The warmest places in the Canary Islands in winter are the south coasts of Gran Canaria and Tenerife, where daytime highs typically reach 22-24°C from December to February. Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are similar in temperature but windier, while the western islands and northern coasts are cooler and cloudier.
Average winter daytime highs
| Area | December | January | February | March |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Gran Canaria (Maspalomas, Mogán) | About 23°C | About 22°C | About 22°C | About 23°C |
| South Tenerife (Los Cristianos) | About 22°C | About 21°C | About 22°C | About 22°C |
| Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) | About 22°C | About 21°C | About 21°C | About 22°C |
| Puerto de la Cruz (Tenerife) | About 21°C | About 20°C | About 20°C | About 21°C |
| Lanzarote | About 21°C | About 21°C | About 21°C | About 22°C |
| Fuerteventura | About 22°C | About 21°C | About 21°C | About 22°C |
These are rounded long-term averages from coastal stations. Individual days can be several degrees warmer or cooler, and temperatures drop quickly with altitude.
Why the south is warmer
The north-east trade winds bring cloud to the northern slopes of the mountainous islands. The southern coasts sit in their shelter, so they get more sunshine and less rain. On flatter Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, the wind blows across the whole island instead.
Night temperatures
Winter nights at the coast are usually 14-17°C. Apartments have no central heating, so evenings indoors can feel cooler than the figures suggest. Read Is It Cold Indoors in the Canary Islands in Winter?
Sea temperature
The sea is at its coolest in February and March, at around 18-19°C. Many long-stayers swim all winter; others prefer heated pools.
The warmest month and the coolest
January and February are the coolest months. December and March are a touch warmer. If you are booking a short winter break, early December and late March offer the best weather.
Our verdict
For the warmest winter, base yourself on the south coast of Gran Canaria or Tenerife. Compare bases in Best Canary Island to Spend the Winter.