Gran Canaria is a popular tourist destination located in the Canary Islands, Spain. One of the main reasons why people flock to this island is its warm and sunny weather all year round. With average annual temperatures ranging from 18 to 25 degrees centigrade, Gran Canaria maintains a mild and benign climate practically all year round…
The island’s great weather is a product of its fresh and humid tradewinds coming in from the anticyclone from the Azores. These winds help regulate the temperature and keep the island’s climate pleasant and comfortable. The weather on Gran Canaria is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and sunbathing. With its beautiful beaches and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder why Gran Canaria is a top destination for travelers seeking a relaxing and enjoyable vacation.
The Climate of Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is a round-shaped island located in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 210 kilometers off the northwest coast of Africa. The island’s location near the African coast and its latitude of 27 degrees north contribute to its subtropical climate. The climate on Gran Canaria is mild, sunny, and very pleasant throughout the year.
The island’s climate is influenced by the northeast trade winds, which bring cool air and humidity to the north and east coasts. The southern part of the island is drier and warmer due to the mountains that protect it from the trade winds. The mountains also create a microclimate that is cooler and wetter than the rest of the island, making it perfect for agriculture.
The average temperature on Gran Canaria ranges from 18°C (64°F) to 26°C (79°F) throughout the year. The temperature is very consistent, with little variation between the seasons. The winter months are mild and spring-like, while the summers are sunny and warm. The period from October to March is the rainy season, with most of the rainfall concentrated in the higher elevations of the island.
Here are some key climate facts about Gran Canaria:
- The average temperature in summer (June, July, and August) ranges from 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F).
- The average temperature in winter (December, January, and February) ranges from 21°C (70°F) to 22°C (72°F).
- The coolest month is January, with an average temperature of 18°C (64°F).
- The warmest month is August, with an average temperature of 26°C (79°F).
- The island receives an average of 250 days of sunshine per year.
Seasonal Weather Variations
When it comes to the weather in Gran Canaria, there are some seasonal variations to keep in mind. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect during the summer and winter months.
Summer Weather
Gran Canaria is known for its warm and sunny weather, especially during the summer months. From June to September, temperatures can reach as high as 28°C (82°F) during the day and rarely drop below 20°C (68°F) at night. While rainfall is low during the summer months, it’s not uncommon to experience brief showers or thunderstorms.
If you’re planning on visiting Gran Canaria during the summer, be sure to pack plenty of lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Winter Weather
While Gran Canaria is warm and sunny year-round, the winter months can be slightly cooler and more comfortable than the summer months. From December to February, temperatures typically range from 21°C (70°F) during the day to 15°C (59°F) at night. While rainfall is more common during the winter months, it’s still relatively low compared to other destinations.
If you’re planning on visiting Gran Canaria during the winter, be sure to pack some warmer clothing for the cooler evenings and the occasional rainy day.
Daily Weather Forecast
Wednesday’s Weather
According to the latest weather reports, Wednesday’s forecast for Gran Canaria is mostly sunny with a high of 28°C and a low of 21°C. The UV index will be high, so it is recommended to wear sunscreen and protective clothing if you plan to be outside for an extended period.
The wind speed is expected to be light, around 6 km/h, and the humidity will be around 60%. There is no chance of rain, so it is a perfect day to explore the island and enjoy the beautiful beaches.
Thursday’s Forecast
On Thursday, the weather is expected to be partly cloudy, with a high of 28°C and a low of 22°C. There will be a few clouds in the sky, but the sun will still be shining, and it will be a great day to explore the island.
The wind speed is expected to be around 8 km/h, and the humidity will be around 65%. There is no chance of rain, so it is a perfect day to enjoy outdoor activities.
UV and Sun Exposure
When visiting Gran Canaria, it is essential to be aware of the high UV levels and the potential risks of sun exposure. The island is known for its year-round sunshine, and the UV index can reach high levels, especially during the summer months.
The UV index is a measure of the strength of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. It ranges from 0 to 11+, with higher values indicating a greater risk of skin damage. The UV index in Gran Canaria can reach levels of 8 to 10, which is considered very high.
It is crucial to take precautions to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Wearing protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses, can help reduce the risk of sunburn and other skin damage. Applying a high SPF sunscreen regularly is also recommended, especially during the peak hours of 11 am to 3 pm when the sun is at its strongest.
Here are some tips to help you stay safe in the sun:
- Seek shade during the hottest part of the day, especially between 11 am and 3 pm.
- Wear protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses.
- Apply sunscreen with a high SPF regularly, especially after swimming or sweating.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, such as dizziness, nausea, and headaches.
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the beautiful sunshine in Gran Canaria while protecting yourself from the harmful effects of the sun’s UV radiation.
Wind Conditions
Gran Canaria is known for its favorable weather conditions, with a mild and pleasant climate year-round. However, the island is also known for its strong winds, which can be a significant factor in determining the weather conditions.
The wind conditions on Gran Canaria are influenced by various factors, including the location, time of year, and topography of the island. The northeast trade winds are the dominant winds on the island, and they blow from the northeast throughout the year, bringing cool and humid air to the island.
The wind speed on Gran Canaria can vary significantly, with gusts of up to 100 km/h recorded in some areas. The wind direction can also change rapidly, depending on the location and time of day. It is essential to keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for strong winds when visiting the island.
If you are planning to engage in water sports or other outdoor activities, it is essential to pay attention to the wind conditions. Strong winds can make it challenging to navigate the waters, and it is crucial to take precautions to ensure your safety.
Precipitation and Humidity
Gran Canaria has a subtropical climate with mild temperatures and low humidity. The island receives very little rainfall, making it an ideal destination for those seeking sunshine and warmth. The amount of precipitation varies depending on the season, but the island receives an average of 150mm of rainfall per year.
From October to March, low-pressure systems can pass over the island, bringing some rain. However, the summer months can also see cloud banks forming on the Atlantic Ocean and reaching the island, leading to some overcast days.
The average humidity on Gran Canaria is around 70%, which is relatively low compared to other tropical destinations. This makes the heat more bearable, especially during the summer months when temperatures can reach up to 28°C. The winter months are milder with temperatures ranging from 21-22°C.
Moon Phases
When planning a trip to Gran Canaria, it’s important to consider the moon phases as they can affect the tides, fishing, and even wildlife behavior. In 2023, there will be four main moon phases: New Moon, First Quarter, Full Moon, and Third Quarter.
The New Moon is the first phase of the lunar cycle and occurs when the moon is between the sun and the earth, making it invisible from Earth. This phase is perfect for stargazing as the absence of moonlight makes the sky darker. In 2023, the New Moon will occur on June 10 at 8:31 pm.
The First Quarter is the second phase of the lunar cycle and occurs when the moon has completed about a quarter of its orbit around the Earth. During this phase, the moon appears as a waxing crescent and is visible in the afternoon and early evening. In 2023, the First Quarter will occur on June 18 at 5:37 am.
The Full Moon is the third phase of the lunar cycle and occurs when the moon is on the opposite side of the Earth from the Sun. During this phase, the entire face of the moon is illuminated, making it the brightest phase of the lunar cycle. In 2023, the Full Moon will occur on July 3 at 12:38 pm.
The Third Quarter is the final phase of the lunar cycle and occurs when the moon has completed about three-quarters of its orbit around the Earth. During this phase, the moon appears as a waning crescent and is visible in the early morning. In 2023, the Third Quarter will occur on July 10 at 4:18 pm.
Water Conditions
The waters surrounding Gran Canaria are warm and inviting, making them perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water-based activities. The average water temperature ranges from 19°C (66°F) in winter to 22°C (72°F) in summer, making it comfortable for swimming year-round.
The island has many beaches, and most of them are well-suited for swimming and other water activities. However, some beaches are better for swimming than others due to their calm waters and lack of strong currents. Playa de las Canteras and Playa de Maspalomas are two of the most popular beaches on the island, and they are both great for swimming.
It is important to note that there are occasional strong currents around the island, especially during the winter months. These currents can be dangerous, so it is important to pay attention to warning signs and to avoid swimming in areas where the currents are strong.
In addition to swimming, there are many other water-based activities to enjoy on Gran Canaria, including surfing, windsurfing, and diving. The island has several diving schools, and there are many great dive sites around the island, including shipwrecks and underwater caves.
Best Time to Visit
Gran Canaria is a popular tourist destination with a warm and sunny climate all year round. However, the best time to visit Gran Canaria is between March and May or from September to November. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, and there are fewer tourists compared to peak season.
Peak season in Gran Canaria is during the summer months of June to August. During this time, the island is crowded with tourists, and accommodation and flight prices are higher. If you want to avoid the crowds and save some money, it is better to visit Gran Canaria during the off-season.
The weather in Gran Canaria is warm and sunny throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C during the daytime. However, it is important to note that December is typically the wettest month of the year, while January and February are the coldest months.
If you are looking for the warmest time to visit Gran Canaria, the hottest months are August, September, and July. During the warmest time of the year, the average high temperatures are around 83.4°F (28.6°C), with temperatures rarely dropping below 71.9°F (22.2°C) at night.
In summary, the best time to visit Gran Canaria is during the off-season months of March to May or September to November, when the weather is warm and pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. However, if you prefer warmer weather and don’t mind the crowds, you can visit during the summer months of June to August.
Geographical Features
Gran Canaria is a volcanic island located in the Canary Islands archipelago, situated off the northwest coast of Africa. The island is approximately 1,560 square kilometers and is known for its diverse landscapes, including beaches, sand dunes, and mountains.
The island’s coastline is approximately 236 kilometers in length and is home to several beautiful beaches, including Playa de las Canteras, Maspalomas, and Puerto Rico. The beaches are characterized by their golden sands and crystal-clear waters, making them perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Inland, the island is dominated by mountains, with the highest peak being Pico de las Nieves, which stands at 1,949 meters above sea level. The mountains are home to several nature reserves, including the Parque Natural de Tamadaba, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
In addition to its stunning beaches and mountains, Gran Canaria is also known for its sand dunes. The Maspalomas Dunes, located on the southern coast of the island, cover an area of approximately 400 hectares and are a popular tourist attraction. The dunes are home to several species of plants and animals, including the Canary Island Date Palm and the Egyptian Vulture.
Additional Information
If you’re planning a trip to Gran Canaria, there are a few things you should keep in mind regarding the weather and other related factors.
Canary Islands
Gran Canaria is part of the Canary Islands, which are located off the coast of Morocco. The Canary Islands are known for their warm and sunny weather, making them a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
Maspalomas
Maspalomas is a popular resort town located on the southern coast of Gran Canaria. The town is known for its beautiful beaches and warm weather, making it a popular destination for tourists looking to relax and soak up the sun.
Spain
Gran Canaria is part of Spain, which means that the currency used on the island is the Euro. Prices for food, accommodation, and other goods and services are generally in line with other popular tourist destinations in Spain.
Prices
Prices for accommodation and other tourist services on Gran Canaria can vary depending on the time of year and the location. Generally speaking, prices are higher during the peak tourist season, which runs from June to September. However, there are still plenty of affordable options available for budget-conscious travelers.