Our Mijas guide covers everything—from top beaches and restaurants to shopping and transport. Whether visiting or living here, discover the best things to do in this Costa del Sol hotspot.
Mijas is a charming town nestled between Fuengirola and Marbella, just 10 km from Mijas Costa’s stunning 2 km coastline, including the popular La Cala de Mijas beach resort. A top question from expats is, “How far is Mijas from the airport?” The answer: just 30 km from Malaga Airport, making it a quick 20-minute drive. With Malaga’s excellent connections to Europe, Mijas is a perfect spot for expats, especially those seeking a holiday home for easy getaways. It offers the ideal blend of convenience, beauty, and accessibility.
Mijas has a rich history dating back to the Bronze Age, with evidence of ancient settlements in the area. Over time, it became a melting pot of cultures, especially during the Arab conquest of the Iberian Peninsula, where Arab settlers and Mozarabic inhabitants coexisted peacefully.
Historically, Mijas was a well-defended town, once protected by three fortified enclosures against attacks. Though much of its defenses have been lost over time, the Mijas fortress tower and a few surviving wall fragments remain as reminders of its vigilant past. For centuries, agriculture and fishing sustained the town, with generations relying on these industries. However, in the 1950s, tourism began booming, transforming the local economy. The surge in tourism and construction attracted new residents, fueling growth and making Mijas a sought-after destination.
Today, Mijas is a vibrant, multicultural hub that blends history, culture, and modern appeal. With its picturesque streets, stunning coastal views, and welcoming atmosphere, it has become one of Andalusia’s top destinations for residential tourism, offering a high quality of life for visitors and residents alike.
Mijas is one of southern Spain’s most desirable property markets, attracting buyers with its diverse landscapes. Whether you prefer the lively coastal areas or the serene countryside, Mijas offers something for everyone. Its vibrant neighborhoods are rich in tourist appeal, amenities, and investment opportunities, making it a prime destination for those seeking a holiday home, rental property, or permanent residence.
Mijas Pueblo, a picturesque Andalusian village in the mountains, offers stunning coastal views and traditional charm. Its cobbled streets, historic sites, artisan shops, and tapas bars attract visitors seeking authentic Spanish culture. With scenic hiking trails and local festivals, it’s a desirable spot for tourists and residents.
La Cala de Mijas, a vibrant coastal town in Mijas Costa, is known for its sandy beaches, lively promenade, and excellent restaurants. Once a fishing village, it now attracts expats and tourists with its relaxed lifestyle, local markets, golf courses, water sports, and convenient location.
Riviera del Sol, a sought-after residential area in Mijas Costa, is popular among expats and holiday homeowners. It offers townhouses, villas, and apartments, many with sea views. With golf courses, shopping centres, and beach access, it balances tranquillity and entertainment. Its prime location ensures excellent transport links and amenities.
Las Lagunas, Mijas’ most urbanised area, sits next to Fuengirola, offering modern apartments, shopping centres, and entertainment. Unlike traditional Mijas Pueblo, it has a city-like feel with schools and medical facilities. Its well-connected location provides coastal access while ensuring all essential services are within easy reach.
Not sure which area suits you best?
Mijas covers an area of about 149 square kilometers (approximately 58 square miles) on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain. It's known for its charming white-washed village, beautiful coastline, and vibrant expat community.
As of January 1, 2024, Mijas has a population of 92,211 residents, making it the third-largest municipality in Málaga province, following Málaga city and Marbella.
Mijas has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Winter temperatures range from 8°C to 18°C, while summer exceeds 30°C. Spring and autumn are warm and pleasant. With year-round sunshine, Mijas is perfect for outdoor activities.
Marbella is approximately 35 kilometers from Mijas, with a drive time of around 30 to 40 minutes, offering easy access to its beaches, shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
Mijas is about 30 kilometers from Malaga Airport, making it a convenient 25-30 minute drive. Its close proximity ensures easy access for travelers, whether visiting or relocating to the area.
Mijas Costa is a dream destination for beach lovers, stretching between Fuengirola and Cabopino in eastern Marbella. This vibrant coastal area offers a laid-back Spanish beach lifestyle with stunning shores, charming coves, and lively promenades. From Calahonda’s mix of sand and pebbles to Marbella’s glamorous beach clubs, Mijas Costa has something for everyone. Whether you prefer relaxing by the sea, enjoying water sports, or experiencing Marbella’s luxury, this coastal gem provides the perfect blend of tranquillity and excitement, making it an ideal place to visit or call home.
Mijas Costa is a foodie’s paradise, especially in La Cala and Calahonda. For authentic Spanish flavors, visit Vinoteca Pura Cepa and El Olivo in La Cala or Mesón de Calahonda and Acinipo in Calahonda. If you’re craving international cuisine, try El Gusto in La Cala, Max Beach in Riviera del Sol, or La Catedral in Las Lagunas. La Estancia is perfect for steak lovers. You’ll also find great fish & chips and top-notch Indian restaurants.
Mijas Costa offers excellent shopping options, especially in Calahonda and La Cala, with supermarkets like Supersol, Mercadona, and Lidl, plus local food shops and a lively weekly market in La Cala every Wednesday. You’ll also find banks, pharmacies, and hardware stores, while shopping centers like Centro Comercial Costa Mijas, La Cañada, and Miramar in Fuengirola are just a short drive away.
Mijas Costa is a coastal gem on Spain’s Costa del Sol, blending laid-back vibes with modern convenience. Just 20 minutes from Málaga Airport, it offers beautiful beaches, a sunny climate, and affordable property prices compared to Marbella. With top-notch golf courses, a lively expat scene, and rich Andalusian culture, it’s a prime spot for holiday homes, rentals, or settling down. Mijas Costa’s investment potential, modern amenities, and welcoming feel make it a smart real estate choice.
Mijas Costa is a thriving hotspot in Spain, drawing a vibrant international community. Of the 31,500 foreigners living in Mijas, the majority reside in Mijas Costa, enjoying its stunning coastline and relaxed lifestyle. More than a third of these residents are British, adding to the area's diverse cultural mix. With its beautiful beaches, excellent amenities, and welcoming atmosphere, Mijas Costa continues to attract people from around the world, making it a popular place to live, work, and enjoy the Spanish way of life.
Buses run every 30 minutes between Marbella and Fuengirola, stopping at various points along Mijas Costa. This reliable service makes it easy for residents and visitors to travel between towns, access local amenities, and explore the beautiful coastal areas without needing a car.
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