Climate and Weather of the Canary Islands: A Month-by-Month Guide
Dubbed the “velvet season,” December offers comfortable weather and lower prices, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers. Tenerife and La Exploring the Mesmerizing Climate and Varied Weather Patterns of the Enchanting Canary Islands
Photo: Charco del Viento. Teneriffa. Canary Islands. Spain
Nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, the Canary Islands form a volcanic “necklace” consisting of seven major and six smaller islands, all belonging to Spain. Despite the seemingly abundant number of islands, the Canary Islands are truly a paradise for tourists, renowned for more than just their namesake canaries.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain
Interestingly, despite their less-than-romantic Latin translation as “islands of dogs,” these archipelagos have been awarded the distinction of possessing the “best climate on the planet” by meteorologists. Remarkably, even one of the islands boasts a staggering 28 microclimatic zones!
Diverse Climatic Zones within the Canary Islands
Contrary to its proximity to Africa, the climate of the Canary Islands deviates significantly from that of the sultry continent. The archipelago enjoys a dominant tropical trade wind climate characterized by year-round dry and warm conditions.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain
An intriguing interplay between the African dry harmattan winds and the moist trade winds from the Atlantic shapes the weather across the Canary Islands.
Embracing Modern Technology and Renewable Energy
The Canary Islands exemplify a realm where modern technology and renewable energy sources reign supreme. These islands successfully harness the power of wind, water, and sunlight to fuel their entire infrastructure.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain
From desalinating seawater for drinking purposes to utilizing wind energy to power airports and even creating sandy beaches from the ocean floor, the Canary Islands prioritize nature and contribute to a sustainable future.
Distinctive Climate Features across Individual Islands
Each island and its clusters possess unique climatic features. In particular, the southern islands of the archipelago tend to be drier, while the northern islands, such as Gran Canaria, are known for their wetter weather and lush tropical forests.
Photo: Island Gran Canaria. Spain.
The highest islands in the archipelago, including Tenerife, Palma, and Gran Canaria, exhibit distinctive weather patterns due to their topography. At lower altitudes near the volcanoes, the climate is warm and arid, while ascending higher brings cooler temperatures.
Photo: Canary Islands. Tenerife. Spain.
In fact, it is not uncommon to witness a snowy landscape near the volcano peaks, even during the summer months. These larger islands are often referred to as miniature continents due to their diverse climates and landscapes.
The eastern islands experience drier conditions due to the influence of the Sahara’s scorching winds. Additionally, the Atlantic Ocean and its currents exert a notable impact on the southern islands, further shaping their climate.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain. Atlantic Ocean.
Weather Variations by Month
Tenerife, the primary tourist destination within the Canary Islands, boasts perpetual spring-like conditions. Temperature fluctuations remain within a comfortable range of only 7 degrees in both directions.
Meanwhile, Gran Canaria, the second-largest island, experiences winter temperatures no colder than +20°C and summer temperatures no higher than +30°C.
Photo: Island Gran Canaria. Spain.
Lanzarote receives minimal rainfall, while Fuerteventura enjoys the most consistent temperatures throughout the year, accompanied by ideal conditions for wave riders.
Tourist Seasons and Ideal Time to Visit
The Canary Islands captivate visitors with their delightful weather year-round. With pleasant temperatures averaging around +22°C, the islands offer a welcome escape from scorching heatwaves or freezing temperatures.
The transition between seasons is characterized by minimal temperature fluctuations, ensuring a comfortable stay throughout the day and night.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain.
The best time for beach-related activities extends from May to October, with the peak season spanning from August to October when water temperatures reach their maximum.
While the winter months may witness a brief “rainy season” lasting around 5-6 days, characterized by the occasional tropical storm passing through, spring and autumn serve as the off-season.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain.
During these periods, prices tend to be lower, and the weather remains conducive to an enjoyable visit.
A Monthly Breakdown of Weather in the Canary Islands
January:
January ushers in the rainy season, with the islands experiencing more precipitation than usual. The average temperature reaches around +23°C, while the water temperature hovers around +19°C. The month offers an opportunity for New Year’s tours, sunbathing, and engaging in thrilling activities like diving and surfing.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain.
February:
Air temperatures average around +20°C, with the water temperature remaining at +19°C. Gran Canaria tends to be warmer, while Lanzarote experiences slightly cooler conditions. February is a vibrant time for carnivals and festivals, as the Canaries come alive with dancing and singing for a fortnight.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain.
March:
March sees Tenerife reach +21°C during the day, while Gran Canaria enjoys temperatures around +22°C. Daylight hours gradually increase, signaling the ideal time to book flights and hotel rooms for the upcoming summer period. As the Canaries have been a part of Spain for centuries, the European influence is evident in the roads, services, maintenance, and prices.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain.
April:
Stability characterizes the weather in April, with temperatures consistently around +22°C during the day and the water temperature at +18°C. It is also a great time to find discounts, as airlines begin selling tickets at reduced prices.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain.
May:
May presents an excellent opportunity for budget-conscious travelers, as daytime temperatures rise to around +24°C in both Tenerife and Gran Canaria. The ocean water also warms up to +20°C, heralding the start of the waverider season in Fuerteventura, ideal for surf enthusiasts.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain.
June:
As tourist numbers increase, the islands prepare for the peak season. Daytime temperatures rise to +26°C, accompanied by a pleasing ocean temperature of +21°C. Traditionally, Gran Canaria is slightly warmer by one degree.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain.
July:
July marks the true commencement of the tourist season. Thermometers soar to around +28°C, while the ocean offers a refreshing respite with a stable temperature of +21°C. Gran Canaria tends to be consistently warmer than other islands.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain.
August:
August heralds the hottest period, with African winds bringing their breath to shape the weather on the islands. Temperatures can reach up to +33°C in the shade, with Tenerife experiencing around +29°C and the water temperature climbing to +23°C.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain.
September:
September provides an ideal time for wellness-focused trips. The heat subsides, and a comfortable temperature settles in, averaging around +26°C to +28°C during the day. The water temperature remains at a pleasant +22°C to +23°C.
Photo: Canary Islands. Tenerife. Spain.
October:
Towards the end of October, prices start to decline, signaling the conclusion of the high season. While showers are possible on Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and La Palma, Lanzarote experiences the fewest rainy days.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain.
November:
In November, air and water temperatures align closely, reaching approximately +22°C and +21°C, respectively. La Palma tends to experience more rainy days compared to other parts of the archipelago.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain.
December:
Palma witness the most rainy days, while Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are preferable destinations during this time.
Photo: Canary Islands. Spain.