Escape the summer crowds and discover the hidden gems of Marbella in September.
While there are many excellent things to do in Malaga, the neighboring resort of Marbella is another popular tourist destination.
With so many outstanding things to do in Marbella in September, it’s the ideal time to come to this part of the Costa del Sol.
But is Marbella good in September? Is it worth visiting this part of Andalucia during the early autumn months? We believe the answer is a resounding yes!
So read on to find out what to do in Marbella in September and our recommendations for things to do in Marbella in September, whatever your interests and preferences.
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Overview: Our favorite things to do in Marbella in September
- Join an Old Town with Wine and Tapas tour
- Golf at Westin La Quinta
- Indulge in Local Cuisine while doing a food tour
1. Relax on Marbella’s Best Beaches
The weather in Marbella in September is still hot, so one of the best things to do during your vacation is to relax on the best beaches in the town.
Playa de la Fontanilla, Playa del Cable, and Playa de Nagüeles are the three top beaches in this area, and each one of them has something unique to offer to help you enjoy a memorable stay.
Sunbathing is a top activity at this time of year since the temperature in Marbella in September can still be as high as 28 degrees Celsius.
Even the weather in Marbella end of September is generally very good, with temperatures of around 24 degrees Celsius during the day, so it isn’t surprising that the resort’s beach clubs are still popular well into the fall months.
There are also plenty of watersports to try your hand at, including surfing, swimming, and le. It’s worth remembering that the beaches can still be quite crowded at certain times during the month of September.
The locals tend to head to the coast at the weekend, so try to aim for a midweek visit to enjoy the best possible beach day.
2. Explore the Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
One of the top things to do in Marbella is a visit to its Casco Antiguo, or old town.
Numerous fascinating historical landmarks, including the Plaza de los Naranjos and the Church of Santa Maria, are perfect for exploration.
The Old Town is also home to some of the most attractive, charming streets where you can find a variety of atmospheric shops that sell excellent souvenirs to remind you of your visit to Andalucia.
The old town also has some authentic bars and restaurants where you can sample the best local cuisine.
Make the time to drop into one of the tapas bars or do an old town and wine tapas tour, where you can enjoy a few small plates of local delicacies and sip a drink while you watch the world go by.
3. Visit Puerto Banús
One of the top places to visit near Marbella is the beautiful Puerto Banus, well-known for its high-end boutiques, luxury yachts, and fantastic nightlife.
You can take a romantic sunset sail on a cruise from Puerto Banús.
While in Marbella in September nightlife is quite lively, Puerto Banus takes things to another level thanks to its more exclusive atmosphere and high-class venues.
You’ll find plenty of bars and clubs here where you can soak in the ambiance and sip an exotic cocktail while mingling with the upper echelons of society.
There are also some excellent restaurants here where you can enjoy the highest-quality food and drink prepared by top chefs and served in style.
4. Stroll Through Alameda Park and Avenida del Mar
Many people ask, is Marbella busy in September, and the answer is often yes, it can still be quite crowded at times during this month of the year.
So, if you need a little time away from the hustle and bustle, you might want to head to Alameda Park, which has been a key feature of the town since the 1700s.
While it has been developed over the years, the best feature of the park is certainly its central fountain, the Fuente Virgen del Rocio.
There are also some stunning exotic trees, which are pleasant to stroll beneath during the middle of the day when the average September temperature can still reach the high 20s Celsius.
Afterward, stroll to the seafront along the Avenida del Mar, which is a contemporary urban square that boasts pergolas, fountains, and ten Dali-designed bronze sculptures.
This square is almost a free art gallery, and you can take a seat beside the fountains and ponds to take the time to fully admire the pieces.
There are also tapas, bars, and cafes flanking this square, which are excellent spots for people to watch and relax in the sun.
5. Attend the Starlite Festival
If you’re visiting the region at the beginning of September, you may be just in time to attend the Starlite Festival.
It is a 3-month-long cultural and music event that is now one of Spain’s most important yearly entertainment and social events. The dates vary each year.
The festival boasts a unique atmosphere at Marbella’s Cantera de Nagueles, a stage surrounded by rock walls that are 60 meters in height.
The stars and set change each year, but 2024’s event sees some of the biggest names in the music industry performing, including Tom Jones, Keane, Take That, and Sheryl Crow.
Tickets can be purchased from the Starlite Festival’s own website. There are many options to choose from, ranging from basic tickets to VIP tickets that give you access to better seating and exclusive events.
6. Golf at Marbella’s Top Courses
As the weather for Marbella in September is generally hot and dry, this month is the perfect time to head to one of Marbella’s top golf courses for a few rounds on the green.
There are lots of golf courses to choose from, although three of the best are the Aloha Golf Club, the Marbella Golf Country Club, and the Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa.
They are easy to reach from the town and offer an excellent experience whether you’re a beginner or advanced player.
You can rent golf clubs from the Marbella Golf Country Club, too, so you won’t need to bring your own on holiday.
You can book online. Tee times for twilight sessions begin at 8 AM and end at 5 PM.
7. Enjoy Water Sports and Boat Tours
Thanks to the pleasant September climate in Marbella, some of the best activities on warmer days include participating in water sports such as paddleboarding, sailing, and jet skiing.
JetBoat Marbella offers an adrenaline-pumping ride from the old town, while Windsurf Marbella offers surfing, paddle boarding, and windsurfing lessons.
If you’re interested in trying jet skiing or water skiing, RedFly Marbella should be your first port of call.
Remember, when you rent a boat in Marbella, stay safe while you’re enjoying the water. Always wear sunscreen, choose a reliable company, and wear your life jacket when required.
8. Indulge in Local Cuisine
During your trip to Marbella, you should always try to indulge in some of the local cuisine.
There are many delicious Andalucian specialties that you should sample during your stay, including the region’s famous white garlic Ajoblanco soup, Pescadito Frito, and Gambas Pil-Pil, all made using local ingredients.
Some of the top restaurants in the town include the Old Town’s Casanis Bistrot, with its beautiful and historic building, its atmospheric appeal, and its delicious blend of Spanish, Belgian, and French cuisine.
For Michelin-starred dishes, head to Skina—but remember to make a reservation, as only 10 diners are served at a time!
For authentic local dishes, La Casita is hard to beat. The food here is delectable, with classics like Iberico ham croquetas, gambas blancas al pil-pil, and fried octopus with potato salad dominating the menu.
To try your hand at whipping up some delicious food yourself, head to one of the food markets to buy fresh local produce.
Or why not try one of the many culinary tours on offer to experience a wider range of cuisine with a knowledgeable local guide.
9. Take a Day Trip to Ronda
Beautiful Ronda, with its Plaza de Toros and Puente Nuevo is one of the best day trips from Marbella.
You can take an organized tour, take a local bus, or drive yourself to this pretty town.
If you’re planning to bring your own vehicle, you should set off as early as possible to give yourself the best chance of finding a parking space. The town is very popular with tourists, and the parking areas can become crowded very quickly.
10. Explore the Sierra Blanca Mountains
If you’re the outdoors type, the Sierra Blanca Mountains are one of the best places to visit during your stay in Marbella.
There are hiking trails to suit people of all abilities and ages, and there are also some amazing viewpoints where you can admire stunning views over the landscape.
It can get chilly in the mountains, so bring a jacket.
Also, remember to wear sturdy shoes or boots, as the ground can be rough. Remember, too, that you should stay well-hydrated, so bring water along on your hike.
One of the best ways to explore this part of the region is to take a guided tour. You’ll enjoy maximum safety while also learning more about the area.
11. Experience Marbella’s Nightlife
Marbella is known for its exciting and varied nightlife, with some of the top clubs and bars, including La Suite and Olivia Valere.
If you’re a committed night owl, you can dance the night away with ease, but there are also plenty of low-key venues where you can listen to live music and enjoy a few casual drinks in a relaxing and fun environment.
For an authentic experience, head to The Old Town, while if you’re eager for a party, the clubs of Puerto Banus are sure to tick your boxes.
There are also some excellent rooftop bars where you can admire panoramic views over the town.
Bear in mind that some of the more exclusive bars and clubs will have a dress code and will charge for entry, so do your research before you go, and remember to wear something smart, or you could be disappointed at the door.
Our final thoughts on Marbella in September
Marbella is home to an enormous array of diverse attractions to suit all tastes and preferences.
From top-class dining to historic landmarks and from sun-soaked beaches to relaxing parks, Marbella really does have it all and you don’t need to worry about where to stay in Marbella.
If you’re heading to Marbella in September, you’ll enjoy the benefit of fewer tourists as well as excellent weather. So follow our top tips here for the best places to visit and make the most of your stay.
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FAQs on Marbella in September
What is the weather like in Marbella in September?
The weather in Marbella in September is still generally warm, often reaching as high as 28 degrees. Lows are usually only around 21 degrees Celsius. There is minimal rain too, so you can expect a warm, dry break.
Where To Stay in Marbella?
For where to stay in Marbella,Marbella has accommodations to suit every taste and budget. There are apartments as well as luxury and mid-range hotels, affordable hostels, boutique properties, and even home stays. You’ll be spoiled for choice.
What are the things to do in Marbella in October?
If you’re planning a later trip to Andalucia, you may be wondering about the best things to do in Marbella in October. Many of the attractions that are appealing in September are equally enjoyable in October, thanks to the mild climate of this region.
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