Malaga Weather in February – Sunshine, Tips & What to Wear (2026)
Malaga weather in February is a step up from January in almost every way – a degree warmer, an extra hour of sunshine per day, and the first real signs of spring arriving in the hills. Add Carnaval and almond blossom season to the mix, and February quietly becomes one of the most interesting months to visit.
Quick Takeaways
- ✓Average daytime high: 18°C (64°F) – evenings still cool to 9°C, layers essential
- ✓6–7 hours of sunshine per day – more than January, noticeably brighter
- ✓4–6 rainy days, typically short bursts – most days are clear
- ✓Carnaval (late Feb / early March) brings parades and costumes to the city centre
- ✓Almond blossom season peaks – stunning for hikes in Montes de Málaga
Comparing months? The full Malaga Weather by Month guide has every season at a glance.
Climate Data
February is technically still winter on the calendar, but Malaga doesn't really act like it. Afternoons regularly reach 18–20°C in full sun, and you'll find locals back on café terraces by midday. Evenings still drop to around 9°C, so a jacket remains non-negotiable until at least March.
The extra hour of daily sunshine compared to January makes a real difference. February light in Malaga is sharp and golden – photographers and early-season walkers rate it as one of the best months to be here.
Rainfall drops slightly from January – you're looking at 4–6 rain days rather than 8, and showers tend to clear quickly. The sea at 15–16°C is still cold for swimming, but the beaches are ideal for long walks with almost nobody else on them.
What to Do in February
The mild temperatures and low crowds make February excellent for anything that involves being on your feet. Sightseeing, hiking, day trips – all are easier and more enjoyable than in peak season.
The Alcazaba, Gibralfaro Castle and Roman Theatre are at their most accessible in February – no heat, no queues, just good light and empty battlements. Combine them in a single morning without rushing. The Picasso Museum and Carmen Thyssen are equally worthwhile on cooler days; the old town is compact enough to hit both in an afternoon.
February is the prime month for almond blossom hiking in Montes de Málaga Natural Park. The trees bloom white and pink across the hillsides and the trails are quiet. It's one of those genuinely local things most visitors miss entirely. A day trip to Ronda or Nerja and Frigiliana also works beautifully in February light – see the full Day Trips from Malaga hub for options.
February is when you eat and drink better for less. Restaurants are happy to see you, terraces aren't rammed, and prices haven't shifted yet. Walk a block off the main tourist streets in the old town and you're eating with locals at local prices.
February Events
Malaga Carnaval
One of the liveliest events in the Malaga calendar. Parades, elaborate costumes and street performances take over the city centre. Exact dates shift annually – check the Malaga city council website and book accommodation early if your trip overlaps.
Almond Blossom Season
The almond trees in Montes de Málaga and surrounding countryside bloom white and pink. Best seen on a walk or scenic drive out of the city – a genuinely spectacular sight that most February visitors stumble on by accident.
Longer Days Returning
Sunset pushes past 7pm by the end of the month. Enough light for a post-dinner walk along Muelle Uno without it feeling like the middle of the night.
What to Wear in February
Pros
- Light sweater or cardigan over a long-sleeved top – usually enough for daytime
- Jeans or trousers – the standard for any season outside of peak summer
- Comfortable walking shoes – the old town cobbles are unforgiving in anything else
- Sunglasses – the February sun is low and bright, especially near the water
- Compact umbrella or light waterproof jacket – for the occasional shower
Cons
- Don't bank on t-shirt weather – it happens, but you can't plan around it
- Leave the heavy winter coat at home – a mid-weight jacket is all you need
- Don't skip the evening layer – temperature drops fast after sunset even on warm days
February weather is variable. A warm, sunny morning can turn into a blustery afternoon. Check AEMET Malaga the evening before for the most accurate forecast.
Travel Tips for February
- Book early if your trip overlaps with Carnaval – it's a popular long weekend and accommodation fills up faster than you'd expect for February.
- Time your almond blossom walk for mid-February – that's typically peak bloom in Montes de Málaga, though it varies by year and altitude.
- Use the quiet museums properly – February is one of the only months where you can linger in the Picasso Museum without being jostled. Take your time.
- The beach promenade is yours – Malagueta and Pedregalejo are genuinely pleasant in February for early morning or late afternoon walks. Almost nobody else is there.
For accommodation across all budgets, the Where to Stay in Malaga guide covers the city's best areas. Getting around is straightforward – see the Malaga public transport guide for bus and metro options.
FAQ – Malaga Weather in February
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Sources: AEMET (Agencia Estatal de Meteorología), Ayuntamiento de Málaga, Climate-Data.org (March 2026).
