Fancy escaping the dreary British drizzle without emptying your wallet on peak-season prices? March in Costa del Sol might just be your cup of tea… but what can we expect for the Costa Del Sol Spain weather in March?
As I sit here on the balcony of my quaint apartment in Marbella, nursing a perfectly chilled glass of Albariño while the sun dips below the Mediterranean horizon, I can’t help but feel I’ve stumbled upon Spain’s best-kept secret: Costa del Sol in March.
The Weather: Sunshine Without the Scorching Heat
If you’ve ever visited Southern Spain in August, you’ll know it can be hotter than a curry house vindaloo. March, however, offers that gloriously mild sweet spot that we Brits so desperately crave after our soggy winters.
Daytime temperatures typically hover between 18-22°C (64-72°F) – warm enough to ditch the heavy coat but not so hot you’ll be melting faster than a 99 Flake on Blackpool beach. The evenings cool down to around 10-12°C (50-54°F), so you’ll want to pack a light jumper or jacket for your sunset G&Ts.
You can expect around 7-8 hours of sunshine daily, with rainfall significantly less than what you’d face back home. March sees about 5-6 rainy days on average, but these are typically brief showers rather than the all-day downpours we’re accustomed to in Blighty.
Packing tip: Think layers! T-shirts and light trousers for daytime, with a cardigan or light jacket for evenings. Don’t forget your sunnies and a decent SPF – that spring sun can be deceptively strong, and nobody wants to return home looking like a British postbox.
Things to Do: Beyond the Beach Towel
While the Mediterranean waters might still be on the nippy side for swimming (around 15-16°C), there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this gorgeous coastline:
1. Coastal Path Wandering
The newly completed Senda Litoral (coastal path) offers spectacular walking routes connecting many of the resort towns. I spent a delightful morning strolling from Marbella to Puerto Banús, stopping for coffee at beachside chiringuitos along the way. The route was dotted with local pensioners power-walking and cyclists enjoying the seafront – much more pleasant without the summer crowds!
2. Old Town Exploring
March is perfect for poking around the charming old quarters of towns like Marbella and Estepona without melting in sweltering heat. Marbella’s Plaza de los Naranjos was particularly lovely, with orange blossom scenting the air as I tucked into freshly-made churros.
3. Day Trip to Ronda
With fewer tourists about, this is the ideal time to visit stunning Ronda, perched dramatically atop its gorge. The drive through the mountains was breathtaking, with almond trees in bloom creating patches of white and pink against the green landscape. The famous Puente Nuevo bridge was relatively queue-free – a rarity!
4. Golf Paradise
If you’re the golfing sort, March sees the courses in prime condition without the eye-watering peak season green fees. I’m rubbish with a club myself, but my travel companion was in absolute heaven at the Mijas Golf Club, particularly as he could book prime tee times without a three-month wait.
5. Sierra de las Nieves National Park
About an hour’s drive from the coast, this stunning mountain range offers excellent hiking opportunities in pleasant temperatures. The wildflowers were just beginning to emerge when I visited, creating patches of vibrant color across the landscape.
6. Tapas Crawl in Málaga
The provincial capital is a foodie’s paradise, and without the summer throngs, you’ll actually get a seat at popular tapas bars! I had a fantastic evening hopping between El Pimpi, Uvedoble, and Casa Lola, where the staff had time for a chat about their recommendations rather than just rushing to serve the masses.
7. Wine Tasting in Ronda Wine Country
The burgeoning wine region around Ronda produces some exceptional reds. Several vineyards offer tours and tastings, and March means you’ll often have the sommelier’s undivided attention. Bodega Doña Felisa was a particular highlight – their Chinchilla red had me arranging a shipment back to London before I’d even finished my glass!
Festivals and Events: Local Culture in Full Swing
March isn’t just about dodging the crowds – there’s plenty happening:
Semana Santa preparations begin in earnest throughout the region. While the main Holy Week processions usually fall in April, smaller practice events and church services offer a fascinating glimpse into this important cultural tradition.
Día de Andalucía (February 28th) celebrations often spill into early March, with various towns hosting events celebrating Andalusian culture. I stumbled upon a wonderful flamenco performance in Mijas Pueblo’s main square that had me tapping my feet so enthusiastically I nearly spilled my rioja!
Estepona Orchid House hosts special spring exhibitions as their collection bursts into bloom. As someone whose houseplants routinely die within a fortnight, I was gobsmacked by the variety and beauty on display.
If you’re around mid-March, keep an eye out for San José celebrations (March 19th). This is Father’s Day in Spain, and many towns host special events, with Mijas putting on a particularly good show with traditional music and dance.
Practical Tips for March Visitors
Accommodation is notably cheaper than peak season, but the best places still get snapped up. I booked my Marbella apartment about two months ahead and saved nearly 40% compared to summer rates.
Car hire is an absolute must if you want to explore beyond your resort. The coastal train only serves a portion of the Costa del Sol, and while buses exist, they’re not always convenient. I used Goldcar at Málaga Airport and paid about half what I would in July (though watch out for their fuel policies – bit of a rip-off).
Restaurant reservations aren’t as essential as in summer, but for popular spots like El Lago or Los Marinos José, it’s still worth booking ahead, especially for weekend dinners.
Pack a brolly – not because it rains constantly, but those occasional showers can appear quite suddenly. I got caught in a ten-minute downpour in Mijas that had me huddling under a shop awning looking like I’d gone swimming fully clothed.
Off-season opening hours can catch you out. Some attractions and restaurants (particularly in smaller towns) might still be operating on reduced winter schedules or closed for renovations. I found Google’s opening times weren’t always accurate – better to check websites or give places a quick ring before making special trips.
Finally About The Costa Del Sol Spain Weather In March
As I watch the last rays of sunshine paint the Mediterranean gold, I can’t help thinking that March might just be the Costa del Sol’s moment of perfection. Warm enough to make you feel you’ve escaped winter, quiet enough to avoid queues, and affordable enough to extend your stay without remortgaging your semi in Surbiton. If you’re a cyclist, then this is a good time to take the bike out, as the temperatures are not too inhibiting.
So while your colleagues are battling through another month of British drizzle, why not swap your wellies for espadrilles and discover Spain’s sunshine coast at its most charming? Just don’t tell too many people about it – some secrets are worth keeping! March and October here are ideal, as the temperatures and crowds are both bearable.
Have you visited the Costa del Sol in early spring? Drop me a comment below with your own tips and discoveries!
