Gran Canaria in Winter: The European Island Where It's Still 25°C in November
Why Gran Canaria is Europe's winter sun favourite: November to February weather, the best resorts and beaches, Maspalomas dunes, Roque Nublo and tips.
When northern Europe shivers, Gran Canaria is still warm enough for the beach. This Spanish island in the Atlantic, off the coast of West Africa, has one of the most reliable winter climates in Europe, with daytime highs of around 24–25°C in November and sunny days even at Christmas. Here's why it's a winter sun favourite and how to make the most of a trip.
Gran Canaria at a glance
- Where: the Canary Islands (Spain), off north-west Africa.
- Winter weather: around 22–25°C by day in the south, little rain.
- Flight time: about four hours from the UK, four and a half to five from Germany.
- Best for: winter sun, families, hikers, cyclists and city breaks in Las Palmas.
- UNESCO: around 40% of the island is a Biosphere Reserve.
Where to stay
1. Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés
The south coast is the sunniest part of the island. Maspalomas has long beaches and famous sand dunes; Playa del Inglés is livelier, with nightlife and plenty of hotels.
2. Puerto Rico and Puerto de Mogán
Further west, Puerto Rico has sheltered beaches ideal for families, and Puerto de Mogán – nicknamed "Little Venice" – is a pretty harbour village with canals and flower-covered houses.
3. Las Palmas
The island's capital has the city beach Las Canteras, protected by a natural reef, plus the historic Vegueta quarter and a lively food scene – a great choice for a winter city break with beach days.
Things to do
4. The Maspalomas Dunes
A protected landscape of golden sand dunes that rolls down to the sea next to Maspalomas lighthouse. Walk across at sunrise or sunset – and stick to the marked paths.
5. Roque Nublo and the mountains
The island's interior is surprisingly wild. Hike to Roque Nublo, an 80-metre rock pinnacle and the island's symbol, and visit mountain villages such as Tejeda and Artenara. It can be much cooler up there in winter – take a jacket.
6. Boat trips and dolphin watching
Boat trips from Puerto Rico and Mogán often spot dolphins and sometimes whales.
7. Hiking and cycling
Winter is the best season for hiking and cycling, when the mountains are green and temperatures are comfortable. Many professional cyclists train here in winter.
Winter weather month by month
8. November to February
- November: warm, with highs around 24–25°C in the south; the sea is still around 21°C.
- December: around 22–23°C; sunny Christmas Day is common.
- January–February: the "coolest" months, around 21–22°C by day, with cooler evenings.
Occasional clouds and rain showers are more common in the north and in the mountains.
Tips
- Pack layers: evenings and the mountains can be chilly.
- Rent a car to explore the interior and the quieter west coast.
- Book early for Christmas and New Year, the busiest weeks.
- Choosing an island? Read our guide to choosing the right Canary Island, our Tenerife guide and things to do in Lanzarote.
Frequently asked questions
How warm is Gran Canaria in winter?
Daytime temperatures in the south of the island are typically around 22–25°C from November to February, with plenty of sunshine. Evenings are cooler, and the sea is around 19–21°C.
Where is the warmest place in Gran Canaria in winter?
The south – Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, Puerto Rico and Mogán – is the sunniest and warmest. The north around Las Palmas is mild but cloudier.
Is Gran Canaria good for Christmas?
Yes. It's one of the closest places to Europe where you can expect sunshine and beach weather at Christmas, with festive events in Las Palmas and the resorts.
How long is the flight to Gran Canaria?
About four hours from London and around four and a half to five hours from Germany and the Netherlands.
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