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Averages for Costa del Sol in May

Weather lowdown

As the end of spring approaches, a stable climate in the Costa del Sol begins to emerge and the weather becomes reliably warm and sunny. Sea temperatures start rising; now reaching 17 degrees Celsius. Only eight days of rainfall are expected, with total rain diminishing to 23mm for the month, almost less than double than April’s estimation. Rain is unlikely to occur past May 10. High temperatures can reach 23 degrees Celsius, that’s 73 degrees Fahrenheit.

The "meltemi" seasonal North winds have not yet started to blow a gale and the sea is nice and calm.

Things to do

Cuevas de Nerja might not capture the imagination of a tourist when the name is mentioned, but there is a sensational story behind it. This is a group of limestone caves that were first discovered by a group of boys who were out exploring in 1959. It was a phenomenal discovery, and their legacy is marked by a sculpture outside the entrance. Inside are rock paintings of various animals, and the display of formations enhanced by special lighting effects. In the summer, classical concerts are held within the caves.

For a busy activity, take a visit to the Old Quarter in Marbella and do a bit of old fashioned shopping. The cobbled streets are some sight, but the choices of shop mean it will be quite difficult to resist the urge to spend. It is a fantastic trip in the daytime, and it remains busy in the evening when the restaurants in the square take centre stage.   

Dates for the diary 

Las Cruces de Mayo is an ancient tradition that is celebrated in certain areas of the Costa del Sol, with the town of Torrox leading the way. The event itself is a popular tradition in other Spanish hotspots, and is when the flowers take over with real and paper versions showing off their beauty in the many squares and streets across the country.

Spanish sport fans love their motorcycling, and they are lucky enough to have four events in the country per season of the world’s premier motorcycle sport, MotoGP. The closest one to the Costa del Sol is the Jerez circuit which stages the 2013 FIM MotoGP Spanish Grand Prix. Jerez is a tight and twisty racetrack, and staged the infamous Formula One title decider in 1997 between Jacques Villeneuve and Michael Schumacher. This Andalusian track is a popular venue, and the home support will flock to Jerez to support their Spanish favourites, including Dani Pedrosa and the current MotoGP world champion Jorge Lorenzo.

Hit the beach

May is when the temperatures really start to heat up. Beach season will have well and truly arrived, and two favourites with many beachgoers are Playa de Benalnatura in Benalmadena and Playa de Los Boliches in Fuengirola.

Playa de Los Boliches is Fuengirola’s central beach and is the longest beach in the Costa del Sol (1,000 metres). This is a favourite spot throughout the year with many holidaymakers, especially in the summer months and there is a good range of facilities on offer including water sports such as sand sports like volleyball or even football, dressing rooms and water activities, with surfing a popular pastime. A regular lifeguard is around to ensure no-one gets into any dire trouble. There are some decent shops and restaurants nearby, too.

Playa de Benalnatura is a great place to visit off-season, and if you’re looking for somewhere that offers a place to enjoy some peace and quiet and work on your tan in privacy, despite sunbeds not being available to hire.  It isn’t the best for swimming due rocky seabed, plus keep in mind that it’s a black sand beach – as well as a popular spot for naturists. Be aware that this is a fully nude beach, so be prepared for the unexpected sights. The shady area has a BBQ to enjoy, along with toilets and showers nearby.

Where to eat & drink

El Balcon de la Virgen in Marbella is up with the best of them in terms of Spanish cuisine in the Costa del Sol. The menu is extensive and varied and the dining experience is cosy and intimate, especially indoors. Favourites on the menu include the swordfish, leg of lamb and roast pork. The young staff offer a professional and carefree service, with exemplary cooking methods ensuring the customer will enjoy a superb meal.  Prices are very affordable for budget travellers, so there shouldn’t be any complaints with the value. The property is located full of history, dating back to the 15^th century, so this is a popular choice for those wanted a modern dish in a historical setting and environment.

If holidaymakers fancy a mean steak, then they should head to Argentine specialised Restaurante Angus in Benalmadena - the steaks and other meat dishes are cooked to perfection. The restaurant benefits from a good location in Puerto Marina. Alternative menu selection highlights are beef sausages, beef tenderloin and Angus salads. Groups of four people can eat for an excellent price, coupled with tasting some of Argentina’s finest wines. 

O’Donoghues Irish Pub in Estepona is one of Estepona’s biggest drinking venues and is open until the early hours. The pub hosts a quiz night every Wednesday in English and Spanish, and Thursday evenings have a band providing live music. This pub attracts a good crowd and is the place to go if you can’t ignore a craving for a pint of Guinness.

A more recent addition to the Marbella nightlife scene is the swanky Billionaire nightclub. Owned by the flamboyant Italian and former owner of QPR, Flavio Briatore, this club is situated on Marbella’s Golden Mile opposite the Hotel Puente Romano. A night out at the Billionaire is not cheap, but it’ll no doubt be one that you remember. It shuts for the winter season from September onwards. 

Where to stay

Cheap, comfortable and sociable, The Picasso’s Corner Backpackers Hostel in Malaga ticks all three boxes. Budget dinners are served nightly, and those coming to Costa del Sol to enjoy the many art museums – including the art of the eponymous painter himself, check this place out as it’s close to many art galleries including the famous Picasso Museum. To know tourists are staying in history, this hostel is just a minute’s walk from the actual house where Picasso was born in 1881. The kitchen is free to use all day, and the common area within the facility will not only serve regular cocktails, but allow tourists to meet new people, and that’s one of the best aspects about staying in such a friendly environment.

Hotel Balcon de Europa is a good four-star accommodation in Nerja with a swimming pool and sunbathing terraces located at the top of the hotel. It offers a great sea view, plus is in a handy location for strolling to a good number of decent restaurants. Due to its location on the Balcon de Europa’s rock face, the hotel’s main entrance is on the sixth floor, but it does allow direct access from the rooms to the beach. The service is warm and friendly and all rooms offer a private bathroom, air-conditioning or central heating and a minibar. 

Sahara Sunset Club in Benalmadena is fast becoming a number one choice for many families on holiday in the Costa del Sol. Built around a large landscaped swimming pool; leisure facilities on-site include an indoor pool and a whirlpool, while all of the delightfully furnished accommodation in this villa resort comes with either a private terrace or balcony.

Only 10 minutes from Malaga Airport, Suite Novotel Malaga Centro is a good option for those who are dropping in to the resort for a short visit. Perks include a tasty buffet breakfast every morning, and on Thursday evenings between 8pm and 10pm, a free massage. Other facilities on offer include free high-speed internet access, a library and fitness centre. The staff are very helpful, and speak fluent English, and the accommodation is value for money.

Alternatively, the Finca Valtocado B&B in Mijas offers a lovely view of the Mediterranean Sea, and a tangible touch of rustic luxury. Balcon Valtocado, Balcon del Mediterraneo, Casita Ballesteros and Casita Jimenez are all lovely options; the latter two are cottages with a fully equipped kitchen. Free Wi-Fi internet is on-site, together with a private terrace or balcony in the rooms, TV’s with access to BBC and ITV channels and beautiful views of the nearby Sierra de Mijas.