Buy a Home with an Ocean View on the Southern Costa Blanca
Buy a Home with an Ocean View on the Southern Costa Blanca
Are you looking to buy a home with a sea view on the Southern Costa Blanca? If so, it's important to look beyond just the words sea view in a listing.
After all, “ocean view” can mean all sorts of things—from a completely unobstructed panoramic view from the living room and terrace to a small patch of blue between two buildings that you can only see from a corner of the sunroom.
The value of a ocean view therefore lies not only in the fact that you can see the ocean, but above all in:
- where you can see the view;
- how wide the view is;
- Starting on which floor;
- how likely it is that the view will remain;
- how much wind you get;
- and whether the home itself is conveniently located.
On the southern Costa Blanca, you'll find homes with ocean views in various areas, including Guardamar del Segura, La Mata, Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa, Santa Pola, Gran Alacant, Torre de la Horadada, and other coastal areas located at higher elevations.
Be sure to check out our current listings, our existing homes, and the available new-construction homes.
What does “ocean view” mean in the context of Spanish real estate?
In advertisements, you may come across terms such as:
- ocean views;
- sea views;
- panoramic sea views;
- lateral sea views;
- partial sea views;
- en first line sea views.
Those terms aren't all equally precise.
That is why you should always use your own judgment to determine what is actually meant.
For example, a home with vistas al mar may only have a side view.
Direct ocean view
A direct ocean view usually means that you're looking almost directly out toward the ocean.
That can be appealing for the following reasons:
- sense of openness;
- view from the terrace;
- sunsets or sunrises, depending on the orientation;
- and a vivid experience of the coast.
But a direct ocean view can also mean that the home is more exposed to:
- wind;
- salt;
- zon;
- and weather conditions.
Side view of the ocean
A side view of the ocean is sometimes underestimated.
A home with a side view of the sea can actually:
- are better sheltered;
- have more privacy;
- catch less wind;
- and are less expensive than a comparable home with a front view.
That might be appealing for everyday use.
Panoramic ocean view
A panoramic view sounds spectacular, but take a critical look at the actual line of sight.
For example, check to see if you have a view of:
- zee;
- city;
- roofs;
- Bergen;
- or a combination of these.
A panoramic view doesn't have to consist entirely of the sea.
Ocean view from the living room or only from the patio?
This is an important difference.
Always ask:
- Can you see the ocean from the living room?
- From the bedroom?
- from the patio?
- Only from the tanning bed?
- Or only when you're standing?
When it comes to enjoying your home on a daily basis, the view from the living room can be much more valuable than just the view from a rooftop terrace.
Ocean view from the solarium
A home may be advertised as having a “ocean view,” even though that view is only visible from the sun deck.
That doesn't have to be a problem.
But it does mean you have to climb a flight of stairs every time to enjoy that view.
For permanent or long-term living, this may be less practical.
Permanent ocean view
One of the most important questions is:
Is it still possible to build it?
When, for the home:
- an empty lot;
- low-rise buildings;
- vacant lot;
- or the next phase of construction
is located, you shouldn't automatically assume that the view will remain the same forever.
Therefore, always have someone check what is possible from an urban planning perspective.
New construction can change the view
This is especially important for new construction.
A project in Phase 1 may have a beautiful, unobstructed view.
But perhaps the project schedule says:
- Phase 2;
- Phase 3;
- additional apartment building;
- or other future developments.
Therefore, always ask for the complete site plan for the project.
Ocean view in a rendering
A rendering is not a guarantee of the actual appearance.
When purchasing off-plan, check the following:
- exact house number;
- floor;
- orientation;
- height of surrounding buildings;
- distance from the coast;
- future construction phases;
- and actual line of sight.
A marketing image may have been taken from a virtual camera angle that is higher than your future patio.
First Line by the Sea
"First-line" means that the home is located directly on the coast or on the first line of buildings facing the sea.
That can be impressive.
But you should also keep the following in mind:
- salt;
- wind;
- tourist crowds;
- beach traffic;
- sound;
- parking pressure;
- and maintenance.
Primary care is therefore not automatically better than secondary care.
Second line
A home located one or two streets inland from the coast can still have a beautiful ocean view.
Sometimes you’ll get additional benefits, such as:
- less wind;
- less salt;
- a quieter street;
- more privacy;
- and a lower purchase price.
Therefore, always compare several properties within the same neighborhood.
Living higher up often means a better view
That makes sense.
An upper-floor apartment or penthouse is more likely to have:
- unobstructed view;
- fewer obstacles;
- more light;
- and a better chance of having an ocean view.
But also:
- more wind;
- greater reliance on the elevator;
- and sometimes more heat on the patio.
Penthouse with a view of the sea
A penthouse is one of the most obvious types of homes for ocean views.
You may receive:
- large terrace;
- privacy;
- unobstructed view;
- solarium;
- and less direct visibility.
But be sure to check carefully:
- lift;
- dak;
- waterproofing;
- wind;
- sun protection;
- and the legal status of outdoor spaces.
Apartment with a view of the sea
A mid-floor apartment could also be a good option.
You may receive:
- enough height for a view;
- less wind than on the top floor;
- lift;
- lower price than a penthouse;
- and the same location.
Sometimes an apartment on the third or fourth floor is a more practical choice than a penthouse above it.
Villa with a view of the sea
Detached villas with ocean views can be found primarily in:
- higher-elevation coastal areas;
- hilly residential areas;
- and some residential developments further inland with a view toward the coast.
In doing so, you often have to choose between:
- view;
- height;
- and liquidity.
A home with a fantastic view may be farther from shops or the beach.
Ocean view or walking distance to the beach?
That's a classic trade-off.
A home near the beach may be located at a low elevation and have hardly any view of the sea.
A home located higher up on a hill may have a beautiful view, but:
- continue walking;
- steeper route;
- greater dependence on cars;
- and more wind.
So decide what's more important to you.
Guardamar del Segura
Guardamar del Segura might be appealing for its ocean views, especially from the higher-floor apartments and penthouses.
Guardamar combines:
- sandy beaches;
- dunes;
- pine grove;
- compact downtown;
- and various residential areas.
A home with an ocean view in the city center has a different profile than a home in a residential development.
Penthouse in Guardamar
A penthouse might be a good choice here if you:
- large terrace;
- view;
- beach nearby;
- and downtown amenities
want to combine.
Be sure to check the wind, lift, and parking lot.
La Mata
La Mata is a great choice for those looking to combine ocean views with a long sandy beach and a small coastal town.
In the higher-elevation areas toward Torreblanca, you'll find more frequent views.
Sometimes, however, there is a steeper incline.
La Mata city center or a higher-up neighborhood?
Downtown
Better for:
- beach;
- stores;
- hospitality industry;
- and walk more steadily.
Residential areas located at higher elevations
Better for:
- view;
- peace;
- and possibly larger patios.
But often, it also means greater dependence on cars.
Old Tower
Torrevieja offers a wide selection of apartments and penthouses with various types of ocean views.
Consider areas around:
- Playa del Cura;
- Playa de los Locos;
- Aguas Nuevas;
- Torreblanca
- Punta Prima;
- Los Balcones;
- and other higher-elevation areas.
The living experience varies greatly from neighborhood to neighborhood.
Playa del Cura
Here, you can live very close to the sea.
An apartment with a view can be appealing as a second home or for permanent residence.
But please note:
- urban bustle;
- parking;
- hospitality industry;
- sound;
- and maintenance of coastal structures.
Playa de los Locos
Here, too, you'll find apartments with direct or partial ocean views.
An apartment on a higher floor might be appealing, but always compare options:
- balcony area;
- lift;
- construction quality;
- and distance to everyday amenities.
Aguas Nuevas
Aguas Nuevas is located a little further from the immediate coastline, but some homes still have ocean views thanks to their elevation.
You can find more information here:
- modern apartments;
- bungalows;
- townhouses;
- and villas.
This might be of interest to those looking for more living space than what’s available in the city center.
White Tower
Torreblanca is located at a higher elevation than downtown La Mata.
That makes it more likely to have a ocean view.
At the same time, you should keep the following in mind:
- elevation differences;
- slopes;
- and distance to amenities.
Anyone who wants to live without a car needs to be especially careful here.
Punta Prima
Punta Prima is a well-known coastal area with apartments and new construction.
Homes with ocean views are often listed here.
Always verify the exact municipality and location, as the name “Punta Prima” is used quite broadly in real estate marketing.
Orihuela Costa
Orihuela Costa offers many different coastal areas where ocean views are possible.
Consider:
- Punta Prima;
- Flamenco Beach
- La Zenia;
- Cabo Roig;
- Campoamor;
- in Mil Palmeras.
Each zone has a different character.
Cabo Roig
Cabo Roig may be of interest to those looking for coastal properties, villas, and apartments.
The ocean view depends on the exact location and elevation.
Existing buildings can significantly affect the view.
Campoamor
In Campoamor, you'll find several high-rise apartment complexes that may offer ocean views.
In this case, height can actually be an advantage.
In that case, be sure to check the following:
- lift;
- wind;
- balcony;
- view lines;
- and maintenance of the building.
Saint Paul
Santa Pola offers a variety of options for ocean views.
Consider:
- Stand up;
- Santa Pola del Este;
- higher-elevation areas;
- and certain residential areas.
Santa Pola del Este may be particularly appealing to those who value a good view.
Santa Pola del Este
Altitude plays an important role here.
You may be able to combine a scenic view with a residential living environment.
But check:
- slopes;
- parking space;
- beach route;
- and everyday necessities.
Big Alicante
Gran Alacant is located on and around the elevated Cabo de Santa Pola.
As a result, there are homes with sweeping views of the coast.
However, the area also has variations in elevation.
Anyone looking for a ocean view should therefore consider the following:
- view;
- walkability;
- stores;
- beach route;
- and car dependency.
Arenales del Sol
Arenales del Sol may be of interest to apartment buyers who want to live closer to the beach.
Here you'll find many apartments and terraces with ocean views.
That's appealing for a second home.
For permanent residency, you must also evaluate year-round amenities.
La Horadada Tower
Torre de la Horadada is located in the municipality of Pilar de la Horadada and has a more intimate coastal landscape.
Ocean views are available here from certain apartments, penthouses, and beachfront homes.
Because many buildings are relatively low, a higher floor can make a strikingly big difference.
Pilar de la Horadada
Pilar de la Horadada's town center is located inland.
You usually don't have a classic ocean view there.
Anyone in this municipality looking specifically for a view of the sea is more likely to consider:
- La Horadada Tower;
- A Thousand Palm Trees;
- and other coastal areas.
Ocean view from inland
Even homes located a few kilometers from the sea can have a view.
That happens especially when they are higher up.
Consider, for example, parts of:
- San Miguel de Salinas;
- Ciudad Quesada;
- Los Balcones;
- and other hilly areas.
There, you'll sometimes find a combination of:
- zee;
- salt lakes;
- Bergen;
- and landscape.
San Miguel de Salinas
San Miguel de Salinas is located higher up and further inland.
As a result, some homes may have distant views of the coast.
That's a different kind of ocean view than a beachfront view.
You'll get a better panoramic view of the landscape, but you'll be farther from the beach.
Ciudad Quesada
Ciudad Quesada has several higher-elevation areas.
Some homes offer distant views of the surrounding area and the coast.
Be sure to carefully verify whether marketing claims such as “sea view” are actually credible.
Ocean view and salt lake view
In this region, you may also come across homes with views of salt lakes and the coastal landscape.
That might be appealing, but don't automatically call it an ocean view.
Always ask exactly which landscape features are visible.
New Construction with Ocean Views
Are you looking for modern homes with a view?
Then take a look at our newly built homes and current new construction projects.
In new construction, ocean views can be presented in an attractive way, but you need to take extra care to verify how permanent and genuine the view actually is.
The exact house number is important
Even within the same project, there can be significant differences.
For example:
- ground floor with no view;
- second floor, partial view;
- Penthouse with panoramic views.
So don't just compare at the project level.
Always ask about the specific property.
Corner house
A corner apartment may have more windows and wider views.
That could improve the ocean view.
On the other hand, there may be more wind or sun exposure.
Orientation
When it comes to ocean views, orientation is important.
Not just for what you see, but also for:
- morning sun;
- evening sun;
- believed;
- winter sun;
- and wind.
A home with a perfect view but an impractical orientation may be less comfortable than expected.
Sunrise or sunset?
On the eastern coast of Spain, the sea is generally on the eastern side.
This means that with a direct east-facing ocean view, you’ll often see the morning sun.
For spectacular evening sun, you should look for west-facing terraces or side views.
Winter Sun
This is important for those who spend the winter here.
A patio with a direct ocean view can be beautiful, but if it hardly gets any winter sun, another patio might be more practical.
So take a look at:
- patio orientation;
- height of surrounding buildings;
- and the position of the sun.
Ocean View and Wind
The more open the view, the less shelter you usually have.
That could mean:
- more wind;
- cooler evenings;
- increased load on the sunshade;
- and a terrace that's less usable on windy days.
Therefore, if possible, visit the property at different times.
Glass Curtains
Glass curtains are often installed in penthouses with ocean views.
They can help with:
- wind;
- rain;
- and cooler days.
But make sure they:
- are legally permitted;
- have been approved by the community;
- are correctly placed;
- and make sure to ventilate well.
Salt Tax
Salt and sea air primarily affect homes near the coast.
Check the following, among other things:
- metal fencing;
- hinges;
- air conditioning units;
- aluminum;
- roller shutters;
- outdoor lighting;
- and patio furniture.
A better view of the sea can sometimes literally mean more exposure.
Facade Maintenance
For an apartment building near the sea, the condition of the facade is important.
Please note:
- tears;
- rust formation;
- concrete curbs;
- painting;
- balcony;
- and previous renovations.
A beautifully renovated apartment on the inside says nothing about the building's technical condition.
Community
For apartments and penthouses, you usually pay community fees.
Ask about:
- contribution;
- reserve fund;
- lift;
- swimming pool;
- facade maintenance;
- insurance;
- scheduled work;
- and any debts.
For coastal buildings, facade maintenance can be a significant expense.
Spill
A derrama is an additional payment for special work.
For a coastal building, this could include, for example:
- facade renovation;
- dak;
- balcony repair
- lift;
- garage;
- or a swimming pool.
Ask in advance about approved or planned work.
Ocean view and parking space
At popular coastal destinations, a parking space can be especially valuable.
An apartment with spectacular views but no convenient parking may be less comfortable during the summer months.
Therefore, always check:
- private parking space;
- garage;
- on-street parking;
- and the hustle and bustle of summer.
Ocean View and Distance to the Beach
An important point:
A ocean view doesn't automatically mean the beach is within walking distance.
A home can:
- located high on a hill;
- be located above a cliff;
- are far from direct beach access;
- or are located on the other side of the main road.
Therefore, always check the actual route to the sea.
Can you see the ocean, but is it easy to get there?
That's exactly the question.
When it comes to vacation use, a view can be enough.
For someone who wants to swim or walk along the beach every day, accessibility is just as important.
Home with a ocean view without a car
That's possible, but especially in compact coastal towns.
Some interesting options might include:
- Guardamar city center;
- La Mata;
- Downtown Torrevieja;
- Saint Pol
- or certain coastal areas of Orihuela Costa.
Higher-elevation residential developments tend to offer better views but also greater dependence on cars.
Ocean View for Permanent Residence
Would you like to move to Spain permanently?
In that case, a ocean view must be part of a practical all-inclusive package.
See also:
- supermarket;
- health care;
- school;
- parking space;
- lift;
- winter sun;
- and social environment.
Over time, everyday convenience often outweighs just the view.
Ocean Views for Retirees
For people who want to spend their retirement in Spain, a ocean view can be wonderful.
But please pay special attention to the following:
- lift;
- slopes;
- stairs;
- parking space;
- groceries;
- and healthcare.
A home in an elevated location with fantastic views must also remain practical.
Health Care
How you can access the public Spanish healthcare system depends on your personal situation and coverage.
Learn more about health care in Spain and about hospitals and clinics on the Costa Blanca.
Second home with a ocean view
For a second home, a ocean view can be especially important because you want to get that vacation feeling right away during every stay.
An apartment or penthouse can be practical for the following reasons:
- low maintenance;
- patio;
- lift;
- community;
- and the view.
Villa or apartment?
Apartment with a view of the sea
This is more appropriate if you're looking for:
- coast nearby;
- patio;
- less maintenance;
- central location;
- and an elevator.
Villa with a view of the sea
This is more appropriate if you're looking for:
- privacy;
- own lot;
- private pool;
- larger outdoor space;
- and peace.
But villas with a view are often located higher up or farther from the coast.
Existing building or new construction?
Existing homes have one major advantage: you can see the view exactly as it is.
When building a new home, you should rely more on:
- site plan;
- height;
- renders;
- and project documentation.
When it comes to ocean views, existing buildings are therefore sometimes easier to evaluate.
New Construction Discount
New construction, on the other hand, can offer:
- modern patio;
- large sliding doors;
- energy performance;
- parking space;
- lift;
- communal pool;
- and a contemporary layout.
Therefore, give equal weight to location and view as you do to the year of construction.
What's included in new construction?
Always check the specifications.
Don't automatically assume that:
- air conditioning;
- equipment;
- furniture;
- parking lot;
- salvage;
- swimming pool;
- pergola;
- lighting;
- or outdoor kitchen.
The rendering often shows more than what's included in the standard package.
Off-plan with a sea view
Extra caution is needed when buying off-plan.
Have the following checked:
- specific home;
- floor;
- orientation;
- height;
- future phases;
- surrounding parcels;
- and the maximum building coverage for the residence.
Your ocean view is often a key factor in the decision to buy and therefore warrants extra scrutiny.
Key-ready
With a move-in-ready home, you can literally sit on the patio and assess:
- what you see;
- how much wind there is;
- how much privacy you have;
- how the sun shines;
- and what sounds are present.
For a home with a view, that's a big advantage.
Ocean Views as an Investment
Would you like to invest in Spanish real estate?
An ocean view may be appealing to prospective buyers or renters, but it does not guarantee a return on investment.
Also analyze:
- purchase price;
- distance to the beach;
- bedrooms;
- lift;
- parking space;
- patio;
- community;
- maintenance;
- and rental policies.
Are you paying too much for a view?
That's possible.
Therefore, compare it to similar homes:
- in the same building;
- one street over;
- lower floor;
- without a view of the sea;
- or with a side view.
This will give you a better understanding of the actual additional cost of the view.
How much is a ocean view worth to you?
Ultimately, that's a personal decision.
Perhaps the view is important to you every day.
Or maybe you hardly ever use the patio and would rather:
- larger living room;
- private pool;
- extra bedroom;
- or a better location.
Don't let marketing dictate what is valuable to you.
Vacation Rentals
Are you interested in short-term rentals?
Before purchasing, check whether this is possible for that specific property.
That may depend on:
- regulations of the Valencian Community;
- municipality;
- urban planning context;
- community;
- and registration requirements.
An ocean view makes a home more attractive, but it doesn't automatically make it rentable.
Community and Rentals
Also check the bylaws and resolutions of the homeowners' association.
Just because other residents are renting out their homes doesn't automatically mean your home has the same options.
Long-Term Rentals
For long-term tenants, other factors play a greater role.
Consider:
- lift;
- parking space;
- supermarket;
- bedrooms;
- internet;
- heating;
- and accessibility.
An ocean view is often a nice bonus, but it's not the only reason to choose a home.
How much does a home with an ocean view cost?
Quoting a general amount is of little value.
The price depends, among other things, on:
- location;
- distance from the sea;
- height;
- front or side view;
- housing type;
- new construction;
- patio;
- parking space;
- swimming pool;
- and is.
An apartment with a direct ocean view in a popular coastal area can be priced very differently from a villa inland with a distant view of the coast.
So be sure to check out our current listings.
Ocean View as Part of the Overall Budget
In addition to the purchase price, please keep the following in mind:
- purchase costs;
- community;
- renovation;
- sun protection;
- maintenance;
- parking space;
- furniture;
- and, if necessary, additional coastal maintenance.
A fantastic location may come with higher fixed costs.
Purchase Costs
When buying a house in Spain, there are additional costs on top of the purchase price.
New construction and existing buildings are treated differently for tax purposes.
In addition, costs may be a factor in the following areas, among others:
- notary;
- property registry;
- legal assistance;
- and financing.
Therefore, have a customized overall calculation prepared for each specific home.
Mortgage
Dutch and Belgian buyers can apply for a Spanish mortgage under certain conditions.
The possibilities depend, among other things, on:
- income;
- financial obligations;
- age;
- taxation;
- home value;
- and immigration status.
Learn more about a mortgage in Spain.
NIE number
To buy real estate in Spain, you need a NIE number.
An NIE is not the same as a residencia.
Learn more about NIE and residency in Spain.
Legal Review
When purchasing a home with an ocean view, a standard legal review is, of course, essential.
Have them look into the following, among other things:
- ownership;
- children;
- Land Registry;
- Census;
- living space;
- patio;
- parking lot;
- salvage;
- community;
- expansions;
- and permits.
If a ocean view is a key factor in your decision to buy, be sure to have an urban planning assessment done to determine what can still be built in front of the property.
Dutch real estate agent for a home with a ocean view
Are you looking for a Dutch real estate agent for a home with an ocean view on the Southern Costa Blanca?
Casas Palmeras assists Dutch and Belgian homebuyers in various coastal towns and residential areas.
We can make targeted comparisons between, for example:
- apartment with a view of the sea;
- penthouse with a large terrace;
- new construction with panoramic views;
- villa with a view of the coast;
- home near the beach;
- home with a direct view of the sea;
- or a home with a side view but a better location.
Read more about Casas Palmeras as a Dutch real estate agency on the Costa Blanca and about our approach.
First, decide what kind of ocean view you're looking for
Ask yourself this question beforehand:
- Should the ocean be visible from the living room?
- Is the patio big enough?
- Head-on or from the side?
- primary care?
- Is a large patio more important?
- Is the beach within walking distance?
- Would you prefer a penthouse?
- Or would you prefer a villa with a distant view of the coast?
This prevents you from paying for a marketing term that doesn't match what you're actually looking for.
Four Interesting Sea View Profiles
Penthouse near the sea
A good option for those who value a large patio, a view, and low-maintenance gardening.
Apartment on a middle or upper floor
A good option for those who want a ocean view but are looking for less wind and a lower price than a penthouse.
Villa in an elevated location
This is a great option for anyone who values privacy, their own lot, and panoramic views.
New construction with a view of the sea
This is a good option for those looking for modern finishes, a large patio, and new amenities, but who should be particularly careful to check for any future development plans.
Who is a home with a ocean view best suited for?
A home with a ocean view on the Southern Costa Blanca may be particularly appealing if you:
- want to enjoy the view every day;
- values the coastal vibe;
- is looking for a large patio;
- is buying a second home;
- want to spend the winter;
- or consider a view to be an important part of your quality of life.
But don't let a ocean view overshadow all your other housing criteria. A slightly less spectacular view with better sunlight, less wind, an elevator, a parking spot, and a supermarket nearby can ultimately make for a much more pleasant living experience.
View homes with ocean views on the Southern Costa Blanca
Would you like to know which homes with ocean views are currently available?
Then take a look at our current listings, our existing homes, the available new-construction homes, and current new-construction projects.
Would you like us to search specifically for, for example, a penthouse with a direct ocean view, an apartment near the beach, a new-construction property with panoramic views, a villa with a coastal view, or a home that combines an ocean view with an elevator, parking, and winter sun? If so, please fill out the questionnaire for your home search or feel free to contact Casas Palmeras.
Buying a home with a ocean view on the Southern Costa Blanca is primarily about the quality and longevity of the view. Check whether you can actually see the ocean from the rooms you use every day, whether the view might be obstructed by future construction, and how much wind, salt, and sun the home is exposed to. A direct ocean view isn’t automatically better than a well-sheltered side view, and a home on higher ground isn’t automatically more practical than a lower-level apartment closer to the beach and amenities. The best choice, therefore, is the home where the view, terrace, location, and everyday comfort all come together perfectly.