The Costa del Sol is one of the sunniest parts of Europe, with an average annual air temperature of around 18°C in Malaga and Marbella. With more than 320 days of sunshine a year and almost 3,000 hours of sunshine, this region has been attracting those craving good weather, blue sea and the Spanish lifestyle for years.
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Spain’s Mediterranean climate makes it the ideal place to live
Malaga and Marbella have a subtropical Mediterranean climate. Mild winters, warm and dry summers, stable pressure and low humidity promote well-being. The Sierra Blanca mountain range provides a natural shelter from the cold winds from the north, enhancing the feeling of thermal comfort.
In summer, the local microclimate alleviates the sweltering heat, and in winter it increases thermal comfort. In practice, the perceptible temperatures in Marbella are very pleasant – thanks to both the sheltering mountains and the sea breeze. The weather in Spain and especially on the Costa del Sol therefore makes the region attractive all year round.
See also:
- Weather on the Costa del Sol: 320 days of sunshine a year
- Visit the most beautiful beaches on the Costa del Sol
- A unique mountain hike to the summit of La Concha
Malaga and Marbella – temperatures throughout the year
In Malaga, as in Marbella, the average annual air temperature is around 18°C. The warmest months are June, July and August, when thermometers indicate more than 30°C during the day. The average daily air temperature here in winter is around 12°C, with the coldest nights recording temperatures of no less than 6°C. However, sometimes even in January, thermometers indicate daytime temperatures close to 20°C.
Malaga – average temperatures
| Month | Max (°C) | Min (°C) | Sea temperature (°C) | Sun hour* |
| January | 17 | 8 | 15 | 5 |
| February | 18 | 8 | 15 | 6 |
| March | 20 | 10 | 15 | 7 |
| April | 22 | 11 | 16 | 7 |
| May | 25 | 14 | 17 | 9 |
| June | 29 | 18 | 20 | 11 |
| July | 31 | 21 | 22 | 11 |
| August | 32 | 21 | 23 | 11 |
| September | 29 | 19 | 22 | 8 |
| October | 23 | 15 | 19 | 7 |
| November | 19 | 11 | 17 | 6 |
| December | 17 | 8 | 16 | 5 |
* denotes the average number of hours with sunshine per day, weather2travel.com data
Marbella – average temperatures
| Month | Max (°C) | Min (°C) | Sea temperature (°C) | Sun hour* |
| January | 13 | 6 | 15 | 5 |
| February | 14 | 6 | 15 | 6 |
| March | 16 | 7 | 15 | 7 |
| April | 18 | 9 | 16 | 7 |
| May | 21 | 11 | 17 | 9 |
| June | 26 | 15 | 19 | 11 |
| July | 29 | 17 | 21 | 11 |
| August | 29 | 18 | 22 | 11 |
| September | 26 | 16 | 21 | 8 |
| October | 21 | 12 | 19 | 7 |
| November | 17 | 9 | 17 | 5 |
| December | 14 | 6 | 16 | 5 |
* denotes the average number of hours with sunshine per day, weather2travel.com data
When to go to the Costa del Sol? Four seasons, four scenarios
The Costa del Sol delights in every season, offering different facets of climate and attractions that allow you to tailor your holiday to your individual needs.
Weather on the Costa del Sol in spring
Spring (March to May) is the most harmonious time – temperatures on the Costa del Sol range between 18 and 25°C, the hills bloom with a blaze of colours and the weather is stable and conducive to both beachcombing and hiking. This is also the period when there are even fewer tourists, allowing you to enjoy the quieter atmosphere of the region.
Weather on the Costa Sol in summer
Summer (June-August) is the typical beach season. Summer temperatures on the Costa del Sol reach 25-35°C, the sun shines for up to 11-12 hours a day and the sea water heats up to 22-24°C. This is the ideal time for swimming, water sports and attending the many festivals and cultural events.
Autumn aura of the Costa del Sol
The autumn of the Costa del Sol (September-November) is sometimes referred to as the 'golden season’. Sustained temperatures of 20-28°C mean that the sea still remains pleasantly warm and the beaches become looser. Autumn is also the season of wine harvests and numerous culinary events that allow you to discover local flavours in a unique setting.
Costa del Sol in winter
Winter (December-February) is the real secret of the Costa del Sol. Daytime temperatures range from 12-18°C and the sun shines almost every day. The lack of frost, lower prices and calmer atmosphere make it the perfect time to take a break from the winter greyness that prevails in other parts of Europe.
It is not without reason that Costa del Sol means the coast of the sun, which shines here almost all year round. This is appreciated by our compatriots, not only when planning a holiday, but also when looking for their place to live. The climate is one of the most important advantages when deciding to move to the Costa del Sol.
