Costa Tropical hotels bounce back strong after Granada tremors as late bookings keep rooms full

Hotels along Spain’s Costa Tropical are holding firm and even gaining ground this summer, despite the recent earth tremors that rattled Granada province. Business on the coast has stayed solid, with many visitors from the inland areas choosing to head to Motril, Salobrena and Almunecar for the rest of the season.

President of the Costa Tropical Hoteliers Association, Jesus Mejias, confirmed the sector has seen no cancellations linked to the seismic activity. Plenty of enquiries have come in, yet bookings have continued as normal. Local residents from Granada City have moved to second homes by the sea to put some distance between themselves and the affected zone, though this shift has not produced a big jump in overnight stays.

What has made the difference is a clear rise in last-minute reservations, a pattern that has run through the whole summer. International visitors have also played a major role, climbing by an estimated 25 to 30 per cent and reducing the traditional dominance of Spanish tourists. That mix has pushed occupancy above 90 per cent throughout August, with operators now hoping to match or beat the turnover figures recorded in 2025.

September looks set to stay busy

Hoteliers remain optimistic that the season can stretch into September. Current forecasts point to occupancy around 75 per cent, but the target is to push past 80 per cent on the back of more late bookings. Warm weather, calm seas, solid hotel stock and a good choice of restaurants should help keep visitors coming through the next few weeks.

Mejias expects September to prove another strong month with continued holiday business for the Costa Tropical and believes the destination can equal or improve on last year’s results. Overall, the tremors have done little to dent the area’s appeal, and, for many local operators, the summer trade has rarely looked healthier.