Malaga Weather in November: Temperature, Swimming & What to Expect (2026)

November marks the start of Malaga's mild winter season - but don't expect freezing temperatures. While it's the wettest month of the year, showers are typically short and sporadic, leaving plenty of dry, sunny days for exploring.

With daytime temperatures around 20°C and significantly fewer tourists than summer, November offers an authentic experience of this vibrant Costa del Sol city.

For a complete overview of Malaga's climate throughout the year, see our guide to the best time to visit Malaga.

November Temperature in Malaga

November in Malaga offers comfortable temperatures that are ideal for sightseeing. While noticeably cooler than October, it remains mild compared to most of Europe.

Early November (1st-15th)

The first half of November still carries some autumn warmth.

Daytime temperatures regularly reach 20-21°C, and you might catch some pleasant beach days. Evenings hover around 13-14°C - comfortable enough for outdoor dining with just a light jacket.

Late November (16th-30th)

As the month progresses, temperatures drop slightly.

Expect highs of 18-19°C and lows around 11°C. The cooling trend is gradual, so it's not a dramatic shift, but you'll want an extra layer for evening activities.

Sunshine and Daylight Hours

November provides about 6-7 hours of sunshine daily, with roughly 10 hours of daylight. The sun rises around 7:30am and sets by 6:00pm at the start of the month, shifting to 8:00am sunrise and 5:45pm sunset by month's end.

While shorter than summer, there's still plenty of daylight for a full day of sightseeing. The softer autumn light is particularly beautiful for photography at landmarks like the Alcazaba and along the waterfront.

Rainfall in November

November is statistically Malaga's wettest month, but don't let that put you off. The rainfall pattern is typically Mediterranean - when it rains, it tends to come in short, intense bursts rather than all-day drizzle.

• Average rainfall: 95mm (compared to 56mm in October)
• Rainy days: 6-7 days on average
• Rain pattern: Short showers, often in the afternoon or evening

Most days remain dry, and even on rainy days, you'll usually get some sunshine. The rain tends to clear quickly, leaving fresh, clean air and sometimes spectacular rainbows over the Mediterranean.

Can You Swim in Malaga in November?

The Mediterranean Sea cools to around 18-19°C (64-66°F) in November. Whether that's swimmable depends on your tolerance for cooler water.

Early November: Sea temperatures around 19°C are still pleasant for a quick swim, especially on sunny afternoons when the air temperature is warm.

Late November: At 17-18°C, the water feels brisk. Locals rarely swim, but you'll see some hardy visitors taking a dip on sunny days.

If you're determined to swim, early November offers better conditions. The beaches themselves remain lovely for walks and sunbathing on warm days - just don't expect the packed beach scene of summer.

Wind and Humidity

November brings mild winds averaging 17 km/h, typically from the west and northwest.

These breezes keep the air fresh without being disruptive. Afternoon winds can pick up occasionally, making evenings feel cooler than the thermometer suggests.

Humidity averages around 64% - higher in mornings and evenings, dropping during the day. This moderate humidity makes outdoor activities comfortable without the stickiness of summer months.

What to Pack for Malaga in November

The key to comfortable November travel in Malaga is layering. Days can be warm enough for a t-shirt, but evenings require something warmer.

Clothing essentials:

• Light layers for daytime (t-shirts, light blouses)
• A warm sweater or light jacket for evenings
• One warmer jacket for cooler late-November days
• Comfortable walking shoes (Malaga has many hills and cobblestones)
• A light scarf for breezy evenings

Weather gear:

• Compact umbrella or packable rain jacket
• Sunglasses - the sun is still bright on clear days
• Sunscreen - UV can be strong even in November

For beach visits:

• Swimsuit if you're brave enough for the cooler water
• Light cover-up for the beach

Things to Do in Malaga in November

November is one of the best months to explore Malaga's cultural attractions. The mild weather is perfect for sightseeing, and you'll avoid the summer crowds at every turn.

Outdoor Activities

The comfortable temperatures make November ideal for:

• Walking tours of the historic center - explore the cathedral quarter, Alcazaba, and Gibralfaro without the summer heat
• Coastal walks along Paseo Marítimo - the seafront promenade is peaceful and scenic
• Day trips to nearby villages - Frigiliana, Mijas, and Nerja are particularly pleasant in autumn
• Hiking in the Montes de Malaga - the natural park is beautiful with autumn colors

Indoor Attractions

For rainy days or afternoon breaks:

• Picasso Museum - smaller crowds mean more time with the art
• Centre Pompidou Malaga - contemporary art in the colorful cube at the port
• Atarazanas Market - browse seasonal produce and sample local specialties
• Malaga Cathedral - admire the Renaissance architecture of "La Manquita"

November Events

• Malaga Jazz Festival - held annually in November, this festival brings international and local artists to venues across the city
• All Saints' Day (November 1st) - observe local traditions including visits to cemeteries and eating seasonal sweets like huesos de santo
• Late November Christmas preparations - Christmas lights typically go up in the last week of November, and Malaga's display is famous throughout Spain

November vs Other Months

Wondering if November is the right month for your Malaga trip? Here's how it compares:

Choose November if: You want mild weather, low prices, and fewer tourists. It's ideal for cultural sightseeing and food-focused travel.

Choose October if: Beach swimming is important to you, or you prefer slightly warmer temperatures.

Choose December if: You want to experience Spanish Christmas traditions and Malaga's famous Christmas lights.