Weather lowdown
Sun, surf, sand and sombreros...welcome to Nerja in July!
Summer is definitely in full swing this month on the Costa del Sol and it is now that the dry, sunny climate leads to the highest temperatures you're ever likely to experience in Nerja The sun's rays can be fiercely intense, so make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and a hat, and try to keep out of the sun during the hottest midday period. Incidents of heat stroke and severe sunburn are considerable in July, so keep yourself hydrated and shaded as much as possible.
The average daily temperature in Nerja in July is 24°C, with highs which can easily reach 30°C. However, the averages are very much tempered by night time lows of 20°C. In reality, you're much more like to experience temps in the mid to high 30s during the first week of July, and even early 40s during the second week. It is only towards the end of the month that the temps seem to make a very gradual downward turn.
There's barely any rain seen at this time of the year, which is when the average amount of rainfall falls to just 4 mm over 3 days. You may not enjoy respite from the heat with rain but you can certainly cool off in the sublime waters of the Mediterranean, which at this time of year boast an average sea temperature of 23°C.
All of this, coupled with an average of 14 hours of sunshine each day is what makes July, by far, the hottest and busiest month of the year.
Where to stay
Cafeteria Mirasol does very well for itself and that is not only due to the brilliant food it serves. It also boasts a very central location in Nerja, right on Plaza del Los Cangrejos. This hub of bustling activity makes for a fantastic base, where you'll have the beachfront of Torrecilla right at your doorstep, the Balcon de Europa viewpoint next door and an array of bars, shops and eateries just a step away.
Your accommodation options in this area are plentiful, ranging from affordable hostels to luxury hotels and comfortable serviced apartments. Check out Hotel Jimesol if you're not looking for anything too fancy yet still want a clean and comfortable abode. Rooms boast a much-needed-in-July air conditioning unit and the family-run hotel also has a small pool for those delightful early morning swims, as well as buffet breakfast and dinner options for added convenience. Jimesol is a basic but perfectly fine option, which may suit you to a tee if you don't intend on spending too much of your Nerja holiday cooped up in your room.
The Hotel Perla Marina (a 3* establishment merely 300m from the plaza) boasts an absolute waterfront location, a gorgeous rooftop pool and a smaller but equally nice ground-level pool as well as a sunbathing veranda facing the beach. This option is ideal for those who want to splurge on a little more luxury. Visitors wishing for something in between can opt for brilliant serviced apartments just 100m from the beach. The centrally located Apartamentos Carranza offer a wide range of choice, from one to three bedroom apartment, ideal for those who wish to self-cater and enjoy a more homely feel when away.
Eating & drinking out
Oh, what the hey...since you will probably spend a whole day in Torremolinos, you may as well enjoy a delicious dinner here before returning to Nerja. Pop in and say hi to Gerry and Karen at the Bailey Irish Pub on Calle Maria Barrabina and savour the delectable fare which makes this arguably the best Irish pub in Spain. From hearty steaks and pies, to refreshing chicken Caesar salad and plenty of kid's meals, this pub is really quite the ideal foodie stop after a long day out playing in the sun. The non-designated driver ought to indulge in a refreshing pint here, the most sure fire way of curing any hint of homesickness whilst on holiday in Spain.
Prefer to just head home to Nerja instead? Then enjoy in a refreshing shower and head out for dinner at Cafeteria Mirasol on Calle Malaga, a cheap and cheerful eatery which serves great value-for-money meals and late night snacks. After spending a whole day and perhaps a healthy amount of Euros on a full day outing, this could be just the place you're looking for. This busy little place offers great steaks, salads, seafood and possibly the best and most filling omelettes in town, as well as the most delicious jugs of sangria.
Things to do - get wet and go wild in Nerja
If you want to take a day off from the beach but can't bear to go without a splash to cool off, head to Aquavelis, which may not be the largest water park on the coast (that title is reserved for Aqualand) yet it is a fantastic place to visit nonetheless and only a 20 minute drive from Nerja. This is particularly popular with families, as there are also paddling pools for the littlest guests, yet the variety of water slides and rides makes it a fun and active attraction for people of all ages. There is ample parking available, as well as lockers and reasonably priced food, so enjoying a brilliant day out here is child's play!
If you do find yourself suddenly addicted to water slides (who could blame you?) then set out yet another day to visit colossal Aqualand, which you'll find in the beautiful town of Torremolinos, about 75kms west of Nerja. You could either rent a car for the day or, alternatively, take the bus to Malaga and hop on a short train ride to Torremolinos. Between the rides, surf beaches and super fun slides, you may find it difficult to ever leave.
If you do manage to tear the kids family away from the slippery slides (good luck with that), you may also want to visit one of Torremolino's other amazing attractions: Crocodile Park. This incredible sanctuary is home to a plethora of cross of different ages and sizes, and offers educational and enlightening presentations which have a way of captivating the audience like nothing else! The croc handler, which is Spain's answer to Steve Irwin, has a way of infecting visitors with his enthusiasm and love of these less-than-adorable-beasts.
There is something quite humbling about being just a few metres away from a predator that seems to have defied all evolutionary laws and is still here, after millions of years. Don't tell the kids just yet, or you'll be nagged forever more, but just so you know...they will get a chance to hold baby crocs at the end of each presentation. These really are quite cute!
