Water temperature and wave height on the beaches of Malaga
📍 Málaga – Overview:
Located in Andalusia, southern Spain
Positioned on the Mediterranean Sea, part of the Alboran Sea
Known for its urban beaches, palm-lined promenades, vibrant atmosphere, and year-round sun
🏖️ Top Beaches in the Málaga Area:
1. Playa de la Malagueta 🌴
Main city beach, walking distance from the city center
Golden sand, calm waters
Great facilities: sunbeds, showers, lifeguards, beach bars (chiringuitos)
Family-friendly and great for a beach break during city sightseeing
2. Playa de la Caleta 🧘♀️
East of Malagueta, quieter and cleaner
Frequented by locals
Good for relaxing, jogging, and swimming
Palm trees and a nice promenade for biking or walking
3. Playa de Pedregalejo 🐟
Traditional fishing neighborhood with a long beach and small coves
Very charming atmosphere with beachfront seafood restaurants
Shallow waters – ideal for kids and casual swimming
Excellent for trying grilled sardines (espeto)
4. Playa del Palo 🐚
Further east, more local and less touristy
Fine sand, low waves
Authentic atmosphere, great local food and peaceful beach vibes
5. Playa de Guadalmar 🌊
Near the mouth of the Guadalhorce River and the airport
Less crowded, wider space, and part of it is nudist-friendly
Some wind, suitable for kite surfing on windy days
🌊 Sea & Beach Characteristics in Málaga:
Water type: Salty, part of the Mediterranean Sea (Alboran sub-basin)
Wave activity: Generally calm with light surf – safe for most swimmers
Water clarity: Moderate to clear (clearer outside the city center)
Sand color: Mostly dark golden to brownish (volcanic influence)
Tide: Gentle and predictable
Marine life: Sardines, small fish, seaweed patches – great for casual snorkeling
✅ Why Visit Málaga’s Beaches?
🌇 Urban convenience: beach + city combo
🧒 Safe, calm waters ideal for families
🐟 Excellent beach food culture (grilled fish, tapas)
🚶 Lovely promenades for walking, jogging, or cycling
🏖️ Mix of lively beaches and quiet local spots
Month | 🌊 Avg. Water Temp |
---|---|
❄️ January | 15.5°C |
❄️ February | 15°C |
🌱 March | 15.5°C |
🌸 April | 16.5°C |
🌼 May | 18.5°C |
☀️ June | 21.5°C |
🔥 July | 23.5°C |
🔥 August | 24.5°C |
🌤 September | 24°C |
🍂 October | 21.5°C |
🍁 November | 18°C |
❄️ December | 16°C |
✅ Quick Summary:
🏊 Best months to swim: June–October
❄️ Coolest months: February–March (~15°C)
🔥 Warmest sea: August (~24.5°C)
🌅 Nice shoulder season: May & October – mild temps, fewer crowds