Gibraltar Weather: The Complete Month-by-Month Guide to the Best Time to Visit (2026)

Gibraltar sits at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. This unique position, combined with the 426-metre limestone Rock that dominates the skyline, creates a microclimate unlike anywhere else in Europe. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, average annual temperatures around 18°C, and winters so mild that frost is virtually unknown, the Gibraltar climate makes it a genuinely year-round destination.

But not every month is the same. The difference between a blazing 32°C August afternoon on Eastern Beach and a breezy 13°C January morning on the Upper Rock is significant enough to affect what you pack, what you do, and how much you enjoy your trip. This guide gives you the real, specific data you need to plan the perfect Gibraltar holiday — month by month, season by season.

If you are planning your first visit, pair this guide with our complete list of things to do in Gibraltar and our 3-day Gibraltar itinerary for a trip that makes the most of whatever weather you find.

Gibraltar Climate Overview

Gibraltar has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen classification Csa), moderated by its coastal position between two large bodies of water. Here are the headline numbers:

Annual average temperature: 18.2°C
Annual sunshine hours: approximately 2,900 (one of the highest in Europe)
Annual rainfall: around 770 mm, concentrated between October and March
Warmest month: August (average high 29°C, average low 22°C)
Coolest month: January (average high 16°C, average low 10°C)
Sea temperature range: 15°C in February to 23°C in August
Frost days per year: essentially zero

The key thing to understand about Gibraltar weather is that the dry season (May to September) is dramatically different from the wet season (October to March). Summer months regularly record zero rainfall. Winter months can see 100 mm or more. But even in the wettest months, rain tends to arrive in short, sharp bursts rather than all-day drizzle — meaning you rarely lose an entire day to bad weather.

Month-by-Month Gibraltar Weather Guide

January

Metric	Value
Average high	16°C
Average low	10°C
Rainfall	95 mm (8 rain days)
Sunshine hours	170 (5.5 hrs/day)
Sea temperature	15°C

January is the coolest and one of the wettest months, but by northern European standards it is remarkably mild. Daytime temperatures sit comfortably in the mid-teens, and sunny spells between showers are frequent. The Upper Rock Nature Reserve is quiet, and you will have the Great Siege Tunnels, Moorish Castle, and St Michael’s Cave largely to yourself. Main Street shopping is pleasant without the summer crowds.

This is one of the best months for birdwatching, as wintering species including gannets, shearwaters, and various raptors are present in the Strait. It is also peak season for spotting common dolphins from shore or on a boat trip.

Best for: Budget travellers, history and culture, birdwatching, photography of the Rock without haze.

At Victory Suites, the heated rooftop pool means you can swim even when the sea is at its coolest. After a day exploring the tunnels and fortifications, the climate-controlled suites provide a warm, comfortable retreat.

February

Metric	Value
Average high	16°C
Average low	10°C
Rainfall	85 mm (7 rain days)
Sunshine hours	175 (6.3 hrs/day)
Sea temperature	15°C

February is similar to January but with slightly more sunshine and fractionally less rain. Almond blossom begins to appear, and there is a tangible sense of spring approaching. The Alameda Botanical Gardens are worth visiting as early-flowering species come into bloom. Temperatures occasionally spike to 19–20°C on the best days, making outdoor café dining perfectly comfortable.

Carnival is sometimes celebrated in February, depending on the year, and there is usually a lively community atmosphere around this period. Accommodation rates remain at their lowest, making this an excellent value month.

Best for: Couples, botanical walks, whale and dolphin watching, cultural events.

March

Metric	Value
Average high	18°C
Average low	11°C
Rainfall	75 mm (6 rain days)
Sunshine hours	215 (7.0 hrs/day)
Sea temperature	15°C

March marks the real turning point. Sunshine hours jump noticeably, rainfall eases, and the Upper Rock comes alive with wildflowers. Gibraltar is on one of the world’s great bird migration routes, and March brings the first wave of spring migrants passing through the Strait on their way north — raptors, storks, bee-eaters, and many more. The Gibraltar Ornithological and Natural History Society often organises events during this period.

The Mediterranean Steps trail, one of Gibraltar’s most rewarding hikes, is at its best in March: cool enough for comfortable exertion, with spectacular wild flora along the path. Check our things to do in Gibraltar guide for the full trail description.

Best for: Hiking, birdwatching, wildflowers, spring breaks, outdoor dining.

April

Metric	Value
Average high	20°C
Average low	13°C
Rainfall	50 mm (5 rain days)
Sunshine hours	250 (8.3 hrs/day)
Sea temperature	16°C

April is one of the best months to visit Gibraltar. Temperatures are warm and comfortable, rain is increasingly rare, and the destination is not yet in peak-season mode. Easter often falls in April, and the Rock’s religious heritage — from the Catholic Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned to the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Trinity — means the holiday is observed with genuine local tradition.

The Barbary macaques are particularly entertaining in April, as females carry newborns. Dolphin watching trips are in full swing, with three species commonly spotted in the Strait. This is also an excellent month for a day trip from Gibraltar to Tangier — the weather in northern Morocco is similarly pleasant, and the ferry crossing is usually smooth.

If you are considering a Gibraltar wedding, April offers warm sunshine, long daylight hours, and rates that are lower than the summer peak — an ideal combination.

Best for: Sightseeing, Easter breaks, weddings, dolphin watching, day trips to Morocco.

May

Metric	Value
Average high	23°C
Average low	16°C
Rainfall	25 mm (3 rain days)
Sunshine hours	290 (9.4 hrs/day)
Sea temperature	18°C

May is when Gibraltar transitions into its dry, sunny character. Rain becomes genuinely rare — many years record only a single wet day — and sunshine hours approach 10 per day. The sea is still fresh at 18°C but swimmable for the hardy, and the beaches at Eastern Beach, Catalan Bay, and Sandy Bay begin to fill on weekends.

This is the start of prime water sports season. Kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and diving conditions improve dramatically as visibility in the water increases and the sea calms. It is also an outstanding month for hiking the Rock before the full heat of summer arrives.

Best for: Hiking, early beach days, water sports, photography, outdoor dining.

Staying at Victory Suites in May puts you minutes from the marina and the beaches, with air-conditioned comfort to return to during the warmest part of the afternoon.

June

Metric	Value
Average high	27°C
Average low	19°C
Rainfall	5 mm (1 rain day)
Sunshine hours	310 (10.3 hrs/day)
Sea temperature	20°C

June is widely considered the single best month to visit Gibraltar. The weather is reliably hot and sunny without the extreme heat of July and August. Sea temperatures hit 20°C — comfortable for extended swimming — and rainfall is almost nonexistent. Daylight stretches past 9 pm, giving you exceptionally long days to explore.

The restaurants and bars around Ocean Village Marina and Casemates Square come into their own, with outdoor terraces bustling well into the evening. For dining recommendations, see our best restaurants in Gibraltar guide.

June also brings excellent diving conditions, with underwater visibility reaching 15–20 metres on good days. The wrecks and reef systems around Gibraltar are fascinating, and the meeting of Atlantic and Mediterranean waters creates a uniquely rich marine environment.

Best for: Beach holidays, diving, outdoor dining, nightlife, families, everything.

July

Metric	Value
Average high	29°C
Average low	21°C
Rainfall	1 mm (0 rain days)
Sunshine hours	330 (10.6 hrs/day)
Sea temperature	22°C

July is the start of peak summer. Temperatures regularly touch 30°C and occasionally exceed 32°C. Rain is essentially nonexistent — many Julys record literally zero precipitation. The beaches are busy, particularly Eastern Beach (the largest) and the more sheltered Catalan Bay. This is the month when the Levante wind (see the detailed section below) is most likely to make an appearance, bringing humid, hazy conditions for a day or two at a time.

Early mornings are the best time to tackle the Upper Rock in July. Set out by 8 am and you can complete the Mediterranean Steps or the cable car summit trail before the heat intensifies. Afternoons are for the beach, the pool, or a shaded terrace with a cold drink.

If you are visiting with family, July school holidays make this a popular choice. Book accommodation well ahead — Victory Suites offers family-sized two-bedroom suites that are ideal for parents with children.

Best for: Beach holidays, water sports, families, evening entertainment.

August

Metric	Value
Average high	29°C
Average low	22°C
Rainfall	3 mm (0–1 rain days)
Sunshine hours	320 (10.3 hrs/day)
Sea temperature	23°C

August is the hottest month, with average lows that never drop below 22°C even at night. The sea reaches its peak temperature of 23°C, making it as warm as many Caribbean destinations. This is the busiest month for tourism, and Gibraltar’s compact size means the beaches, cable car, and Main Street can feel crowded during midday.

The Levante wind is also common in August (see below). When it blows, the summit of the Rock disappears into cloud while the lower town and beaches remain clear and hot. Humidity can spike, making the heat feel more intense.

Gibraltar’s summer programme of events typically includes outdoor concerts, food festivals, and community gatherings. Calentita (a traditional Gibraltarian chickpea dish) and other local specialities are often featured at food events — a great way to experience the territory’s unique blend of British, Spanish, Genoese, and Moroccan culinary influences. See our restaurant guide for year-round recommendations.

Best for: Beach holidays, warm-water swimming, nightlife, cultural festivals, water sports.

September

Metric	Value
Average high	27°C
Average low	20°C
Rainfall	20 mm (2 rain days)
Sunshine hours	260 (8.7 hrs/day)
Sea temperature	22°C

September is a local favourite and a genuine contender for the best month to visit Gibraltar. Summer crowds thin out after the first week, but the weather remains firmly summery. Sea temperatures are still 22°C — warmer than the English Channel ever gets — and air temperatures ease back from the August peak to a very comfortable 27°C.

This is an outstanding month for diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The water is warm, visibility is excellent, and the summer Levante has usually subsided. It is also perfect for the Upper Rock trails, which are far more pleasant without the July–August heat.

If you have the flexibility to choose your dates, late May through June and September represent the absolute sweet spot for Gibraltar weather — warm, sunny, quiet, and perfect for every type of activity. Our 3-day Gibraltar itinerary is designed around exactly these conditions.

Best for: Swimming, diving, hiking, sightseeing, couples, photography.

Victory Suites is perfectly positioned for a September visit — steps from Ocean Village Marina for evening dining, and with a heated rooftop pool for morning or sunset swims overlooking the Strait.

October

Metric	Value
Average high	23°C
Average low	17°C
Rainfall	65 mm (5 rain days)
Sunshine hours	220 (7.1 hrs/day)
Sea temperature	20°C

October sees the return of regular rainfall, but make no mistake — this is still a warm, pleasant month. Daytime highs of 23°C and sea temperatures of 20°C mean swimming is comfortable well into the month. The autumn bird migration passes through the Strait, bringing raptors, storks, and smaller migrants in impressive numbers.

Rain in October tends to come in distinct weather fronts lasting a day or two, separated by runs of clear, sunny weather. You might lose one day out of a week-long stay to rain, but the remaining days will be gloriously bright. The light in October is particularly beautiful for photography — lower sun angles and clean post-rain air produce exceptional visibility across to Morocco.

Best for: Birdwatching, autumn warmth, hiking, photography, value accommodation.

November

Metric	Value
Average high	19°C
Average low	14°C
Rainfall	100 mm (6 rain days)
Sunshine hours	185 (6.2 hrs/day)
Sea temperature	18°C

November is one of the wetter months but can surprise with spells of warm, sunny weather reaching 21–22°C. The territory settles into its winter rhythm: quieter, more local, and with a charm that the busy summer months lack. Main Street shops are well stocked and uncrowded, making this a good month for duty-free shopping (electronics, spirits, perfume, and tobacco are all significantly cheaper than in Spain or the UK).

The Moorish Castle, Gibraltar Museum, and the World War II tunnels are all excellent wet-weather options. Even on rainy days, showers typically clear within a few hours, leaving bright skies and fresh air.

Best for: Shopping, museums, cultural exploration, mild winter escape.

December

Metric	Value
Average high	17°C
Average low	11°C
Rainfall	105 mm (7 rain days)
Sunshine hours	165 (5.3 hrs/day)
Sea temperature	16°C

December brings the lowest sunshine hours and the most rainfall, but temperatures remain remarkably mild — 17°C as a daytime high means you rarely need more than a light jacket. Christmas in Gibraltar is a special experience. Main Street is decorated with festive lights, local businesses host events, and the community atmosphere is genuinely warm. Midnight Mass at the Cathedral of St Mary the Crowned is a beloved tradition.

New Year’s Eve at the marina is increasingly popular, with events at Ocean Village and Queensway Quay. The combination of mild weather, festive spirit, and duty-free prices makes December a worthwhile time to visit, particularly for a long weekend or short break.

Best for: Christmas atmosphere, festive events, shopping, mild winter break.

Spending the festive season at Victory Suites means climate-controlled comfort, a heated rooftop pool even in December, and a location right at the heart of the marina festivities.

The Levante Wind: Gibraltar’s Most Famous Weather Phenomenon

No guide to Gibraltar weather is complete without a detailed explanation of the Levante — the easterly wind that is the Rock’s most distinctive and dramatic meteorological feature.

What Is the Levante?

The Levante is a warm, moisture-laden wind that blows from the east or southeast, originating over the Mediterranean Sea. When this humid air hits the Rock of Gibraltar, it is forced upward. As it rises, the moisture condenses, forming a spectacular cloud cap — sometimes called the “Levanter cloud” — that clings to the summit and upper slopes of the Rock while the lower town and coastline remain completely clear.

From a distance, it looks extraordinary: a thick white banner of cloud streaming from the top of the Rock, trailing off to the west, while the sky around and below is blue. It is one of Gibraltar’s most photographed phenomena and is instantly recognisable to anyone who has spent time here.

When Does It Happen?

The Levante can occur at any time of year but is most common and most persistent between June and September, with July and August being the peak months. A typical Levante episode lasts between one and three days, though prolonged events can occasionally persist for a week. In an average summer, you might experience three to five Levante episodes.

What Does It Feel Like?

When the Levante blows, several things happen:

Humidity spikes dramatically. Relative humidity can jump to 80–90%, making the heat feel much more oppressive than the thermometer suggests. A 30°C day with Levante feels significantly hotter than a 30°C day with the prevailing westerly (Poniente) breeze.
The summit and upper Rock are cloudy and damp. Walking the Mediterranean Steps or visiting the Apes’ Den during a Levante means reduced visibility and a clammy, misty atmosphere at elevation.
The lower town and beaches stay clear. At sea level, you will usually still have sunshine, but the air is heavy and still. Beach days are possible but less refreshing than normal.
The wind itself is moderate. Despite its reputation, the Levante at ground level in town is usually a moderate breeze, not a gale. At the summit ridge, it can be stronger and gustier.

What Should You Do During a Levante?

If the Levante arrives during your stay, here is how to adjust:

Skip the Upper Rock. Save your summit visit for a clear day. The cloud cap means you will see nothing from the top, and the damp, windy conditions at elevation are unpleasant. Instead, explore the tunnels, museums, and lower attractions.
Head to the beach early. Mornings during a Levante are often the most comfortable time. By afternoon, the humidity can be stifling.
Take a boat trip. Dolphin watching and water sports are usually unaffected at sea level, and being on the water provides some breeze relief.
Go shopping. Main Street is shaded and many shops are air-conditioned. It is the perfect excuse for a duty-free spree.
Use the pool. If you are staying at Victory Suites, the rooftop pool offers a cool escape, and you can watch the Levante cloud streaming off the Rock from a uniquely dramatic vantage point.
Book a day trip to Tangier. The Levante is a local phenomenon — cross the Strait and you leave it behind entirely.

The Levante always passes. If you are on a stay of three or more days, you will almost certainly have at least some clear, Poniente-breeze days even during peak Levante season.

Packing Guide by Season

Getting your packing right for Gibraltar depends entirely on when you visit. Here is a detailed breakdown.

Summer (June to September)

Clothing: Lightweight, breathable fabrics. Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, swimwear. You will live in summer clothes.
Footwear: Sandals for town, comfortable trainers or hiking shoes if you plan to walk the Rock (the trails are rocky and uneven — flip-flops will not cut it).
Sun protection: High-factor sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. The UV index regularly hits 9–10 in July and August.
Hydration: Bring a refillable water bottle. There are drinking fountains on the Upper Rock trails, but not many.
Extras: A light layer for air-conditioned restaurants and for the rare cool evening. If visiting in July or August, a small personal fan or cooling towel can help during Levante episodes.

Spring (March to May)

Clothing: Layers are essential. Mornings and evenings can be cool (11–16°C), while afternoons warm up considerably (18–23°C). Pack long trousers, light jumpers, t-shirts, and one warmer layer.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must — spring is prime hiking season on the Upper Rock.
Rain gear: A compact waterproof jacket or umbrella. March and April can produce showers, though they rarely last long.
Extras: Binoculars if you are interested in birdwatching — the spring migration through the Strait is a world-class spectacle.

Autumn (October to November)

Clothing: Similar to spring. Light layers, a warmer option for evenings, swimwear for October (the sea is still 20°C).
Rain gear: A waterproof layer becomes more important from mid-October. An umbrella is worth having.
Footwear: Waterproof walking shoes are ideal, especially if you want to hike the Rock after rain (the limestone can be slippery when wet).

Winter (December to February)

Clothing: A light jacket or coat is sufficient for most days. Think British spring rather than British winter. Temperatures rarely drop below 8°C even at night, so you do not need heavy winter gear. Layers work best — a t-shirt under a fleece under a waterproof jacket covers almost any winter day.
Footwear: Waterproof shoes are advisable given the higher rainfall.
Extras: An umbrella is essential. You might also appreciate a light scarf for windier days on the seafront.

Why Victory Suites Is the Perfect Base in Any Weather

Whatever month you choose to visit Gibraltar, your accommodation matters. Weather can be managed — but only if your hotel works with you rather than against you.

Victory Suites is Gibraltar’s newest aparthotel, located on Devil’s Tower Road overlooking Ocean Village Marina. Here is why it works in every season:

Heated rooftop pool. This is the only hotel in Gibraltar with a heated rooftop pool, and it changes everything. In summer, cool off with panoramic views of the Rock and the Strait. In winter, swim in warmth when the sea is too cold. During a Levante, escape the humidity at elevation while watching the cloud cap roll over the Rock above you.
Full climate control. Every suite has individual air conditioning and heating. In the 32°C heat of August, you come back to cool, crisp air. On a rare chilly January evening, your suite is warm and comfortable.
Suite types for every trip. Studios for solo travellers and couples, executive studios for extra space, one-bedroom suites for longer stays, and two-bedroom family suites for parents with children. Every suite has a kitchen, so you can self-cater on rainy days or when you want a relaxed evening in.
Location. Ocean Village Marina is at your doorstep — restaurants, bars, dolphin watching boats, and water sports operators are all within walking distance. The cable car base station and Main Street are a short walk or taxi ride away.

Summary: When Is the Best Time to Visit Gibraltar?

There is no bad time, but there are best times depending on what you want:

Best overall months: May, June, September. Warm, sunny, not too crowded, perfect for every activity.
Best for beaches and water sports: June to September. Sea temperatures from 20–23°C.
Best for hiking: March to May and October. Comfortable temperatures, wildflowers in spring, dramatic light in autumn.
Best for budget travel: January and February. Lowest accommodation rates, mild weather, minimal crowds.
Best for families: July and August (school holidays), though June is arguably better if your dates allow it.
Best for weddings: April to June. Reliable sunshine, warm but not too hot, beautiful long evenings. See our Gibraltar wedding accommodation guide.
Best for avoiding Levante: October to April. The easterly wind is almost exclusively a summer phenomenon.

If you can be flexible, late May through mid-June offers the single best combination of weather, value, and atmosphere in Gibraltar. The sun is strong, the sea is swimmable, the crowds have not yet arrived, and prices have not yet peaked.

Plan Your Gibraltar Trip

Gibraltar’s 300+ days of sunshine, mild winters, and hot summers make it one of Europe’s most weather-reliable destinations. Whether you come for a long weekend in March or a full week in August, the Rock rarely disappoints.

Start planning with our 3-day Gibraltar itinerary, browse things to do in Gibraltar, or explore water sports and restaurant recommendations to build your perfect trip.

Ready to book? Victory Suites is Gibraltar’s newest luxury aparthotel — heated rooftop pool, climate-controlled suites, and a marina-front location that puts all of Gibraltar at your feet. Reserve your suite at victorysuites.gi and experience the Rock in comfort, whatever the weather.