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Malaga in November and winter: what to do on land and at sea
If you are thinking of visiting Malaga in November or in winter, you won’t find packed beaches, but you will find a lively city, mild temperatures and a sea that still invites you out. In this guide we cover the weather, what to see on land and which boat trips are worth it in the low season from Malaga and Benalmadena.
What is the weather like in Malaga in November and winter?
Malaga has one of the mildest winters in Europe. November is still warm, with highs of around 20 ºC. From December to February highs are around 17-18 ºC and lows around 8-9 ºC. It only rains on a few days each month, although when it does it can be heavy.
| Month | Approx. average high | Approx. average low | Approx. sea temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| November | 20-21 ºC | 11-12 ºC | 18-19 ºC |
| December | 18 ºC | 9-10 ºC | 16-17 ºC |
| January | 17 ºC | 8 ºC | 15-16 ºC |
| February | 18 ºC | 9 ºC | 15 ºC |
These are approximate averages: every year is different, so check the forecast before you travel. What doesn’t change is that sunny days are the norm.
Things to do in Malaga in November on land
November and winter are the best times to enjoy the city without the crowds:
- Museums: the Picasso Museum, the Centre Pompidou, the Carmen Thyssen Museum and the Museum of Malaga.
- Monuments: the Alcazaba, Gibralfaro Castle and the cathedral, with shorter queues than in summer.
- Christmas: the famous Calle Larios lights, switched on at the end of November, and the Christmas markets.
- Food: sardine skewers (espetos), fried fish and sweet Malaga wine at beach bars, many of them open all year.
- Benalmadena: the marina, the cable car and Colomares Castle.
For more ideas, see our guides to things to do in Malaga and what to do in Benalmadena.
Malaga in winter from the sea: boat trips
Many visitors don’t realise that you can still go out on the water on the Costa del Sol in winter. With a calm sea, the soft winter light and an empty coastline, a boat trip is one of the best things to do in the season:
- Catamaran trip: one- or two-hour trips around the bay, with views of the coast and the mountains.
- Dolphin watching: dolphins can be seen in the Bay of Malaga all year round.
- Sunset boat trip: in winter the sun sets earlier, at around half past six, so a sunset trip doesn’t take up your evening.
- Private charter: for birthdays, company lunches or Christmas celebrations on a catamaran with a skipper.
Trips always depend on the sea conditions: the skipper confirms each one according to the forecast. See our boat trips in Benalmadena, the sunset boat trip and dolphin watching in Benalmadena.
Malaga in November: a good time to get a boating licence
The low season is ideal for training: there are fewer students per group, practical sessions are more relaxed and you reach the summer with your licence in hand. Many students use the winter to prepare for the PER or the navigation licence and start sailing in spring.
If you are not sure which licence suits you, have a look at our recreational boating licences. And if you already have one, our navigation club lets you keep sailing all year round.
Tips for visiting Malaga in November and winter
Pack layers: mornings and evenings are cool, but at midday you can often wear short sleeves. If you are going on a boat trip, bring a windproof jacket, as it feels colder out at sea. Book ahead for December weekends and the early December bank holidays, which are the busiest dates.
For trips at sea, keep your plans flexible: if a strong easterly or westerly wind blows on one day, the trip is usually moved to another day of your stay. That is why it is a good idea to book your boat trip for the start of your holiday, so there is room to change it.
Frequently asked questions
Is Malaga warm in November?
Yes, it is mild: highs are around 20 ºC with plenty of sunshine. From December to February highs are around 17-18 ºC, which is warm for European winter standards.
Can you go on a boat trip in Malaga in winter?
Yes. Catamaran trips and dolphin watching run all year round, as long as the sea conditions allow. The skipper confirms each trip according to the forecast.
Are there dolphins in Malaga in winter?
Yes. Dolphins can be seen in the Bay of Malaga all year round, although sightings can never be guaranteed on any single trip.
Is Malaga worth visiting in November?
Yes. The weather is pleasant, there are fewer tourists, prices are lower and, at the end of the month, the Christmas lights on Calle Larios are switched on.
