Catalan Bay and East Side: Gibraltar's Hidden Rental Area

Last updated: March 2026

Where Exactly Is the East Side?

Most people think of Gibraltar as one side of the Rock: Main Street, the marinas, the port. That is the western side. But flip the Rock around and there is a completely different world. Catalan Bay, Sandy Bay, and Both Worlds are all on the eastern side, facing the Mediterranean rather than the Bay of Gibraltar.

Catalan Bay is a small fishing village with colourful houses clustered around a pebbly beach. It feels more like a Mediterranean hamlet than part of a British territory. Sandy Bay sits just south of it. Both Worlds is a residential development further north. Together, they form an area that most Gibraltar newcomers do not even know exists until someone tells them.

The Rental Market on the East Side

The East Side has fewer rental properties than the western side of Gibraltar, but what is available tends to be good value. The area's relative isolation (it is literally behind a mountain) means landlords cannot charge the marina premiums of Ocean Village.

The Developments

Catalan Bay Village

The original fishing village. Some rental properties are available in the older buildings, but they are rare and tend to go quickly by word of mouth. The apartments are smaller and older, but the location is exceptional: steps from the beach, sea views, and a genuine community atmosphere. A two-bed in the village (if you can find one) runs around £1,200 to £1,500.

Both Worlds

A modern residential complex on the eastern side with sea views toward the Mediterranean. Both Worlds has a mix of apartments and some townhouse-style properties. It is probably the best combination of modern amenities and East Side pricing. Two-beds here go for £1,300 to £1,800, depending on floor and view.

Harbour Views

Slightly further south, this development offers some of the most impressive views in Gibraltar. The apartments look out over the Mediterranean, with Africa visible on a clear day. Prices reflect the views, sitting at the higher end of the East Side range.

What It Is Like Living Here

The East Side has a different rhythm to the rest of Gibraltar. It is quieter. Dramatically quieter. No cruise ships, no Main Street shopping crowds, no marina bar noise. On a weekday evening, Catalan Bay feels like a completely different place from the bustle of Ocean Village.

The Good

• Beach on your doorstep. Catalan Bay beach is pebbly but clean and rarely crowded outside of summer weekends. Sandy Bay next door has a sandy beach with a beach bar.
• Community feel. Catalan Bay has its own identity and its own annual Calentita festival. Neighbours actually know each other.
• Views. East-facing Mediterranean views. Sunrise over the sea. Africa on the horizon. Hard to beat.
• Privacy. If you work from home or simply value quiet, this is Gibraltar's most peaceful residential option.
• Lower rents. The isolation discount means your pound goes further.

The Not So Good

• Limited amenities. There are a couple of restaurants at Catalan Bay (The Village Inn, La Mamela) and a small shop, but for proper groceries you need to drive or bus to the western side. No supermarket, no pharmacy, no takeaway delivery options.
• Transport dependency. You either need a car or rely on the bus service. The number 2 bus runs from Catalan Bay to the town centre, but the service is not frequent. Walking through the tunnel to the other side takes about 20 to 25 minutes.
• The tunnel. Dudley Ward Tunnel connects the east and west sides. It is narrow, sometimes one-way, and can feel claustrophobic. You will drive or walk through it multiple times a day.
• Social isolation. If you are new to Gibraltar and want to be in the thick of things, the East Side is the wrong choice. The nightlife, restaurants, and social scene are all on the western side.

Getting Around from the East Side

• Bus 2: Runs from Catalan Bay through the tunnel to the town centre. Journey time about 10 to 15 minutes. Check the schedule as services can be infrequent.
• Car: The quickest option. Through the tunnel to town in 5 to 10 minutes. Parking is the main challenge once you are on the western side.
• Taxi: Gibraltar taxis are metered. Catalan Bay to Main Street costs about £6 to £8.
• Walking: Through Dudley Ward Tunnel to the western side takes about 20 to 25 minutes. Not the most pleasant walk (tunnel) but doable.
• Cycling: Possible but the tunnel is not ideal for bikes. Some residents use e-bikes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any shops at Catalan Bay?

There is a small convenience shop and a couple of restaurants. For a full grocery shop, you will need to go to the western side (Morrison's, Eroski, or the Piazza). Most East Side residents do a weekly shop and keep basics at home.

How is the internet on the East Side?

Good. Gibraltar has solid broadband infrastructure across the territory, including the East Side. Gibtelecom and U-mee both provide services to East Side developments. Speeds are comparable to the rest of Gibraltar.

Is Catalan Bay safe for swimming?

Yes. The bay is sheltered and the water is generally calm. There are no lifeguards year-round, but the beach is supervised during summer months. The water quality is consistently good.

Can I walk to the border from Catalan Bay?

Not practically. The border is on the northern end of the western side. From Catalan Bay, you would need to go through the tunnel and then walk north, about 40 to 50 minutes total. If you commute to Spain daily, the East Side adds significant travel time. This is why most frontier workers choose the western side or Midtown.