Visiting Malaga in September – All you need to know

We are already in mid-August 2026, while many of you are returning to the routine of work or planning to, others are packing their bags to begin their holiday in Malaga in September.

Many tourists prefer September over August to spend their holidays. Towards the end of August there is already a noticeable drop in the number of towels on the beach, a clear indicator that the high season is coming to an end.

Those who have experienced the transition from August to September can see how summer seems to dissolve between taxis and suitcases heading to the airport. Don’t be mistaken — it is just an illusion and there is still good weather and pleasant temperatures for everyone. The distance between towels on the beach expands once we pass 31 August. There may be a mathematical formula to calculate that personal space on the sand, but it has not yet been discovered. The temperatures do not seem to leave Malaga with the tourists who depart the Costa del Sol, which is excellent news for those who arrive.

Without any doubt there is still good weather and pleasant temperatures for enjoying the beach and pool in September.

Is it hot and is there good weather in September?

Without any doubt there is still good weather and pleasant temperatures for enjoying the beach and pool in September. Average daytime highs are around 28 °C and overnight lows around 19 °C. The only thing that ‘seems’ to disappear during this month are the strongest Terral days. I say ‘seems’, because it is less likely that the thermometer will exceed 35 °C, although it is not impossible — it can still happen on the odd day.

The weather is perfect for continuing to enjoy the beach and sunbathing. The sea is at a pleasant temperature (around 23–24 °C), although we lose those occasional days of really warm water that sometimes occur in August. If it’s hot and you want to cool down, the slightly cooler water is actually quite welcome, so it is not a problem at all.

Would you like to know more about the weather in September? Visit this website: https://www.holiday-weather.com/malaga/averages/september/

Does it rain in Malaga in September?

September is not a rainy month. Like any other month it can rain, but it is not usual. When it does happen it is normally a light shower that clears the same day. Towards the end of the month, as autumn approaches, the chance of rain increases slightly, but it is still far from a rainy season. Average rainfall is only around 20–25 mm with roughly two rainy days.

Feel free to check another blog post where I suggest ideas of things to do in Malaga on a rainy day. Although it is more focused on winter, it is still valid.

What clothes should you bring if you visit Malaga in September?

If you come early in the month you can still wear the same clothes you would in summer. Shorts and short-sleeved tops are a good option. I would also recommend bringing a couple of long-sleeved items in case an evening turns cooler — something that can happen equally in August if you are right by the sea.

If you come in late September it is a good idea to pack long trousers and a light jacket just in case. Do not forget your swimsuit and summer clothes though — you will still need them.

Are there fairs or festivals in September in Malaga?

Of course there are activities, festivals and fairs in September. In Malaga I do not think there is a single month without at least one relevant event or festival. Although the Malaga Fair is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city in August, September also has some excellent events.

Among the most interesting in 2026 are:

• Mijas Fair (7–12 September): a traditional Andalusian fair with casetas, family activities, processions in honour of the Virgen de la Peña and evening concerts (including Camela and Medina Azahara).
• Sophie Festival at Ogus Park in Churriana: electronic music nights with Richie Hawtin (5 September) and the season closing party with Ricardo Villalobos (19 September).
• Luna Mora de Guaro (around 11–12 September): one of my all-time favourite events. The village is lit by thousands of candles, there is music, food stalls and a magical atmosphere — perfect for photos and a special evening.
• Pasarela Larios (25–26 September): Europe’s longest outdoor catwalk turns Calle Larios into a fashion runway for two evenings with Spanish and international designers. Free to watch from the street.
• Torremolinos San Miguel Fair (25–29 September): one of the most popular late-summer fairs on the Costa del Sol, with daytime atmosphere in the town centre and a lively night fair at the Recinto Ferial.

There is a dedicated blog post about the festivals and fairs of Malaga in September that is well worth reading if you are planning to visit this month.

The million-dollar question: is September a good month to visit Malaga and enjoy your holiday?

Is September a good month to visit Malaga?

The million-dollar question: is September a good month to visit Malaga and enjoy your holiday? Undoubtedly yes. Let me explain the reasons that lead me to say so.

I lived in a tourist development where 90 % of the people were not Spaniards but tourists. I know the main periods when people usually visit Malaga for their holidays. Although they come all year round, some dates are more suitable depending on the type of visitor you are.

August is the month for everyone, just like July. Young people are everywhere and looking to have fun. The beach and pools become the main meeting points during the day, while at night the promenade turns into a long fashion catwalk of different nationalities.

Malaga in September is still a popular destination, but without many of the younger tourists who are already getting ready to go back to school or university. Let’s say it is a similar month to August but a little quieter. The further we move from the high season, the lower the prices become, which is a great incentive for many.

Those looking mainly to enjoy the beach, sunbathing and good weather prefer September over later months.

Those who value saving money and culture above everything else tend to wait for later months. October, November and December are among the cheapest times to visit Malaga. Those who mainly want to enjoy the beach, sunbathing and good weather prefer September.

During this month I particularly recommend this blog post about natural pools and rivers in Malaga.

If you are travelling with children it is more likely that they will make friends at the pool or beach during August. Although it is not a decisive factor, it is true that there are more young people around that month. In September you will find a more family-oriented and relaxed atmosphere — ideal if you want to combine beach time, good weather and a bit more peace and quiet without saying goodbye to summer.

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