The Best Of Marbella in April (Things to Do, Weather and Local Tips!)
I’m in love with Marbella and I totally stand by saying that spring is one of the best times to visit Marbella.
April is a good month to visit Marbella because the city starts getting lively with events like Easter. The weather is beautiful except for a few rainy days, and it’s less crowded than during the peak season: July and August.
Also, the old town is looking at its best with red carnations and other beautiful flowers.
Depending on the spring month you visit, you can enjoy different activities, but in this guide, I’m covering the best things to do in Marbella in April and events, too.
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A quick overview of Marbella weather in April
Marbella is pretty mild in April. You can experience warm and sunny days; however, take some long-sleeve clothes and coat as the temperature drops during the night; it can be as low as 11 degrees Celsius (51.8ºF).
When it comes to rainfall, it rains 4 days on average, but the rain in Marbella usually isn’t very strong and doesn’t last long either.
Here’s an overview of the weather in April:
- Maximum temperature: 22ºC (71.6ºF)
- Minimum temperature: 16ºC (51.8ºF)
- Average temperature: 14ºC (61ºF)
- Rainy days: 4
- Sea temperature: 17ºC (63ºF)
- Average humidity: 66%
The best things to do in Marbella in April
Wander the picturesque alleys of the old town
I’ve mentioned this so many times, but I love the historic centre of Marbella. It’s my favourite place.
Regardless of the season you come to Marbella, you must visit the historic centre. It’s unmissable.
The heart of the old town is Plaza de Los Naranjos, aka Orange Square. This main square is home to the town hall and has always been an important place for gatherings.
From Orange Square, I recommend exploring the narrow streets with independent shops and lovely corners that are perfect for taking photos.
During your time in Marbella Old Town, don’t miss historical sights like La Encarnación Church, Marbella Castle Walls and the Contemporary Engravings Museum.
If you’re into history, opt for a tour with a local guide. I did this tour once and really enjoyed it because I learnt a lot and it never felt boring.
Watch the religious processions during the Easter week
Easter is an important time, and Marbella and the rest of Spain celebrate it, too.
We don’t buy Easter eggs, paint eggs or generally gather with family to eat on Easter Sunday.
We go to see the religious processions that take place from Palm Sunday to Easter Day. This upcoming year, the Holy Week will be celebrated from the 12th of April to the 20th of April 2025.
The old town of Marbella is filled with people who watch the parade in which men who belong to a brotherhood carry heavy floats with religious figures of Jesus and Mary, among others.
It’s quite impressive to watch whether you’re a believer or not. This event is more than a religious event; it’s also a cultural and social event.
But if you’ve already seen these and love them, I actually recommend going to the ones in Malaga.
Attend the opening season event at one of the beach clubs
Marbella has a reputation for its beach clubs, and I must admit they’re the best in the Costa del Sol.
These events are a lot of fun and set up the atmosphere for the rest of the summer.
One of the best opening season events is in Nikki Beach, which usually opens in late April.
Take a sunset boat trip in Puerto Banus
Puerto Banus is among the most luxurious ports in Spain. Although it isn’t my top recommended place to visit in Marbella, it’s still worth seeing and judging for yourself. Some love the glamorous atmosphere and lifestyle.
Having said so, one activity that I do believe is a hundred per cent worth it is taking a sunset boat trip.
Not all of them are expensive, in fact, you can find some reasonably priced boat trips with Get Your Guide.
Get on board, enjoy some bubbles and spectacular views of Marbella—the warm sunset colours against the white-painted buildings and La Concha mountain.
Sample the local and seasonal dishes
You can’t come to Marbella without trying the local cuisine. I might be biased, but I think we have some of the tastiest dishes in Southern Spain.
There are dishes you can try all year round, but they’re better in season.
Since spring is the transition from cold to hot, this is reflected in the cuisine, too. We have some delicious stews but also refreshing salads.
Traditional spring dishes include the Ensalada Malgueña (made with oranges, potatoes and cod), Sopa de Esparragos (asparagus stew), the classic anchovies marinated in vinegar and fried aubergines with sugar cane honey.
Most dishes, especially the aubergines and anchovies, are easy to find on menus. La Niña del Pisto is my go-to place for these.
Have a picnic at the beach
One of the most romantic activities in Marbella in spring is having a beach picnic with your other half.
I’m not talking about any picnic, but an organised one with a company like Picnic Marbella.
They take care of the food, drinks and picnic essentials, so you just turn up and enjoy the experience. No need to bring anything!
This is a great activity in spring because the temperature isn’t too hot or cold, which is simply perfect for an activity like this.
I wouldn’t do it in the summer because it’s too hot and the beaches are more crowded.
Enjoy a drink while watching the sunset at 360º Blue Sky Bar
Who doesn’t love a beautiful sunset with good company and a drink (alcoholic or not!)?
360º Blue Sky Bar at Óbal Urban Hotel is a fantastic rooftop with direct views of Marbella and La Alameda Park.
You can go for drinks or a meal! Drink-wise, they have creative signature cocktails representing different cities, including Marbella, as well as mocktails and delicious smoothies.
For food, they have local and international dishes.
Pamper yourself at the spa
While rainy days aren’t the norm in Marbella, it rains a few days in April. I don’t know why it’s often during the Easter Week. It happens almost every year.
Many of the activities I mentioned are outdoors. Still, there are great indoor activities that don’t involve being stuck in a shopping centre, La Cañada, which, by the way, there’s nothing wrong with it if you love shopping, but it isn’t my thing.
My suggestion is to book a day at the spa! Many hotels have spas, especially those with four or five stars, and even if you don’t stay at these, you can access their spas.
A few to consider are the spas at Hard Rock Hotel, Marbella Club, and Puente Romano.
Visit a local winery shop or vineyard
Are you a wine lover? If so, you’re lucky because Marbella has some fantastic wine shops and is a short drive from wine regions like Serranía de Ronda, known for its renowned vineyards.
If you don’t want to leave Marbella, I recommend going to Casa Pablo. They have a wide selection of wines from the area and worldwide. I also love that they do fun wine-related events like Sip and Paint. I attended one of these events with a friend; it was so much fun!
However, if you’re looking for a day trip that involves tasting wines, check out Ronda. Bodega Doña Felisa is the most famous vineyard, but there are many more.
Go for a horse ride
Is horse riding on your Spain bucket list? The best places for horse riding are Jerez and Seville. However, a few companies and resorts offer horse riding in Marbella and its surroundings.
Marbella Horses has horse riding lessons, but they also offer horse riding on the beach, a beautiful experience still on my list.
If you prefer horse riding in the countryside, have a look at Hacienda MonteMarina.
Staying at a resort? It’s worth checking out their website or talking to the receptionist about the activities you can book through them. I know that Marbella Club offers horse riding lessons at an extra fee.
Explore Marbella’s nearby towns
You don’t need to leave Marbella to have a good time, but if you’re a bit of an explorer like I am, you probably want to venture to visit the surrounding white villages.
Two of the closest towns you don’t have to spend a full day out are Ojen and Benahavis.
Ojen is a 15 minute drive from Marbella Centre. This mountainside town is small but charming. The highlights of Ojen are the Cueva de la Columna, a cave with stunning views of the town and its Mill Museum.
It’s a nice place to spend a few hours, but I personally don’t think there’s much to do unless you fancy going on a hiking trail.
Benahavis is just a bit further and it’s well known for its renowned culinary scene. Similarly to Ojen, there aren’t many things to do and see, but it’s a great place to chill and enjoy the food. In late May or early June, you can hike in the Benahavis River.
Go on a day trip to see the cherry blossoms
One of my favourite things about spring is the blossoming of flowers. They make everything look prettier.
Some of the flowers you’ll see in Marbella are bougainvillaea and carnations, unfortunately not cherry blossoms.
However, if you love the latter, you can go on a day trip to Alfarnate!
This lovely town in the Axarquia region is a 1 hour and 20 minute drive from Marbella.
When is the best time to visit? I hear you ask. The short answer is that it is during the Sakura festival that takes place every late March or early April.
Short frequently asked questions
What’s the weather like in Marbella in April?
It’s mostly sunny and warm, except for the nights.
Can you swim in Marbella in April?
I wouldn’t swim in Marbella in April, but some travellers do on the warmest days.
Are beach clubs open in Marbella in April?
Not all of them, however, a few beach clubs open toward the end of the month.
What should I pack for a getaway to Marbella in April?
A mix of short and long-sleeved clothes.
Conclusion on visiting Marbella in April
April is a wonderful time to visit Marbella. I love this month as well as May because the weather starts getting warmer, but not too warm to sightsee, hike, or do other outdoor activities.
Enjoy your time in Marbella!
Cristina x
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