The best time to visit the Canary Islands
The best time to visit the Canary Islands for warm, sunny weather is May to August, when its destinations average a Sunshine Score of 97/100 with daytime highs around 23°C / 73°F. April and September 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 | 88 | 19° / 66°F | 20 mm | 21° | Excellent |
| February | 84 | 19° / 66°F | 23 mm | 21° | Excellent |
| March | 88 | 19° / 66°F | 17 mm | 20° | Excellent |
| April | 93 | 20° / 68°F | 11 mm | 21° | Excellent |
| May | 97 | 21° / 70°F | 5 mm | 21° | Excellent |
| June | 97 | 22° / 72°F | 2 mm | 22° | Excellent |
| July | 97 | 23° / 73°F | 2 mm | 23° | Excellent |
| August | 97 | 24° / 75°F | 4 mm | 24° | Excellent |
| September | 96 | 24° / 75°F | 8 mm | 24° | Excellent |
| October | 93 | 24° / 75°F | 22 mm | 23° | Excellent |
| November | 92 | 22° / 72°F | 31 mm | 23° | Excellent |
| December | 92 | 21° / 70°F | 31 mm | 22° | Excellent |
When to go — and when to think twice
Best overall: May to August — the Canary Islands' warmest, most reliable stretch (Sunshine Score 97/100, ~23°C / 73°F days). Shoulder season: April and September — quieter, still sunny. Hottest: August, ~24°C / 75°F. Rain stays light most of the year (~176 mm total).
Where to base yourself for sunshine: El Hierro (3,418 h/yr), Gran Canaria (3,298 h/yr), La Palma (3,075 h/yr). Compare the islands on the warmest Canary Island guide, or open any of its destinations: El Hierro · Gran Canaria · La Palma · La Gomera · Lanzarote · Fuerteventura · Tenerife.