Real estate agent in Águilas

Buying a Home in Águilas – Living by the Sea in the Murcia Region

Are you interested in buying a home in Águilas? Then you’re choosing a truly Spanish coastal town in the south of the Region of Murcia, on the Mediterranean Sea.

Águilas combines beaches and coves with a city center, a promenade, a harbor, nature, culture, and everyday amenities. This makes it a very different living environment from the smaller seaside towns around the Mar Menor or the rural inland areas of Murcia.

The official tourism office lists more than 30 beaches and coves along the coast of Águilas. In addition, the Castillo de San Juan, Cabo Cope, Isla del Fraile, and El Hornillo are among the municipality’s best-known attractions.

Casas Palmeras assists Dutch and Belgian buyers with purchasing a home in Spain and can help you with both new construction and existing homes on the Costa Cálida.

Why live in Águilas?

Águilas might be of interest to people who:

• want to live right by the sea;
• I'd love to live in a real Spanish city;
• want to combine the beach with everyday amenities;
• consider water sports or diving important;
• want to be close to nature;
• and do not want to live exclusively in an international residential community.

Although Águilas attracts tourists in the summer, it is not a place that consists solely of vacation homes.

There is a true city center with everyday amenities and activities throughout the year.

Where is Águilas located?

Águilas is located in the far southwest of the Region of Murcia, close to the border with the province of Almería.

This makes it one of the southernmost coastal towns on the Costa Cálida.

Anyone who frequently drives to Alicante or the northern Costa Blanca should be aware that the distances are greater than when traveling from, for example, San Pedro del Pinatar or the city of Murcia.

If you're drawn to the southern coast of Murcia and Almería, this is a more strategic location.

Águilas is a true coastal town

One of the main advantages of Águilas is that you don't have to choose between the city and the beach.

Depending on the neighborhood, you can:

• living close to stores;
• walk to the boulevard;
• having a beach nearby;
• reach restaurants and cafes;
• and still have access to all kinds of urban amenities.

That makes Águilas an attractive option for people who want to live by the sea permanently without being completely dependent on a resort.

Beaches of Águilas

Águilas has a very diverse coastline featuring wide beaches, city beaches, smaller coves, and rocky coastal areas.

The local tourism office showcases more than 30 beaches and coves within the municipality.

That means you can choose from different types of beaches.

From an urban beach with restaurants and bars nearby to a much quieter cove outside the city limits.

Las Delicias Beach

One of the better-known city beaches is located on the east side of downtown.

Here, you'll find the boulevard, buildings, and everyday amenities relatively close by.

For people looking for an apartment by the sea but who still want to be part of the city, this type of area might be of interest.

Colonia Beach

On the west side of downtown is Playa de la Colonia.

Here, too, you'll live close to city life.

That's convenient if you're looking for a second home and don't want to use your car for every little errand.

Smaller bays

Outside the city center, the coastline becomes rougher.

There you'll find several smaller beaches and coves.

For snorkelers, divers, and people who enjoy discovering quiet beaches, that's one of Águilas's best features.

Cape Cope

Cabo Cope is located northeast of Águilas. Cabo Cope.

The official tourism website describes this area as one of the relatively unspoiled landscapes along the Mediterranean, featuring a historic watchtower, the coast, and the nearby Sierra de Almenara.

For nature lovers, this offers a stark contrast to the built-up city center.

So you can live in Águilas and reach both the city and rugged natural landscapes relatively quickly.

Isla del Fraile

Off the coast lies the distinctive Isla del Fraile.

The island is clearly visible from various parts of Águilas and, together with the coastline, forms a distinctive landscape.

The official tourism website highlights the island for, among other things, its underwater world and archaeological remains associated with a Roman salted fish production site.

The area is popular with divers and water sports enthusiasts.

San Juan de las Águilas Castle

The Castillo de San Juan de las Águilas stands above the city center.

The castle is one of the city's most important landmarks and offers views of Águilas and the Mediterranean Sea.

For visitors, it's a sight to see.

For residents, the hill also plays a major role in defining the character of the old town center.

The Stove

Águilas also has an interesting industrial heritage.

At El Hornillo there is a historic loading pier linked to the region's former mining and railroad operations.

From the lookout point at Hornillo, you can see the pier and Isla del Fraile. The official tourism website explicitly mentions this area as part of Águilas’ British and industrial heritage.

That gives the city a different character than a seaside resort that was created solely by tourism.

History and Port Life

Águilas has a long-standing connection with:

• fishing;
• shipping;
• mining;
• railroads;
• and trade.

The harbor still plays a prominent role in the cityscape.

This is appealing to those who enjoy living in a coastal town that also has its own historical identity.

Van Águilas Carnival

One of Águilas's most famous events is the Carnaval de Águilas.

The carnival is officially recognized as Fiesta de Interés Turístico Internacional and features, among other things, large parades, costumes, music, and local traditions.

For visitors, this is a spectacular time of year.

For residents, this also means:

• a lot of hustle and bustle;
• closed streets;
• music;
• events;
• and a completely different atmosphere in the city.

Anyone who wants to live in the city center needs to keep that in mind.

Living in the center of Águilas

The city center is a great place for people who like to explore on foot.

There you will find:

• stores;
• hospitality industry;
• the bank;
• pharmacies;
• boulevard;
• beach;
• and municipal facilities.

The housing inventory consists largely of apartments.

When making a purchase, we would pay particular attention to:

• lift;
• parking;
• patio;
• sound;
• orientation;
• and the condition of the building.

Living Near the Beach

Are you looking for an apartment for vacation use?

In that case, a home close to the boardwalk and the beach can be convenient.

You'll need to use your car less often, and you can easily:

• swimming;
• go grocery shopping;
• eating out;
• and hiking.

On the other hand, coastal areas can be more crowded in the summer.

Living Outside the City Center

On the outskirts of Águilas, you'll also find quieter residential areas.

Here you can take a look at the following:

• new construction;
• larger patios;
• urban developments;
• detached homes;
• and more space.

The car often becomes more important in that case.

Mazarrón Eagles?

Mazarrón and Puerto de Mazarrón are logical comparisons.

Águilas feels more like a single, compact coastal town with its own downtown area.

Puerto de Mazarrón is primarily a beach resort, while the town of Mazarrón is located further inland.

Those who like to have the city and the beach close together may find Águilas appealing.

Águilas of Cartagena?

Cartagena is much larger and more urban.

Cartagena offers:

• larger hospitals;
• more stores;
• university positions;
• larger port;
• lots of culture;
• and more urban amenities.

Águilas offers:

• a more intimate coastal lifestyle;
• more beaches and coves right around the city;
• and a calmer disposition.

Águilas of Costa Blanca Zuid?

The Southern Costa Blanca is more international.

Places such as Torrevieja, Rojales, and Ciudad Quesada have many Dutch, Belgian, British, and other foreign residents.

Águilas feels more Spanish.

If you enjoy living in a large international community, the Southern Costa Blanca might be a better fit for you.

If you're looking for a Spanish coastal town, you might find Águilas more appealing.

Águilas or the Murcia hinterland?

Even within the Region of Murcia, the differences are enormous.

Compare Águilas, for example, with Abanilla or other rural municipalities.

In Águilas, it's much more about:

• zee;
• beach;
• port;
• boulevard;
• water sports;
• and urban life.

In the interior, however, you'll find:

• fincas;
• larger plots;
• Bergen;
• agriculture;
• and much more peace and quiet.

Homes for Sale in Águilas

The housing options are varied.

You can search for, among other things:

• apartments;
• penthouses;
• townhouses;
• new construction;
• existing homes;
• villas;
• homes with ocean views;
• and apartments near the beach.

Which home is suitable depends largely on how it will be used.

Buying an Apartment in Águilas

Apartments are attractive to both permanent residents and second-home buyers.

When making a purchase, we would pay attention to:

• distance to the beach;
• patio;
• orientation;
• lift;
• parking space;
• salvage;
• community;
• and winter sun.

For vacation use, a low-maintenance apartment may be more practical than a large villa.

Penthouse in Águilas

Penthouses can be attractive for the following reasons:

• large terrace;
• view;
• outdoor space;
• and privacy.

But also check:

• wind;
• solar radiation;
• lift;
• patio maintenance;
• and condition of the roof structure.

A large rooftop terrace is beautiful, but it also needs to be properly maintained from a technical standpoint.

Buying a Villa in Águilas

If you're looking for more space and privacy, you might want to consider villas outside the compact city center.

Some of the important factors to consider when buying a villa include:

• lot;
• swimming pool;
• view;
• access;
• maintenance;
• parking;
• and distance to amenities.

If you own a second home, you should also take into account garden and pool maintenance when you’re away for an extended period.

New Construction in Águilas

In Águilas and the surrounding area, new construction projects are regularly available.

New construction can be an attractive option if you:

• modern architecture;
• recent installations;
• good energy performance;
• little direct maintenance;
• and shared facilities

considers important.

Check out our current new construction projects.

What is included in new construction?

Always check this on a project-by-project basis.

Consider:

• kitchen appliances;
• air conditioning;
• parking space;
• salvage;
• swimming pool;
• patio finishing;
• garden;
• and lighting.

Therefore, don't just compare the advertised starting price.

Existing home in Águilas

In addition to new construction, there are many existing buildings.

This might be of interest to you if:

• want to live closer to the city center;
• want immediate access to the home;
• is looking for a larger apartment;
• or are willing to modernize.

With older apartments, it's important to also take a look at the building itself.

Permanent residence in Águilas

Águilas is an attractive option for permanent residency in Spain because it is a real city and not just a vacation resort.

When choosing a home, we would consider:

• supermarket;
• medical facilities;
• school;
• public transportation;
• parking;
• internet;
• Winter Life;
• and distance from family or work.

Someone who lives there permanently has different needs than someone who only visits for six weeks a year.

Águilas for Families

For families, Águilas offers the best of both worlds: city life and the great outdoors.

Consider:

• the beach;
• schools;
• sport;
• offshore activities;
• nature;
• and local culture.

When choosing a home, the route to school and daily logistics remain important.

Health Care

Local facilities are available for daily medical care.

More complex specialized treatments may require larger regional hospitals.

Anyone who is moving permanently should make arrangements in advance regarding their access to public or private health care.

For more information, see our guide on health care in Spain.

Águilas for Retirees

For people who want to retire in Spain, Águilas may be an attractive option because:

• where;
• walk;
• facilities;
• stores;
• hospitality industry;
• and the outdoors.

When choosing a home, we would pay special attention to:

• lift;
• stairs;
• parking space;
• walking distance to the supermarket;
• medical care;
• and differences in elevation.

Water Sports in Águilas

Águilas is ideal for people who enjoy being on or in the water.

The local tourism office lists, among other things:

• diving;
• snorkeling;
• water sports;
• boating activities;
• and other nautical activities

as key components of the tourism offering.

Diving in Águilas

The rocky coastline and clear waters make Águilas a popular destination for divers.

Diving is particularly popular along parts of the coast and around Isla del Fraile.

For someone who dives regularly as a hobby, that could be a major reason to look for a home right here.

Hiking and Biking

There are opportunities on land as well.

The coastline, Cabo Cope, and the surrounding countryside offer trails for hikers and cyclists.

The municipality promotes both hiking and cycling as activities in the area.

Dining in Águilas

Because of its location by the sea, fish plays an important role in the local cuisine.

The regional tourism office lists, among other things:

• red shrimp;
• sea bass;
• sea bream;
• mul;
• tomato;
• capers;
• and Mediterranean rice dishes.

For lovers of fish and seafood, this is an important part of local life.

A second home in Águilas

Águilas might be an interesting option for a second home because there’s so much to do right in the city.

You have:

• beach;
• boulevard;
• hospitality industry;
• stores;
• nature;
• and activities

relatively close by.

For those who visit only a few weeks a year, an apartment can be a practical choice because of the lower maintenance costs.

Investing in Águilas

Would you like to invest in Spanish real estate?

Águilas has several potential rental customer groups.

Consider:

• vacationers;
• Spanish seasonal renters;
• permanent residents;
• and longer rental periods.

However, each home must be assessed individually.

Check out:

• purchase price;
• location;
• rental demand;
• response from children;
• community;
• maintenance;
• regulations;
• and future marketability.

Vacation Rentals in Águilas

An apartment near the beach might be a good option for vacation rentals.

Always check the following before making a purchase:

• whether tourist rentals are legally permitted;
• which regional registration is required;
• what municipal regulations apply;
• and whether the community has any restrictions.

Don't rely solely on a salesperson's claim that the home is "perfect for Airbnb."

How busy is Águilas in the summer?

Like many Spanish coastal towns, Águilas gets busier in the summer.

Beaches, restaurants, and boardwalks attract more visitors during that time.

That's nice when you're looking for a lively atmosphere.

If you want to live there permanently, you should therefore check out a neighborhood both before and during the high season.

Carnival and Housing Location

That's certainly true for homes in the city center.

During Carnival, the city undergoes a temporary and dramatic transformation due to large-scale festivities and parades.

Fantastic for fans.

This may not be the best choice for someone seeking absolute silence.

The exact street can therefore make a big difference.

Purchasing Costs in Murcia

When buying a home in Spain, you'll pay more than just the purchase price.

Please note:

• taxes;
• notary;
• property registry;
• legal assistance;
• and any mortgage-related costs.

New construction and existing buildings are subject to different tax regimes.

Therefore, always calculate your total purchase budget.

Mortgages in Spain

Would you like to finance part of it?

Then read more about how a mortgage in Spain works.

It is best to have your financing options reviewed before you reserve a home.

NIE for residents

To buy a home in Spain, you need a NIE number.

If you want to live in Águilas permanently, you may also need to deal with residency requirements and other administrative procedures.

For more information, see NIE and residence permit.

Buy a Home in Águilas with Casas Palmeras

Casas Palmeras assists Dutch and Belgian buyers in finding and purchasing homes in various regions of Spain, including Murcia and the Costa Cálida.

We can help with:

• choose a place of residence;
• housing selection;
• Compare new construction and existing homes;
• viewings;
• legal assistance;
• financing options;
• and guidance toward the transition.

Learn more about our approach.

Not just our own listings

We do not limit our search to just our own portfolio.

Through our network of partner real estate agents and developers, we can also include other homes and projects in Águilas.

This allows us to determine which home is truly the right fit for:

• budget;
• intended use;
• distance to the beach;
• housing type;
• and plans for the future.

Dutch Real Estate Agent for Águilas and Costa Cálida

Would you like Dutch-speaking assistance with a home in Murcia?

Casas Palmeras assists buyers interested in purchasing property on the Costa Cálida and guides them through the Spanish home-buying process in Dutch.

That's especially helpful when it comes to topics such as:

• reservation;
• contracts;
• purchase costs;
• funding;
• and legal reviews.

View properties in Águilas

Would you like to know which homes are currently available in Águilas and the surrounding area?

Then take a look at our current listings and the available new construction projects.

Would you like us to conduct a targeted search for, for example:

• apartment by the sea;
• new construction;
• penthouse with a large terrace;
• home with a view of the sea;
• villa with a pool;
• permanent residence;
• or a home within a certain overall budget?

Please fill out the questionnaire for your housing search or contact Casas Palmeras with no obligation.

Águilas is particularly appealing to homebuyers looking for an authentic Spanish coastal town rather than a resort or gated community. With more than 30 beaches and coves, the Castillo de San Juan, Cabo Cope, Isla del Fraile, water sports, and the famous carnival, the town has plenty of character. At the same time, you can live here year-round and enjoy everyday amenities. For those who want to combine the sea, Spanish city life, and nature, Águilas can therefore be a very interesting choice on the Costa Cálida.