Impact of Vacation Rentals on the Costa Calida
Costa Cálida: Striking a Balance Between Tourism and Local Life
The Costa Cálida, a quieter stretch of Spanish coastline, has become a popular destination for holidaymakers, offering a unique blend of sun, sea, and local charm. However, the region is carefully navigating the regulation of holiday rentals to ensure that the benefits they bring are not undermined.
Holiday rentals play a crucial role in accommodating families on holiday along the Costa Cálida, with few hotels on the coast. Many areas were set up specifically for holiday rentals, and their daily spend is much higher than that of locals. This contributes significantly to the local economy, with visitors spending approximately €1.6 billion in 2024, setting a new tourism record for the Region of Murcia, which welcomed 1.16 million international visitors.
The economic benefits extend beyond the tourist industry, supporting local shops, bars, restaurants, and jobs. Local tourism is characterized by family gatherings, which help maintain the region's slower pace of life. Foreign buyers and tourists focus on inland resorts and golf urbanisations, about 15 minutes from the coast, while coastal homes are largely owned by Spanish families.
In 2025, new rules require all short-term rentals to register nationally, and communities are given the power to block tourist use with a vote. This approach demonstrates the region's commitment to effective regulation, with around 200 illegal short-term rental listings having been removed, fewer than in heavily touristic regions like the Balearics or Andalucía.
However, any decisions on rental policies in the Costa Cálida affect not only the local economy but also the long-term character of these communities. The balance between residents' needs and visitors' spending is delicate. A local real estate agent, Paul, notes that some resorts were set up with holiday rentals in mind, and if demand drops, the resort shops, bars, and restaurants could close.
The Costa Cálida offers a wealth of news, articles, and events related to the region for further reading. As the region continues to grow in popularity, it will be interesting to see how it continues to strike this delicate balance between tourism and local life.
