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The Canary Islands in January are the perfect antidote to winter blues. While most of Europe is wrapped in cold winter conditions, this Spanish archipelago offers warm sunshine, golden beaches and a laid-back island rhythm that feels worlds away.

January is part of the Canary Islands’ winter season, but temperatures remain comfortable, making it one of the best destinations in Europe for winter sun.

Whether you’re planning to explore Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes, hike through La Gomera’s lush forests or simply relax on Lanzarote’s beaches, the Canaries promise warm days, calm seas and plenty of space to unwind after the festive rush.

How to Use This Guide

Use the contents table above to jump straight to the section you are most interested in. This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting the Canary Islands in January, including the weather, crowds, prices, and best places to stay.

Whether you are planning a peaceful winter getaway or an active start to the new year with hiking, surfing, or island hopping, this guide will help you plan the perfect January trip to the Canaries.

What Are the Canary Islands Like in January?

January is one of the coolest months in the Canary Islands, but it’s still much warmer than mainland Spain. The average temperature sits around 21°C, with pleasant sunshine most days. Evenings are cooler, so a light jacket is useful for dinners out or coastal walks.

Sea temperatures hover around 20°C, meaning swimming, surfing and snorkelling are all still possible. Rain is rare, especially on Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, which both remain sunny and dry throughout the month. You are moe likely to have overcast and windy conditions in January than much rainfall.

While northern parts of Tenerife and Gran Canaria can see occasional showers, the southern resorts — such as Playa del Inglés, Costa Adeje and Playa Blanca all stay sunny and warm.

Read our La Graciosa Lanzarote travel guide

January Weather in the Canary Islands

January is one of our favourite times to visit the Canary Islands. We love the reliable warm weather and escaping the colder weather in the UK. While It is generally sunny and warm at this time of year in the Canaries, we do suggest a jacket of some sorts for the evening after sunset.

Average Weather in January	Summary
Average Temperature	20–22°C daytime, around 15°C at night
Rainfall	Low – occasional light showers in northern islands
Sea Temperature	20°C – warm enough for swimming
Sunshine Hours	6–7 hours per day
Typical Conditions	Warm, sunny and breezy with cooler nights

Read our Tenerife travel guide

Which Canary Island Is Best in January?

Each island offers something different depending on what kind winter sun holiday you’re after.

Tenerife

The largest and most diverse island, Tenerife is great in January for its combination of beaches, mountains and year-round sunshine. The southern coast, particularly around Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos stays reliably warm. Head inland to explore Mount Teide National Park, where you can even see snow on the volcanic peaks while the beaches below bask in sunshine.

Lanzarote

Lanzarote is the driest of the Canary Islands in January, with striking volcanic landscapes and peaceful beaches. Visit Timanfaya National Park to see lava fields and volcanic craters, or relax in Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise for sunbathing and calm seas.

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is often described as a “continent in miniature” thanks to its mix of beaches, sand dunes and pine forests. Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés are the warmest spots, while the north is greener and more local. January is ideal for exploring the island’s hiking routes and coastal drives.

Fuerteventura

If you love long beaches and water sports, Fuerteventura is perfect. The wind here makes it ideal for surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing, while Corralejo offers a friendly town atmosphere and some of the best sand dunes in the Canaries.

La Palma, La Gomera & El Hierro

These smaller western islands are cooler and quieter but incredible for hiking and nature. Rainfall is higher, but so is the greenery. If you want to escape the crowds and experience authentic Canarian life, January is a peaceful time to visit.

Read our Fuerteventura guide

Things To Do in the Canary Islands in January

Despite being winter, January still offers plenty to see and do across the islands:

Relax on the beaches | Even in January, the beaches are warm enough for sunbathing.
Explore volcanic landscapes | Visit Timanfaya (Lanzarote) or Teide National Park (Tenerife).
Hike the coastal trails | Cooler temperatures make walking routes much more comfortable.
Go whale and dolphin watching | Especially good around Tenerife and La Gomera.
Enjoy local festivals | The islands begin their Carnival preparations, especially in Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
Try Canarian cuisine | Sample papas arrugadas, mojo sauce and fresh seafood at seaside restaurants.

Read our Lanzarote guide

infinity pool on tenerife canary islands

Pros and Cons of Visiting the Canary Islands in January

There may not be many better winter sun destinations for European visitors, however these are some considerations when planning your holiday to the Canary islands.

Pros

Warm weather compared to Europe
Fewer crowds than peak season
Ideal for hiking and outdoor activities
Affordable accommodation and flights
Peaceful beaches and relaxed atmosphere

Cons

Cooler evenings
Sea can be rough in some areas
Occasional wind and clouds
Less nightlife in quieter resorts
Some attractions have reduced hours

Where To Stay in the Canary Islands in January

While all the islands offer better weather than mainland Europe, choosing the right island for your specific holiday is important. Some islands are better for sunbathing, while others are better for hiking and sightseeing.

Tenerife | Stay in Costa Adeje or Los Cristianos for sunshine, beaches and restaurants.
Lanzarote | Playa Blanca offers peaceful resorts and easy access to Timanfaya.
Gran Canaria | Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés are lively and warmest in winter.
Fuerteventura | Corralejo is perfect for surf culture and long beaches.
La Gomera & La Palma | Ideal for rural retreats and hiking lodges.

💡 TOP TIP | If you’re chasing the warmest weather, stay on the southern coasts of Tenerife, Gran Canaria or Lanzarote. These areas are sheltered and have sunshine almost every day in January.

This easy-to-use map below will help you find your dream stay in the Canary Islands. Select your dates in the search bar below, and compare the best prices across the main booking sites to show you the best deals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is January a good time to visit the Canary Islands?
Yes. January is one of the best months for winter sun, with mild temperatures and plenty of dry, sunny days.

Can you swim in the sea in January?
Yes, the sea stays around 20°C and is swimmable across all the islands.

Which Canary Island is warmest in January?
Gran Canaria and Tenerife tend to be the warmest, particularly their southern coasts.

Do the Canary Islands get busy in January?
It’s quieter than the festive season, so beaches and hotels are less crowded.

What should I pack?
Light summer clothing, swimwear, a hat, sunscreen and a light jumper for the evenings.