Retiring to Sapin (Málaga)

My wife and I are thinking and by thinking I mean "going to" retire in Spain.
I am looking at the Nerja area, I would like a nice mix of Expats and Spanish folks to mingle with. I was there this past April on a scouting trip and loved the Estepona. I'm planning another visit, just haven't locked in dates yet.

I'm reading every book I can get my hands on to learn as much as I can. I know there know better advice than people actual on the ground living the process.

Any thoughts would be much appreciated.