Marbella sits pretty on Spain’s sun-kissed Costa del Sol with the picturesque Sierra Blanca mountains right behind it and the Mediterranean Sea shining right in front. You’ve got the perfect mix of a temperate climate, palm-lined seafront promenade, and a nightlife that’s just as vibrant as it is delicious. But trust us, timing is everything here – and by everything we mean the vibe of the beaches, the cultural events, the prices, the crowds and which beach clubs are open for business. So, if you really want to make the most of your holiday in Marbella, you need to know the lowdown on its different seasons.
Below, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to Marbella’s weather by season and month, the advantages of each time of year, when summer really starts and how to score better weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds – whether you want water sports and clubs in July or a super relaxed vibe in winter.
Marbella enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine a year.” — Turismo Costa del Sol
Quick Answer: When is the Best Time to Visit Marbella? (In a Nutshell)
- The best time all round to visit Marbella: Late spring and early autumn – May–June and September–early October – for top-notch weather, warm sea and fewer tourists hanging around.
- Best for beach lovers: June and September. The sea is lovely and warm, there’s plenty of space to soak up the sun and you can even get a table at your favourite restaurant without having to book weeks in advance.
- Best for party animals: July and August when the beach bars and clubs are in full swing.
- Best for families: Late May–June and September when the weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller and the beaches are perfect for kids.
- Best for budget travellers: Marbella off season (November–March) when prices are lower and you can enjoy sunny winter days and a super chill city vibe.
- Best for hiking in the Sierra Blanca mountains: March–May and late September–November when the temperatures are a bit cooler and the views are crystal clear.
- Best for golfing: October–November and March–May when the weather is mild and the rain stays away.
- Best for cultural events: Late Feb – April (Marbella Carnival, Holy Week), June (Feria de San Bernabé) and summer concerts.
Marbella Seasons Explained (Marbella Seasons – the Lowdown)
Marbella’s climate is typical Mediterranean – warm and dry in the summer and mild in the winter with most of the rain coming down in the colder months. Spring and autumn are pretty much perfect – warm days, cool nights and sea temperatures that are just right for swimming from June through to early October. The shoulder seasons are basically the best time to visit Marbella if you want to get out and do stuff without the crowds that come with high season.
- High season: July and August – the summer months. Get ready for the biggest crowds, the wildest nightlife and the highest prices for flights, sunbeds and hotels.
- Shoulder seasons: April–June and September–October – fewer tourists, better value, great beach time in June and September.
- Low season/off season: November–March – Marbella’s winter. You’ll get to enjoy fewer crowds, more space, lower prices, local culture and a totally relaxed atmosphere. Some rainy days and cooler nights are normal, but there’s still plenty of sunshine to go round.
Crowd meter (typical)
| Level | Months |
|---|---|
| Low | November to March |
| Medium | April to May, October |
| High | June, September |
| Peak | July to August |
The Best Time to Visit Marbella: Weather by Season
Spring (March–May): Lovely Weather, Blooming Hills, a new energy in the air
Spring is a wonderful time of year in Marbella – with high temps around 18–24°C (64–75°F), cool nights and gradually less rainfall from March to May. By late spring the Mediterranean Sea is warm enough for swimming, the beaches and beach bars start to come alive without the crowds of summer, and it’s perfect for a bike ride along the seafront promenade, a hike up to La Concha in the Sierra Blanca mountains or a long, lazy lunch in one of the Old Town’s local restaurants.
And then there’s the cultural stuff. Holy Week (Semana Santa) usually falls in March or April, with all sorts of solemn processions, and the city buzzes with food fairs, outdoor events, and family-friendly activities. You might even find that late May is a great time to relax on quieter beaches during the day and enjoy the lively nightlife without the high-season prices.
Summer (June–August): The Sun, the Sea, the Clubs – Marbella Summer in full swing
Summer kicks off in style in June with warm days and warm water, peak beach clubs programming and the Noche de San Juan bonfires on June 23. By July and August, the temperatures are at their highest – often 28–32°C (82–90°F) – with long, sunny days, warm sea and a lively night scene all along the way from Puerto Banús to the Golden Mile.
This is high season, so get ready for the crowds, higher prices and the need to book up all the popular restaurants, clubs and sunbeds well in advance. Summer is the perfect time to get Marbella on your radar if what you’re after is a raging beach party, making waves in the water sports scene, and all-nighters to world-class DJs. But to avoid the sizzling heat, try getting your beach fix either early morning or late afternoon, and then shift into full-on tapas bar and club mode once the sun dips below the horizon.
Autumn (September-November): Just Perfect Weather, And Nice & Quiet On The Beaches
September stands out as one of the best months – warm sea, long sunny days, and crowds that are a fraction of what they were in August. October unfolds with a lovely balance of days that are still warm but not hot, some rain, and temps that are gradually cooling off. It’s a perfect setup for hiking, golf, and day trips to Ronda or Málaga. And November brings cooler air, a bit more rain, but still some of those lovely sunny spells – and some of the cheapest hotel rates of the year.
Autumn is the time to pick Marbella if you’re after a relaxed atmosphere and some real space on the beaches and promenade. Many beach clubs remain open through September and into early October, and local restaurants are a lot easier to get a table at. It’s a great time to visit Marbella if you want to experience the fun without the intensity of the peak summer months
Winter (Dec-Feb): Mild Winters, Culture, and Good Value
Marbella in the winter means mild days with highs of 15C/59F – and cooler nights, most of the rain falls in these months. But there are plenty of bright, sunny days to enjoy – perfect for a spot of lunch on the terrace, a stroll through the Old Town, or a leisurely promenade along the Mediterranean Sea. It’s low season, so prices are lower and there are fewer tourists, making it a great time to visit if you prefer a more relaxed pace.
The festive atmosphere in December with Christmas markets and lights, the Three Kings parade in early January, and the Marbella Carnival in February all help keep local culture alive. Golf courses are open all year round, and the town’s restaurants and bars are as welcoming as ever. If you’re after lower prices and a more laid-back vibe, the winter months are a great time to come to Marbella.
Marbella Weather By Month – A Year-Round Guide
The table below gives you a rough idea of what to expect each month in Marbella – but remember that actual conditions can vary. It may help you plan your outdoor activities, beach days, and clubbing sessions.
Marbella Weather by Month (snapshot)
| Month | Avg High °C (°F) | Avg Low °C (°F) | Sea Temp °C (°F) | Rain (mm) | Crowds | Notes |
| January | 16 (61) | 7 (45) | 15 (59) | 70–80 | Low | Mild days, cooler nights; good for golf, lower prices. |
| February | 17 (63) | 8 (46) | 15–16 (59–61) | 60–70 | Low | Marbella Carnival; “February Marbella weather by month” = cool-mild, some rain. |
| March | 19 (66) | 10 (50) | 16–17 (61–63) | 40–60 | Low–Med | Spring begins; good hikes; Holy Week may occur. |
| April | 21 (70) | 12 (54) | 17–18 (63–64) | 40–50 | Med | Pleasant weather; outdoor activities ramp up. |
| May | 24 (75) | 15 (59) | 19–20 (66–68) | 20–30 | Med | Warm days, cool nights; beaches calm, fewer crowds. |
| June | 28 (82) | 18 (64) | 21–22 (70–72) | 10–20 | High | Top beach month; beach clubs open; San Juan night. |
| July | 31 (88) | 21 (70) | 23–24 (73–75) | <10 | Peak | High season, book early; nightlife and clubs full swing. |
| August | 31 (88) | 22 (72) | 24–25 (75–77) | <10 | Peak | Hottest sea and air; plan shade and hydration. |
| September | 28 (82) | 20 (68) | 24 (75) | 20–30 | High→Med | One of the best months: warm sea, fewer crowds by mid/late month. |
| October | 24 (75) | 16 (61) | 21–22 (70–72) | 40–60 | Med | Great for hiking, golf; some rainy days; relaxed vibe. |
| November | 19 (66) | 12 (54) | 18–19 (64–66) | 70–90 | Low | Quieter city, low season prices, occasional rain. |
| December | 16 (61) | 9 (48) | 16–17 (61–63) | 80–90 | Low | Winter sun; Christmas markets and lights. |
Rainfall pattern (approximate): Nov–Feb wetter → Mar–Apr easing → May–Sep driest → Oct increasing.
Seasonal Events and Cultural Highlights in Marbella
- Winter Months (Dec–Feb): Christmas markets, New Year’s Eve fireworks, and the Three Kings Parade on 6th January get locals out on the streets, bringing a great festive atmosphere to the city. And then February’s Carnival adds in costumes, concerts and parades to shake things up in the cooler months.
- Spring (Mar–May): The March or April Holy Week (Semana Santa) processions are probably the most incredible cultural events you’ll see in southern Spain – with streets full of incense and music, you get a glimpse into local life. And as the weather warms up, so do outdoor activities, food fairs and family events.
- Summer Season (Jun–Aug): The Feria de San Bernabé in early June brings the fun out, with day and night time partying all over the city. The Noche de San Juan (23rd June) sees beach bonfires and midnight swims, and the Starlite Festival in July and August brings in international acts to a dramatic open-air venue above town.
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Events like food tastings and wine events, and the Marbella 4 Days Walking in October, showcase the coast’s hiking and gastronomy – and with fewer tourists about, you can always get a table at your favourite restaurant.
Authority calendar links – well worth bookmarking:
- The Marbella Bank Holiday: Key dates you can’t miss
- Ayuntamiento de Marbella (official events): https://www.marbella.es
- Turismo Costa del Sol: https://www.visitacostadelsol.com
- Weather (AEMET): https://www.aemet.es
Pros And Cons By Season: Time To Visit Marbella
Spring: Pros & Cons
- Pros: Lovely weather, not too many tourists, the hills are in bloom, and great conditions for hiking in the Sierra Blanca mountains, golf and city walks in the Old Town – and everything is a bit more laid back. Plus prices aren’t too bad compared to summer.
- Cons: In March and April the sea can feel a bit chilly; Holy Week can make hotel prices go up and book up the popular restaurants; and sometimes it still rains a bit early on in the season.
Summer: Pros & Cons
- Pros: Brilliant beach weather, warm water for water sports, long days and a full calendar of beach clubs, concerts and nightclubs. The Med is at its warmest and most inviting.
- Cons: Summer crowds and prices are higher; in the middle of the day it can get really hot; you’ll need to book up the top beach bars, clubs and restaurants in advance; parking can get a real challenge.
Autumn: Pros & Cons
- Pros: Warm sea, fewer crowds and loads of space on the beaches – it’s a great time for outdoor activities. The whole city and town’s got a relaxed feel to it.
- Cons: It can start to rain in October and November; some beach clubs reduce hours or even close by the end of October.
Winter: Pros & Cons
- Pros: It’s low season, so you can pick up some great deals on hotels and flights, and many days are still sunny – great for culture, golf, and taking it easy over a meal.
- Cons: The water’s a bit cool and there’s more rain; some places reduce their hours; and the beach scene is much quieter than in high season.
Choosing The Best Time To Visit Marbella By Traveler Type
- Beach lovers and water sports: June and September are the sweet spots – warm water and not too many tourists, with July and August bringing guaranteed heat for your beach days and water sports like paddle boarding, jet skiing and boat rides.
- Nightlife, beach clubs and clubs: July and August for the most energy, and June and September for a similar vibe with fewer tourists. Head to Puerto Banús, the Golden Mile and beach bars along the promenade.
- Families: Late May and June, and September are good for warm-but-not-scorching days and safe, shallow beaches – there’s loads of space and easier dining with kids.
- Budget travellers: November to March offers the cheapest rates, and a really relaxed pace – go for the sunny days and have an indoor plan B for the occasional rain.
- Hikers and cyclists (Sierra Blanca mountains): March to May and late September to November bring ideal cooler temperatures and clear views to La Concha and the ridges.
- Golfers: October and November, and March to May, bring a perfect temperate climate and great tee time availability across the Costa del Golf.
- Culture fans: February to April for the Marbella Carnival and Holy Week; June for the Feria; and December to early January for the markets, lights, and Epiphany traditions.
Where To Stay By Season
- Old Town (Casco Antiguo): The whitewashed lanes, flower-filled squares, and tapas-focused restaurants are lovely any time of the year, and that walkability and culture is really hard to beat.
- Beachfront and Paseo Marítimo: Perfect from spring to autumn for sunrise strolls, easy beach time and long evenings on the terraces – families and couples love it.
- Puerto Banús and the Golden Mile: If you want the shopping, bars, clubs and beach clubs – it’s the place to be in high season – especially if you’re looking for a lively night out.
- Family resorts and golf developments: Shoulder seasons and winter months are the time to flock to these places thanks to all the space to run around, pool time, and proximity to top-notch golf courses.
- Marbella Dream Villas: If you want privacy, luxury and a complete Marbella experience, we have the best selection of villas for you.
Beaches, Beach Bars, and Beach Clubs: What’s Open and Closed When?
- Beach Clubs: Most of the big ones run from late March/April to October, with the peak action happening in June–September. A few iconic spots will stay open all year round for grub and drinks, but the full-on ‘club’ experience is a seasonal thing.
- Beach Bars (chiringuitos) & Local Restaurants: Loads of them are open 365 days a year but some might cut back on the hours they’re open in the winter. Fresh fish, sardines on skewers (espetos) and a plate of paella pair beautifully with winter sun days.
- The Best Beaches by the season are:
- Summer: Urban beaches in the city and around Puerto Banús if you want amenities, lifeguards and some serious fun.
- Shoulder seasons: Quieter, less crowded stretches of beach to the east and west of the centre, perfect for sunset walks and a bit more space to breathe.
What to Do by Season (Outdoor Activities and Local Culture)
- Spring: Time to get out into the hills and explore the nearby Sierra Blanca mountains on foot or on your bike, visit La Concha for some hiking, join a food tour, and soak up the Holy Week festivities.
- Summer: Full-on beach days with water sports, boat trips out on the Mediterranean, nightlife from beach bars to clubs, and some seriously famous concerts under the stars.
- Autumn: The cooler air is perfect for a round of golf and some coastal walks. Plan a day trip to Ronda to explore its cliffside old town, Málaga to visit the museums or Estepona to check out its murals and squares.
- Winter: The perfect time for a museum day in Málaga, some spa and wellness time, a tapas crawl in Marbella’s Old Town, and some sunny seaside strolls that make Marbella in the winter a real treat.
Sea Temperature, Rain, and Sunshine: Practical Weather Notes
- Sea temperature: Chilly in February and April (15–17°C/59–63°F), lovely in August and September (24–25°C/75–77°F). Loads of people prefer June to October as the temperature is just about right.
- Rainy days: Most of them are concentrated in November to February, with October and March being transitional months. Summer is lovely and dry.
- Sunshine: Long, lovely days in June and July, even in the winter it’s often bright and sunny – perfect weather for a lunchtime session on the patio if the wind is calm.
For a more detailed forecast and some monthly stats, check the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET): https://www.aemet.es
Packing Tips by Season
- Spring and autumn: Pack some lightweight layers, a breathable jacket, comfy walking shoes and some swimwear. A compact umbrella for the occasional shower wouldn’t go amiss.
- Summer: Don’t forget the high SPF sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, breathable clothing, sandals and some smart evening wear for the clubs and fancy restaurants.
- Winter: A light sweater, a raincoat, some closed-in shoes, and a scarf for the cooler nights. And remember, sunglasses can be a lifesaver all year round.
- Whatever the season: Bring a reusable water bottle, a European plug adapter and a daypack for your hikes and beach gear.
Best Time to Visit Marbella FAQs
What is the best month to visit Marbella?
The best overall months are June and September for the sea temperature, beach clubs and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. May and October are great for outdoor activities while July–August are best for nightlife and guaranteed heat.
Is Marbella warm in winter?
Winter in Marbella brings some pretty pleasant days, but be prepared for cooler nights and a few rainy days too. Many days in winter are still okay for a spot of lunch outside, a walk along the seafront, and the added bonus of lower prices and fewer tourists.
When is the sea warmest in Marbella?
The Med is at its warmest in August and September, with the temperature often hitting a lovely 24-25°C (75-77°F), perfect for a dip in the sea and some water sports.
Does it rain a lot in Marbella?
Not usually, but November to February are the months you’re most likely to get a bit of rain. October and March are a bit of a mixed bag – it’s not always sunny, but the rain is usually limited to a spot of drizzle. Summer, on the other hand, is very dry.
Is Marbella expensive in July and August?
Yes, it is – these are the peak months when prices for hotels, flights, sunbeds, and clubs all tend to be higher. If you’re planning a trip in July or August, be sure to book well in advance.
Are beach clubs open year round?
Most of them are only open during the spring and autumn months, with full service in June and September. Some restaurants at the beach clubs do stay open during the winter months, but hours are usually a bit shorter.
When is Holy Week in Marbella?
Holy Week (Semana Santa) tends to be in either March or April – check the official calendar to confirm the exact dates.
What is the Marbella Carnival?
It’s a super fun event in February that’s basically a big street party with parades, costumes, concerts, and loads of community events. The whole town comes out to play and it’s a great way to liven up the low season.
Is September a good time to visit Marbella?
Absolutely – September is a great time to visit, as the sea is still warm, the days are long and sunny, and the crowds have thinned out a bit. You’ll find it easier to get reservations and the prices are generally a bit lower too.
What about February Marbella weather by month?
February is a bit cool to mild in Marbella, with a bit of a chance of rain, but on the plus side, there are plenty of sunny days too. It’s a great time to get some low season deals, hit the golf course, enjoy a tapas or two and catch the Carnival.
1-Day and Weekend Rain Plans
- If the rain gets the better of you, grab some culture in Málaga’s museums (Picasso, Carmen Thyssen, Centre Pompidou) and have a coffee in the Old Town.
- Treat yourself to a spa day or hammam, and then go for some delicious seafood at one of the indoor markets.
- Get a tapas fix in Marbella’s Old Town and then head to Puerto Banús for some undercover dining.
- Catch a flamenco show or wine tasting and then browse the shops in the town centre.
Conclusion: Picking Your Perfect Time to Visit Marbella
If you’re after a warm, sunny holiday with a sea that’s perfect for swimming and a few fewer tourists, June and September are the way to go. But, if you’re more into hiking, golf, and generally just enjoying the warm weather and fewer crowds, May and October are great. If you want that all-out summer vibe, with busy clubs, beach bars and sun worship, then July and August are the months for you. And if you’re on a budget and don’t mind a bit of rain, the low season from November to March is a surprisingly great time to get a warm, sunny escape in southern Spain.
No matter when you end up visiting Marbella, the region’s climate, beaches, and food scene all make it the perfect place to relax, have some fun and get some outdoor activities in by the Mediterranean.
