Lanzarote Weather in November: Still Warm Enough for the Beach?

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November is one of the best months to arrive in Lanzarote for a long winter stay. Daytime highs average about 24°C, nights stay around 17°C, the sea is still close to 21°C, and there are only about three days with measurable rain in the whole month. It is noticeably warmer than December to February, and the summer crowds have gone.

Lanzarote in November at a glance

MeasureNovember average
Daytime highAbout 24°C
Night-time lowAbout 17°C
Sea temperatureAbout 21°C
Rainfall15 mm
Days with rain (1 mm or more)3
SunshineAbout 7 hours a day
DaylightAbout 11 hours

Figures are AEMET long-term averages (1981-2010) for Lanzarote Airport, on the east coast between Arrecife and Puerto del Carmen. The tourist resorts on the south and east coasts are very similar.

What November weather feels like

Early November often still feels like late summer: warm afternoons, calm evenings and sea temperatures that make swimming easy. As the month goes on, days shorten and the first Atlantic weather systems of the winter can arrive. These bring a day or two of cloud, gusty wind and showers, sometimes heavy for a few hours, before the usual sunshine returns.

The north-east trade wind is generally lighter in November than in summer, but Lanzarote is a flat, open island, so there is almost always a breeze. In the sun and out of the wind, 24°C feels hot. On an exposed beach on a breezy afternoon, it can feel more like 20°C.

After the clocks go back at the end of October, sunrise is around 7:15 to 7:30 and sunset around 18:00 to 18:20. Evenings outdoors are pleasant, but you will want a light layer after dark.

Is the sea warm enough to swim in November?

Yes. At about 21°C, the sea in November is warmer than in any month from December to May. Most long-stayers swim comfortably, especially in sheltered bays such as Playa Dorada and Playa Flamingo in Playa Blanca, or the beaches of Puerto del Carmen. The west coast, including Famara, has strong surf and currents and is better for walking than swimming.

Where to stay in Lanzarote in November

  • Puerto del Carmen: the most popular long-stay base, with a long seafront promenade, plenty of services and good bus links.
  • Playa Blanca: in the far south, usually the most sheltered and sunniest spot, with calm beaches.
  • Costa Teguise: a little breezier but with a good choice of apartments and a quieter, residential feel.
  • Arrecife: the capital, with year-round life, shops and the Charco de San Ginés lagoon, and lower rents.

Inland villages such as Teguise and Haría are cooler, cloudier and wetter. They are lovely to visit but not ideal as a winter base. Our guide to the best towns for wintering in Lanzarote compares them in detail.

What to pack for November

  • Summer clothes for the daytime, plus swimwear.
  • A light jumper or fleece and a windproof jacket for evenings and breezy days.
  • Comfortable walking shoes for volcanic paths.
  • High-factor sun cream: the sun is strong even when the air feels mild.

Apartments rarely have heating, but in November you will not need it. That changes a little in January and February; see is it cold indoors in the Canary Islands in winter?

Is November a good month to start a long stay?

It is one of the best. You get the warmest part of the winter at the start of your stay, and November rents can still be negotiable before the Christmas peak. Many long-stayers arrive in early November and stay until the end of January, which also fits neatly inside the 90-day Schengen limit for non-EU visitors. Check your own dates with the Schengen 90/180 calculator.

If you are still looking for somewhere to live, read renting in Lanzarote for 3 months before you book.

November compared with other winter months

November is about 2°C warmer than December and around 3°C warmer than January. It gets a little more sunshine than December but less than March. For the full season, see Lanzarote weather in winter.

Frequently asked questions

Is Lanzarote hot in November?

Warm rather than hot. Expect around 24°C in the afternoon, which feels hot in the sun and out of the wind.

Does it rain a lot in Lanzarote in November?

No. The average is about 15 mm over three rainy days. Rain usually comes in short bursts with a passing front.

Can you sunbathe in Lanzarote in November?

Yes, on most days. Choose a sheltered beach in Playa Blanca or Puerto del Carmen to get out of the breeze.

Do I need a car in November?

Not if you stay in Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca or Arrecife, which have regular buses. A car is useful for exploring Timanfaya and the north. Compare options in monthly car hire in the Canary Islands.