Canary Islands: when to go?
subtropical océanique climate
The Canary Islands enjoy an exceptional subtropical oceanic climate, nicknamed "the eternal spring". Located off the coast of Morocco, these volcanic islands benefit from a unique microclimate with mild temperatures year-round (18-26°C) and generous sunshine. The archipelago experiences two main seasons: a hot and dry period from May to October, ideal for beach activities and hiking, and a cooler season from November to April with sporadic rainfall. Atlantic trade winds naturally temper summer heat, making the Canary Islands pleasant even at the height of summer unlike the mainland. The best time to visit spans April to June and October to November: perfect temperatures, warm sea, minimal rain and moderate tourist crowds. Winter remains mild but can be windy with occasional showers, while summer offers maximum sunshine despite higher visitor numbers.
- Best period
- April to June, October to November
- Good alternatives
- March, July to September
- Windy winter
- December to February
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
General climate Canaries
FavorableVolcanic Atlantic archipelago with a stable subtropical microclimate. The southern coasts are more arid and sunny than t...
Tenerife
IdealLanzarote
IdealGran Canaria
IdealLa Palma
FavorableFuerteventura
IdealMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
14° — 21°C
Precipitation
36 mm
Average temperature
3°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Cool season with occasional showers. Ideal for hiking but avoid water activities.
Temperature
14° — 22°C
Precipitation
30 mm
Average temperature
3°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Cool temperatures but increasing sunshine. A great time to visit cultural sites.
Temperature
14° — 23°C
Precipitation
21 mm
Average temperature
3.2°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Pleasant weather with less rainfall. Excellent for outdoor activities and archipelago exploration.
Temperature
15° — 24°C
Precipitation
12 mm
Average temperature
3.3°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Perfect conditions for all activities. Sea still cool but exceptional climate for discovery.
Temperature
16° — 25°C
Precipitation
4 mm
Average temperature
3.6°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
One of the best times of year. Perfect temperatures and warming seas.
Temperature
18° — 27°C
Precipitation
1 mm
Average temperature
3.9°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Ideal beach and activity climate. Warm sea and almost permanent clear skies.
Temperature
19° — 29°C
Precipitation
0 mm
Average temperature
4.2°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Strong heat tempered by trade winds. Perfect for the beach, peak tourist season.
Temperature
20° — 30°C
Precipitation
1 mm
Average temperature
4.4°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Hottest month but bearable thanks to the wind. Sea at ideal temperature for swimming.
Temperature
19° — 29°C
Precipitation
8 mm
Average temperature
4.2°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Excellent conditions with sea still very warm. Temperatures becoming more pleasant again.
Temperature
18° — 27°C
Precipitation
21 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Exceptional period with still-warm seas and perfect temperatures. Fewer crowds than in summer.
Temperature
17° — 24°C
Precipitation
36 mm
Average temperature
3.4°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Pleasant climate with occasional rainfall returning. Good balance between weather and crowds.
Temperature
15° — 22°C
Precipitation
44 mm
Average temperature
3.2°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Cooler season with frequent showers. Avoid beach activities, prefer cultural visits.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit Canary Islands
The best months to visit Canary Islands are April, May, June, October, November. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
Yes, the oceanic climate in Canary Islands is known for its variability: all 4 seasons can occur in a single day. Average temperature 20.5°C. Packing layered clothing and a waterproof jacket is essential, regardless of the season.
Rainfall is distributed throughout the year in Canary Islands, but the wettest and windiest months are January, February, December. Summer (April, May, June, October, November) remains the most stable, though showers cannot be ruled out.
If Canary Islands is located at northern latitudes, yes: the Northern Lights are visible between September and March, during clear nights. The best conditions are in the middle of winter, with patience and a bit of luck.
Summer (April, May, June, October, November) offers the best conditions for hiking, with long days and mild temperatures. Spring and autumn are also beautiful, but with more unpredictable weather.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in Canary Islands, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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