Steve's World Blog Information and articles on cities, towns and villages around the world.

An extremely popular area for relocation and holidays on the Costa Blanca, especially with the Brits, La Marina is basically split into two distinct parts, the old coastal town and beach area, and the purpose built residential development, a short distance inland on the other side of the main coastal road the N-332. The coastal part of the town has some fantastic sandy beaches, which even in the peak season are so big that they never get packed, and you can always find a spot away from the crowds, to enjoy the sunny weather. The town itself has the usual rows of shops, banks, bars and restaurants, just a run of the mill coastal town. The residential development across the road has one of the largest concentrations of expats in Spain, it’s a bit like little Britain here, with a smattering of Germans and others, and even the odd Spanish person! The La Marina urbanization has all its own amenities, making it pretty much self sufficient, and of course there are a glut of rental properties in the area, though if you are thinking of renting there, you will certainly need a car to get to the beach. A good option is to rent a villa with pool, so that most day you can simply laze by the pool, cook on the barbeque and make the most of the superb weather conditions that are enjoyed here throughout the year. With a car you will be able to get out and about and visit the numerous coastal resorts, as well as attractions like the Rio Safari park, between Santa Pola and Elche, you can also get to local golf courses, of which there are plenty in the area. Don’t forget a trip into the city of Alicante, where the best shopping area can be found, and for culture maybe a visit to the Santa Barbara Castle. La Marina is surrounded by some charming little towns and villages such as Daya Vieja, Daya Nueva, Almoradi, Algorfa, Rojales, Formentera del Segura, San Fulgencio and Catral. All have been developed to a degree and if you are looking to buy property, there are plenty of villas and apartments for sale. Certainly worth a look if you are touring the Costa Blanca, La Marina will be waiting for your visit.

La Marina Map.