Marbella in September: Weather, Things to Do and Local Tips
Is September a good time to visit Marbella? It’s a yes from me.
If you’re looking for a late summer holiday, Marbella is a good choice. Although the days shorten a little bit, you can still do many summer activities.
I love that there are fewer crowds compared to July and August, especially if you come in the second week of the month.
Wander the pretty cobblestone streets of the old town, get sunkissed at the beach and grab a refreshing tinto de verano (or mocktail!) while enjoying the sunset.
If you’re ready to discover Marbella in September, I’m sharing with you what the weather is like, my favourite things to do and what to pack.
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Weather in Marbella in September
The weather in Marbella in September is very warm, and it feels like summer. There’s still plenty of sunshine. Temperatures can reach 30 plus Celsius degrees (86°F), and the minimum is about 19 Celsius degrees (66.2ºF).
When it comes to rainfall, you won’t probably experience rainy days as it rains one or two days on average. There might be some cloudy days, but they’re good for hitting the beach or doing any other summer activities anyway.
What I love about Marbella is that it has a microclimate. This means that it is slightly cooler than Malaga or other coastal towns in the summer. The rest of the year round, it might actually rain in Malaga and be okay in Marbella.
If you wonder about daylight, the days shorten as the month passes; however, the sunrise is usually around 7:50 am, and the sunset is around 8:45, so you can enjoy a good amount of daylight.
Here’s an overview of Marbella weather in September:
- Maximum temperature: 28ºC (82.4ºF)
- Minimum temperature: 19ºC (66.2ºF)
- Average temperature: 22ºC (71.6ºF)
- Rainy days: 1
- Water temperature: 21ºC (69.8ºF)
- Average humidity: 62%
11 Best things to do in Marbella in September
1. Explore the historic centre of Marbella
The Casco Antiguo (Marbella old town) is an unmissable place when you visit Marbella.
I feel like this is the place that keeps its charm and authenticity. Many travellers visit it, but the atmosphere is lively while being laid-back.
The smell coming out of the jasmine flowers in Orange Square, the cobblestone whitewashed streets with bright bougainvillaea coming down the buildings, the beautiful churches… there’s something that makes you fall in love with it.
Marbella old town doesn’t have major attractions like Malaga, but I totally think it’s worth exploring. You can still visit the churches and the Spanish Contemporary Engraving Museum (which includes works by Picasso and Dali), see the castle walls and enjoy its atmosphere.
2. Savour traditional tapas
Marbella is a culinary hotspot. You can choose from tasty authentic tapas and delicious fish to international and fusion dishes.
You can’t come to Costa del Sol without trying some of our local delicacies!
I don’t advise eating in Orange Square or Puerto Banus because you usually pay more just for the place, and the food isn’t the best.
However, you don’t need to head far from these popular spots in Marbella to eat well.
My two favourite places to eat in Marbella are Taberna La Niña del Pisto and Casa Blanca.
The first one offers the best pisto (Spanish-style ratatouille) I’ve ever had in a bar, and the second has tasty patatas bravas and serranito sandwich.
Another option is to book a food tour, during which the local guide will take you to some of the best tapa bars in Marbella and tell you about our local cuisine.
3. Taste the local wine
If wine tasting is one of your favourite activities when travelling, you’ll be happy to know that you can taste high-quality local wine.
Marbella isn’t far from incredible wine regions like Ronda where you find famous wineries producing rose, white and red wines.
Although I recommend a day trip to Ronda from Marbella, you don’t have to visit it for a good wine-tasting experience.
One of the places where you can have a wine tasting in Marbella, which is quite central, is the D’OLIVA shop. They also have some of the best olive oils you can taste or buy.
Also, if you go to Malaga on a day trip from Marbella, stop by Museo del Vino (Malaga Wine Museum), which is the perfect place to learn about the local wine. The entry, which is 6 euros, includes wine tasting. They gave us two Malaga wines to try (one dry and one sweet!)
4. Spend the day at Puerto Banus Beach
Marbella is awarded with top-quality beaches because of its facilities and cleanliness.
It isn’t easy to pick one, but one of my favourite beaches in Marbella is Puerto Banus Beach, located next to the luxurious port.
The beach has golden and fine sand and calm waters, and it isn’t too shallow. It’s a fantastic beach for couples and families to visit.
The Mediterranean Sea and Mountain views make it very picturesque. This is one of the reasons why I love Playa Puerto Banus.
Also, the facilities are great. You have everything from public toilets and showers to lovely beach bars and restaurants.
And I can’t forget to mention the water activities. You’ll find the fun inflatable water park and paddle boats.
5. Kayak in the Alboran Sea
Do you love water activities? Kayaking is one of the best things to do in Marbella in September.
This 2-hour kayak tour is perfect for beginners. You’ll paddle through the waters of the Alboran Sea while you admire the stunning views of the Marbella coastline and mountains.
Kayaking is a fun activity, and I can’t see any better setting than Marbella.
6. Book a photoshoot in Marbella
Everyone agrees that Marbella has one of the most picturesque old towns and ports in Costa del Sol.
There are many photo opportunities, so I personally think that it’s a photographer’s paradise.
When my friends from other countries come to Marbella, I love showing them around and taking some pictures together.
Whether you’re all about the gram or any other social media, or you just want to have fun with friends, you can take some great shots.
If you come to Marbella solo, booking a photoshoot is a great idea. Of course, you can take photos with a tripod (I sometimes do it), but you can’t always achieve the desired angle or shot.
Regardless of how you take your pictures, here are some of my favourite photo locations in Marbella:
- Calle Carmen
- The Marbella sign in Calle Nueva
- Plaza de los Naranjos
- The tiled benches at Parque de la Alameda
- Rosas Café near Puerto Banus
- Embarcadero Pier at sunset
7. Go on scenic walks
If you don’t enjoy being laid on the beach, why not go on a hike in Marbella? Marbella is famous for its beaches, but its nearby natural spaces are underrated. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a beginner, there’s a hiking trail for you.
One of the easiest walks in Marbella is Cabopino-Dunas de Artola. This wooden path route has stunning views of the dunes and sea. It’s great to do with small kids.
Hiking La Concha is another popular option, but this is more of a moderate to difficult route. I wouldn’t recommend doing it unless you’re experienced.
Bear in mind that the weather in Marbella in September is fairly warm, so go hiking early and keep hydrated at all times.
Last but not least, you can go on a guided hike and swim in the Benahavís River Walk.
📌 If you want a fun and adventurous activity to do in Marbella in summer, check out Marbella Adventures Benahavís river walk. Reach out to me via email stating “Marbella Adventures” on the subject to get a special discount.
8. Stroll along the beach promenade in the evening
Walking on the Marbella beach promenade is lovely no matter the time of the year.
It’s approximately 7 kilometres long, and you can walk all the way from the city centre to Puerto Banus, although I haven’t done it. I tend to stop at Embarcadero.
If you’re visiting Marbella in September, I recommend going on a little wander towards the end of the day, as it can be pretty warm during the day.
And don’t miss the warm peach-coloured sky at sunset. There’s something about Marbella sunsets.
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9. Go to one of Marbella’s most renowned beach clubs
If you’re after a lively atmosphere that involves live music, good cocktails and a beautiful coastal view, you can’t miss out on the opportunity to go to some of the most exclusive beach clubs in the Costa del Sol.
Marbella has over ten beach clubs, so you’re guaranteed to find one of your liking! Nikki Beach, Ocean Club and La Cabanne Marbella are the most famous, and you can sometimes spot celebrities there. However, you won’t be disappointed by others like Amare Beach.
10. Attend Luna Mora de Guaro
Luna Mora de Guaro is one of the most unique events in the Malaga province. It doesn’t take place in Marbella, but it isn’t far.
Guaro is a 30-minute village drive, and every September, around the 6th, they celebrate this festival in the historic centre.
The pretty cobblestone streets are lit up with over 20.000 candles in the evening, and believe me, it’s so beautiful.
However, it isn’t all about the lights. Enjoy the street markets with unique gifts and food, as well as workshops and storytelling for the little ones.
It’s worth attending this event, but you’ll need a rental car to drive from Marbella to Guaro.
11. Celebrate Tourism International Day
Tourism International Day is on the 27th of September, and of course, Marbella celebrates such an important date.
Tourism is the main sector in Marbella and the rest of the Costa del Sol, so we ensure this is a special day. In fact, Marbella was awarded as one of the best destinations to visit in 2024.
In previous years, the city has organised activities and events on that date across different points, such as dancing, magic and flamenco shows, and painting workshops in the old town.
If you’re there on that day, I’d recommend checking out the calendar here.
What to pack in Marbella in September
Packing for Marbella in September isn’t very different from June, July or August. I recommend packing your summer outfits (aka light dresses, shorts and swimming wear), but a light jacket for the evening as it’s cooler.
Besides clothes, bring suncream, sunglasses and mosquito repellent. Many travellers forget about the latter, but mosquitos are a problem in Marbella in the summer, and if you’re like me (who gets bitten all the time), you’ll be grateful for packing insect repellent. There’s nothing worse than itching and scratching yourself all day.
Frequently asked questions about Marbella
Is September a good time to go to Marbella?
Yes, you can still have a summer holiday but with fewer crowds.
Can you swim in Marbella in September?
Yes, you can swim in Marbella in September as the weather is perfect for it.
Is Marbella busy in September?
While it is busier than October and November, you’ll see fewer travellers in September, especially towards the second week of the month, because kids go back to school, and families return to their work and school routines.
Is Marbella hot in September?
Yes, Marbella is hot in September. You can expect an average temperature of 22ºC (71.6ºF).
When does the Marbella summer season start?
The summer season in Marbella starts in mid-May and finishes in the first week of October when water attractions and beach clubs close.
What’s Marbella nightlife like in September?
Although the peak summer months are July and August, the nightlife in Marbella in September is still pretty good.
Conclusion on travelling to Marbella in September
September is one of the best times to visit Marbella for anyone looking for a late summer holiday. The crowds are fewer, and you can still enjoy beautiful beaches, a lively atmosphere, water activities, and some of the renowned beach clubs in the Costa del Sol.
Enjoy your time in Marbella!
Cristina xx
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Things to do before visiting Marbella, Spain
- Check out cheap flights to Malaga Airport (AGP), the closest airport to Marbella.
- Are you looking for the best accommodation? Check out this Marbella hotel guide.
- Book the best activities and tours in Marbella with Get Your Guide.
- Stay connected with your loved ones with Airalo. The best eSIM card available in over 200 countries.
- Rent a car to travel with ease around Marbella and Costa del Sol.
- Book travel insurance for your trip. This is a must for any trip!
