Summer on the Costa del Sol is nothing short of magical—endless blue skies, Mediterranean breezes, and a vibrant mix of beach life and Spanish tradition. But if you live in or visit Benalmádena during the peak months, you’ll know the heat is no joke.
Whether you're a local, expat, or traveller, this guide shares:
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- What summer is really like here
- How locals beat the heat
- Practical tips to stay cool
- How massage therapy can support your wellbeing during the hottest months
Life in Benalmádena During the Summer
I’ve lived in Benalmádena for over five years now, but my connection to this beautiful coastal town stretches back much further. My grandparents bought a holiday home here over 40 years ago, so this part of Spain has been a constant thread in my life since childhood. From long, lazy summers as a kid to now running a business here, Benalmádena feels like home in every sense.
During the summer months, the town transforms. The local population of around 70,000 swells to more than 250,000, as holidaymakers flock to the beaches, bars, and stunning views. The energy is exciting, but it also brings some big changes in how we live day to day.
Life slows down. In the mornings, the town buzzes with people out for errands, coffee, or exercise—because by midday, it’s too hot for much else. The sun is strong and the streets quieten as people retreat indoors for shade or a siesta. In fact, the afternoon siesta isn’t just a stereotype—it’s a way of life. Many businesses close from 2pm to 5 or 6pm, and most locals take the chance to rest or relax before things pick back up in the evening.
As the sun dips lower, everything comes alive again. Families head to the beach, restaurants fill up from 9pm onwards, and it’s common to see children playing well into the night. It’s a lifestyle that naturally adjusts to the heat and revolves around enjoying the outdoors once the day cools down.
Homes here are built with the climate in mind. Thick walls and tiled floors help to keep rooms cool, and nearly every house has persianas (shutters) that are closed during the hottest hours to block out the sun. The rhythm of summer life in Benalmádena is all about working with the weather, not against it.
How Hot Does It Get?
Let’s talk numbers. The Costa del Sol lives up to its name—with sunshine 300+ days a year—but July and August can push your limits.
Typical summer weather in Benalmádena:
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall | Sea Temp |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| June | 28–29 °C | ~18 °C | ~3–7 mm | ~20 °C |
| July | 30–31 °C | ~21 °C | ~1 mm | ~22 °C |
| Aug | 31–33 °C | ~21 °C | ~3 mm | ~24 °C |
Humidity and long hours of direct sunshine can make it feel even hotter, especially in the afternoons. Even the nights can feel tropical, with minimum temperatures sometimes staying above 24 °C. In recent years, average summer temperatures have climbed by 3–5°C compared to the 1970s, and heatwaves are becoming more frequent.
How Locals and Expats Cope With the Heat
If you’re new to summer in southern Spain, there’s a bit of an art to staying comfortable. Over time, you learn how to live in harmony with the heat rather than fighting it.
- One of the first things you’ll notice is how the day is split into two main parts: early morning and evening. People get things done early—walks, shopping, gym sessions—before the sun gets too high. Then, from around 2pm, the streets go quiet. Locals retreat indoors where shutters are drawn, fans hum quietly, and cool drinks are on hand.
- Water becomes your best friend—both in your glass and at your feet. The beach is popular early in the morning and again after 6pm, when the sun softens and the sand cools. You’ll often see locals taking a dip just before sunset, enjoying the sea at its most peaceful.
- Food and drink habits shift too. Heavy meals are swapped for cold dishes like gazpacho, watermelon, and fresh salads. Hydration is constant—locals sip herbal teas, infusions, and icy lemon water throughout the day.
- Homes are adapted to help you stay cool. People mop tiled floors with cold water, hang damp towels in open windows to create a breeze, and use fans or air conditioning sparingly but strategically. It’s all about maintaining balance and making small adjustments that go a long way.
Can Massage Help in the Summer Heat?
Yes, absolutely. Massage can be a powerful tool to help your body adjust and recover during the hottest months—not just for relaxation, but for real physical support.
Firstly, massage improves circulation, which is especially beneficial when heat and humidity leave you feeling heavy, swollen, or sluggish. By stimulating blood flow and encouraging lymphatic drainage, massage can help reduce water retention and ease puffiness in the legs, ankles, and feet.
It also helps release muscle tension, which often builds up as we toss and turn at night, walk more in sandals or flip-flops, or carry ourselves differently to avoid the heat. A gentle massage can soften tight shoulders, soothe tired legs, and ease lower back discomfort.
Beyond the physical, massage plays a big role in emotional and mental wellbeing. High temperatures and poor sleep can affect your mood and stress levels. A massage session helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system—slowing your heart rate, deepening your breath, and helping you feel calm and rebalanced.
And yes—we have air conditioning in the treatment room, so you can enjoy your massage in a cool, calm, comfortable space.