Choosing a villa is about more than bedroom count. Start with your group's rhythm: if you're travelling with several families, look for properties with separate living wings or a guest annex so everyone gets a bit of privacy alongside shared spaces like the pool and kitchen. Couples or smaller groups may prioritise a more intimate villa with a spectacular view over sheer square footage.

Location matters just as much as the property itself. A hillside villa in Benahavis or La Panera offers sweeping views and seclusion but usually means a short drive to the beach, while a Golden Mile or beachfront villa puts you steps from the sand at the cost of some privacy. Decide early whether proximity to nightlife, golf, or the beach matters most to your group.

Think about how you want to be looked after. Some guests want a fully staffed experience with daily housekeeping, a private chef, and a concierge handling reservations and transfers; others prefer a self-catered villa with just weekly cleaning. Most of KAY Management's properties can flex between the two, so it's worth asking what's included and what can be added.

Finally, book early for July and August. The best villas on the Costa del Sol, particularly those with private pools and sea views, are typically reserved months in advance for peak summer weeks.