Manilva – guide for property buyers on the Costa del Sol
Manilva is a municipality at the western end of the Costa del Sol, in the province of Málaga, right on the border with the province of Cádiz. About 17,800 people live here, and the area is famous for the Puerto de la Duquesa marina, Moscatel vineyards and a calmer atmosphere than in Marbella.
Climate and location
The climate is Mediterranean: summers are hot and dry, and winters mild. The municipality lies on the coast and includes, among others, the towns of Sabinillas and Puerto de la Duquesa, while inland stretch the vineyards that produce the famous Moscatel wine.
What to see
The Puerto de la Duquesa marina with its restaurants, the Castillo de la Duquesa with the remains of Roman fish processing (garum), the beach in Sabinillas and the Moscatel vineyards. The Feria takes place here in August, and there are golf courses in the area.
Life here
Manilva is three different places in one. San Luis de Sabinillas is a former fishing village and growing resort with an international community, a Sunday flea market and a Blue Flag beach. Puerto de la Duquesa is a busy marina known for its restaurants and nightlife, while the white village of Manilva in the hills is calm and has a wine tradition based on Moscatel grapes. The area is described as friendly and relaxed, with a mix of Spaniards and foreigners and a mild microclimate between the Sierra Bermeja and the Strait of Gibraltar.
Property in Manilva
In Manilva you will find apartments close to the beach and the marina as well as villas in the hills with sea views. See current apartments on the Costa del Sol and houses on the Costa del Sol — the buyer pays no commission with us.
World Residence offers in Manilva
Our current offer in Manilva includes apartments from about €231k and houses from about €393k. Looking for something specific, for example within a given budget or close to the beach? Write to us and we will check what we can propose. When buying with our help you pay no commission.
See also our guides to nearby towns: Duquesa, Casares, Estepona. You will find all locations on the World Residence favourite locations page.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Manilva from the airport?
Manilva is about 90 km from Málaga-Costa del Sol airport (usually about an hour’s drive on the AP-7/A-7 motorway) and about 30 km from Gibraltar airport.
What costs should you add when buying property in Manilva?
Manilva is in Andalusia: ITP tax on a resale purchase is 7%. For new properties you pay 10% VAT and 1–1.5% AJD tax. Including the notary and the registry, costs are usually about 10–12% (resale) or 12–14% (new).
Is it worth buying property to rent out in Manilva?
Manilva attracts tourists with its marina, beaches and golf courses, so rental demand is steady, especially in summer. Short-term rentals require registration, and the homeowners’ community or the municipality may introduce restrictions – we check this before purchase.
Last updated: 15 October 2026.