North Costa Blanca

Moraira

Quiet luxury on the Costa Blanca North

Population
≈ 14,000 (Teulada–Moraira)
Climate
Mediterranean · WHO-rated one of the world's healthiest climates
Nearest airport
Alicante–Elche (ALC) — 90 km / Valencia — 110 km
Known for
Luxury villas, Blue Flag beaches, fine dining, marina

Welcome to Moraira

Moraira is the discreet, low-rise enclave of the Costa Blanca — by local planning law no building exceeds four storeys. Originally a small fishing village, it has become one of the most desirable addresses on the Spanish coast, with a 16th-century watchtower, a sheltered marina and some of the cleanest waters in the Mediterranean.

Who it's ideal for

  • High-end retirees and second-home buyers
  • Families seeking safety and international schools
  • Sailing and golf enthusiasts
  • Long-term residents wanting quality over quantity

At a glance

Region
North Costa Blanca
Area
32 km²
Population
≈ 14,000 (Teulada–Moraira)
Languages
Spanish, Valencian, English, German, Dutch, French

History & heritage

Originally part of Teulada, the village grew up around the Castell de Moraira, an 18th-century watchtower built to defend against Berber pirates. The wine-growing tradition (Moscatel) dates back centuries — the annual grape harvest festival is still a highlight.

Lifestyle

Refined, residential, family-oriented. Long lunches at the port, sailing in the bay, golf at nearby Ifach and Jávea, sunset drinks at one of the cliff-top restaurants. Crime is virtually non-existent.

Best beaches

Playa de l'Ampolla

Sheltered sandy bay in the town centre, Blue Flag, ideal for young families.

Platgetes

Series of small pebble coves between Moraira and Calpe — pristine water.

El Portet

Postcard-perfect horseshoe bay with shallow turquoise water and beachfront restaurants.

Top things to do in Moraira

  • 1.Sundowners at the Castell de Moraira on the seafront
  • 2.Friday market — one of the largest on the coast
  • 3.Hike Cap d'Or to the watchtower for sea views
  • 4.Wine tasting at the local Moscatel bodegas
  • 5.Sail or charter a boat from the marina (620 berths)

Where to eat & drink

Punches above its size with multiple acclaimed restaurants, beachfront chiringuitos and a serious wine culture built around local Moscatel.

Signature dishes
Arròs del senyoretEspencatMistela (local fortified wine)Coca de mullador

Where to stay

Boutique inventory rather than mega-resorts — small hotels, villa rentals and aparthotels. Luxury villas with private pools dominate the rental market.

Living in Moraira

Healthcare

Local health centre in Teulada–Moraira; private clinics and the Hospital HLA San Carlos in Dénia (20 min) and Marina Salud public hospital.

Schools & education

Excellent access to international schools: Lady Elizabeth, Xabia International College, Sierra Bernia, all within 15–25 minutes.

Transport

No train station — A-7 / N-332 motorway access; nearest TRAM station Calpe (15 min). Alicante airport 1h, Valencia 1h15.

Safety

Among the safest municipalities in Spain — extremely low crime.

Shopping

Friday market is legendary, plus boutique shops, multiple supermarkets (Mercadona, Pepe la Sal, Masymas) and easy access to Benidorm and Dénia retail.

Expat community

Probably the most international town on the coast: more than 60% of residents are foreign — Germans, British, Dutch, Belgians, Swiss, Scandinavians and increasingly French and Americans.

Property & investment

Market overview

One of the most expensive markets on the Costa Blanca. Premium urbanisations include El Portet, Pla del Mar, La Sabatera, Solpark and Benimeit.

Price range

Apartments from €250k; townhouses €350–700k; villas €600k to €10M+.

Rental market

Premium short-term holiday rental market; strong yields for quality villas with pools.

Business opportunities

Real estate, luxury services, hospitality, marine services and increasingly digital nomad infrastructure.

Events & festivals

June

Moors and Christians

Lavish parades and a beach landing re-enactment.

Easter Monday

Fira i Porrat (Sant Vicent)

Traditional Teulada fair.

August

Moscatel Harvest

Wine harvest celebrations in Teulada.

Nearby towns

Continue exploring the North Costa Blanca.