The Costa del Sol enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, with sunny, hot summer weather and mild winters, which make it a great holiday destination year-round. As the name suggests, the coastline receives more than 320 days of sunshine per year. Summer temperatures reach an average high of 86°F (30°C), and the winter temperatures seldom drop below 50°F (10°C) on the coast.Inland temperatures have greater extremes, with scorching summers and cold winters. Rainfall is sporadic and pretty much limited to the winter months, with the majority falling in November and December; the rain usually comes in the form of intermittent, light showers which give way quickly to sun and blue skies. The temperature of the ocean seldom falls below 68°F (20°C) meaning that swimming is almost always a possibility and is enjoyed in spring and autumn as well as summer.Summer, between June and August, when the heat is tempered by frequent sea breezes, is by far the most popular time to visit the Costa del Sol. Spring, especially late April and May, when temperatures average between 73°F and 80°F (23°C and 27°C), is also a glorious time to visit.
