Weather Gran Canaria

Climate in Gran Canaria: best time to visit, weather by month, temperature

Gran Canaria is an island where the eternal spring, a typical Canarian characteristic, is not lacking. It enjoys a fantastic climate, so much so that it is considered one of the sunniest places on earth with over 3000 hours of sunshine a year. It averages eight hours of sunshine a day throughout the year and according to some studies, the capital Las Palmas can boast the title of city with the most pleasant meteorological climate in the world.

Temperatures in Gran Canaria vary from a low of 14°C at night to over 40°C during the day, although these are definitely extremes; we can say that the average daytime temperature ranges between 20 and 30 degrees throughout the year. The sea temperature, on the other hand, varies between 19°C during the winter and 23°C in late summer.

Due to its particular conformation, the southern part of Gran Canaria, where the famous resort of Maspalomas is located, is an ideal place to spend a holiday all year round, while in the northern part the climate is much cooler and rainy, so much so that it can even be subject to snowfall during the winter months.

When to go to Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria can be visited 365 days a year thanks to its sunny climate and low seasonal variation. From May to November the weather is warm and sunny, while rainfall is scarce at the beginning of the year and practically absent from June to August. The temperature fluctuates between 28°C during the day and 20°C at night.

Gran Canaria in summer

Of course, the busiest time for tourists in Gran Canaria is summer, but it would be wrong to think that this is the only time of the year when the island is accessible. Of course, temperatures are higher and there is virtually no rainfall, so it is the ideal time to experience beach life, but costs rise accordingly.

If you want to avoid the crowds of tourists who come to the island during July and August, you might consider visiting in June, when the days are long and the temperatures ideal. On the other hand, September can sometimes present violent rains, but the sea temperature peaks in this month, reaching 23°C.

Gran Canaria in winter

From December to April, the weather is pleasant and the nights are cool. The temperature fluctuates around 22°C, dropping to 15°C in January and February. There is an average of six hours a day, rising to eight by April. The sea temperature never drops below 19°C, and if you think it is too cold for swimming, know that you can still spend wonderful days lying on the beach in the sun.

The heaviest rainfall occurs in December, especially in the northern part of Gran Canaria. Sandstorms from the Sahara can occur in February and March. To avoid them, it is advisable to stay on the western side of the island, as the mountains generally block them.

As mentioned, the northern part of Gran Canaria tends to be colder and can sometimes experience snowfall, so it is best to avoid it for a winter holiday: choose the south without hesitation.