Enjoy our quick guide to La Cala de Mijas, a charming village situated in Spain’s Costa del Sol.
Otherwise known as “La Cala” by the locals, it is around 25 minutes drive from Malaga International Airport. Some of its neighboring areas which are easily reachable include the towns of Fuengirola, Torremolinos, Marbella and Puerto Banus.
Children as well as the young at hearts will also find La Cala de Mijas as a delightful place with a bunch of things to see and do. These include places such as the Sea Life, Fuengirola Zoo and Tivoli World, all of which are only a couple of minutes away from the village centre.
There are also beaches, splash parks, dive centres, gymnasiums and probably every type of outdoor and indoor activity areas that will surely suit anyone’s needs and desires.
Below we feature an expat interview with Haidee Stainton of Eagle Estates who covers the La Cala de Mijas area.
Specifically, we wanted to learn from Haidee the many reasons why people should consider moving to this area and the value for money they can get once they decide to stay permanently.
Haidee, thanks for helping our readers. I guess we should start off by asking what would you say would be the advantages to living in La Cala de Mijas compared to other Costa del Sol towns?
La Cala de Mijas is a friendly local fishing village with free parking and many shops and restaurants. The beach area is well-kept and children-friendly so ideal for families.
Would the area not suit certain types of people, i.e. are there any possible downsides?
Yes families love it in La Cala and Cerros del Aguila as there are parks and children’s play areas where the parents can enjoy coffee too!
What proportion of the local population are Spanish?
About 60 percent are Spanish and also there are a large proportion of England, Scandinavian and Dutch owners.
What are your favourite things to do in the area?
The soft golden beaches is the main attraction plus the friendly atmosphere in the town is very unique and charming.
Can you give us some insider tips to the best bars or restaurants?
There is a large selection of international restaurants from Thai to seafood and Chinese to authenic Spanish cuisine, and don’t forget our local “Chiringitos” along the beach with fresh seafood catch daily and frequent live music while you sunbathe!
Are there many facilities such as doctors and dentists, shops etc?
Yes. We have everything here, the local doctors surgery is newly built and there is an English translator who will assist you on your appointment if needed. Costa del Sol Hospital is just 15 mins down the coast towards Marbella and very easy to access.
Are there smaller villages nearby that you might also recommend?
Cerros del Aguila is a Danish built Urbanisation just 5 minutes from La Cala near the Hipodromo Race Course. There are 3 restaurants and a lovely friendly atmosphere!
What are the nearest international schools and how good are they?
Between Fuengirola and Marbella, there is a selection of excellent modern international schools offering the British curriculum. St Anthony’s School is a long established primary and secondary school offering education from 3 to 18 years of age situated at the back of La Cala. Next is Calahonda International College in Calahonda offering the British National Curriculum up to Year 9.
Is crime an issue for expats?
Not really if people are sensible and no different to any other area. There is always a good police presence in La Cala de Mijas and a police station.
Is this a good time to buy and are there any repossessions or very cheap properties still available to buy?
Yes. There are still bargains available, especially if you go to surrounding villages like Cerros del Aguila where there are bank repossessions available and cheaper properties. La Cala prices are at a premium because of the facilities and the recent exposure for Elliott Wrights TV series “Playa in Marbella” which is filmed in his restaurant on the beach in La Cala.
Any tips and advice to people looking to buy in La Cala de Mijas or surrounding area?
We have competition standard golf courses at La Cala and Mijas Golf, Santana Golf and El Chaparral – these courses are available to non members and are a plus to people buying in the area.
Haidee, thank you so much for taking the time to help our readers with your experiences in Spain. If you want to contact her, you can find her details below.
Colina Park Block C-1
Cerros del Aguila
29648 Mijas Costa
Málaga, España
Tel: (0034) 95 266 8474
From UK: 01803 226377
Fax: (0034) 95 266 8479
Mobile: (0034) 696 324 421
Email: info@eagleestates.es
Web: www.eagleestates.es
Here is an interesting video showing an aerial view of La Cala de Mijas.
Contact us to be featured – we want more expat interviews for our newsletter and website. You don’t need to be an estate agent, we want to hear from anyone who lives in Spain whether you are working or retired.
John Graham says
Surprised to find that there are no Scots, Welsh or Northern Irish people living in La Cala
Gordon Ritchie says
Loads of us!