Gran Canaria, as well as the Canary Islands as a whole, is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Europe – and no wonder! The island of eternal spring, as it is often called, offers
Gran Canaria weather – when to go to catch the best sun?
Gran Canaria is one of the sunniest islands in the world. Every year it attracts millions of tourists thirsting for warmth, beaches and blue ocean. It is famous for its mild climate and stable temperatures, so you can vacation here literally all year round.
It’s called the island of eternal spring for a reason. If you’re wondering what the weather is like in Gran Canaria in January, whether it’s worth flying in October, or whether it’s warmer in the south of the island, this guide will answer all your questions.
Climate in Gran Canaria – why is it so warm here?
Gran Canaria is only 150 kilometers from the coast of Africa, which makes the climate subtropical and warm. Throughout the year, temperatures range between 20 and 30°C, and rain occurs sporadically and usually only in winter.
Features of Gran Canaria’s climate:
- 300 days of sunshine a year
- High but pleasant temperatures thanks to the breeze from the Atlantic
- slight differences between winter and summer
- exceptionally warm south of the island
- moderate humidity
This makes Gran Canaria, as well as the entire Canary Islands, one of the best year-round vacation destinations in Europe – regardless of the month, the weather is conducive to relaxation.
Weather in Gran Canaria – differences between north and south
The island has a very specific microclimate. The high mountains in its central part divide Gran Canaria into a humid north and a hot, extremely sunny south. When coming on vacation in Gran Canaria, it is advisable to prepare clothes for every eventuality. On the south coast, you’ll certainly need a bathing suit, but on Roque Nublo it’s already a good idea to have a warm jacket and boots.
South of Gran Canaria (best for vacation):
It is definitely warmer in the south, the sun shines practically all year round, and rainfall is minimal. This is why the most popular and most visited tourist resorts are located here:
- Maspalomas
- Playa del Inglés
- Puerto Rico
- Arguineguín
- Meloneras
North of Gran Canaria:
The climate is more like that of spring Europe – it is cooler and there are more frequent clouds, but this makes it more crisp and green. It is certainly worth seeing both faces of the island when coming on vacation in Gran Canaria.
- Las Palmas
- Arucas
- Teror
Gran Canaria – weather month by month
Below you will find a detailed description of the weather in Gran Canaria for each month of the year.
January in Gran Canaria
- temperature: 20-23°C
- water: 18-19°C
- precipitation: low
- sun: 6 hours
The winter is mild and warm – ideal for those who want to escape the cold in Europe.
February
- temperature: 20-23°C
- water: 19°C
February is a great month for trekking and sightseeing. Temperatures are pleasant and the south of the island is almost always sunny.
March
- temperature: 21-24°C
- water: 19°C
The weather is starting to become more stable, ideal for walks and hikes. It’s still a quiet, less touristy month, but you can feel the change to a warmer climate in the air.
April
- temperature: 23-25°C
- water: 19-20°C
The beach season is beginning – warm, lots of sunshine, beautiful mornings.
May
- temperature: 24-27°C
- water: 20°C
May is one of the best months in Gran Canaria – perfect weather and few tourists.
June
- temperature: 26-28°C
- water: 21°C
Full spring, perfect beach weather, virtually zero rainfall.
July
- temperature: 28-30°C
- water: 22°C
Summer is hot, but not tiring – the Atlantic breeze makes the heat very pleasant. It is worth taking a light covering for evenings, even in summer.
August
- temperature: 28-32°C
- water: 23-24°C
The hottest month of the year. Perfect if you dream of a real beach vacation.
September
- temperature: 27-30°C
- Water: 24°C – the warmest of the year
One of the best months in Gran Canaria – the heat has eased, but the weather is still summer-like.
October
- temperature: 26-29°C
- water: 23°C
Warm, stable, beautiful evenings. October is the perfect month for an off-season trip.
November
- temperature: 24-27°C
- water: 22°C
Single precipitation is starting, but it is still hot and sunny. A great alternative to the autumn chill.
December
- temperature: 22-25°C
- water: 20-21°C
Weather like the Polish May, but with guaranteed sunshine. Exceptionally popular Christmas and New Year period.
Gran Canaria – water temperature all year round
The ocean water remains warm and stable:
| Month | Water temp. |
|---|---|
| January | 18-19°C |
| April | 19-20°C |
| July | 22°C |
| August | 23-24°C |
| September | 24°C |
| December | 20-21°C |
Gran Canaria – the weather here will certainly not disappoint you. Whether you come on your vacation in winter or summer, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful views, slip into your summer clothes and enjoy the summer.