Top 5 Things to Do in Malaga in August: How to Make the Most of Summer

This blog post was originally posted on July 20, 2015 and was updated on July 5, 2018.

August is a popular month in Malaga: the beaches are filled with brightly colored umbrellas and towels, people stay out late into the night and, of course, it's the month of Malaga's famous fair. With so much going on in Malaga this month, here's a roundup of some great things to do in Malaga in August.

Top Things to Do in Malaga in August

1. Enjoy Feria

Malaga’s annual fair takes place during the third week of August, kicking off with fireworks on the beach at midnight on Friday. Have dinner at a chiringuito (beach bar) and then watch the fireworks to kick off the week.

It’s also important to note that there are two different parts to Malaga's feria. First up is the feria de día (the daytime fair) which takes place in the center of town. This side of the fair is basically a street party: bars open early and tons of people meet in the center to have an aperitif or eat lunch. The drink of choice? Ice cold Cartojal (a sweet wine from Malaga) that comes in a bottle with a bright pink label. Grab a glass and share it with your friends.

At night, take the bus to the Real. This is the classic Andalusian fair with casetas to dance in, tapas galore, and rides and attractions. This unique fair is easily one of the best things to do in Malaga in August.

One of the things to do in Malaga in August is visit our Feria! — The Feria de Málaga. Photo credit: Antonio Ortiz

2. See a movie on the beach

Like many other cities on the coast, Malaga has a summer film festival where you can watch a movie under the stars. With hot summer days, this is a great way to cool off in the evening and enjoy an outdoor movie. Make sure to check the schedule, as there are several different locations and different movies playing each day. It's no wonder why this is one of our favorite things to do in Malaga in August.

3. Go for a swim

One of the best things to do in Malaga in August is take a picnic lunch and head to the beach. The shores get packed with people from all over Malaga, Spain and the world, coolers and Tupperware containers in tow. Join in the fun and cool off in the ocean. If you have a car, head to the Peñón del Cuervo or to Los Alamos, and Torremolinos also has a great beach as well. If not, you can ride the bus to the Malagueta or Sacaba Beach. Regardless, you're sure to have a fun day on the sand.

If you're visiting Malaga in August, you can't leave without trying delicious espetos! — When you get hungry, head to the nearest *chiringuito* and order a plate of *espetos*!

4. Have a drink on ice

If you really want to cool off, one of the best things to do in Malaga in August is head to the Ice Bar at the port of Benalmádena. The port itself is rather touristy, but if you head to this bar you can have the unique experience of needing a winter coat in August on the Costa del Sol! Your drink is guaranteed to be cold and it’s a fun way to start your evening by the water.

Address: Pueblo Marinero, Local C1-C5 y C-6, Benalmádena

5. Take a trip to Puerto Banus in Marbella for a fancy dinner

If you have access to a car, one of the best things to do in Malaga in August is take a drive down the highway along the coast towards Marbella. The ride is beautiful in the cool night air, and when you arrive in Puerto Banus there are a good number of nice restaurants right along the water. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner, or as a special treat for your family.