Why orientation matters so much here
Marbella faces the sea to the south, with the mountains behind it to the north. In midsummer the sun rises in the north-east, climbs to almost 77° at midday and sets in the north-west behind the hills. In midwinter it stays low in the south, rising in the south-east and setting in the south-west, which is why the most memorable sunsets over the water happen between autumn and spring.
A south-facing terrace takes the sun all day in winter and needs shade in summer; a west-facing one catches the evening light but also the hottest hours. The hours shown here assume an open horizon, so hills, trees and neighbouring houses will reduce them. Read more in designing for light: terraces, orientation and shade.
Questions
How accurate is the calculation?
The sun position follows the standard astronomical formulas used by meteorological services and is accurate to a minute or two for Marbella. Times are shown in Spanish local time, including summer time.
Does it account for mountains and buildings?
No. It assumes a flat, open horizon. On a hillside plot or in a garden with tall trees, the real hours of sun can be shorter, especially in winter when the sun is low.
When does the sun set over the sea in Marbella?
From most of the coast, the sun sets over the sea or over the coastline to the south-west between roughly October and March. In summer it sets in the north-west, over the mountains.
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