Imagine owning a sun-drenched apartment just minutes from the beach, renting it out during the busy summer months at premium rates, then enjoying it yourself when the crowds have gone and prices are at their lowest. This isn't a dream—it's a proven investment strategy that thousands of Northern Europeans are already using on Spain's Costa Blanca South.
The High-Season Rental Advantage
The summer months from June to September see Costa Blanca South flooded with tourists seeking sun, sea, and affordable holidays. During this peak period, weekly rental rates can reach €800-1,200 for a well-located two-bedroom apartment. Just 12-16 weeks of high-season rentals can generate €10,000-15,000 in gross income—often enough to cover annual mortgage payments, community fees, and maintenance costs.
The math is compelling: a property purchased for €150,000 generating €12,000 annually in rental income represents an 8% gross yield. Factor in that you're also saving €3,000-5,000 per year by not booking hotels for your own holidays, and the true return becomes even more attractive.
Location Is Everything
Not all areas offer the same rental potential. The most successful rental properties combine beach proximity, good amenities, and transport links. Equally important: if you plan to use the property yourself during the quieter months, you'll want somewhere that doesn't completely shut down in winter.
Playa Flamenca
Playa Flamenca has become a favourite among Scandinavian and British buyers for good reason. The area offers excellent beaches, a large Saturday market that runs year-round, and a good selection of restaurants and bars that stay open even in winter. Property prices remain competitive compared to more established resort towns, making it ideal for first-time investors.
La Zenia
Just south of Playa Flamenca, La Zenia is home to one of the region's largest shopping centres, ensuring you'll never struggle for amenities regardless of season. The beaches here are some of the best on the Orihuela Costa, and the area has developed a genuine year-round community of international residents.
The Off-Season Lifestyle
One of the most overlooked benefits of buying in Costa Blanca South is the off-season lifestyle. From October to May, you'll find pleasant temperatures (15-22°C), dramatically lower costs, and a relaxed atmosphere. This period is perfect for those who can work remotely or have flexible schedules outside traditional school holidays.
While some beach bars close, the established communities around Playa Flamenca, La Zenia, and nearby Torrevieja maintain active social scenes throughout the year. Golf courses are less crowded, restaurants offer better value, and you can actually find parking at the beach.
Perfect for Flexible Travellers
This investment strategy works best for people who aren't tied to school holiday schedules. Retirees, remote workers, couples without children, or anyone with flexible vacation time can maximise both rental income and personal enjoyment. You rent when demand (and prices) are highest, and holiday when it suits you—not when everyone else does.
Consider this: a family of four spending two weeks in Spain during August might pay €3,000-4,000 for accommodation alone. By owning your property and visiting in April, October, or even December, you eliminate that cost entirely while potentially earning income from someone else's August booking.
What to Look for in a Rental Property
Not every property makes a good rental investment. The most successful holiday lets share certain characteristics that appeal to summer tourists.
Getting Started
The Costa Blanca South property market remains accessible, with quality apartments available from €120,000-180,000. Two-bedroom properties tend to offer the best balance of purchase price, rental appeal, and personal usability. Working with a local agent who understands the rental market can help identify properties with proven letting history.
Summary
Buying a holiday home for high-season rental isn't just about the numbers—though those work too. It's about building a Mediterranean lifestyle that pays for itself. Rent out your property when everyone else wants to be there, enjoy it yourself when the pace slows down, and watch your investment cover its own costs year after year.
