Golf on Costa Blanca: Best Courses and Property Nearby

Why the Costa Blanca Is a Golf Paradise

The Costa Blanca has over 20 golf courses packed into a 150-kilometre stretch of coastline between Denia in the north and Pilar de la Horadada in the south. Most are within 30 minutes of the beach. The climate delivers 300+ days of sunshine per year with mild winters that rarely dip below 10°C — meaning you can play year-round without the summer heat that makes inland Spain unbearable and without the rain that plagues northern Europe from October to April.

For golf-loving property buyers, the Costa Blanca offers something the Costa del Sol increasingly cannot: affordable property within walking distance of quality courses. A two-bedroom apartment overlooking Villamartin golf course costs €120,000–180,000. The equivalent next to Valderrama or Los Naranjos on the Costa del Sol starts at €350,000 and quickly climbs to €600,000+. The golf is comparable. The savings are not.

The Best Courses: South Costa Blanca

The southern Costa Blanca — from Torrevieja down to the Murcia border — is the heartland of affordable golf property. Four courses in the Orihuela Costa area sit within a few kilometres of each other, creating a genuine golf community.

Villamartin Golf

Established in 1972, Villamartin is the grand old course of the region. Par 72, 6,132 metres from the back tees. A mature, tree-lined course with well-maintained greens that has hosted the Mediterranean Open. The clubhouse is a social hub — the Villamartin Plaza nearby is the centre of expat life in Orihuela Costa.

• Green fees: €55–75 depending on season (winter peak is more expensive than summer, unusually)
• Membership: Full annual membership ~€1,800–2,200. Couples packages available.
• Typical handicap range: Very welcoming to all levels, strong society scene

Las Ramblas Golf

Designed by Pepe Gancedo, Las Ramblas is a hillier, more technical par 72 course. Narrower fairways and elevated greens make it more challenging than Villamartin. The back nine offers stunning Mediterranean views. At 5,641 metres it plays shorter but demands accuracy.

• Green fees: €45–65
• Membership: ~€1,500–1,900 annually
• Best feature: Holes 13–16 wind through pine-covered ravines

Real Club de Golf Campoamor

The most southerly of the Orihuela Costa trio, Campoamor is a flat, links-inspired layout designed by Pepe Gancedo. Par 72, 6,222 metres. Wide fairways and strategic bunkering make it the most forgiving course in the area, popular with higher handicappers and holiday golfers. The course runs through the Dehesa de Campoamor urbanisation.

• Green fees: €45–65
• Membership: ~€1,400–1,800 annually
• Multi-course deals: Packages covering Villamartin, Las Ramblas, and Campoamor from €120 for 3 rounds

Las Colinas Golf & Country Club

The jewel of the south. Opened in 2010, Las Colinas is a Cabell Robinson design set in a nature reserve near San Miguel de Salinas. Par 71, 6,301 metres. It has been ranked among the top 5 courses in Spain by multiple publications. Immaculate conditioning, dramatic elevation changes, and the kind of landscaping that makes you feel you are playing a private resort course. This is the course serious golfers gravitate toward.

• Green fees: €80–130 (premium pricing reflects the quality)
• Membership: Full membership from ~€3,500–5,000 annually
• On-site property: Luxury villas and apartments within the resort from €280,000 (apartments) to €800,000+ (villas)

La Marquesa Golf

Located in Ciudad Quesada, La Marquesa is a pleasant 18-hole par 72 course popular with the large British and Scandinavian community in the Rojales/Quesada area. Not the most challenging course, but well-maintained, affordable, and very social. The adjacent urbanisation makes it ideal for golf-and-property buyers on a budget.

• Green fees: €35–55
• Membership: ~€1,200–1,600 annually
• Budget pick: Most affordable course in the area with a friendly atmosphere

The Best Courses: Alicante and Mid-Costa Blanca

Alenda Golf

A 27-hole complex south of Alicante city, designed by Roland Favrat. Three loops of 9 holes offer variety. The course winds through almond groves and offers mountain views. It is the most accessible course for anyone based in Alicante city or Elche. Good practice facilities and a driving range.

• Green fees: €40–60
• Membership: ~€1,400–1,800 annually
• Best for: Alicante city residents who want a quick drive to a round

El Plantio Golf

Another Alicante-area course, El Plantio offers a compact 18-hole par 72 plus a 9-hole par 3 course. Close to Alicante-Elche airport, it is popular with visitors and residents alike. The course is relatively flat and walkable — a good option for older golfers or those who prefer not to use a buggy.

• Green fees: €35–55
• Membership: ~€1,200–1,500 annually
• Practical advantage: 10 minutes from the airport — play a round before your flight

The Best Courses: North Costa Blanca

La Sella Golf Resort

In Denia, La Sella is a 27-hole complex designed by Jose Maria Olazabal (9 holes) and the original 18 by Javier Arana. Set against the Montgo mountain, the scenery is spectacular. The Olazabal-designed holes are particularly well-regarded. The resort includes a Marriott hotel and has a more upmarket feel than the southern courses.

• Green fees: €50–80
• Membership: ~€1,800–2,500 annually
• Setting: Mountain backdrop makes it one of the most scenic courses on the entire coast

Club de Golf Javea

A 9-hole course (par 68 off two loops) set in the hills above Javea with views of the Montgo and the Mediterranean. It is a members' club with a strong social scene. What it lacks in length it compensates with character, tricky greens, and one of the best 19th holes (clubhouse terraces) on the Costa Blanca.

• Green fees: €40–60 for visitors (limited tee times)
• Membership: ~€1,600–2,200 annually. Waiting list during peak season.
• Character: A proper members' club with a warm, social atmosphere

Altea Hills (Club de Golf Don Cayo)

A 9-hole par 33 course perched in the hills above Altea with breathtaking views of the coast, Calpe's Ifach rock, and the Serra Gelada. Not a championship course by any measure, but the setting is extraordinary. Popular with residents of the exclusive Altea Hills urbanisation.

• Green fees: €35–50
• Membership: ~€1,000–1,400 annually
• The view: Arguably the most scenic golf setting on the Costa Blanca, if not all of Spain

Property Near Each Course: What It Costs

The price gap between south and north is dramatic. In Orihuela Costa you can buy a golf-adjacent apartment for under €100,000. In Javea or Altea, similar proximity costs twice that or more. The golf itself is comparable — the price difference reflects the general desirability and exclusivity of the northern coast, with its more mountainous terrain, smaller developments, and wealthier demographic.

The Golf Season: October to May

This is counterintuitive for newcomers: the best golf season on the Costa Blanca is autumn through spring — the opposite of the tourist beach season. From October to May, temperatures range from 12–25°C, courses are in peak condition after the autumn rains, and green fees are often at their highest because this is when the golf tourists arrive.

Summer (June–September) is technically playable but uncomfortable. Temperatures regularly hit 35°C+ and courses dry out despite irrigation. Most serious golfers avoid afternoon rounds in July and August. Many courses offer reduced twilight rates from 2pm in summer simply to fill tee sheets.

This creates an interesting opportunity for property investors: your golf property is most in demand during the months when beach-only properties sit empty. A two-bedroom near Villamartin can rent for €600–900/month on a winter let to golf tourists — typically retired northern Europeans who book 2–6 month stays. This is lower-intensity, lower-cost rental income compared to summer tourist lets, but the season is longer and the tenants are lower-maintenance.

Comparison with the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol markets itself as the "Costa del Golf" with good reason — it has more courses (70+), more prestigious names (Valderrama, Finca Cortesin, Real Club de Sotogrande), and a longer history of golf tourism. But the comparison is not as one-sided as the marketing suggests:

The Costa del Sol wins on prestige, variety, and infrastructure. The Costa Blanca wins on value — both for playing golf and for buying property. If you want to play a different course every day of the month, choose the Costa del Sol. If you want affordable property near quality courses where you will play regularly, the Costa Blanca offers significantly better value for money.

Golf Community and Social Life

Golf on the Costa Blanca is as much about community as it is about the sport. The southern courses especially have a thriving society scene:

• Golf societies: There are dozens of informal golf societies operating around Orihuela Costa and Torrevieja. Most meet weekly, organise competitions with modest entry fees (€5–15), and finish with lunch at the clubhouse. They are the fastest way to build a social circle when you move to the area.
• Multi-nationality: You will find British, Scandinavian, Dutch, German, Belgian, and Irish golfers — plus a growing number of Spanish players. Most societies operate in English, but the atmosphere is international.
• Couples golf: Many societies welcome non-playing partners for the social element. Several courses run ladies' sections and mixed events.
• Competition calendar: The Orihuela Costa courses run a full calendar of open competitions, charity events, and inter-club matches. Las Colinas hosts regional and national amateur events.
• The 19th hole: Villamartin Plaza, adjacent to the golf course, is the social centre of the southern Costa Blanca. Restaurants, bars, and cafes fill with golfers from late morning. It is a community gathering point that extends well beyond golf.

For retirees and semi-retired buyers, this social infrastructure is often more important than the golf itself. Buying near a golf course is buying into a ready-made community — something that can be difficult to find when moving to a new country.

Practical Tips for Golf Property Buyers

• Try before you buy: Rent near your preferred course for 2–3 months during winter golf season. Play the courses, meet the societies, and see if the community fits before committing.
• Frontline golf premium: Properties directly overlooking a fairway or green command a 15–30% premium over comparable properties 500 metres away. Decide whether that view is worth the extra cost — or the occasional golf ball through your window.
• Buggy storage: If you plan to own a golf buggy, check your property has garage or storage space. Some apartment complexes have buggy parking. Buggy paths connect many urbanisations to the courses directly.
• Multi-course passes: If you play regularly, membership at one course plus green fee deals at neighbouring courses is more economical than paying visitor rates everywhere. Some courses offer reciprocal arrangements.
• Resale value: Golf-adjacent property has historically held its value better than non-golf property in the same area. The Villamartin and Las Ramblas urbanisations weathered the 2008–2014 crash better than many surrounding areas.
• Rental potential: Golf properties rent well from October to May — precisely the season when beach-only properties struggle. A combined beach-and-golf location (Orihuela Costa sits 5–10 minutes from the coast) offers year-round rental potential.

Key Takeaways

• The Costa Blanca has 20+ golf courses with green fees from €35–130 — significantly cheaper than the Costa del Sol.
• Property near golf courses starts from €79,000 (La Marquesa) to €280,000+ (Las Colinas) for apartments.
• The golf season runs October–May, which complements the summer beach rental season for investors.
• Orihuela Costa (Villamartin, Las Ramblas, Campoamor) is the sweet spot for affordable golf-adjacent property with a thriving social scene.
• Las Colinas is the premium choice — a top-5-in-Spain course with resort property from €280,000.
• Golf societies and community life are a major draw for retirees and lifestyle buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Best Courses: South Costa Blanca?

The southern Costa Blanca — from Torrevieja down to the Murcia border — is the heartland of affordable golf property. Four courses in the Orihuela Costa area sit within a few kilometres of each other, creating a genuine golf community. Villamartin Golf Established in 1972, Villamartin is the grand old course of the region. Par 72, 6,132 metres from the back tees. A mature, tree-lined course with well-maintained greens that has hosted the Mediterranean Open. The clubhouse is a social hub — the Villamartin Plaza nearby is the centre of expat life in Orihuela Costa.

The Best Courses: Alicante and Mid-Costa Blanca?

Alenda Golf A 27-hole complex south of Alicante city, designed by Roland Favrat. Three loops of 9 holes offer variety. The course winds through almond groves and offers mountain views. It is the most accessible course for anyone based in Alicante city or Elche. Good practice facilities and a driving range. Green fees: €40–60 Membership: ~€1,400–1,800 annually Best for: Alicante city residents who want a quick drive to a round

El Plantio Golf Another Alicante-area course, El Plantio offers a compact 18-hole par 72 plus a 9-hole par 3 course. Close to Alicante-Elche airport, it is popular with visitors and residents alike. The course is relatively flat and walkable — a good option for older golfers or those who prefer not to use a buggy.

The Best Courses: North Costa Blanca?

La Sella Golf Resort In Denia, La Sella is a 27-hole complex designed by Jose Maria Olazabal (9 holes) and the original 18 by Javier Arana. Set against the Montgo mountain, the scenery is spectacular. The Olazabal-designed holes are particularly well-regarded. The resort includes a Marriott hotel and has a more upmarket feel than the southern courses. Green fees: €50–80 Membership: ~€1,800–2,500 annually Setting: Mountain backdrop makes it one of the most scenic courses on the entire coast

Club de Golf Javea A 9-hole course (par 68 off two loops) set in the hills above Javea with views of the Montgo and the Mediterranean. It is a members' club with a strong social scene. What it lacks in length it compensates with character, tricky greens, and one of the best 19th holes (clubhouse terraces) on the Costa Blanca.

Property Near Each Course: What It Costs?

CourseNearest TownApartment FromVilla FromOn-Course Property VillamartinOrihuela Costa€89,000€220,000€120,000–180,000 Las RamblasOrihuela Costa€95,000€240,000€130,000–200,000 CampoamorDehesa de Campoamor€99,000€250,000€140,000–220,000 Las ColinasSan Miguel de Salinas€280,000€550,000€280,000–800,000+ La MarquesaCiudad Quesada€79,000€190,000€95,000–160,000 AlendaMonforte del Cid€110,000€230,000€130,000–200,000 El PlantioAlicante€120,000€260,000N/A La SellaDenia€170,000€350,000€200,000–450,000 Golf JaveaJavea€195,000€420,000N/A Don Cayo / Altea HillsAltea€220,000€500,000€350,000–900,000

The price gap between south and north is dramatic. In Orihuela Costa you can buy a golf-adjacent apartment for under €100,000. In Javea or Altea, similar proximity costs twice that or more. The golf itself is comparable — the price difference reflects the general desirability and exclusivity of the northern coast, with its more mountainous terrain, smaller developments, and wealthier demographic.

The Golf Season: October to May?

This is counterintuitive for newcomers: the best golf season on the Costa Blanca is autumn through spring — the opposite of the tourist beach season. From October to May, temperatures range from 12–25°C, courses are in peak condition after the autumn rains, and green fees are often at their highest because this is when the golf tourists arrive. Summer (June–September) is technically playable but uncomfortable. Temperatures regularly hit 35°C+ and courses dry out despite irrigation. Most serious golfers avoid afternoon rounds in July and August. Many courses offer reduced twilight rates from 2pm in summer simply to fill tee sheets.