September in mainland Spain, and other parts of Europe, means the start of autumn and the first of cooler days. However, in the resort of Bahia Feliz, located on the southern coast of Gran Canaria, warm water temperatures and long days make September feel just like summer. The weather in Bahia Feliz is usually dry and sunny during September, although short-lived downpours do occur on rare occasions. The lucky September visitors experience a coastal village that is quiet after the summer high season, but still with weather similar to the summer months of July and August.
Unlike July and August, there is a possibility of precipitation in September, however it is still very rare. The average rainfall is 9 mm of rain throughout September, occurring on an average of 3 days. This means there is only a 20% chance a day will have rain, and September is normally characterised by short bursts of rain, not entire days of clouds.
Despite the slight increase in the chance of rain relative to the summer months, sunshine is still reliable during September. The days are slightly shorter than in August, but there are still, on average, 10 hours per day with bright sunshine.
September is the best month for swimming and other water sports near Bahia Feliz. The surrounding seas continue to warm during the month, in spite of the reducing daylight, with an average sea temperature of 23°C (73°F). The warm seas are comfortable enough for any kind of water sports or swimming.
In addition, the warm seas help prevent the surface and air temperatures from dropping significantly throughout September. The average temperature in September is 24°C (75°F) by day, while typically temperatures fall no lower than 20°C (68°F) overnight. This makes outdoor activities and al fresco dinning attractive at any time of day or night. In addition, September sees relatively consistent temperatures. The average high temperature is only 26°C (79°F).
Where to Stay
The warm seawater of September practically begs visitors to stay right on the water. The Bohemia Suites & Spa, located outside Bahia Feliz and Playa del Ingles, is a fabulous seaside escape. The adults-only atmosphere is chic and sophisticated, but the service provided by the professional staff is warm and inviting. There is a rooftop restaurant for guests who want to share a classy cocktail or begin a night out in Playa del Ingles, and a poolside bar for all day drinks.
Another option along the water is Seaside Palm Beach. This smart, luxury hotel is full of bright colours and fascinating décor, with suddenly surprising and welcomed colour schemes in different guest rooms. Even the blue of the hotel's swimming pool appears brighter and deeper. A touch of retro flair completes the hotel design and compliments the seaside location. The 5-star Seaside Palm Beach is cheerful and lively from the onset. However, there is no lack of space to relax and unwind, as from the spa to the poolside, Seaside Palm Beach strives to provide a seamless guest experience.
A stay in the bungalows at Sahara Beach Club is the perfect way to wish farewell to summer, as the September weather is still guaranteed to be airy and pleasant. The Sahara Beach Club is located only 700 metres from the beach, and with the Maspalomas Sand Dunes separating the Sahara Beach Club from the town of Playa del Ingles, these quaint bungalows can be an idyllic retreat.
What to Do
Whether out on the water, relaxing with toes in the sand or off on a day-trip adventure, the quiet resort of Bahia Feliz is the perfect place for a holiday in September. The Atlantic Ocean water is at its warmest throughout this month, and many visitors take advantage by planning days on the coast and activities on the water.
Few days on the water could be more exciting and fascinating than a day looking for dolphins. Spirit of the Sea, which is based in the harbour Puerto Base, in Puerto Rico, along the southern coast of Gran Canaria, offers two different tours three days a week. The tours are only 27 Euro for adults and 14 Euro for children. The Canary Islands are one of the best places in the world for seeing dolphins, as a number different species have been spotted in the waters off Gran Canaria and other islands. Spirit of the Sea also works diligently to provide a great experience for all ages.
For those who want to be in, not on, the water, near Bahia Feliz is a great place to try surfing. The Surf Canaries Surf School in nearby Playa del Ingles offers surf lessons for beginners and more experienced surfers. The break at Playa del Ingles is a great location for those wanting to learn or try surfing for the first time. Surf Canaries also offers hotel pickup from Bahia Feliz and surrounding towns.
Just slightly farther away, Pro Surfing Gran Canaria in Maspalomas offers both beginner and intermediate lessons, as well as "surf safaris" that take visitors on multi-day excursions seeking the best waves around Gran Canaria.
Hit the Beach
Playa del Ingles is one of the more crowded stretches of sand on Gran Canaria. It is located a mere 5 minutes from Bahia Feliz, and an easy drive or taxi ride away, however the atmosphere is worlds different. The crowd at Playa del Ingles is often younger and trendier, due in part to the fact that Playa del Ingles and the accompanying town has been the centre of gay nightlife and accommodation on Gran Canaria for over 25 years. This sun-soaked party place can be crowded during the height of summer, but is a beautiful location for a day trip all year long, particularly in the months just before and after the summer high season.
Where to Eat & Drink
Every holiday destination needs a great place to grab lunch. The warm and lazy days of September practically beg to be spent in relaxation along the coast and enjoying long meals with family and friends. Located in central Bahia Feliz, within the grounds of the Orquidea Hotel, El Sultan la Carte Restaurant is a wonderful lunchtime option. The tapas are light and fresh, while the rest of the menu offers a combination of Spanish and International food for the hungrier crowd. Save room for something sweet, as the desserts come highly recommended.
If you are out adventuring around Gran Canaria for the day, stop into Café Wien in Playa del Ingles. The German café serves some of the best cakes and desserts on the island, and the mostly German staff does an excellent job making all international visitors feel welcome. Located in a rooftop garden, Café Wien is the ideal place to watch a quiet September afternoon slip right on by.
Stay a bit closer to home in Bahia Feliz by eating at Balcon de San Agustin. With incredible views over the Atlantic Ocean and ideally situated right on the seaside, Balcon de San Agustin has all the elements to be a fantastic restaurant. Fortunately for visitors to nearby Bahia Feliz, the atmosphere matches the amazing location.
