Unlike the more commercialised Costa del Sol, Almuñécar retains a strong Spanish character, especially in the town centre. This provides a more authentic experience for those looking to immerse themselves in Spanish culture. The town is surrounded by hills and mountains, offering picturesque views and opportunities for rural walks. Promenade walks along the coastline are very popular here, and at certain times of the year its quite common to catch a glimpse of dolphins.
The town has a wide variety of restaurants, coffee shops & tapas bars. Going for breakfast is “a thing.” Most of the locals go for a tostada and coffee in the morning, and it´s super cheap at about 3€ per head.
Buzzy café at Plaza Higuitos in the centre of Almuñécar
The area offers a reliable, sun-drenched climate. July and August bring intense heat and a significant influx of tourists, transforming the town into a vibrant but sometimes crowded destination. During these peak months, expect bustling streets, packed supermarkets, and limited parking – a lively seasonal challenge for potential property buyers.
Almuñécar serves as an excellent base for exploring the region, with easy access to cultural and shopping hubs like Granada and Malaga (both about an hour's drive away). The Sierra Nevada ski resort is also within reach for winter sports enthusiasts.
Living in Almuñécar means enjoying a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle with a mix of local traditions and modern amenities. The town is known for its festivals, beach life, and rich agricultural produce, including tropical fruits like mangoes and avocados, which you can grow in your garden if you’re green fingered.
Living in Almuñécar: Essential Information
Population
Almuñécar coastline looking East
The latest figures from Spain’s National Institute of Statistics (INE) show that the number of residents is 27,305 and this number has been steadily growing in recent years. There is a fairly even split between males and females and the latest figures show around 17 percent of the population are foreigners, with around 80 different nationalities calling Almuñécar home. Of those, the majority are of Moroccan nationality. There is also a community of expats from northern Europe too.
The majority of residents here average just under 40 years of age, while nearly a quarter of residents are under 20 years with just 14 percent over retirement age.
Healthcare in Almuñécar
There are two public health centres in Almuñécar - one in the centre and one in La Herradura. These centres provide GP services and have small A&E departments.
For more serious medical issues, the nearest public hospital is Hospital Santa Ana in Motril, about a 20-minute drive away. This hospital offers specialist services and emergency care.
Public healthcare is free for residents or those paying into the Spanish social security system. However, the level of English spoken by staff can vary. There are also several private healthcare options in the area, including private doctors, specialists in Motril and Nerja, and medical services aimed at foreigners, including several private doctors available locally, and private specialists available in Motril and Nerja. Medical services aimed at foreigners include: Almusalud, Clinica Nieuwpoort, Clinica Bellas Nieto and the Vithas Nerja Medical Centre.
Dental care is readily available with multiple dentists in Almuñécar. A hygienist appointment typically costs around €50-60. There's also a popular Danish-English Speaking Dentist in nearby Maro: DentaDanés Maro.
Numerous pharmacies are located throughout the town, with a 24-hour emergency service rotation in place.
The Incarnation Church in Almuñécar
Working in Almuñécar
Employment opportunities in Almuñécar are limited, with most businesses being small and family-run. Spanish language skills are generally necessary for finding work. The main employment sector is hospitality.
For remote workers, Almuñécar offers: Good internet connection in town (some areas still without fibre) Typical costs: €70/month for landline, fiber internet, and 2 mobile phones Co-working spaces available in Almuñécar and nearby La Herradura Remember that if you’re from outside the EU, you will need a work visa to be able to work in Almuñécar. It’s highly unlikely you’ll be sponsored for a visa for many of these positions, so you’ll need to find a way of legally moving to Spain with work permission first.
You can find jobs in Almuñécar on international jobs sites such as Glassdoor and Indeed. There are also more local job forums on Facebook groups. Try joining Expats in Granada to see any available positions posted.
One of the easiest ways to be able to get permission to work in Almuñécar is through the Spanish digital nomad visa, which enables you to be self-employed. While it may be possible to work from one of the several cafes with free wi-fi in the town, the most reliable option with fast internet, where you’re not going to get kicked out in favour of other customers, is to join a co-working space. One of the main ones here is Spacio-Lab Co-working Almuñécar, which offers desk spaces and private offices. They can be rented monthly, weekly or even daily.
Schools & Education in Almuñécar
Spanish school children on a school trip to the local cathedral
There are also two international schools in Almuñécar or nearby. Almuñécar International School (all ages from infants to seniors) is very highly rated by local expat parents, it follows the British curriculum and offers various after-school clubs, summer schools, and extra educational services. Novaschool Añoreta is another option, based in Malaga, with an easy bus route through Almuñécar & Nerja.
Other educational services in Almuñécar: - 2-3 guardería (creche) options in town - Various after-school clubs (dance, football, swimming, etc.) - around €50/month - Summer schools for kids up to 14 years old (€120/month approx.)
Almuñécar does not have a train service, but it does have a local blue bus system for in-town routes and coach services to the surrounding towns of Granada, Malaga, and other destinations. Many locals use scooters, especially during the summer months.
Car ownership is recommended for greater freedom and access to the surrounding areas. Although a lot of locals move around on motorbike (scooter style) especially in summer time as it is easier to park. Buses from Granada Bus Station to Almuñécar Bus Station run around 9 times per day from 7 AM to 8 PM, and there are approximately 6 buses per day between Malaga and Almuñécar, a journey that takes one hour.
Things to do in Almuñécar
Sun, sand, & seaside shenanigans
Almuñécar's gorgeous beach
While Almuñécar's beaches are pebbly, they offer a quintessential Mediterranean experience. The Costa Tropical coastline provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation, water sports, and soaking up the Spanish sun. There are boules courts on the beach and pretty seaside promenades to wander along too. Pro tip: avoid July and August if you dislike crowded shores.
A foodie's garden of Eden
The fruit options in Granada province
For property buyers with a passion for fresh produce and cooking, Almuñécar is nothing short of a gastronomic haven. The region's fertile soil and ideal climate make it a dream for gardeners, with homegrown oranges, avocados, and an incredible variety of fruits and vegetables practically growing themselves. Imagine stepping into your garden to pick sun-ripened produce for lunch – plump tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and exotic fruits are all within easy reach. Local greengrocers supplement home gardens with an abundance of fresh ingredients, turning every meal into a celebration of local, seasonal bounty.
Sweat, play, repeat: Your fitness playground
Improve your tennis game in Almuñécar
Almuñécar is a paradise for sports enthusiasts. Padel, the region's favorite racquet sport, takes centre stage with numerous courts available for hire. Multiple gyms, including a municipal facility with a swimming pool, cater to fitness lovers. Cycling and tennis clubs and water sports provide additional ways to stay active and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle. Check out the pmd.Almunecar website for more information.
Dance the day (and night) away
Learn to salsa!
The town pulses with rhythmic energy, offering vibrant dance experiences. Local nightclubs host exciting Bachata and Salsa events, while a dedicated dance school provides classes for both adults and children.
Festivals & fireworks
Almuñécar's spectacular fireworks display, which takes place in mid August
Traditions run deep in Almuñécar. Experience the magic of Easter and Christmas processions, or join the beach camping celebration of San Juan in June. August brings a spectacular fireworks display for the Virgin del Carmen, accompanied by an annual fair complete with rides, music concerts, and local festivities.
Time travel and cultural treasures
View of historic Saint Michael castle
History buffs and culture lovers will delight in Almuñécar's attractions. Visit the imposing castle, explore the botanical gardens nestled below, and discover the fascinating Roman fish factory ruins. La Casa de la Cultura hosts a year-round calendar of events, from flamenco performances to theatrical productions and concerts.
Family fun: From waterslides to bowling alleys
There's plenty of family fun to be had at the waterpark
Almuñécar offers endless family entertainment. The Aqua Tropic Water Park boasts 14 thrilling seawater attractions, with entry priced at just 15€ for kids and 21€ for adults. Summer schools provide affordable childcare, running from 9-3pm at a bargain 120€ per month. For evening entertainment, the local marina between Almuñécar and La Herradura features a bowling alley, ensuring fun for all ages.
Expat clubs and activities in Almuñécar
Almuñécar by night
Almuñécar has a growing expat community, with various clubs and activities to get involved in. Facebook groups like Almuñécar Community and Costa Tropical Local Info Group are great resources for connecting with other expats, finding local events, and seeking advice.
Language exchange meetups, walking groups, women's groups, yoga classes, and other social activities are regularly organized through these community platforms. The local theatre, La Casa de la Cultura, also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including plays, flamenco performances, and concerts.
