What's the weather like in Costa Dorada?
Costa Dorada is an area along the west coast of Spain in the province of Tarragona. Located along the Mediterranean Sea, the area is known for its world famous beaches as well as numerous cities and towns with history that dates back to the Roman Empire. With dry and warm weather throughout much of the year, the region is a great holiday spot no matter the month.
Spring Weather in Costa Dorada
Rain
March, April and May make up the spring months and are an excellent time to visit the region. This is still considered to be the off-season and some deals are to be had for both airlines and hotels. The season is mainly dry with rainfall amounts remaining consistent over the time period with 30mm expected each month. Additionally, each month sees an average of only 5 rain days, so much of spring is dry enough for visitors to take advantage of the numerous sites and festivals.
Temperature
Temperatures begin to warm during the summer with average afternoon highs climbing from 19°C (66°F) in March to 22°C (72°F) by May. In the beginning of the season, visitors may want to be prepared for an unexpected cold snap, but by May the winter gear can be left behind. Average overnight lows are also moving upward from 8°C (46°F) to 13°C (55°F) by May.
Sea Temperature
While temperatures on land are warming, they are doing the same at sea. It might still be too cold for a swim, especially early in the season, but temperatures are quickly climbing to much warmer conditions. Average sea surface temperatures will climb from a brisk 13°C (55°F) in March to 17°C (63°F) by May.
Summer Weather in Costa Dorada
Temperature
The summer consists of June, July and August and represents the high time for visitors to decide to take a holiday to the region. Temperatures are at their warmest during this time of the year with August being the hottest month of the three. Average afternoon highs start out at 26°C (79°F) in June and climb to 29°C (84°F) by August. Combined with an average 13-14 hours of sunshine each day over the three months, visitors will need to pack plenty of sunscreen as they enjoy the warm temperatures and the sunny skies.
Overnight lows are also much warmer now than in the beginning of the year. At this point, all visitors need to pack are summer clothes meant to keep them cool and comfortable. Average overnight lows will range from 17°C (63°F) to 21°C (70°F). With temperatures like these, it is important to have a hotel room with air conditioning in order to stay comfortable.
Rain
Summer is also a great time to take advantage of the dry conditions and warm sea waters. June, July and August each receive an average of only 10mm of precipitation over a 1-2 day period. As a result, there is very little chance of having rain ruin any part of a holiday. Sea surface temperatures are also at their warmest all year in August when they average 25°C (77°F). This is plenty warm enough to enjoy the various water sports near the area.
Autumn Weather in Costa Dorada
Rain
Autumn makes up September, October and November and brings cooler weather and slightly wetter conditions to the region. While no one month is a washout, it will be important to consult an extended forecast to know what is best to pack. Rainfall amounts will range from 30mm in September to 50mm in October and 40mm in November. Each month averages about 6 rainfall days and there is a chance of thunderstorms mixed in with shower activity.
Temperature
After a warm summer, temperatures are now beginning to cool off. Average afternoon highs will go from 28°C (82°F) in September to 20°C (68°F) by November. Average overnight lows will also be on the chilly side with temperatures falling from 19°C (66°F) in September to 10°C (50°F) by the end of the season. As a result, visitors will need to pack a light jacket with them, especially during November.
Sea Temperature
After a long summer of playing in the waves, sea surface temperatures are also beginning to cool off. Average sea surface temperatures will range from 23°C (73°F) to 17°C (63°F). With these falling numbers, if vacationers plan on spending time in the ocean, they need to plan a trip in September before it gets too cold to enjoy for the next several months. Despite the cool water temperatures, vacationers can still enjoy the beach with an average of 9-11 hours of sunshine each day. This is plenty of time to catch some rays even if going in the sea is out of the question.
Winter Weather in Costa Dorada
Temperature
Winter in Costa Dorada takes place over December, January and February and encompasses the coldest temperatures of the year. The coolest overnight lows are felt in January when temperatures dip to 6°C (43°F). Over both December and February, mornings are not much warmer as lows will drop to 7°C (45°F). This is plenty cold enough for visitors to need to pack long sleeves, a light jacket and pants. To find out just how cold it is going to be, it's always a good idea to check a forecast before leaving home.
The good news is that afternoon temperatures are much warmer over the three month period with temperatures averaging between 16°C (61°F) and 17°C (63°F). While still cool enough for a light jacket, vacationers can warm up in the 7-8 hours of sunshine the region receives each day.
Rain
Rain chances are hardly a concern over the winter months as the average rainfall amounts are between 20-50mm with January being the wettest of the three months. Much of the rain will fall over a 5-6 day period in each month. As a result, even January is mainly dry.
Sea Temperature
While it might be warm enough to see the sites on land, it is definitely too cold to go for a swim in winter. The average sea surface temperatures are between 13°C (55°F) and 15°C (59°F). It will be several months before waters warm enough for visitors to enjoy the sea and surf.