Malaga in August: Weather, Things to Do & Is It Worth Visiting?

If you're considering August for your Malaga trip, you're in for an intense experience.

Scorching heat and the city's biggest celebration all collide in one unforgettable month!

But if you embrace the heat and the Spanish way of dealing with it, August rewards you with warm seas, late nights, and the spectacular Feria de Malaga.

Seriously though, bring sunscreen. Lots of it.

For a review of every month take a look at my best time to visit Malaga guide.

What to Expect from the Weather in August

Daytime temperatures regularly reach 31-35°C (88-95°F). Some days push higher, especially when hot air from inland Andalusia or North Africa flows through.

The heat is relentless from late morning until early evening.

By midday, the city slows to a crawl. Shops close, streets empty, and anyone with sense retreats indoors or to the beach. This is siesta time taken seriously!

Evenings are warm but bearable, with temperatures dropping to around 22°C (72°F).

This is when restaurants fill their terraces, the paseo maritimo comes alive, and the city doesn't wind down until well past midnight.

The Mediterranean reaches its warmest at 24°C (75°F) in August, bathtub-warm by Mediterranean standards.

The UV index in August is 9-10, among the highest levels in Europe. Unprotected skin can burn in under 15 minutes. Take it seriously from day one!

Okay, and that's the weather. Now for the main event: the Feria!

What's On in August

You can skip ahead to my calendar where I try to keep track of everything free happening in Malaga if you prefer!

No matter the month, there are always a few staples that are always worth catching if you're in the city.

Most museums are free on Sundays, as are the Gibralfaro Castle and the Alcazaba. P.S. The Roman Theatre is ALWAYS free.

La Merced market is the first Sunday of each month, and the Botanical Gardens are free on Sundays too.

But the real draw is the Feria de Malaga (usually mid-August, around August 15th-24th), the city's biggest celebration and one of Andalusia's great fiestas!

Daytime Feria (Centro): The historic centre fills with decorated streets, flamenco performances, and locals in traditional dress. Bars set up on every corner, serving rebujito (sherry and lemonade) and tapas. Make sure you get at least one bottle of Cartojal!

Nighttime Feria (Recinto Ferial): The fairground on the outskirts comes alive after dark with casetas (marquees), rides, concerts, and dancing until dawn. This is where the party really happens!

If you're coming for the Feria, book accommodation months in advance. Hotels fill up fast and prices soar. But don't miss it, it's hands-down my favourite event of the year.

What are the best things to do in August?

Embrace the beach life!

The sea is at its best in August. Morning swims before the beaches fill up, afternoon dips to cool down, sunset sessions as the light softens. You'll find all of the best beaches here.

The chiringuitos are essential to August beach life. Order espetos (sardines grilled over wood fire), cold beers, and settle in for a long lunch in the shade.

When it's too hot, escape into the air-conditioned museums or head to the mountains. The villages in the Montes de Malaga are noticeably cooler.

Live at night! Dinner at 10pm, drinks until late, walking the paseo maritimo under the stars.

Try tapas in Malaga Old Town or cocktails on one of Malaga's rooftop bars.

Where to Stay in Malaga

From boutique hotels in the historic center to beachfront resorts along La Malagueta, Málaga offers accommodations for every budget.

The best area to stay is the Centro Histórico for sightseeing, or the eastern beaches for a relaxed vibe.

GREAT LOCATION

Room Mate Valeria

8.8

Centro Histórico

Stylish design hotel with rooftop pool and bar, steps from the Picasso Museum and cathedral.

From $120/night

View Deal

Molina Lario

8.7

Centro Histórico

Elegant 4-star hotel facing the cathedral with rooftop terrace and excellent service.

From $150/night

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BEST VALUE

Soho Boutique Bahía Málaga

8.5

La Malagueta

Modern beachfront hotel with sea views, close to the port and city center. Great value.

From $90/night

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See our accommodation guide →

What Time Does the Sun Set in August?

The sun sets between 8:45pm and 9:15pm through August, gradually getting earlier as the month progresses. The sky stays light until nearly 10pm.

These long evenings are August's gift.

Dinner in daylight at 9pm, sunset drinks on a rooftop, evening walks that stretch into the night.

Tours in Malaga

I'm a tour person myself, but there are good tours, and there are bad tours. Here's what I recommend.

Browse all tours →

Is August a Good Time to Visit Malaga?

August is polarising.

It's ideal if you love hot weather and don't mind intense heat, want the warmest sea swimming, are coming for the Feria de Malaga, enjoy late nights and buzzing atmosphere, or embrace the Spanish summer lifestyle.

It might not suit you if you struggle with temperatures above 30°C, want quiet beaches and uncrowded sights, prefer active daytime sightseeing, are on a tight budget (August prices are highest), or need early nights and regular schedules.

Ready for the Hottest Month and Biggest Party?

If August's not quite perfect, maybe take a look at July and September.

If you need any help with deciding, you can always send me an email or contact me on any of my socials. I love helping.

I totally get that picking a month can be difficult, they all have something amazing to see, do and experience in them.

If you're ready to book that trip, take a look at my where to stay in Malaga guide for my recommendations. If you make a booking through here I earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, and it helps support my blog.

Thank you for reading, and if you make it to Malaga please send your photos!