Are you dreaming of a warm escape for your holidays in the Canary Islands in December? The Canary Islands, with their mild climate and spectacular landscapes, are the perfect destination to escape the winter cold European. But can you swim in the Canary Islands in December? What's the temperature like in the Canary Islands in December? And which Canary Island should you visit in December?
In this article, we will explore the Canary Islands in December climate, the best activities, the warmest islands, prices and tips for a trip to the Canary Islands in December, or for a New Year in the Canaries Also with children. With a curious anecdote and practical tips, you'll discover where to go in the Canary Islands in December and how to plan your ideal winter holiday.
What's the weather like in the Canary Islands in December?
Without a doubt, the climate of the Canary Islands is one of the best in Europe, and perhaps in the world, often referred to as “eternal spring”.
December is one of the best months for those looking for a beach holiday in the warmth or an escape from the winter cold. The climate in the Canary Islands In December it is mild and pleasant, thanks to the geographical position of the archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, near the African coast. The islands enjoy a subtropical climate with many sunny days even during the winter. It is no coincidence that many Italians choose the Canary Islands for their Christmas holidays, attracted by bright days, little rain and spring-like temperatures.
Canary Islands temperatures in December: what to expect?
The temperatures in the Canary Islands in December they vary slightly from island to island, but on average they remain between 18°C and 24°C during the day, while at night they rarely drop below 16°C. The warmest islands like Gran Canaria, Tenerife South and Fuerteventura offer an ideal climate for sunbathing or swimming even in the middle of winter. The sea water temperatures remain around 20°C, making swimming possible even during the middle of the day. A true paradise for those seeking warm weather in December without traveling too far from Europe.
Climate and temperature differences between the Canary Islands
Although the Canary Islands share a subtropical climate, there are notable temperature differences and weather conditions from island to island, especially in the winter months like December.
Tenerife and Gran Canaria, for example, present strong contrasts between the north and south areasThe south is warmer, drier, and sunnier, ideal for those seeking a beach holiday and sunbathing, while the north is greener and subject to a little more rain.
Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are the driest and windiest islands, with little rainfall and a dry climate that makes them perfect for those who love full sun even in December.
La Palma, El Hierro and La Gomera on the other hand are cooler, more humid and mountainous.: ideal for nature excursions, but less suitable for those seeking classic beach relaxation.
Generally speaking, the warmest islands in December are Tenerife South, Gran Canaria South, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote, where maximum temperatures can exceed 23-24°C in the central hours of the day.
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Can you swim in the Canary Islands in December?
Can you swim in the Canary Islands in December? Absolutely yes, especially in areas sheltered from the wind. The temperature of the sea in the Canary Islands varies between 19.4°C and 22°C, making swimming pleasant, even though the Atlantic Ocean is cooler than tropical seas. The best swimming locations in the Canary Islands in December include:
- Playa de Las Teresitas, Tenerife: Calm waters and golden sand (sunbed rental: 10 euros/day).
- Puerto Rico Beach, Gran Canaria: Protected from the winds, perfect for swimming.
- Sotavento Beach, Fuerteventura: Natural lagoons for safe swimming.
- Papagayo Beach, Lanzarote: Turquoise bay for snorkeling (parking: 3 euros).
Bring a swimsuit and sunscreen (SPF 50, around 10 euros), but consider a light wetsuit for longer swims, especially in windier Fuerteventura or Lanzarote.
Which Canary Island to choose in December?
But which Canary Island do you recommend in December? The choice, my friend, depends on your preferences. Here's a guide to help you answer the question you're asking yourself: Where to go in the Canary Islands in December?
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Tenerife: the warmest and liveliest of the Canary Islands
Tenerife it is often considered the hottest island in the Canaries in December, with average temperatures of 22-24°C in the south (e.g., Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, and Los Gigantes). It's ideal for a Canary Islands holiday in December with children, thanks to theme parks like Siam Park (ticket: €40) and safe beaches. The capital, Santa Cruz, offers Christmas events like the open-air Christmas Concert.
Gran Canaria: sun and culture
Gran Canaria, especially the southwest area (Playa del Inglés, Puerto Rico and Puerto de Mogán), is among the warmest in the Spanish archipelago, with temperatures up to 25°C. Las Canteras Beach It houses a sand nativity scene, perfect for families. It's also a great base for Christmas shopping in Las Palmas.
Fuerteventura: Tropical beaches and a surfer's paradise
The island of Fuerteventura in December is windy but sunny, with temperatures of 22-24°C. The beaches of Corralejo and Sotavento are ideal for water sports (kitesurfing and windsurfing: 50-80 euros/day). Less suitable for long swims without a wetsuit, but suitable for those seeking relaxation. beaches of the Canary Islands more beautiful.
Lanzarote: unique landscapes
Lanzarote offers temperatures of 20-23°C and volcanic landscapes like Timanfaya National Park (entrance: €20). The beaches of the Papagayo Nature Reserve are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the warm Canarian sun.
La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro: nature and tranquility
These Canary Islands They are cooler (15-20°C) and ideal for trekking. La Palma is perfect for stargazing at Roque de los Muchachos (tour: 40-60 euros). La Gomera and El Hierro are less touristy, ideal for a relaxing holiday.
Still want to know which island we recommend for a December holiday in the Canary Islands?
If you really insist, we recommend the perfect islands for every type of holiday in December:
- Family Holidays in December? The island of Tenerife e Gran Canaria
- Relaxing and seaside holidays? Gran Canaria, Tenerife e Fuerteventura
- Nature and Trekking Holidays: La Gomera, El Hierro and La Palma
- Sports Holidays Aquatics: Fuerteventura
- Naturist Holidays: Gran Canaria
A curious anecdote: Christmas in the Canary Islands under the stars
Here you are a story that makes a trip to the Canary Islands in December special: in 2020, during a December evening in Tenerife, a group of tourists gathered on the beach Of Los Cristianos for the Open-air Christmas concert. Under a starry sky and with 22°C, a local choir sang Christmas carols mixed with Latin rhythms, while the children played in the sand. An Italian tourist, surprised by the mild climate, he joked saying: “It feels like August 15th, but with Santa Claus!”.
The event, captured on social media, went viral, demonstrating how the Canary Islands transform Christmas in December into a unique experience. You could experience a similar moment during your December holidays in the Canary Islands!
What to do in the Canary Islands in December.
Relax on the beach for a winter tan.
Of course, the beaches are the heart of the Canary Islands in December. Besides swimming, you can rent a paddleboard (10-15 euros/hour) or relax with a cocktail (6-8 euros) in Maspalomas in Gran Canaria or Playa de Las Teresitas or Playa del Camisón in Tenerife.
Volcanic excursions
The mild December climate in the Canary Islands is perfect for exploring:
- Teide National Park, Tenerife: Excursions to Teide Trekking or cable car.
- Timanfaya, Lanzarote: Bus tour through lunar landscapes. .
- Caldera de Taburiente, La Palma: Nature Trails
Boat Trips and Dolphin and Whale Watching:
December is one of the ideal months to participate in a’boat trip to the Canary Islands, thanks to the mild climate and generally calm sea. The waters surrounding the archipelago are among the best in Europe. for whale watching, with over 30 species of whales and dolphins populating these areas all year round.
- South Tenerife, especially between Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje, is one of the most popular spots for boat trips for whale and dolphin watching, with daily departures from tourist ports.
- Also La Gomera and Gran Canaria offer sea tours with expert guides, often in eco-friendly boats that respect marine fauna.
This activity is perfect for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts, offering unique moments amidst volcanic landscapes, sheer cliffs, and close encounters with bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales.
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Christmas events in the Canary Islands in December
The month of December in the Canary Islands is full of events:
- Sand Nativity Scene, Las Canteras, Gran Canaria: Free, a unique attraction.
- Los Reyes Parade, Tenerife: January 6th celebration with the Three Kings, beloved by children.
- Geminids, La Palma: Meteor shower visible to the naked eye, ideal for Starlight reserves.
Discover all the events scheduled in the Canary Islands on the official tourism website of the Canary Islands. .
Water sports
If you love active holidays and water sports, you're in the right place: Try windsurfing in Fuerteventura, snorkeling in Lanzarote, or jet skiing in Tenerife.
Canary Islands in December with kids: a perfect family holiday
Spending your December holidays in the Canary Islands with children is an excellent choice thanks to the mild climate, sunny days, and numerous activities designed for children. The islands offer safe, fun attractions suitable for all ages.
- Safe beaches for familiesPlaya de Las Teresitas (Tenerife) and Playa de Puerto Rico (Gran Canaria) are perfect for children thanks to calm waters, fine sand and all the services (umbrellas and sunbeds from around 10 euros per day).
- Siam Park (Tenerife)One of the most famous water parks in the world, with spectacular slides, wave pools, and baby-friendly areas. Tickets range from €20 to €40. Buy your ticket online now.
- Loro Parque (Tenerife)A modern zoo with dolphins, killer whales, penguins, and educational shows. Tickets cost around 35 euros per person. Book Now!
- Christmas events for childrenDecember is full of magic, with sand nativity scenes, markets, colored lights, and the spectacular Epiphany parades of the Three Kings, much loved by children.
For your stay, many family-friendly hotels like the Bahía Príncipe Tenerife offer packages with entertainment, a mini club, and children's dining at great prices. Be sure to bring hats, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
You might also be interested in this article 👉 Which of the 8 Canary Islands to choose for a family holiday
Family Hotel!!
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Where to stay in the Canary Islands in December: the best areas for every need
Choosing where to stay in the Canary Islands in December depends on the type of holiday you're looking for: relaxing on the beach, enjoying unspoiled nature, or experiencing local experiences. The archipelago offers accommodations for all budgets, from all-inclusive hotels to sea-view apartments.
Staying in Tenerife South (Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas)
Ideal for those seeking guaranteed sunshine, well-equipped beaches, and plenty of amenities for families and couples. Here you'll find resorts with heated pools, entertainment, and direct access to the sea.
💡 Recommended for families and travelers looking for comfort.
Staying in Gran Canaria South (Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, Puerto Rico)
One of the hottest destinations in December. Excellent for those seeking a mix of relaxation, nightlife, and shopping. Hotels offer packages including spas, restaurants, and evening entertainment.
💡 Perfect for young people and couples.
Staying in Fuerteventura and Lanzarote
Quieter and more natural, these islands offer unique landscapes and wide golden beaches. Ideal for those who love the wind, surfing, or simply peace and quiet. Many bungalows and apartments have ocean-view terraces.
💡 Ideal for nature lovers and athletes.
Staying in La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro
More authentic and far from mass tourism, they're perfect for an alternative December. Rural accommodations, traditional cottages, and small boutique hotels immersed in nature. 💡 Recommended for experienced travelers or those seeking tranquility.
Canary Islands in December: Prices and tips for saving money
December is considered high season in the Canary Islands, especially during the Christmas and New Year holidays. Prices tend to rise, but booking early can offer some great deals. Here's a rough overview of the costs for a holiday in the Canary Islands in December:
✈️ Canary Islands Flight Prices December
Round-trip flights from Italy (Milan, Rome, Bologna) to Tenerife or Gran Canaria start from 170 to 390 euros with low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, Vueling, and Wizz Air. Booking by October guarantees the best fares. flights to the Canary Islands.
Contact us via Whatsapp 👉 +34 642331208 to book your flight in December at the best price
Canary Islands Accommodation Price
- 4 star hotel (e.g. Bahía Príncipe Tenerife): from 180 to 280 €/night
- Apartments in Fuerteventura or Lanzarote: from €80 to €130/night
- All-inclusive resorts: from €200/night and up
🚢 Inter-island ferry prices
With Fred Olsen Express or Naviera Armas, the average cost for a trip between islands (e.g. Tenerife–La Gomera) ranges from 40 to 90 euros per person.
🚗 Car Rental Prices
The car rental in the Canary Islands Prices range from €40-60 per day, often with unlimited mileage. Great for exploring beaches and nature parks independently.
🍽️ Restaurant and meal prices
A full dinner in a tourist restaurant costs between 23 and 70 euros per person, while a quick lunch or tapas is around 15-30 euros.
💡 Money-saving tip:
Book everything in advance (flight, accommodation, and car) to secure the best prices. Use portals like Traveling to the Canary Islands, Booking.com or book with the Toda Canarias Travel Agency .
Advantages and disadvantages of the Canary Islands in December
Advantages
- Mild climateWhat's the temperature in the Canary Islands in December? 18-24°C, perfect for the beach and activities.
- Christmas eventsSand nativity scenes, concerts and parades enrich the experience.
Disadvantages
- High seasonCanary Islands prices are higher in December, especially at Christmas and New Year.
- Calima: Dusty days possible, manageable with precautions.
- WindNorthern areas or islands like Fuerteventura can be windy.
Why choose the Canary Islands in December?
In conclusion, a trip to the Canary Islands in December is ideal for those seeking sun, sea, and culture in winter. With a mild climate year-round, the Canary Islands in December offer sunny days around 20-24°C (68-75°F) and the chance to enjoy the sea even in the dead of winter. Here's why they're an unbeatable destination:
- Beaches suitable for swimming 365 days a yearFrom the golden dunes of Maspalomas (Gran Canaria) to the turquoise waters of Playa del Duque (Tenerife), you can tan and swim without a care.
- Activities for all tastesSurfing and kitesurfing in the windy spots of Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, trekking on Teide or along volcanic craters, Christmas markets and evocative sand nativity scenes on each island.
- Unique Christmas atmosphere: Open-air concerts, Three Kings parades, local gastronomy and end-of-year parties that continue on the beach until dawn as well as experiencing the Christmas holidays on the beach in 25-degree temperatures!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!!
