Salobreña offers a quieter and slower paced alternative to popular spots on the Costa del Sol. Without compromising on proximity to the sea and the chilled atmosphere of beachside living, Salobreña gives expats a real Spanish seaside experience. The town is snuggled between the cultural hub of Granada with its vibrant streets filled with centuries-old stories and the stunning Alpujarras, offering snow-peaked adventures.
There aren’t many places in the world where you could be eating sardines barbecued on the beach for lunch and enjoying après ski in a world championship resort in the evening, but Salobreña is one such location. Situated less than an hour from Granada and the Sierra Nevada ski resort, this picture postcard town of the Costa Tropical is perfectly situated and completely stunning from every angle.
Living in Salobrena is truly a unique experience. From the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea to the rich history and culture that surrounds you, there’s always something to admire and appreciate.
The Costa Tropical enjoys a mild subtropical climate, with warm winters and hot summers. The average temperature ranges from 15°C in winter to 30°C in summer. This pleasant climate allows for plenty of outdoor activities and a year-round active lifestyle enjoying the fresh air.
When you’re not enjoying the outdoor lifestyle, Salobreña boasts an incredible range of delicious restaurants where you can kick back, Spanish-style with new friends and make the most of the town’s delicious cuisine and relaxed atmosphere. If you’re heading out for dinner here, bear in mind that most restaurants won’t open until 8pm, so make sure you’ve made the most of the local tapas bars during the day to keep you going until dinner!
If you’re considering the move to Salobreña, you’ll be welcomed into this stunning retreat that makes a perfect base for expats wishing to escape to the coast. The white-washed town is a friendly home for those seeking friendship and community in a traditional Spanish town with modern amenities.
Living in Salobreña: essential information
Population
The latest figures from Spain’s National Institute of Statistics (INE) show that the number of residents is 12,562 and this number has remained pretty consistent throughout the years. There is a fairly even split between males and females and the latest figures show around 12 percent of the population are foreigners. There is a significant number of people from northern European countries living in Salobreña, the majority of foreign expats in the town come from either the UK, Germany, Scandinavia.
The majority of residents are around 40 years of age with around 30% of the population aged between 35-55.
Healthcare in Salobreña
Salobreña has a public health center in the town that provides GP services and a small emergency department. A new, expanded health center is under construction and is expected to open in April 2025, offering additional services like physiotherapy, minor surgery, and ultrasound.
For more serious medical needs, the nearest public hospital is Hospital Santa Ana in Motril, about a 10-minute drive away, which provides specialist care and emergency services.
Public healthcare is free for residents or those paying into the Spanish social security system, but the level of English spoken by staff may vary.
There are also private healthcare options, including Nordic Health Care, which caters to foreigners with multilingual doctors, and other nearby private doctors and specialists in Motril and Almuñécar.
Pharmacies are conveniently located throughout Salobreña, and a rotation system ensures 24-hour emergency service.
Nearby Pradollano, Sierra Nevada
Working in Salobreña
Salobreña's job market is primarily centred around tourism and agriculture. The hospitality sector, including hotels, restaurants, and bars, offers the most employment opportunities. However, many of these businesses are small and family-run, making Spanish language proficiency essential for most positions.
For remote workers, Salobreña provides:
Internet connectivity: The town has a good internet infrastructure, with fiber-optic connections available in many areas. Installation times can vary, so it's advisable to check availability for specific locations.
Co-working spaces: There was a dedicated coworking space in Salobreña at Café Rubi which has since closed down, however, there are plenty of cafes in the town that offer wifi where you can sit and work for a couple of hours during your work day.
Remember that if you’re from outside the EU, you will need a work visa to be able to work in Salobreña. 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 Salobreña on international jobs sites such as Glassdoor and Indeed. There are also more local job forums on Facebook groups. Try joining Expats in Granada and Expats in Salobreña to see any available positions posted.
If you’re already a remote worker or self-employed, the easiest way to work in Salobreña is through the digital nomad visa.
Schools and education in Salobreña
Salobreña has plenty of school options for families to choose from both primary and secondary, bilingual, and private and public. Schools include:
CEIP Segalvina: Providing early childhood and primary education.
IES Nazari: Offers compulsory secondary education and Bachillerato programs.
For families seeking international education, nearby Almuñécar provides:
Almuñécar International School: Caters to students from infants to seniors, following the British curriculum. The school is highly rated by local expat parents and offers various after-school clubs, summer schools, and additional educational services.
Additional educational services in Salobreña include:
Guarderías (daycare/nursery schools): Several options are available for children aged 0-3 years.
After-school activities: Various clubs such as dance, football, and swimming are offered, typically around €50 per month.
Summer schools: Programs for children up to 14 years old are available, approximately €120 per month.
Getting around Salobreña and the surrounding areas is made simple with the town’s local bus system. Although the town does not have a train service, you can still easily travel between Salobreña and the major towns and cities nearby.
The town operates three bus lines connecting key areas:
Line 1: Services the beaches of Salobreña and extends to La Caleta.
Line 2: Connects the town center with the Old Town.
Line 3: Links Salobreña with the neighborhood of Lobres.
To go further afield, Salobreña is connected by the reliable ALSA bus service to nearby towns and major Andalusian cities, including Granada and Málaga. Schedules, prices, and routes can be found on their website. Journeys to both Granada and Málaga take around an hour and a half.
Granada is only an hour and a half away from Salobreña
To make it even easier to get around, 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. Learn more about driving in Spain after Brexit in our article.
Things to do in Salobreña
Discover the town’s charming history
Stroll along Salobreña’s cobblestone streets and you’ll instantly be mesmerised by the whitewashed façades framed by vibrant, pink bougainville. As you uncover more of the beautiful town, you’ll soon understand why it has been nicknamed “Jewel of the Costa Tropical.”
With the town clinging against a rock, the unique position means there are some pretty steep streets and lots of stairs leading up to the Old Town. If you can face the climb, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views over the glistening Mediterranean Sea or, if you’d rather stay on flatter ground, the New Town is nestled at the foothills with proximity to the sea and six sandy beaches.
History buffs may want to get their walking shoes on and head to the top of the hill and discover Salobreña Castle. Wander through its ancient Moorish architecture, learn about its fascinating past, and enjoy views of the coastline and Sierra Nevada. The whitewashed streets of the Old Town leading up to the castle are perfect for exploring on foot, offering a glimpse into Andalusia’s storied history.
Sun, sand, and stunning views
Salobreña’s beaches, like Playa de la Guardia and Playa del Peñon, offer a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. With a blend of pebbly and sandy shores, they provide a quintessential Mediterranean experience. Whether you’re taking a leisurely swim, trying out paddleboarding, or enjoying the seaside promenade, these beaches are ideal for soaking up the Costa Tropical sunshine. Visit in spring or autumn to enjoy quieter beaches.
Delicious local produce is every foodie’s dream
Salobreña is a paradise for foodies. From fresh seafood at beachside chiringuitos to traditional Andalusian dishes like salmorejo, there’s no shortage of culinary delights. Weekly markets are brimming with locally grown produce, including tropical fruits like avocados and mangos, thanks to the region's fertile climate. Don’t miss sampling tapas in the town’s cozy bars, including La Roka, Casa Emilio, and the beachside La Bahía.
Make the most of outdoor adventures
For those who love the outdoors, Salobreña offers scenic hiking trails in the surrounding hills and nearby Sierra Nevada. Take in the lush greenery, enjoy birdwatching, or simply marvel at the stunning views of the Mediterranean and beyond. The region is perfect for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers.
Shop and live local
Salobreña’s markets and shops are a treasure trove for unique finds. From fresh local produce at the weekly market to artisanal crafts and handmade goods, there’s always something special to take home. Exploring these markets is also a great way to mingle with locals and immerse yourself in the town’s culture.
Fiestas, flamenco, and fun
Salobreña comes alive with vibrant cultural events and festivals. Whether it’s the solemn beauty of Semana Santa or the lively summer feria, there’s always a reason to celebrate. Flamenco performances and local music events add to the town’s rich cultural tapestry, providing unforgettable experiences for visitors and residents alike.
Day trips and discoveries
Salobreña’s location makes it a perfect base for exploring the Costa Tropical and beyond. Take a short drive to Granada to marvel at the Alhambra, visit Almuñécar for its Roman aqueduct, or head to the Sierra Nevada for skiing in winter.
Expat clubs and activities in Salobreña
Salobreña boasts a welcoming expat community with various clubs and activities to help newcomers integrate and enjoy their new surroundings.
Language exchange meetups, walking groups, women's groups, yoga classes, and other social activities are regularly organized through these community platforms. The International Club of Salobreña also hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
