What's the weather like in Costa del Sol in December?
December's a magical time to visit the Costa Del Sol in Spain. The area is quieter than in peak summer and even though temperatures are chilly for Spain, you'll still see plenty of sunny days.
What's Christmas like in Costa Del Sol?
There are heaps of activities and events at Christmas. The Costa Del Sol and the towns sparkle with festive lights and nativity scenes. The sun is shining and although it's not warm for Spain, there's still five hours of daily sunshine - which is five more than you'll see in the UK at Christmas.
Is The Costa Del Sol Warm In December?
The average temperature for December in the Costa Del Sol is 13°C with highs of 16°C although temperature lows can drop to a rather chilly 8°C.
Can You Swim In The Sea In The Costa Del Sol In December?
With sea temperatures at 16°C, swimming is not out of the question in December - and you'll see plenty of people swimming in even cooler temperatures.
Costa del Sol Hotels in December
Christmas time is here, and if you're reading this you're obviously up for swapping a white Christmas for a golden one. A great escape from freezing UK and a traditional chilly Crimbo would be to head to Marbella and book in at Vime Reserva De Marbella. The nearest beach is a 20-minute walk, however, this four-star resort has plenty to offer on-site including a kids' club, a weekly flamenco night and an indoor and outdoor pool both heated. This hotel is ideal for self-catering customers, but due to its location, is not recommended for people with walking difficulties.
Located on the Eastern part of the Costa del Sol and only 900 metres from the beaches in Torrox is El Pino Camping Campsite. Despite it being December, this is still great choice, especially as sunshine hours are generously high, and temperatures still peak at pleasantly warm levels. The setting is lovely; green and peaceful. The campsite has 420 pitches and 47 bungalows and lodges, with facilities including a laundry service, a nature park and a nearby supermarket.
A great all inclusive choice, Silken Puerta Malaga is located in the Costa del Sol's bustling capital city. This excellent hotel is a few metres away from the high speed train station, and various facilities include a spa, coffee shops, a convention centre and sauna. The rooms are spotless and the service is first rate. Fantastic restaurant, too try the top quality fish dishes.
The Mar Azul resort in Estepona is next to the Laguna Village, and gives stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. The beach is just a minute away, and comprises of 72 privately-owned apartments, joined together by romantic thatched cabanas and tropical gardens. It never gets too quiet at this time of year in a good way - and the luxury feel makes Mar Azul a popular choice for holidaymakers seeking an enjoyable place to enjoy the seasonal festivities.
The nine bedrooms at Hostal Miguel in Nerja are well-kept, clean and comfy. This charming B&B is run by a friendly British couple, and is handily located in the centre of Nerja. Relaxed and laid-back this place will feel like a home from home, it's very well priced as well. A tip when it comes to booking rooms; if you want some peace and quiet, request one of the back rooms, as the front rooms can be noisy due to pedestrians walking past, both at day and night.
Costa del Sol Beach for December
Wilches Beach in the Torrox region is an isolated beach which can be enjoyed throughout December weather permitting. Despite being easily accessible on foot, very few people come to this beach, so if you're seeking a blissfully empty beach, head here. Basic services include showers and beach chairs for hire.
Slightly busier is Playa de la Malagueta in Malaga, an urban beach located 10 minutes from the Picasso Museum. The sand is black and the beach is 1200 metres long in length, and offers plenty of good restaurants and beach bars. Its European Blue Flag status makes it safe to swim, although you've have to be brave to do that at this time of year!
Bars and Restaurants
Most of us Brits love a traditional slap up Christmas lunch with all the trimmings and The Carvery in Torremolinos is the closest you will get to an authentic festive meal while on holiday. Open all year round from Thursday Sunday, visitors can choose from a selection of four roasted meats, served with homemade Yorkshire pudding and a variety of seasonal vegetables. Book ahead to avoid rumbling tummies and hanging heads!
For a local festive meal, try Taberna del Pintxo in Marbella. Request a table near the kitchen to get the first fresh tapas off the trays. The authenticity and attention to detail that goes into every dish, from smoked Iberian hams to Russian salad, sets this place apart. The staff are warm, friendly and attentive. This place won't break the bank either.
Nestled in the heart of the old town of Marbella, Ana Maria is a lively bar offering regular evening flamenco shows and a host of other entertainment. This place is bustly and fun and attracts a good crowd including locals and tourists alike. A great place to enjoy a festive tipple or three.
If in Benalmadena, head to Kiu club for a suitably festive party atmosphere. It boasts three different dance floors for three different music genres: salsa Latino, chart music and hardcore dance. The drinks are well priced and this is a popular venue and one Benalmadena's largest clubs.
Things to do in Costa del Sol in December
The Alcazaba in Malaga is a great attraction to enjoy rain or shine and offers fine views over the city, so have your camera ready. This military fortification is one of the lasting legacies from the Hispanic-Arabic period in the 11th century and is well worth a visit.
The Museum of Glass and Crystal in downtown Malaga displays approximately 700 objects of glass and crystal, dating from Roman and Egyptian times to the present day. The majority of the exhibits date back to the 19th century, ranging from chairs and carpets to lamps and sofas. Opened in September 2009, it is popular with history buffs and tourists with a keen visual eye. Guided tours of the museum are available on Tuesdays and Sundays, but it's shut on Mondays.
