Nerja in October: the Fair, a mild autumn and plenty to do
October is the hidden gem of Nerja’s calendar. The Nerja Fair turns the town into a party of marquees, concerts and tradition. The days still feel like summer and the coast holds on to the summer warmth.
October in Nerja combines the Fair (second week of October, the town’s biggest festival), Maroween (Halloween in Maro), mild 25°C weather, a still-warm sea at 21°C and the return of comfortable hiking. Prices fall and Nerja regains its authentic Andalusian character.
Source: esnerja.com — up-to-date local guide to Nerja
Weather in Nerja in October
High
25°C
Low
15°C
Sea temp.
21°C
Sunshine hours
7h
Rainfall
50mm
Rainy days
5
UV index
4
Beaches in October
The sea is still warm (21°C). The beaches are quiet: one of the best months to enjoy Burriana and Calahonda without the crush. Cloudy days alternate with glorious sunshine.
Hiking in October
Excellent hiking. Temperatures have dropped and the autumn rains turn the landscape green again. Fuente del Esparto and the Cliffs route are spectacular.
Activities in October
The Nerja Fair, Maroween in Maro, kayaking (still open), a visit to the Cave, a trip to Frigiliana, Axarquía wine tasting and seasonal food.
What to pack
- ✓Mid-season clothes
- ✓An umbrella, just in case
- ✓Hiking boots
- ✓Swimwear (you still can!)
Festivals and events in October
Nerja Fair
The Nerja Fair, in honour of Virgen de las Angustias and San Miguel, is the municipality’s main festival: a week of marquees, concerts, day and night fair celebrations, gastronomy and tradition.
Maroween 2026
Maroween 2026 is postponed to Sunday 1 November in the church square of Maro (Nerja), at the same times (from 17:00) and free: horror parades, trick-or-treat, roast chestnuts and sweet potatoes, costume contests and music.
Things to do in Nerja in October
Recommended hiking trails
Maro Cliffs: Walk to the Torre de Maro
Easy · 4.6 km
Walking from Nerja to Frigiliana
Moderate · 7.6 km
El Almendrón Hike from the Fuente del Esparto
Hard · 11.3 km
El Pinarillo Walk from the Nerja Caves
Easy · 9.4 km
El Saltillo Suspension Bridge from Canillas de Aceituno
Moderate · 6.4 km
Fuente del Esparto Walk from the Nerja Caves
Moderate · 11.5 km
Frequently asked questions
When is the Nerja Fair?
The Nerja Fair is usually held in the second week of October, with marquees, concerts, rides and cultural events over about 5 days.
Can you swim in Nerja in October?
Yes. The sea is 21°C in October, warmer than many beaches in northern Spain in August.
What is Maroween?
Maroween is the Halloween party in Maro (a village belonging to Nerja), usually on the afternoon and night of 31 October (in 2026 it has been postponed to Sunday 1 November because of the official mourning): spooky parades, trick-or-treat, roast chestnuts and sweet potatoes, costume and façade contests and music into the early hours. It is free.