Weather lowdown
Nerja enjoys one of the most enviable locations on the Costa del Sol, and never is this more evident than on one of the coldest months of the year. Sheltered by mountains and tempered by the sea, this most treasured of Spain's beach hubs boasts a beautifully temperate climate and makes for a divine holiday destinations especially in December, when the weather further north can be unpleasant to say the least. If you want to enjoy plenty of sunshine at Christmas time then this is definitely the place for you.
The average daily temperature for this month is a very pleasant 14°C, with expected highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. During the first week of December, you can expect the temps to hover around the mid-teens and as the month progresses you'll experience a drop of a few degrees each week, primarily at night. Having said this however, do note that variation here is never drastic, so don't be surprised if you stay here for the entire month and not notice any changes at all. Around 7 hours of daily sunshine will be a constant this month and should make for fantastic days out and about in Nerja. Surprisingly, the average sea temperature will still be up around16°C, so hardy visitors can also invigorate their soul with a quick dip in the sea on particularly sunny days.
The average amount of rainfall this month is 90 mm over 13 days, which is actually quite considerable. In December you can also expect a few foggy days, although fog here usually clears by lunchtime.
Where to stay
Whether you're looking for a place in which to spend Christmas, or just a cosy home for a week of rest before celebrating at home, you're sure to find the right accommodation in Nerja. Please do beware that prices do go up during the Christmas week, making this the second most expensive time of year to visit.
The Riu Monica Hotel is a perfect choice if you plan to spend Christmas here as they organise a sumptuous and elegant Gala Dinner which will offer you the chance to celebrate with the many other foreigners who will no doubt also escape to the warmth of the Costa del Sol. On the western end of Burriana Beach is where you'll find the Parador Hotel, which also offers an amazing Christmas spread for their guests.
The Capistrano Apartment Complex in Nerja is a favoured by those who visit with a larger group of friends or family members. The wide choice of apartments over a few connected buildings, makes staying close very easy indeed. Your choices here are almost mind-boggling! You have 1, 2 and 3-bedroom flats to choose from, as well as stunning penthouses and free-standing villas. Capistrano is centrally located, close to all amenities and, of course, to all the well-stocked supermarkets in Nerja.
Eating & drinking out
Most of Nerja's restaurants and bars will prepare a meal to go if you want to enjoy dinner or lunch in your hotel room, yet there are two in particular which specialise in cheap, cheerful and utterly tasty treats to take-away. Head to Little Italy on Calle Carabeo for incredibly affordable and tasty pizzas and pastas, and enjoy your Indian or doner kebab fix from the curry and kebab shop of Little India, which you'll find on Calle Los Huertos.
Should you be craving a proper English breakfast during your time in Nerja, then pop in to Buddy's Bar towards the top end of Calle Malaga and feast your taste-buds on a generous serve of bacon, sausages and eggs. Renowned for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, Buddy's is also a great local for daily sundowners and on-the-go hearty food.
If you're visiting Nerja with your extended family to celebrate Christmas then go ahead and look for a rental villa where you can all get together and cook up a feast in your 'home away from home'. Mercadona supermarket will be your shopping place of choice, with its huge array of fresh produce on offer every day of the year. You'll find this brand new supermarket on the eastern end of town along Calle de San Miguel. Check out this extensive self-catering guide for more fantastic foodie shopping options in Nerja.
Things to do
Fancy a game of golf on a warm December day? Thought so! The award-winning Baviera Golf Course is one of over 30 brilliant courses on the Costa del Sol and the one closest to Nerja. This is actually considered one of the top 5 courses in the entire country, so although you'll have to drive for twenty minutes reach it, it'll certainly be worth your while if you're an avid golfer. Designed by famed Spanish golfer José María Cañizares, this world-class course also boasts beautiful gardens and a great restaurant and bar, making it a fab place to spend an entire winter day.
Skiing aficionados will also have the best of Nerja right at their doorstep, with the sensational Sierra Nevada Ski Resort barely an hour out of town. If you prefer to have everything taken care of for you (including transport) then book a day outing with Ski & Sea and they will organise all, from pick-up and drop-off to lift passes and all the gear you'll need for an invigorating day out on the snowy slopes of the Almijara mountains. At only £99 per person, these day trips are hard to beat.
Whatever you choose to do with your wonderful days in Nerja, do make sure you leave yourself plenty of time to simply enjoy being there. This is an incredible month to be on the Costa del Sol! Take leisurely walks on the beach, enjoy striking coastal views from the Balcon de Europa viewpoint and spend a few hours exploring the depths of the famous Nerja Caves. For more fantastic winter-fun ideas, pick up a brochure at the Nerja Information Office and discover all the interesting sight of Nerja and its beautifully natural soundings and, if you're up for a day trip with a difference, go ahead and read our March guide, where we'll lead you to an awe-inspiring day trip to Morocco. You'll be surprised at just how many activities are on offer in this seemingly sleepy and relaxing beach town.
