Guide to water activities to do in Marbella and best times to do them
While in other coastal destinations water activities are limited to certain times of the year, in Marbella you can enjoy the sea practically every day. These types of experiences are designed for all types of users, from the most adventurous to the most curious, and are the perfect excuse to discover the area from a different perspective.
What are the most popular water activities in Marbella?
Although temperatures in this region of Andalusia are pleasant all year round, practicing water activities in Marbella does not necessarily imply getting into the water. Here is a list of suggested activities to enjoy the Marbella coast in or out of the water, and the best months to do them.
- Whale watching in the Strait of Gibraltar
This is an area with many cetacean populations that are present practically all year round. However, depending on the season, different species can be sighted. The best time to see pilot whales and sperm whales is between March and April, while killer whales are more present in summer, between July and August. The different types of dolphins (striped, bottlenose, common...) are common throughout the year. And, in general, from March to October is when there is most activity in the Strait.
- Sofa, banana, flyfish and other inflatables
These are water activities designed for groups or couples. They consist of gliding over the water on an inflatable contraption with different designs (long, wide, kite-like...) and pulled by a speedboat. The speed, the splashing and the possibility of ending up soaking wet are all part of the fun. Among the non-motorized alternatives, the most popular is kayak hire and guided excursions in the waters of the Alboran Sea. These are ideal summer activities.
- Jetboats, excursions, jet skis and boat rentals
It is not necessary to have a specific qualification to enjoy a day at sea. Options such as jet boating allow you to sail at full speed in a boat with expert drivers. The more relaxed alternative are excursions that include catering. On the other hand, with the obligatory licenses, it is possible to rent private boats such as sailboats, catamarans or jet skis. These options are suitable for any time of the year and are in great demand by fishing enthusiasts.
- Diving
Most of the dive centers in Marbella offer training and dives all year round. However, summer tends to be the most recommended, not only because of the water temperature but also because of better visibility conditions. Among the most interesting dive sites in Marbella are the Placer de las Bóvedas reef and at El Vivero, where bream, groupers and moray eels roam freely among the wreckage of a sunken fishing boat.