Malaga Weather in September: Late Summer & What to Expect

September in Malaga is summer extended.

The intense heat of August has softened, but the warmth remains. The Mediterranean is at its warmest, the beaches are emptier, and the city has that relaxed end-of-summer feeling. For many visitors, September offers the ideal combination: summer conditions without summer's crowds.

For a bigger picture of when to visit Malaga, check our seasonal guide. But if you're coming in September, here's exactly what to expect.

Is September Hot in Malaga?

Yes, still properly warm.

September daytime temperatures typically reach 27-30°C (81-86°F), which feels like summer. You can spend full days at the beach, wear summer clothes throughout, and enjoy outdoor life from morning until late evening.

September is the month when summer's edge softens.

The extreme heat of August fades, but temperatures remain high enough for everything you'd expect from a Mediterranean summer holiday. Early September can still be genuinely hot; late September starts to hint at autumn.

Evenings are warm at around 19-21°C (66-70°F), comfortable enough for outdoor dining without layers. The temperature balance is one of September's great strengths: warm days without the punishing heat of peak summer.

What's the Temperature in Malaga in September?

Metric	September Average
Average high	28°C (82°F)
Average low	20°C (68°F)
Sea temperature	23°C (73°F)
Rainfall	20mm (3-4 rainy days)
Sunshine hours	8-9 per day
Daylight hours	12-13 hours
UV index	6-7 (high)

September delivers summer warmth with autumn's gentleness. The numbers show warm days, mild evenings, and a sea at its most inviting temperature of the year.

Can You Swim in Malaga in September?

Yes, and this is peak swimming season.

The Mediterranean reaches its warmest point in September, sitting at around 23°C (73°F). After months of summer heat, the sea is genuinely warm, comfortable for extended swimming without any bracing cold.

September is arguably the best month for beach time.

The water is warm, the air temperature is ideal, and the beaches are far less crowded than August. You get all the benefits of summer swimming without fighting for space on the sand.

Early September vs Late September

Early September (1st-15th)

• Still feels like summer (28-30°C)
• Sea at warmest (23-24°C)
• School holidays ending, fewer families
• Summer atmosphere continues
• Generally dry weather

Late September (16th-30th)

• Transition begins (25-27°C)
• Sea still warm (22-23°C)
• Noticeably quieter
• Occasional rain possible
• Slightly shorter days

The shift through September is gradual.

Early September is essentially August without the crowds; late September starts to feel like the shoulder season. Both periods are excellent for visiting.

Does It Rain in Malaga in September?

September sees around 20mm of rain spread across 3-4 days. This is still the dry season, though the first hints of autumn rain can appear.

Rain in September is typically brief.

A passing shower might interrupt an afternoon, but it rarely lasts long. The Mediterranean climate means wet spells are usually short-lived and followed by sunshine. September remains predominantly dry and sunny.

What's the UV Index in September?

High. The UV index in September sits at 6-7, lower than peak summer but still strong enough to burn unprotected skin within 20-30 minutes.

What this means for you:

• Sunscreen is essential for beach days
• Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors
• Sunglasses and a hat remain advisable
• Seek shade during 12pm-3pm if sensitive

September sun feels more pleasant than August's intensity, but it's still strong. Take sun protection seriously, especially in the first half of the month.

What Time Does the Sun Set in September?

The sun sets between 8:30pm and 7:30pm through September, with days shortening noticeably as the month progresses. You have 12-13 hours of daylight.

These long days are perfect for making the most of Malaga.

Morning sightseeing, afternoon beach time, and evening exploration all fit comfortably into each day. The Mediterranean lifestyle of late dinners and evening paseos works perfectly with September's daylight hours.

What to Wear in Malaga in September

Pack for summer with minimal backup. September is straightforward.

Daytime:

• Light summer clothing (shorts, dresses, t-shirts)
• Swimwear for the beach
• Sandals for casual wear
• Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen and a hat

Evenings:

• Light layer for cooler late nights (late September)
• Smart casual for restaurants
• Comfortable evening shoes

Just in case:

• Light rain jacket for occasional showers
• A cardigan for air-conditioned spaces

September packing is easy.

Summer clothes work throughout. You might want one light layer for late September evenings, but you won't need much else.

Events and Highlights in September

September brings a shift in Malaga's rhythm:

• Peak beach season continues: With the warmest sea temperatures and emptier beaches, September is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and beach lounging. Playa de la Malagueta and the eastern beaches are excellent.
• Wine harvest: September marks the grape harvest in the Malaga wine region. Local wines feature prominently, and some bodegas offer harvest experiences.
• Outdoor dining: Terrace season is in full swing. Every restaurant and bar spreads onto the streets, and the warm evenings are perfect for lingering over dinner.
• Ideal day trip weather: September temperatures are perfect for hiking the Caminito del Rey, exploring Ronda, or visiting the white villages. Not too hot, not too cool.
• Return to normal: After the August rush, the city settles back into its regular rhythm. Locals return from holidays, businesses reopen, and Malaga feels more authentically Spanish.

Weather Along the Costa del Sol in September

If you're heading to other Costa del Sol towns, expect similar conditions:

Location	September High	September Low	Sea Temp
Malaga	28°C	20°C	23°C
Torremolinos	28°C	20°C	23°C
Benalmadena	28°C	19°C	23°C
Fuengirola	28°C	19°C	23°C
Marbella	27°C	19°C	23°C
Nerja	28°C	20°C	23°C

The whole coast enjoys the same late-summer conditions. The warm sea temperature is consistent along the entire coastline.

Is September a Good Time to Visit Malaga?

September is excellent. Here's the honest assessment:

September is ideal if you:

• Want warm weather without extreme heat
• Prioritise swimming in warm seas
• Prefer fewer crowds than peak summer
• Enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing
• Like shoulder season value

September might not suit you if you:

• Want the peak summer atmosphere
• Prefer the longest possible days
• Are looking for the absolute hottest weather

The honest answer: September rivals May and June as the best month to visit.

The weather is warm, the sea is at its warmest, the crowds have thinned, and the city feels more relaxed. Many repeat visitors consider September their favourite month.

The Bottom Line

September in Malaga is summer's best-kept secret.

The heat has softened, the sea is at its warmest, and the summer crowds have departed. You get all the benefits of a Mediterranean summer holiday without the intensity and overcrowding of peak season.

Come for the warm days and the even warmer sea.

Come for the emptier beaches and the relaxed atmosphere. Come for Malaga as the locals experience it: summer conditions without the summer chaos.

Pack light, bring sun protection, and enjoy the extended summer. September in Malaga delivers everything you hope for, often better than the months that get more attention.