Calpe is a popular coastal town on the northern Costa Blanca in the province of Alicante. The town combines beaches, a lively promenade, impressive nature and an extensive range of amenities. This makes Calpe attractive for permanent living, a second home or property investment in Spain.
For anyone considering Moving to Spain and looking to live close to the sea without choosing a very large city, Calpe offers an appealing balance. Would you like to explore current properties? Take a look at Find your dream Home.
Calpe is situated on the northern Costa Blanca between Altea and Moraira. Benidorm, Benissa and Jávea are also easy to reach.
Approximate distances are:
The AP-7 and N-332 provide good connections to other locations along the Costa Blanca.
If you would like to compare several destinations first, visit our Areas page.
Calpe enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. Outdoor living can therefore be enjoyed during much of the year.
Summer temperatures regularly reach around 30°C, while winters are considerably milder than in Northern Europe. This makes Calpe attractive to permanent residents, holiday-home buyers and winter visitors.
For inspiration about different coastal regions, see Spain's most beautiful Costa's.
Calpe has an international population and has attracted residents from various European countries for many years. This is reflected in the wide range of restaurants, services and amenities available.
At the same time, the town has retained a distinctly Spanish character, particularly in its historic centre and during local fiestas.
If you are considering a permanent move, our Emigration checklist can help you organise the most important practical matters.
Calpe has a long history with influences from different periods. In and around the old town, you will find traditional streets, remnants of old walls and historic buildings.
Moros y Cristianos is one of the better-known local celebrations. During these festivities, music, traditional clothing, processions and history come together.
To discover more about the town, read Discover Calpe, a vibrant coastal town on the Costa Blanca.
Calpe's most famous landmark is undoubtedly the Peñón de Ifach. This impressive rock rises high above the Mediterranean and forms part of a protected natural area.
For walkers, the area offers impressive views across Calpe, the coast and the surrounding mountains.
For more outdoor inspiration, see Hiking and biking on the Costa Blanca - Discover the best of Spain on foot or by bike.
Calpe has several beaches and smaller coves. Playa de la Fossa and Playa Arenal-Bol are among the best known.
These beaches are close to restaurants, shops and promenades, making it easy to combine a day by the sea with other activities.
For more beach inspiration, take a look at The best Blue Flag beaches on the Costa Blanca - Your guide to worry-free beach days.
One of the best things about Calpe is the variety. You can walk near the Peñón de Ifach in the morning, have lunch by the harbour and end the afternoon on the beach.
If you would also like to explore other attractive places nearby, consider Alfaz del Pi, L'Alfàs Del Pi and Finestrat.
For more ideas for days out, see Day trips Costa Blanca.
Life in Calpe is relaxed but lively. The town offers enough amenities for both holidaymakers and permanent residents.
You will find:
If you enjoy Spanish markets, take a look at Markets on the Costa Blanca.
Anyone living permanently in Calpe will need to understand the Spanish healthcare system. Various medical services are available in the town and surrounding areas, while larger hospitals are accessible from Calpe.
On Healthcare in Spain, we explain how the system works. You can also consult Hospitals, clinics, and Dutch doctors on the Costa Blanca.
Families with children will find Spanish schools in Calpe and the surrounding area. International and private schools are also available across the wider northern Costa Blanca.
More information is available on Education in Spain.
The Calpe property market is highly varied. Buyers can find:
For buyers interested in modern homes, New build on the Costa Blanca may also be useful.
Altea has a more artistic and traditional character, with a well-known historic centre. Calpe is larger, has wider beaches and a broader selection of apartments and tourist amenities.
Moraira is smaller and has a more exclusive character. Calpe offers more urban amenities and a wider variety of properties and restaurants.
Benidorm is considerably larger and busier, with far more nightlife. Calpe feels calmer and more compact while still offering plenty of amenities.
Calpe may be particularly attractive to:
If you are considering your Retirement in Spain, Calpe may appeal because of its combination of climate, amenities and coastal location.
Calpe may be less suitable for those who:
In those cases, smaller coastal towns or inland locations may be a better fit.
Yes. Calpe is located on the Mediterranean and has several beaches and coves.
Yes. Its wide range of shops, healthcare facilities, restaurants, schools and everyday amenities makes Calpe suitable for year-round living.
Yes, particularly during the summer months. At the same time, Calpe has a sizeable year-round resident population.
Yes. The beaches, climate, sea-view properties, amenities and accessibility make Calpe popular with international property buyers.
When buying a property in Calpe, it is important to consider not only the type of home but also the exact area. Living near the beach, in the centre or in a hillside villa area can result in very different lifestyles.
Read more about the purchase process on Buying a house in Spain. If you need an NIE or plan to become a resident, see NIE & Residency in Spain.
Casas Palmeras Real Estate assists buyers looking for property in Calpe and other parts of the Costa Blanca.
On Our working method, you can see how we guide clients from the initial search and viewings through to the final purchase and completion.
To learn more about us, visit About us and read previous clients' experiences in our Testimonials.
If you are specifically looking for a Real estate agent on the Costa Blanca, Casas Palmeras helps international buyers find a property that suits their wishes, budget and future plans.
Calpe is a versatile coastal town offering both lively surroundings and impressive nature. Its beaches, Peñón de Ifach, extensive amenities and international community make the town suitable for many different types of property buyers.
Anyone who wants to live close to the sea but prefers more amenities than a small coastal village can offer should certainly consider Calpe when searching on the northern Costa Blanca.