Complete Year Round Guide
Tenerife Weather Guide
Month by Month
Everything you need to know about Tenerife weather: temperatures, rainfall, sunshine hours, north vs south differences, sea temperatures, and packing tips for every month of the year.
22°CAvg. Annual Temp
3,000+Sunshine Hours/Year
12Months of Good Weather
21°CAvg. Sea Temp
Tenerife Weather Overview
Quick Answer
Tenerife has warm, sunny weather throughout the year. The south averages 18 to 27 degrees and rarely sees rain. The north is 2 to 3 degrees cooler and greener. There is no bad time to visit, but May through October gives the most reliable sunshine.
Tenerife sits just 300km off the coast of West Africa, giving it one of the best climates in Europe. The island is often called the "Island of Eternal Spring" and it is easy to see why. Unlike mainland Spain, Tenerife does not get harsh winters or unbearable summers. Temperatures stay consistent throughout the year.
What makes Tenerife weather so interesting is the variation within the island itself. Mount Teide, at 3,718m the highest peak in Spain, acts as a natural weather barrier and creates completely different climates on the north and south coasts. The south is dry and sun-drenched. The north is lush, green, and occasionally cloudy. Knowing this is the key to planning the right holiday in the right place.
North vs South: Microclimates Explained
The most important thing to understand about Tenerife weather is the difference between the north and south coasts. They can feel like two completely different islands on the same day.
North Coast
Puerto de la Cruz, La Orotava, Icod de los Vinos. Cooler, greener, and more lush. Trade winds bring moisture from the Atlantic, creating cloud cover, especially in summer. Good for hiking and exploring. Around 2 to 3 degrees cooler than the south year-round.
Winter: 15-18°C
Summer: 23-26°C
Rain: ~300mm/yr
South Coast
Los Cristianos, Playa de las Americas, Costa Adeje, Los Gigantes. Warmer, drier, and sunnier. The Teide massif blocks the trade wind clouds, leaving the south in near-permanent sunshine. Desert-like landscape. Best for beach holidays.
Winter: 18-21°C
Summer: 26-29°C
Rain: ~80mm/yr
The northeast (Anaga) is the wettest and most dramatic part of the island, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with ancient laurel forests kept alive by cloud moisture. The interior and high altitude areas around Teide can be cold, with snow on the summit in winter. Always pack a layer if you are heading up to the national park.
Month by Month Tenerife Weather Guide
Click any month card to see packing tips. All temperatures are averages for the south coast unless stated.
January
18°CMild winter escape, fewer crowds, great value
45mmRainfall
6 hrsSunshine/day
20°CSea Temp
LowCrowds
North15-17°C, cloudier
South18-20°C, sunny
- Light sweater or cardigan
- Waterproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Layers for altitude changes
- Sunscreen (UV still strong)
February
18°CAlmond blossoms and Carnival season
40mmRainfall
6 hrsSunshine/day
19°CSea Temp
MediumCrowds
North15-17°C, mild rain
South18-20°C, pleasant
- Light layers
- Rain jacket
- Closed-toe shoes
- Warm top for evenings
- Festive outfit for Carnival
March
19°CSpring begins, hiking season opens
35mmRainfall
7 hrsSunshine/day
19°CSea Temp
MediumCrowds
North16-18°C, spring-like
South19-21°C, warm
- Light cotton clothes
- Light jacket for evenings
- Comfortable sandals
- Sun hat
- Hiking boots if trekking
April
20°CGood hiking weather, Easter celebrations
25mmRainfall
8 hrsSunshine/day
20°CSea Temp
HighCrowds
North17-19°C, mild
South20-22°C, beach-ready
- T-shirts and shorts
- Light cardigan for evenings
- Sandals
- Sunglasses
- SPF 30+ sunscreen
May
22°CWarm and dry, wildflowers in bloom
15mmRainfall
9 hrsSunshine/day
21°CSea Temp
MediumCrowds
North19-21°C, comfortable
South22-24°C, beach weather
- Summer clothes
- Light cover-up for evenings
- Beachwear
- Hiking boots if trekking Teide
- SPF 50 sunscreen
June
24°CSummer begins, long sunny days
8mmRainfall
10 hrsSunshine/day
22°CSea Temp
HighCrowds
North21-23°C, warm and dry
South24-26°C, hot and sunny
- Swimwear
- Light summer clothes
- Strong sun protection
- Evening wrap or light shirt
- Reef-safe sunscreen
July
26°CPeak summer, very dry, very sunny
3mmRainfall
11 hrsSunshine/day
23°CSea Temp
Very HighCrowds
North23-25°C, warm
South26-28°C, hot
- Minimal, light clothing
- SPF 50+ sunscreen (essential)
- Wide-brim hat
- Sunglasses
- Flip-flops and sandals
August
27°CHottest month, great beach weather
5mmRainfall
10 hrsSunshine/day
24°CSea Temp
Very HighCrowds
North24-26°C, warmest
South27-29°C, very hot
- Beach essentials
- Cooling, breathable fabrics
- Sun hat
- Flip-flops
- Rehydration sachets
September
25°CGood weather, fewer tourists, great value
15mmRainfall
9 hrsSunshine/day
24°CSea Temp
MediumCrowds
North22-24°C, still warm
South25-27°C, hot but cooling
- Summer clothes
- Light jacket for evenings
- Comfortable shoes
- Swimwear
- SPF 30+ sunscreen
October
23°CGood hiking weather returns, warm sea
30mmRainfall
7 hrsSunshine/day
23°CSea Temp
MediumCrowds
North20-22°C, mild
South23-25°C, warm and pleasant
- Layers
- Light rain jacket
- Closed shoes
- Warm top for evenings
- Hiking gear if exploring
November
21°CAutumn warmth, good for exploring
40mmRainfall
6 hrsSunshine/day
22°CSea Temp
LowCrowds
North18-20°C, cooler
South21-23°C, mild and pleasant
- Sweater
- Waterproof jacket
- Comfortable shoes
- Layers for variable weather
- Light scarf
December
19°CWinter sun, festive atmosphere
50mmRainfall
6 hrsSunshine/day
20°CSea Temp
MediumCrowds
North15-17°C, cooler
South19-21°C, mild
- Light sweater
- Waterproof jacket
- Comfortable shoes
- Layers for evenings
- Sunscreen (UV still active)
Full Tenerife Climate Data Table
All figures are averages for the south coast (Los Cristianos and Playa de las Americas area).
| Month | Max | Min | Rain | Rain Days | Sun hrs | Sea | Humidity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20°C | 15°C | 45mm | 4 | 6 | 20°C | 68% |
| February | 21°C | 15°C | 40mm | 4 | 6 | 19°C | 67% |
| March | 22°C | 16°C | 35mm | 3 | 7 | 19°C | 66% |
| April | 23°C | 17°C | 25mm | 2 | 8 | 20°C | 65% |
| May | 24°C | 18°C | 15mm | 1 | 9 | 21°C | 64% |
| June | 26°C | 20°C | 8mm | 1 | 10 | 22°C | 63% |
| July | 28°C | 22°C | 3mm | 0 | 11 | 23°C | 62% |
| August | 29°C | 23°C | 5mm | 0 | 10 | 24°C | 63% |
| September | 27°C | 22°C | 15mm | 1 | 9 | 24°C | 65% |
| October | 25°C | 20°C | 30mm | 3 | 7 | 23°C | 67% |
| November | 23°C | 18°C | 40mm | 4 | 6 | 22°C | 68% |
| December | 21°C | 16°C | 50mm | 5 | 6 | 20°C | 69% |
JanuaryMax: 20°CMin: 15°CRain: 45mmSun: 6hSea: 20°C
FebruaryMax: 21°CMin: 15°CRain: 40mmSun: 6hSea: 19°C
MarchMax: 22°CMin: 16°CRain: 35mmSun: 7hSea: 19°C
AprilMax: 23°CMin: 17°CRain: 25mmSun: 8hSea: 20°C
MayMax: 24°CMin: 18°CRain: 15mmSun: 9hSea: 21°C
JuneMax: 26°CMin: 20°CRain: 8mmSun: 10hSea: 22°C
JulyMax: 28°CMin: 22°CRain: 3mmSun: 11hSea: 23°C
AugustMax: 29°CMin: 23°CRain: 5mmSun: 10hSea: 24°C
SeptemberMax: 27°CMin: 22°CRain: 15mmSun: 9hSea: 24°C
OctoberMax: 25°CMin: 20°CRain: 30mmSun: 7hSea: 23°C
NovemberMax: 23°CMin: 18°CRain: 40mmSun: 6hSea: 22°C
DecemberMax: 21°CMin: 16°CRain: 50mmSun: 6hSea: 20°C
Tenerife Sea Temperatures by Month
The Atlantic around Tenerife stays warm year-round. Even in the coldest months, the sea rarely drops below 19 degrees.
Jan
20°C
Feb
19°C
Mar
19°C
Apr
20°C
May
21°C
Jun
22°C
Jul
23°C
Aug
24°C
Sep
24°C
Oct
23°C
Nov
22°C
Dec
20°C
Best Time to Visit Tenerife
The right time to visit depends on what you want from your trip. Here is a breakdown by purpose.
Beach Holiday
For guaranteed sunshine and warm sea temperatures, the summer months are hard to beat. The south coast is reliable from April onwards.
JuneJulyAugustSeptember
Hiking and Walking
Spring and autumn are the best seasons for hiking. Temperatures are comfortable, the landscape is green, and the trails are less busy.
MarchAprilOctoberNovember
Budget Travel
January, February and November offer the lowest prices and fewest crowds while still giving you good weather, especially in the south.
JanuaryFebruaryNovember
Winter Sun Escape
Tenerife is one of the best places in Europe for winter sun. The south coast stays warm and sunny even in December and January.
DecemberJanuaryFebruary
Festivals and Events
February brings the famous Tenerife Carnival, one of the biggest in the world. June and July have local fiestas across the island.
FebruaryJuneJuly
Whale Watching
Pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins are resident in the waters off the southwest coast year-round, but spring and summer are particularly good.
AprilMayJuneJuly
North vs South Resort Guide
Choosing between the north and south of Tenerife is one of the most common questions visitors ask. Here is a straightforward comparison.
North Tenerife
Puerto de la Cruz, La Orotava, Garachico
The north is greener, more traditional, and culturally richer. It suits visitors who want to explore the real Tenerife rather than just sit on a beach.
Pros
- Lush, green scenery
- Authentic local culture
- Cooler in summer
- Less touristy
- Good base for Teide
Cons
- More cloud cover
- Cooler sea temperatures
- Less reliable sunshine
- Fewer beach options
South Tenerife
Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje, Playa de las Americas
The south is the classic Tenerife holiday destination. Reliable sunshine, warm sea, sandy beaches, and a wide range of hotels and restaurants.
Pros
- Most sunshine hours
- Warmest temperatures
- Best beaches
- Wide range of hotels
- Good for families
Cons
- More touristy
- Busier in peak season
- Less authentic feel
- Dry, desert landscape
What is a Calima?
The Saharan Wind That Hits Tenerife
A Calima is a hot, dry wind that blows in from the Sahara Desert, carrying fine sand and dust across the Atlantic to the Canary Islands. It is one of the most unusual weather events you can experience in Tenerife.
What Happens
Temperatures can jump to 40 degrees or above. The sky turns a hazy orange-brown. Fine sand settles on everything. Visibility drops and the air feels thick and dry.
When It Occurs
Calimas can happen at any time of year but are most common in summer. They usually last between 1 and 3 days before the trade winds return and clear the air.
What to Do
Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day. Drink plenty of water. Avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Keep windows closed to stop sand getting inside.
After the Calima
Once the Calima passes, temperatures drop back to normal and the air clears quickly. Your car and outdoor furniture will need a good wash to remove the sand.
Packing Tips for Tenerife
No matter when you visit, a few items are worth packing regardless of the season.
Sun Protection
The UV index in Tenerife is high year-round. Pack SPF 30 or higher, a wide-brim hat, and good sunglasses even in winter.
Light Layers
Evenings can be cooler than you expect, especially in the north or at altitude. A light cardigan or jacket is always useful.
Waterproof Jacket
A compact waterproof is worth packing, particularly if you are visiting between October and March or spending time in the north.
Walking Shoes
Tenerife has some of the best hiking in Europe. Even if you are not planning long walks, comfortable shoes make a big difference.
Water Bottle
The heat and dry air can dehydrate you faster than you realise. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink regularly throughout the day.
Beach Gear
If you are heading to the south, pack swimwear, a beach towel, and flip-flops. The beaches are good and the sea is warm for most of the year.
Tenerife Weather: Frequently Asked Questions
July and August offer the most sunshine with 10 to 11 hours per day and virtually no rain. May, June and September are also very good with fewer crowds and lower prices.
The south of Tenerife is very dry with less than 100mm of rain per year. The north receives more rainfall, especially between November and February, but even then it is rarely prolonged. Most rain falls overnight or in short showers.
Yes. Tenerife has mild winters with average daytime temperatures of 18 to 20 degrees in the south. It rarely drops below 15 degrees even at night, making it one of the warmest winter destinations in Europe. Many visitors come specifically for the winter sun.
The south (Los Cristianos, Playa de las Americas, Costa Adeje) is warmer, sunnier and drier year-round. The north (Puerto de la Cruz) is 2 to 3 degrees cooler, greener and receives more rainfall, especially in winter. On many days you can drive from cloud and rain in the north to bright sunshine in the south in under an hour.
A Calima is a hot, dusty wind that blows from the Sahara Desert. It can push temperatures above 40 degrees and fill the air with fine sand. Calimas most commonly occur in summer but can happen at any time of year and usually last 1 to 3 days before the trade winds return.
Yes. Sea temperatures in Tenerife rarely drop below 19 degrees even in winter, making it comfortable for swimming year-round, especially in the south. Many visitors who find the sea too cold in summer actually prefer the slightly cooler winter sea.
Pack light layers, a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes and a warm top for evenings. Daytime temperatures are mild but evenings can be cool, especially in the north or at altitude. You will still need sunscreen as the UV index remains high even in winter.
Tenerife sits south of the main Atlantic hurricane track and is rarely directly affected. Tropical storms can occasionally influence weather between August and October, sometimes bringing the Calima wind or unsettled conditions, but direct hurricane hits are extremely rare.
October is a great time to visit Tenerife. Temperatures are still warm at around 23 to 25 degrees in the south, the sea is at its warmest of the year, crowds have thinned out after the summer peak, and prices are lower. It is one of the most popular months for a second holiday.
Snow does fall in Tenerife, but only on Mount Teide and the surrounding high-altitude areas. The summit at 3,718m can have snow from November through to April. The coastal resorts never see snow. Seeing snow on Teide while sitting on a sunny beach below is one of the more unusual sights the island offers.