When planning your dream vacation, you're probably wondering which month would be the best and what the general weather is like in Tenerife. To answer your question, this is an island that guarantees good weather for most of the year. The average annual temperature is 21.5°C, though it's important to note that the weather in Tenerife can vary slightly depending on whether you've chosen to spend your vacation in the northern or southern part of the island. Tenerife is the largest island in the Canary Islands Archipelago, located in the Atlantic Ocean. On this small piece of land, only 2,034 km², you can find a multitude of different microclimates. A journey of less than a few kilometers in any direction can reveal a completely different climate. You're probably wondering why this is the case. The reason is the volcano El Teide (3,718 meters above sea level), located in the central part of the island, which traps the humid air coming from the north, effectively dividing Tenerife into two climatic zones.
Weather in Tenerife – Tenerife north
The northern part of Tenerife, as many of you have probably already noticed, is characterized by lush greenery and high humidity. This is directly related to the influence of the local winds, known as the trade winds. These cool winds bring a significant amount of moisture, which promotes the growth of vegetation. It's important to note that the trade winds only occur up to about 1,500 meters above sea level. In the center of Tenerife, however, stands the majestic El Teide volcano, which reaches an impressive height of 3,718 meters above sea level. Because of this, the cool and humid winds from the north are unable to penetrate the southern part of the island, as the volcano effectively blocks them. The only exceptions are the extreme eastern and western ends of the island, where these winds can pass through.
This climatic phenomenon has a significant impact on the unique vegetation, especially in the Anaga and Teno mountain ranges. In the Anaga massif, you'll find an extraordinary ecosystem—the Canarian Forest, which is a true paradise for nature lovers. In the Teno massif, there is the picturesque village of Masca, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
The north of Tenerife is therefore known for its beautiful tropical vegetation and impressive tree specimens. This is due to its milder climate, higher humidity, more frequent cloud cover, and a greater likelihood of rainfall. Therefore, when planning a trip to Puerto de la Cruz, it's worth being well-prepared for these conditions.
Weather in Tenerife – Tenerife south
The southern part of Tenerife is characterized primarily by a dry climate, which is dramatically different from the humid and green north of the island. Those landing at the southern airport have the opportunity to notice the desert-like landscapes stretching across this part of Tenerife from the air. Unlike the northern regions, the south does not have fertile soil, which makes the conditions for growing plants limited here.
However, despite the lack of fertile land, the south of the island offers something that attracts hordes of tourists—sunshine almost all year round. It is this sunny climate that has led to the development of the largest and most popular tourist resorts in the south, such as Costa Adeje, Las Americas, Los Cristianos, Playa Paraiso, and Los Gigantes. Each of these resorts offers ideal conditions for relaxation, with wide beaches, numerous hotels, and a variety of attractions.
Although the south doesn't have as lush vegetation as the north, this doesn't mean the landscape is monotonous. The island's authorities have ensured artificial irrigation of the areas, which has allowed the introduction of palm trees, flowers, and other ornamental plants, adding charm to this dry part of Tenerife. As a result, tourists can enjoy not only beautiful weather but also picturesque views during their stay in the southern part of the island.
Precipitation in Tenerife
The average annual rainfall on Tenerife is approximately 150 mm. By comparison, in France, it is 622 mm, while in England, it is 1002 mm. This difference clearly illustrates how dry the climate in Tenerife is.
Interestingly, despite this small amount of rainfall, Tenerife offers a variety of weather phenomena. In the winter, on the highest peak in Spain, which is the El Teide volcano at 3,718 meters above sea level, snow can be observed at altitudes above 2,000 meters. This extraordinary phenomenon is particularly attractive to tourists because, at the same time that winter conditions prevail on the summit of the volcano, sunny days and high temperatures can be enjoyed on the island's coasts, especially in the south.
This unique combination makes Tenerife a place where you can experience contrasting weather conditions at the same time—from snow-covered mountains to hot beaches. This diversity allows Tenerife to offer a wide range of attractions, both for mountain hiking enthusiasts and for those who seek relaxation on the beach, creating a destination with a truly unique character.
Dark clouds over Roque del Conde mountain (Costa Adeje)
Roque del Conde is a majestic mountain rising 1,001 meters above sea level, situated in the picturesque area above Costa Adeje. Dark clouds often gather around it, which at first glance might seem ominous. However, there’s no need to worry, as these clouds do not bring rain. They are dry, dark clouds that, despite their threatening appearance, do not affect the weather in the southern part of the island.
The lack of moisture in these clouds is due to the unique Canarian Pine tree, which densely covers the areas around the El Teide volcano. One of the most fascinating features of this tree is its ability to "drink" water through its needles. Thanks to this unique adaptation, the Canarian Pines effectively absorb moisture from the clouds that reach the southern part of Tenerife. As a result, these clouds become devoid of moisture and do not produce rainfall.
Rain in the south of the island, when it does occur, usually comes from the ocean, though this is extremely rare. It is because of these rare rains and the abundance of sunny days that Tenerife is often called the "island of eternal sunshine." This makes the southern part of the island, including Costa Adeje, an ideal place for sunny relaxation year-round.
Tenerife Weather in winter
Tenerife Weather January
The weather in Tenerife in January, though the coldest month on the island, remains pleasant. The average daily temperature in the north, in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is around 19°C. Meanwhile, in the south, in the popular Playa de Las Americas, it reaches 21°C. During the day, temperatures can rise up to 25°C, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor relaxation. Although the weather in Tenerife in January is generally dry and sunny, the evenings and nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 16°C, so it's advisable to bring warmer clothes. Rainfall is infrequent, occurring on only about four days throughout the month. For those who enjoy swimming, the good news is that the sea temperature in January remains around 19°C, allowing for pleasant swims.
Tenerife Weather February
The weather in Tenerife in February is very similar to what can be observed in January. The average temperature in the north of the island is around 19°C, while in the south, where sunny beaches dominate, it reaches 21°C. The sun rises around 7:45 AM and sets around 6:58 PM, providing long, bright days. If you're wondering whether the weather in Tenerife in February is good for beachgoing, we can assure you that you'll return home with a tan, as the actual temperatures often feel warmer than those reported in forecasts. Additionally, February is carnival month in Tenerife, so the atmosphere on the island is exceptionally joyful and full of energy. With such festivities, even a slight drop in temperature is unlikely to bother anyone, and outdoor fun will be even more enjoyable!
Tenerife Weather March
March in Tenerife is the last of the winter months, but the weather on the island begins to improve during this period, and temperatures start to rise gradually. If you're lucky, you might even experience truly vacation-like conditions. In the northern part of the island, for example, in the charming city of La Laguna, the average air temperature is around 20°C. Meanwhile, on the sunny southern coast, temperatures can reach even above 25°C, making March an excellent time for beachgoing and relaxation. Although there is a slight chance of rain in the first half of the month, you can expect a maximum of about three rainy days throughout the entire month. With Tenerife's mild weather, March becomes an ideal time to explore the island and enjoy the numerous outdoor attractions.
Tenerife Wather in spring
Tenerife Weather April
For those planning a vacation in Tenerife in April, the weather brings very good news—spring is already in full bloom, and the sun shines brightly for most of the day. Moreover, the likelihood of rain during this period is minimal, which means sunny and dry days are expected. The highest temperatures can be found in the southern part of the island, where the average daily temperature is around 23°C. However, it's worth noting that there are days when the thermometer can reach as high as 30°C! Nights in the south are mild, with temperatures not dropping below 18°C. In contrast, the northern part of the island is slightly cooler—the average daytime temperature is around 21°C, and at night it drops to 16°C. As for the water temperature, it remains around 20°C, making it inviting for a swim even in April.
Tenerife Weather May
May in Tenerife, thanks to warm air masses coming from Africa, is very warm, though true summer heat has not yet arrived. The weather in Tenerife during this period is ideal for active outdoor activities, especially in the southern part of the island. In places like Playa de Las Americas, daytime temperatures reach around 25°C. The nights are pleasant and mild, with temperatures not dropping below 18°C. For beach lovers and those who enjoy swimming, the weather in May is particularly favorable—the water temperature reaches around 21°C, and the sun shines for 9 hours a day, providing excellent conditions for relaxation. In contrast, the weather in the northern part of the island is more reminiscent of a Polish spring, with an average air temperature of around 22°C. In this part of the island, tourists can enjoy picturesque, green landscapes that add charm to springtime walks.
Tenerife Weather June
June is the perfect month for various activities in Tenerife, especially for hiking in the northern part of the island. The weather in Tenerife during this period is particularly favorable. In the north, the average temperature is around 24°C, and the clear skies and minimal risk of rain create excellent conditions for outdoor activities. The southern part of the island is even warmer, with an average temperature of around 26°C, but on many days, the thermometer can exceed 30°C. Nights across the island remain very warm, with average minimum temperatures around 20°C, allowing for comfortable relaxation both during the day and in the evening. Additionally, the ocean water temperature reaches 21°C, making June a great time to enjoy water activities in Tenerife, such as swimming or water sports.
Tenerife Weather in summer
Tenerife Weather July
July is the perfect month for those who love heat and dream of returning from vacation with a beautiful, bronzed tan. The weather in Tenerife at this time is exceptionally favorable—on the southern part of the island, the average air temperature is around 30°C, and the sky remains clear on most days. This means that sunny weather dominates, encouraging beachgoing and other outdoor activities. In the north of the island, conditions are similar, although temperatures are usually a few degrees lower, averaging around 28°C. Nonetheless, it is equally sunny and dry. Additionally, the ocean water temperature in July is 22°C, making swimming in the sea very enjoyable. Moreover, you can enjoy the sunshine for up to fourteen hours a day, making July one of the best months for complete relaxation on Tenerife’s beaches.
Tenerife Weather August
August is an extremely hot and dry month both in the north and south of Tenerife. The average air temperature is around 29°C, but during this period, you can expect heatwaves with temperatures reaching as high as 35-40°C. The weather in Tenerife in August often becomes more intense due to a phenomenon known as Kalima (Spanish: Calima). This is an atmospheric event caused by the east wind called Sirocco, which blows from Africa. As it travels over a hundred kilometers across the Atlantic Ocean, it carries hot air masses and fine desert sand particles. As a result, the air becomes dry and heavy, and the sky, instead of being blue, takes on a grayish hue. Despite this, August remains attractive for tourists, particularly due to the warm ocean waters, which have a temperature of around 22°C, making swimming both pleasant and refreshing.
Tenerife Weather September
September, like the other summer months, brings hot days, stunning sunsets, and pleasantly warm evenings and nights to Tenerife. The weather in Tenerife in September is perfect for both relaxing on the beaches and engaging in outdoor activities. This makes it an ideal time for trips to the Anaga or Teno mountains. The average air temperature is around 28°C, but it's important to remember the climatic difference between the north and south of the island. The northern part of Tenerife is slightly cooler and more humid, while the south is characterized by higher temperatures and a dry climate. Rainfall is practically nonexistent in September, ensuring sunny days that are perfect for relaxation. Additionally, the ocean water temperature is around 23°C, encouraging swimming and water activities, making September an excellent month to visit Tenerife.
Tenerife Weather in autumn
Tenerife Weather October
In October, the weather in Tenerife is exceptionally pleasant, making it an excellent time to visit the island. Daytime temperatures in the south range from 25°C to 30°C, while in the north, they are slightly lower by about 2 degrees. At night and in the early morning, the temperature does not drop below 20°C, ensuring warm and comfortable conditions at any time of the day. October in Tenerife is also a month when you can enjoy clear skies and a low chance of rain. Additionally, after the summer heat, the ocean water remains warm, with a temperature of around 24°C, inviting you to swim. The sun shines for about 10 hours a day, which is perfect for beach relaxation and outdoor activities, creating ideal conditions for unwinding.
Tenerife Weather November
While November in most of Europe is cold, gray, and rainy, the weather in Tenerife remains much more pleasant. The average air temperature in the southern part of the island is around 23°C, although you can expect some days when the afternoon temperatures rise, and you can feel real warmth. In the north of the island, it's slightly cooler, with an average temperature of around 21°C. Evenings and nights in Tenerife in November are still warm, with temperatures around 19°C, which is perfect for evening walks and outdoor relaxation. Although there may be occasional showers in November, they typically occur more frequently in the northern part of the island. Despite this, the November weather in Tenerife offers ideal conditions for escaping the autumn gloom, providing plenty of sunshine and a mild, pleasant climate.
Tenerife Weather December
Wondering if December is a good month for a vacation in Tenerife? The answer is: absolutely YES! The southern part of the island is particularly recommended, where the weather in Tenerife in December is much more pleasant. The average air temperature there is around 20°C, and at midday, the thermometer can even reach 25°C! Although there may be some rain, it is usually short-lived and lasts only a few minutes. It's worth noting that the number of rainy days in December in the south doesn't exceed five. December is an excellent time to combine beachgoing with walks and sightseeing, thanks to the mild temperatures. In the northern part of the island, conditions are slightly cooler. The air temperature can drop to as low as 15°C, and rain is more frequent and intense. Despite this, the water temperature remains around 20°C, which is still conducive to swimming.
Tenerife Weather – summary
The weather in Tenerife throughout the year is characterized by a very small temperature range, meaning that changes are minimal and mild. This has allowed banana trees, originally brought from Asia, to acclimate well on the island, as they do not tolerate significant temperature fluctuations. During the summer months, temperatures often reach 33°C, while in the winter, they stay around 21°C during the day. That's just a 12°C difference throughout the entire year! In winter, nights are slightly cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 15°C, whereas in summer, nighttime temperatures usually don't fall below 20°C.
However, it's important to remember the climatic differences between the north and south of the island, as well as the impact of altitude. The temperature values mentioned refer to areas located up to 300 meters above sea level. If you choose accommodation at an altitude of 800 meters, you should expect much lower temperatures. For comparison, the highest peak in Tenerife, the volcano El Teide, rises to 3,718 meters above sea level, and you can drive up to 2,200 meters, which is only 300 meters lower than the highest peak in Poland—Rysy, which measures 2,503 meters above sea level.
If you haven’t chosen a place to stay for your vacation yet, check out our article “Towns of Tenerife – Where is best place to stay?”. It will help you choose the best destination for your vacation in Tenerife. Once you have selected your dream vacation spot, make use of our tips and accommodation search engine on the “Accommodation in Tenerife” website.
On the Windy.com website, you can check for yourself how the air masses around Tenerife are moving.