools. The Mediterranean climate makes outdoor activity comfortable year-round.
Nature & Green Spaces
Despite being a well-developed residential area, Calahonda maintains access to green spaces including golf course parkland, pine forests, and the natural dune beach at Playa Artola. The nearby Cabopino area offers a beautiful natural park alongside one of the prettiest stretches of coastline on the Costa del Sol.
Property Market
Calahonda offers a wide spectrum of property types — from hillside detached villas with private pools to beachfront apartments and gated townhouse complexes. It attracts both permanent residents and holiday home buyers, with a strong short-term rental market supporting investment returns throughout the year.
Calahonda's Beaches
Artola / Cabo Pino
Located close to Calahonda with sunbeds, umbrellas and spa facilities. Known for its nudist section and the beautiful natural dunes behind the beach.
Calahonda Beach
Situated opposite the entrance to Sitio de Calahonda. Easily accessible and popular with families, scuba divers and fishing enthusiasts.
La Luna
A smaller, more private beach with its own beach hut and shower facilities. Ideal for those seeking a quieter, more secluded spot on the coast.
Playa Artola
Known locally as "Punto Ladrones" after its historic watchtower. Not affiliated with any urbanisation, making it one of the most natural and unspoilt beaches in the area.
Puerto Cabopino
Soft sand, plenty of restaurants, ample parking and full facilities including toilets, showers, sunbeds and shades. Popular both day and night with visitors and locals alike.
The History of
Calahonda
Calahonda's transformation from rural coastline to thriving residential community is the story of one man's vision. Don Jose de Orbaneja arrived on the Costa del Sol in the 1960s and saw potential in the undeveloped land between Fuengirola and Marbella.
He acquired vast tracts of land, added utilities, infrastructure, businesses, restaurants and leisure facilities — and created what would become one of the Costa del Sol's most celebrated residential communities.
Vision & Foundation
Don Jose de Orbaneja acquires land and begins the development of what will become Calahonda.
International Community
Calahonda grows into a thriving international community, attracting buyers primarily from the UK, Germany and Scandinavia.
Best Spanish Urbanisation Award
Calahonda is recognised as one of Spain's finest residential developments, winning this prestigious national award.
Thriving & In-Demand
Calahonda remains one of the most sought-after addresses on the Costa del Sol for buyers and investors from around the world.
Education
- English International College (EIC) — approx. 10 min by car
- Las Chapas School
- Ecos International School
- Grupo Attendis Schools
- Calahonda International College (CIC)
Transport Links
- A-7 Motorway — direct access to all Costa del Sol towns
- N-340 Coast Road — links all coastal towns
- Málaga International Airport — approximately 40 km (35 minutes)
- Fuengirola train station — approx. 10 km
- Bus services along the coast road