Why British buyers are choosing Costa del Sol penthouses

Why British buyers are choosing Costa del Sol penthouses for 2026

British buyers are already shaping Spain’s property market for 2026, and the data points to a very clear favourite: newly built three-bedroom penthouses on the Costa del Sol.

Recent figures from Spain’s national property registrar, the Colegio de Registradores, reveal a sharp shift towards new homes. In Andalusia, new-build property sales rose by 35.8% year on year in Q3 2025, compared with an 11.4% increase in resales. This growing preference highlights buyers’ desire for modern layouts, energy efficiency and low-maintenance living.

Three bedrooms: the sweet spot for today’s buyers

Property portal idealista provides further insight into what buyers are looking for. Its Q3 2025 analysis shows that three-bedroom apartments sold faster than any other property type in Spain, with 37% spending less than a month on the market.

For British buyers in particular, three bedrooms offer flexibility: space for family visits, a home office, or the option to stay longer outside the peak holiday season. This balance of comfort and practicality makes them ideal as second homes — and increasingly, as permanent residences.

The Costa del Sol remains the clear favourite

Britons continue to top the list of foreign buyers in Spain, accounting for 13.58% of all international purchases. And when it comes to location, the Costa del Sol stands out. According to figures from leading developer Taylor Wimpey España, 75% of reservations made by British buyers are in this part of southern Spain.

With its reliable sunshine, international connectivity, established expat communities and excellent golf and beach facilities, the region remains hard to beat.

As Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director at Taylor Wimpey España, explains:

“Three-bedroom penthouses in the Costa del Sol clearly tick all the right boxes for British buyers, whether as second homes or primary residences. We anticipate strong demand for these homes during 2026, particularly in top locations close to popular beaches and golf courses, as well as to local amenities.”

Why penthouses hold particular appeal

Penthouses offer distinct advantages over other apartment types. Elevated positions typically mean better views, more natural light and a greater sense of privacy, while large terraces make the most of the Costa del Sol’s year-round sunshine. With outdoor living playing such a central role in Mediterranean lifestyles, this extra space is a major draw.

Prices for penthouse properties vary widely, making them accessible to different budgets. At Casares Beach, for example, a new three-bedroom penthouse at the Solemar development is priced from €535,000 plus VAT. Located within walking distance of both the beach and a golf course, the property features generous interiors, landscaped communal gardens and a shared swimming pool. Completion is scheduled for February 2026, allowing buyers to enjoy spring on the home’s expansive L-shaped terrace.

Further east along the coast, in San Pedro de Alcántara, Marbella, the penthouse at Mare is priced from €1.49 million plus VAT. This key-ready, fully furnished four-bedroom home offers high-end finishes, a wraparound terrace with sea views, and easy access to the beach and local amenities — a prime option for buyers seeking a more exclusive setting.

Looking ahead to 2026

With strong sales data, clear buyer preferences and continued demand from the UK, new three-bedroom penthouses on the Costa del Sol look set to remain one of Spain’s most sought-after property options in 2026. For British buyers dreaming of sun-filled living with space, comfort and long-term appeal, the numbers — and the lifestyle — speak for themselves.