The best time to visit the Canary Islands
The best time to visit the Canary Islands for warm, sunny weather is July to October, when its destinations average a Sunshine Score of 92/100 with daytime highs around 22°C / 72°F. June and November are quieter shoulder-season alternatives with still-reliable sun. The sea is swimmable (21°C+) about 11 months a year, warmest in August at 24°C.
The Canary Islands by month, averaged across 7 destinations from long-term climate normals — the best stretch is highlighted.
| Month | Sunshine Score | Avg day high | Rain | Sea | For a trip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 70 | 17° / 63°F | 20 mm | 21° | Excellent |
| February | 63 | 16° / 61°F | 23 mm | 21° | Very good |
| March | 68 | 17° / 63°F | 17 mm | 20° | Very good |
| April | 75 | 18° / 64°F | 11 mm | 21° | Excellent |
| May | 83 | 19° / 66°F | 5 mm | 21° | Excellent |
| June | 88 | 20° / 68°F | 2 mm | 22° | Excellent |
| July | 91 | 21° / 70°F | 2 mm | 23° | Excellent |
| August | 94 | 22° / 72°F | 4 mm | 24° | Excellent |
| September | 93 | 22° / 72°F | 8 mm | 24° | Excellent |
| October | 91 | 22° / 72°F | 22 mm | 23° | Excellent |
| November | 82 | 20° / 68°F | 31 mm | 23° | Excellent |
| December | 76 | 18° / 64°F | 31 mm | 22° | Excellent |
When to go — and when to think twice
Best overall: July to October — the Canary Islands' warmest, most reliable stretch (Sunshine Score 92/100, ~22°C / 72°F days). Shoulder season: June and November — quieter, still sunny. Hottest: August, ~22°C / 72°F. Rain stays light most of the year (~176 mm total).
Where to base yourself for sunshine: Lanzarote (2,759 h/yr), Fuerteventura (2,759 h/yr), Gran Canaria (2,716 h/yr). Compare the islands on the warmest Canary Island guide, or open any of its destinations: Lanzarote · Fuerteventura · Gran Canaria · Tenerife · Alajero, La Gomera Island · El Hierro · La Palma.