Best Time to Visit Canary Islands (Weather & Crowds)

The Canary Islands are a group of Spanish islands located off the northwest coast of Africa. Known for their mild climate, beautiful beaches, and volcanic landscapes, they attract visitors year-round. Choosing the right time to visit is important because weather, crowds, and prices vary throughout the year.

The best time to visit depends on your travel goals. If you want warm weather and lively events, certain months are better. If you prefer fewer tourists and lower costs, other months suit you more. This guide helps you find the best time for your style of travel.

Overall Best Time to Visit Canary Islands

The best months to visit the Canary Islands are from March to May and September to November. During these periods, the weather is warm but not too hot, and the islands are less crowded than in summer. Prices for accommodation and flights are also more reasonable.

This time is ideal if you want to enjoy outdoor activities, relax on the beach, and explore nature without large crowds. It suits travelers who want a balance of comfort, affordability, and good weather.

• March to May offers pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes, perfect for hiking and sightseeing without the summer heat.

• September to November provides warm seas for swimming and fewer tourists, making it great for beach lovers and those seeking peace.

• These months avoid the peak summer crowds and high prices, so you can find better deals on hotels and tours.

• If you want to avoid extreme heat and busy resorts, these shoulder seasons are the best choice for a relaxed visit.

Visiting during these months lets you enjoy the Canary Islands comfortably and affordably while experiencing their natural beauty and culture.

Best Time to Visit Canary Islands by Month

January

January is mild but cooler than other months, with occasional rain. Crowds are low, and prices are moderate. It suits travelers who want quiet time and don’t mind cooler weather.

• Temperatures are cooler but still pleasant compared to mainland Europe, good for outdoor walks and sightseeing.

• Tourist numbers are low, so you can enjoy peaceful beaches and attractions without crowds.

• Accommodation and flight prices are lower than peak months, offering good value for budget travelers.

• Some outdoor activities may be limited by cooler weather, so pack layers and plan accordingly.

January is best for travelers seeking calm and affordability, not for those wanting hot beach days.

February

February remains cool with some rain but starts to warm slightly. Crowds stay low, and prices remain affordable. It is good for quiet visits and nature exploration.

• Weather is mild but can be unpredictable, so bring rain gear and warm clothes for evenings.

• Low tourist numbers mean less crowded attractions and beaches, ideal for peaceful trips.

• Prices for hotels and flights are still low, making it a budget-friendly month to visit.

• This month suits travelers who enjoy hiking and sightseeing without summer heat or crowds.

February is a calm month best for travelers who prefer quiet and cooler weather.

March

March marks the start of warmer weather and longer days. Crowds begin to increase slightly, but prices are still reasonable. It is a great time for outdoor activities and beach visits.

• Temperatures rise, making it comfortable for beach time and hiking in the islands’ natural parks.

• Tourist numbers grow but remain manageable, so you can enjoy attractions without heavy crowds.

• Accommodation and flight costs start to increase but are still lower than summer peak prices.

• This month is ideal for travelers wanting good weather and fewer tourists before the busy season.

March offers a nice balance of warmth and affordability for most travelers.

April

April brings warmer temperatures and more sunshine. Crowds increase moderately, and prices rise slightly. It is excellent for beach activities and festivals.

• Weather is warm and dry, perfect for swimming and outdoor adventures.

• Tourist numbers grow as spring break travelers arrive, so expect some busy spots.

• Prices for accommodation and flights increase but remain below summer peaks.

• April suits travelers who want warm weather and lively local events without extreme crowds.

This month is great for active travelers who enjoy a mix of relaxation and cultural experiences.

May

May offers warm, sunny weather with low rainfall. Crowds are moderate, and prices are reasonable. It is one of the best months for visiting the islands.

• Temperatures are warm but not too hot, ideal for beach days and hiking.

• Tourist numbers are moderate, so you can enjoy popular sites comfortably.

• Accommodation and flight prices are affordable compared to summer, offering good value.

• This month is perfect for travelers wanting pleasant weather and manageable crowds.

May is a top choice for a balanced and enjoyable visit to the Canary Islands.

June

June starts the summer season with warmer temperatures and longer days. Crowds increase, and prices begin to rise. It is good for beach lovers but can be busy.

• Weather is hot and sunny, great for swimming and water sports.

• Tourist numbers grow, especially in popular resort areas, leading to busier beaches.

• Prices for hotels and flights increase as summer approaches peak season.

• This month suits travelers who want summer fun and don’t mind larger crowds.

June is ideal for those who enjoy lively beach vacations but want to avoid the busiest months.

July

July is peak summer with hot weather, high crowds, and high prices. It is the busiest month for tourism in the Canary Islands.

• Temperatures are at their highest, perfect for beach and pool activities but can be intense for outdoor exploring.

• Tourist crowds peak, especially in popular resorts, which can affect availability and comfort.

• Accommodation and flight prices reach their highest levels during this month.

• July suits travelers who enjoy vibrant summer atmospheres and don’t mind busy conditions.

If you prefer quiet or budget travel, July is not the best choice.

August

August continues the hot, busy summer season with high prices and crowded attractions. It is the most popular month for families and holidaymakers.

• Weather remains hot and sunny, ideal for beach and water activities.

• Tourist numbers are very high, leading to crowded beaches and busy streets.

• Prices for accommodation and flights are at their peak, making travel expensive.

• This month suits travelers who want lively summer fun and don’t mind crowds or costs.

August is best avoided if you want a peaceful or budget-friendly trip.

September

September brings slightly cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. Prices start to drop, making it a good time to visit after summer.

• Weather is still warm and pleasant, great for swimming and outdoor activities.

• Tourist crowds decrease, so you can enjoy attractions with more space and comfort.

• Accommodation and flight prices begin to fall from summer highs.

• This month suits travelers seeking warm weather with fewer crowds and better prices.

September is a strong choice for a relaxed and enjoyable visit.

October

October offers warm weather and low crowds. Prices are moderate, making it a popular shoulder season month.

• Temperatures remain comfortable for beach and outdoor activities without summer heat.

• Tourist numbers stay low, so you can explore without large crowds.

• Prices for accommodation and flights are reasonable, offering good value.

• This month suits travelers who want warm weather and a peaceful atmosphere.

October is ideal for those who want to avoid peak season but still enjoy good weather.

November

November is cooler but still mild. Crowds are low, and prices drop further. It is good for quiet visits and nature lovers.

• Weather is mild with occasional rain, suitable for sightseeing and hiking.

• Tourist numbers are low, so you can enjoy a calm and relaxed trip.

• Accommodation and flight prices are lower, making it budget-friendly.

• This month suits travelers who prefer quiet and don’t need hot beach weather.

November is a good choice for peaceful travel and exploring the islands’ natural beauty.

December

December is mild with some rain and holiday events. Crowds increase slightly during Christmas but remain moderate overall.

• Weather is cool but comfortable, good for sightseeing and festive activities.

• Tourist numbers rise around holidays but are generally moderate compared to summer.

• Prices increase during Christmas and New Year but are lower at other times.

• This month suits travelers who enjoy festive events and mild weather.

December is a pleasant time for holiday visits with some crowd and price considerations.

Crowds and Travel Costs Throughout the Year

The Canary Islands have distinct peak, shoulder, and off-seasons that affect crowds and costs. Understanding these helps you plan your trip better.

Peak season runs from June to August and around Christmas and New Year. During this time, the islands are busiest, and prices for flights and hotels are highest. Popular beaches and attractions can be crowded, which may affect your experience.

• Peak season features hot weather and lively atmospheres but comes with crowded resorts and higher costs for accommodation and flights.

• Shoulder seasons in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer warm weather with fewer tourists and more affordable prices.

• Off-season months like January and February have the lowest crowds and prices but cooler weather and occasional rain.

• Traveling during shoulder seasons balances good weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable costs for most travelers.

Choosing the right season depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and budget. Shoulder seasons often provide the best overall experience.

Worst Time to Visit Canary Islands

The worst time to visit the Canary Islands is during the peak summer months of July and August. The weather is very hot, and the islands become crowded with tourists. Prices for flights and accommodation are at their highest.

During this period, popular beaches and attractions can be overcrowded, which may reduce your enjoyment. Additionally, some outdoor activities may be less comfortable due to intense heat.

• July and August have extreme heat that can be uncomfortable for hiking or long outdoor activities.

• High tourist numbers lead to crowded beaches, busy restaurants, and limited availability in hotels.

• Prices for flights and accommodation peak, making travel expensive during these months.

• Travelers seeking quiet, budget-friendly, or cooler conditions should avoid peak summer months.

If you want to avoid crowds, high costs, and intense heat, plan your visit outside of July and August.

Special Travel Tips for Visiting Canary Islands

Packing for the Canary Islands depends on the season. Bring light clothes for warm months and layers for cooler or rainy days. Comfortable shoes are important for exploring volcanic landscapes and hiking trails.

Booking flights and accommodation in advance is wise during peak and shoulder seasons to secure better prices and availability. Check local event calendars to enjoy festivals and cultural activities.

• Pack sunscreen, hats, and swimwear for sunny days, especially in spring, summer, and early autumn.

• Bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and winter months like January and February.

• Book accommodations early if traveling during peak seasons or holidays to avoid high prices and limited options.

• Research local festivals and events to enhance your experience but be prepared for higher crowds during these times.

Avoid common mistakes like underestimating the sun’s strength or not planning for transportation between islands. Being prepared helps you enjoy your trip fully.

Conclusion

The best overall time to visit the Canary Islands is during the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November. These months offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices, making your trip comfortable and enjoyable.

While summer months bring hot weather and lively atmospheres, they also come with high prices and large crowds. Winter months are quieter and cheaper but cooler and sometimes rainy. Choose your travel time based on your preferences for weather, budget, and crowd levels to make the most of your visit.

FAQs

What is the cheapest time to visit the Canary Islands?

The cheapest time to visit is during the off-season months of January and February. During this period, prices for flights and accommodation are lower, and tourist numbers are minimal, offering good value for budget travelers.

Which month has the best weather in the Canary Islands?

May and September generally have the best weather. These months offer warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and comfortable conditions for outdoor activities without the extreme heat of summer.

When is the peak tourist season in the Canary Islands?

The peak tourist season is from June to August and around the Christmas and New Year holidays. During these times, the islands are busiest, and prices for travel and accommodation are at their highest.

Is it safe to visit the Canary Islands during the off-season?

Yes, it is safe to visit during the off-season. However, some services or attractions may have reduced hours or be closed. Weather can be cooler and wetter, so plan activities accordingly for a comfortable trip.

What is the best time for first-time visitors to the Canary Islands?

First-time visitors should consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn. These periods offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices, allowing you to explore the islands comfortably.