Winter In Tenerife Travel Guide: Things To Do In Tenerife In Winter
If you’re considering a winter getaway to Tenerife but are worried it will be too quiet and boring compared to summer, don’t stress!
We found that even during the winter, there’s no shortage of cultural happenings, sights to take in, and chances to embrace the island’s relaxed way of life.
It really made us want to spend another winter in Tenerife and explore its beauty once more.
So, we’ll share the highlights of the city during winter to make your trip an unforgettable one.
You’ll learn here what the weather’s like during the colder months, some ideas for the fun things to do in Tenerife, good eats, ways to get around, and easy day trips to neat spots outside the island.
Weather in Tenerife During Winter
Tenerife, the most famous of Spain’s Canary Islands, stays warm year-round thanks to its spot near Africa’s northwest coast.
We can say that this is a solid choice if you want to dodge the European deep freeze.
You’re looking at decently average warm temperature in Tenerife in winter, hovering around 21.9°C(71.4°F).
Compared to winter hangouts like Vienna, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen, Tenerife is the winter MVP with its warmest and sunniest vibes.
This island indeed guarantees a tropical escape with solid beach days, though swimming might be a bit bracing.
Every so often, these winds called “calimas” roll in, carrying a bit of Sahara desert sand, but it’s a quick affair, lasting a few fours up to a week.
How Long Does the Sun Rise in Tenerife During Winter?
Tenerife’s winter vibe totally lives up to the hype for anyone hunting warmth and sunshine when it’s frosty elsewhere.
As sun lovers, we really enjoyed the sunny weather here.
The sunrise and sunset times change monthly, so the amount of daylight shifts, too. But it’s pretty subtle, not a huge difference.
November starts with sunrise around 7:30 am and sunset at 6:15 pm, giving about almost 11 hours of daylight.
Tenerife in December has a small dip in daylight hours, averaging around 10.5 hours. The sun starts to peek around 7:50 am and sets at about 6:15 pm.
January gets about the same amount of daylight as December. The sun doesn’t come up until around 8 am, and it sticks around until 6:30 pm or so before setting.
Then, February brings a bit more morning brightness, with sunrise at 7:45 am and sunset around 6:55 pm, handling you about 11 daylight hours.
Does It Rain In Tenerife During Winter?
Tenerife gets a bit of rain in winter, but it’s mostly dry and sunny. Rain happens quite often in December and January.
But it’s no biggie; only about 4 to 5 rainy days a month in winter.
It’s not a bad idea to pack an umbrella or light rain jacket, just in case Mother Nature decides to surprise you.
But even if she does, there will still be plenty of golden sunshine to enjoy in between the passing showers. A little liquid sunshine never hurt anyone!
Does It Snow in Tenerife?
Winter in Tenerife is pretty different from what you’d normally expect. Snow is extremely rare here because the weather stays warm mostly all year round.
So, if you’re looking for a full winter wonderland this season, Tenerife is not the spot for that.
Winter Temperature in Tenerife
The temperature in Tenerife in the winter hangs around 20.5°C to 25°C (69°F to 77°F), and nights don’t really dip below 18.9°C (66°F).
You won’t be dealing with frosty vibes here. But winters are windier, so wearing some layers can help handle the shifting weather.
Month Min Temp (°C) Max Temp (°C) Average Temp Precipitation (mm)
November 20°C(68°F) 28.9°C(84°F) 25°C(77°F) 15.2mm(0.6in)
December 17.8°C(64°F) 23.9°C(75°F) 21.7°C(71°F) 17.8mm(0.7in)
January 17.8°C(64°F) 22.8°C(73°F) 20.5°C(69°F) 17.8mm(0.7in)
February 17.2°C(63°F) 22.8°C(73°F) 20.5°C(69°F) 15.2mm(0.6in)
Best Things To Do In Tenerife In Winter
Tenerife stays warm all year, making it a go-to spot for everyone, even in winter.
Here are some cool things you can do and places to see during the winter months in Tenerife:
Go on an Adventure at the Park
If you’re looking to do something a little different and add some adventure to your trip this winter in Tenerife, the island has some lovely parks that are perfect places for you to explore.
Pack your bag, throw on your walking shoes, and get ready to wander the best parks in the city.
Roam With Colorful Creatures at Loro Parque
Join the fun at Loro Parque in Tenerife – the go-to spot for hanging out with awesome critters!
It’s one of the world’s top zoos, and they’re big on nature and being green.
We felt really relaxed being surrounded by fancy plants and palm trees here.
Make sure to check out the highlights of the park – sea lions, penguins, parrots, and orcas. They’re not just entertaining, but you’ll pick up some interesting stuff, too.
Also, feel the excitement at Orca Ocean with an amazing whale show. This is one of our favorite things to watch here in the park.
And if you’ve got a family, Kinderlandia is the place to be – an African village adventure with hanging bridges and a snake slide.
Little explorers can climb, balance, and go wild in this special jungle area.
So, snag your ticket now for a day packed with meeting all sorts of animals and catching cool shows.
> Get This Loro Parque Entry Ticket
Enjoy Thrilling Water Escapades at Siam Park
Siam Park has a modern twist that’s perfect for everyone in the family during winter.
One of the top things to do is to get into their wave pool – the world’s biggest man-made wave at 10 feet! Brace yourself for a wild ride here.
They also have this Tower of Power that’s a massive 91-foot. If you’re not feeling the adrenaline rush, no worries.
You can just chill on the white sand beaches with killer views.
Siam Park really knows how to mix mystery with theme park fun.
Just a heads up – pick your timing right. During peak seasons like holidays, the park gets busy, and you might have to wait a bit for the cool stuff.
> Grab Siam Park Entry Tickets Now
Venture on a Wild Journey Through Tenerife’s Jungle Park Zoo
If you’re looking for a legit jungle, head over to Tenerife’s Jungle Park Zoo. It’s like Tarzan but without the vines to swing on.
One of the things that made us feel like we were on a true jungle adventure is that it’s packed with plants everywhere.
This place is massive, covering 75,000 square meters, and you can find over 400 animals here.
You can also expect some shows from birds, penguins, and sea lions. They will surely keep you entertained.
The park is open daily from 10:30 am until 5 pm, so make sure to hit all the spots.
> Grab This Entry Ticket to Tenerife’s Jungle Park Zoo
Engage in Coastal Activities for an Exciting Day
If sunny shores and splashy good times are your things, the coasts of Tenerife have a whole menu of exciting ways for you to play.
Here are some coastal fun fits for making memories in Tenerife in winter:
Glide Through the Ocean: Kayak and Snorkel With Gentle Turtles
Go for an awesome kayaking and snorkeling trip in Tenerife. We’re not huge kayakers, but we really had a great time.
Make sure to dive in for a swim and some snorkeling fun with cool marine life and, of course, turtles.
They’ll swim up close, making your underwater adventure totally unforgettable. You might even catch some dolphins in the ocean.
We were able to spot five types of dolphins, including the playful bottlenose ones – it felt like a live show in the Atlantic.
But, just a heads-up, when you’re hitting the water in winter in Tenerife, don’t get too pumped about spotting tons of turtles.
It’s not peak season, so you might not see as many. Just manage your expectations.
And keep in mind that it’s going to be a bit chillier than the summer vibes.
Slap on a decent wetsuit, especially if you’re planning to do some snorkeling. It’s your cozy armor against the cold splash.
Also, since the sun decides to call it a day around 6:15 pm to 6:55 pm, plan your adventures early. You don’t want to be paddling in the dark – not the best idea.
> Enjoy Kayaking and Snorkeling with Turtles
Witness Majestic Whales and Dolphins in Tenerife’s Waters
Tenerife is known as a great place for whale and dolphin watching.
You can hop aboard a yacht that is designed to let you get up close to marine life without bothering them – it’s like a front-row seat to the sea world.
There might even be a surprise visit from killer whales, blue whales, or sharks – so keep your eyes wide open here.
And if you’re worried about wobbling around like crazy, don’t be; the yachts in Tenerife are designed to have a low center of gravity to have a smooth and stable ride.
Since watching whales and dolphins is one of the top choices for tourists, it is likely to sell out fast.
We’d definitely recommend booking your trip early so you won’t miss out on this amazing opportunity.
> Experience This Eco-Yacht Whale Watching Cruise with Swim
What’s great about this activity is that if you don’t spot any dolphins or whales on your day, you’re cool with rescheduling (as long as there’s space).
Learn to Surf
Have you ever dreamed of surfing the waves? Well, you can turn this dream into reality at Playa de las Américas in Tenerife.
They have a surfing lesson waiting for you with some top-notch surfing gear so you can ride the waves like a pro.
Your local instructor knows all the ins and outs of the island there and will give you clear directions to improve your surfing game. So, don’t stress too much.
And if you’ve got kiddos under 12, no worries – they get special attention.
> Take a Private or Small-Group Surf Lesson in Tenerife
Go on a Submarine Adventure
Get ready for an awesome submarine adventure down in southern Tenerife. This is one of the coolest things we did on our trip.
You’ll get to see all the amazing sea life hanging out in the Atlantic Ocean – from parrot fish to stingrays and octopuses.
We were even able to get to chill on the ocean floor. Aside from the sea life, you’ll also learn a bit about submarines.
2 years old and up can get in on this immersive experience. It’s a chance to explore the deep sea and make memories that stick.
> Join the 50-Minute Submarine Dive in Tenerife
Ride a Jet Ski for an Adrenaline-Packed Experience
Don’t miss out on riding a jet ski when you plan to go to Tenerife.
As you hit the waves, make sure to take in the views of Las Galletas, Punta Rasca’s lighthouse, Yellow Mountain, Palm Mar Cliff, and more.
If you’re worried about needing a license, here’s some good news – it is not required. So, if you’re 18 or older, you’re good to go.
And don’t worry about the gear you need here; they will provide it to you – life jackets, snorkeling masks, goggles, and wetsuits.
> South Coast Jet Ski Experience
Soar High and Enjoy the View From Up in the Air
Don’t just stick to walking around down in Tenerife – get yourself airborne and admire the sights.
Check out these easy-breezy air activities you can try during winter in Tenerife:
Glide Through the Tenerife Skies With Paragliding Excitement
Feel the thrill and soak up the incredible landscapes through paragliding.
You’ll get to experience for about 20 to 30 minutes over Conde Ridge or the coast of Adeje – depending on your chosen route.
The views were absolutely stunning as we sailed over the landscape.
Oh, heads up: this activity is not for pregnant women and kids under 6 years old.
When winter rolls around, it can be a bit all over the place, so make sure conditions are good for flying.
Also, Tenerife is a bit less busy in winter, which means fewer tourists and smaller crowds – a chill time to glide through the skies.
> Paragliding with National Champion Paraglider
It’s the chance of a lifetime to paraglide with the Spanish champ, Daniel Crespo, making sure your adventure is safe and unforgettable.
Elevate Your Winter Experience With Parasailing
If you want to spice up your winter in Tenerife, try the parasailing adventure in Adeje.
It’s not your average beach day – we’re talking soaring 100 meters above the sea for some seriously epic views of Playa de Troya, Playa Las Americas, and many more.
We were a bit nervous at first, but once we got up in the air, the views were just breathtaking. You shouldn’t miss this activity when you go to Tenerife.
Note that this ride is not for pregnant women and kids under 3 years old.
> Experience Costa Adeje Parasailing
Wander and Take in the City’s Sights
One of the things we loved about visiting Tenerife was just putting on some comfortable shoes, mapping out a general direction, and seeing where the day takes us.
Here’s what you can do to check out the city’s sights:
Marvel at the Beauty of Mountain Teide
Explore Mt. Teide, the highest peak in Spain, this winter in Tenerife.
You’ll have route options here, and depending on your choice, you can wander either La Fortaleza or Pico Viejo.
We really had fun riding up the cable car straight to the mountain. Don’t forget to take in the views of lava rivers, volcanic terrains, and many more while you’re there.
But, heads up! There could be challenges like tricky weather, especially in winter, messing with the road to the cable car.
So, they might decide to hit pause on the cable cars whenever the weather gets bad.
> Grab This Mount Teide Tour with a Cable Car Ticket and transfer
See Tenerife’s Terrain on a Biking Adventure
Go for a cool biking adventure in Tenerife that’s totally hassle-free.
It is all about finding Tenerife’s hidden spots, far from the usual tourist trails—definitely a highlight of our holiday.
You’ll get to roam around Teide National Park, surrounded by chill Canarian pine forests.
Make sure to get Insta-worthy pics of the epic scenery from plenty of stops at killer viewpoints.
Also, don’t miss out on the Villaflor, a classic Canarian village with cool plazas. It had such charming local vibes.
Make sure to stick to the nice and easy roads—they’re safer and smoother. And food’s no problem at all. We snagged some homemade cheese from a nearby hamlet.
Quick heads up: wear closed-toe sports shoes—they’re a must for the tour.
Winter Season In Tenerife
Temperatures cool off a bit during winter in Tenerife, but there are still plenty of sunny days that are perfect for chilling out.
The crowds thin out as well, so you can sightsee in peace.
Here’s what you can expect for Tenerife during the winter months:
Tenerife in November
November in Tenerife is a solid pick for a visit, with temperatures around 25°C(77°F) and way fewer crowds than other months.
And it serves up many cool yearly gigs you wouldn’t want to miss.
San Andrés Gastronomy Fair
If you’re a foodie rolling into Tenerife in November, make sure to visit the San Andrés Gastronomy Fair.
You’ll have a taste of traditional Canarian dishes here, like mojos, wrinkled potatoes, and fresh seafood.
The wine tastings are fantastic, too – some of the best local wines we’ve tried.
It’s not just about the eating; there are also cooking demos and talks about Tenerife’s culinary scene that will surely amaze you.
Chestnut Festival
Chestnut Festival in San Marcos is all about celebrating chestnuts – once a Canarian diet staple.
You can join nature walks, grab some chestnut-infused grub, and experience the Canarian folk music. We really loved learning about their local culture and cuisine.
It’s the perfect festival to see a totally different side of Tenerife!
Tenerife in December
In December, Tenerife gives comfy temperatures, hovering around 21.7°C (72°F), making it a great time to explore this Canary Island.
The month is packed with awesome yearly events that pull in folks from all over.
From Christmas vibes to music festivals, make sure not to miss these out when you visit Tenerife in December.
Christmas Markets in Tenerife
Come December, the Christmas feels hits Tenerife. Places like Santa Cruz have Christmas markets where you can snag artsy stuff and tasty treats.
You’ll also see tons of cool Christmas lights here and a towering Christmas tree that will surely get you into the holiday spirit.
If you’re a fan of the orchestra, head over to Auditorio de Tenerife, where you can catch the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra belting out festive classics to lift your mood.
Hotels also get in on the festive action with fancy Christmas dinners to celebrate the season.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Ring in the new year at big outdoor parties along the coastline.
Puerto de la Cruz has an entertaining concert at Plaza Charco, followed by a midnight fireworks show over the harbor.
Then, carrying on the celebratory spirit, thousands flock to Plaza España in nearby Santa Cruz to pop champagne, dance, and rock out to live music performed on an outdoor stage until the wee hours to welcome the start of the new year.
Music Festivals
To all music lovers like us, don’t miss Tenerife in December. The island comes alive this time of year with multiple events featuring top musical acts.
You can expect international artists to put on shows that will undoubtedly entertain you.
Tenerife in January
January’s a great time to visit Tenerife. With average highs around 20.5°C (69°F), the weather’s ideal for comfortably cruising around the festive vibes of this Canary Island.
Plus, you’ve got some cool yearly happenings to catch, adding some extra flavor to your visit.
Three Kings Day Celebrations
On the 5th, there’s this Three Kings Day bash. It starts with some lively parades in different towns.
You’ve got folks dressed up as the Wise Men tossing sweets to the kids.
The Kings enter on boats and then hit the streets on camels and horses, rolling past in style with some fancy floats in tow.
El Día de San Sebastián
El Día de San Sebastián is celebrated yearly every 20th of December. Towns all over Tenerife join in to honor St. Sebastian.
The main event of the celebrations here is the processions, where locals carry an image of the saint through the streets.
Tenerife in February
In February, Tenerife has pretty decent weather, around 20.5°C (69°F), so it’s a good time to check out the place. Not too hot, not too cold.
Here are some events in Tenerife in February that you shouldn’t miss:
Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
They’ve got this famous Carnival thing happening in Santa Cruz. It’s a big deal, like the second-largest Carnival in the world after Rio.
People go all out with crazy costumes; there are parades, music, and street parties. Goes on for about two weeks, so it’s a blast if you’re into that scene.
We were totally exhausted after just a long weekend there, so we really don’t know how the locals party that hard for two whole weeks!
But the energy here is infectious, and you can’t help but get swept up in the festivities.
Canary Islands Music Festival
And if you’re into classical music, you’ll definitely want to check out the Canary Islands Music Festival that happens in February, too.
This music event typically lasts a whole month. You can expect some top-notch international musicians and a wide variety of musical styles and genres here.
What To Eat In Tenerife In Winter
Tenerife serves up some iconic dishes worth trying in the winter.
Conejo En Salmorejo
If you’re into rich stews like us, “Conejo en Salmorejo” is the perfect winter comfort food to try.
It’s a slow-cooked rabbit fest with bay leaves, garlic, wine, and olive oil.
You can check out the Bodeguita Canaria—they do it right.
Cherne
Being an island, Tenerife’s got the seafood game down. During winter, they roll out “Cherne,” a firm white fish.
Simple grill or pan-fry action does the trick on this delicious local specialty.
You can try this at El Calderito, where they expertly prepare and showcase the island’s freshest seafood.
Papas Arrugadas
Papas Arrugadas is a must-try when you hit up any joint on the island. These are basically wrinkly potatoes boiled in crazy salty water.
They serve them up everywhere with this mojo sauce for dipping – a classic island move. This delight really made us want to go back to Tenerife.
Pulpo
Octopus, also known as pulpo, makes for a good winter dish in Tenerife. It is boiled and drizzled with paprika and olive oil.
Head to a harbor restaurant in Puerto de la Cruz for some pulpo a feira-style. Who would have thought that it was the comforting dish we needed in winter?
Sopa De Verduras
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food this winter, check out the Sopa De Verduras at Bar Cafeteria Dr Olivera.
It’s this hearty vegetable soup loaded up with slow-simmered cabbage, pumpkin, carrots, potatoes – all the good stuff.
The flavors all blend together into an incredibly rich, warming broth.
Getting Around Tenerife in Winter
Don’t worry about the transportation during winter in Tenerife because you’ve got many options for getting around.
Take Public Buses
The public buses cover pretty much everywhere, from the big towns to the tiny villages.
They run regularly in the winter, and the fares are pretty cheap, starting at €1 for a single ride.
This is the perfect way to get around Tenerife if you prefer an affordable and convenient one.
Hire a Car
If you’re more into doing your own thing, renting a car is a solid choice. You can snag a small car for about €20 a day, and the roads here are as smooth as it gets.
We were able to secure parking in the main tourist places, but it’s advisable to arrive early to ensure a spot.
Hail a Taxi
Taxis are in the mix, too. They’re handy for door-to-door service, whether you’re hitting the airport, doing some day tripping, or just bouncing between bars at night.
Just a heads up, this can get a bit more pricey than taking public transport.
Ride a Tram
Tenerife has a tram in Santa Cruz – just two lines, but they hit the highlights. One goes to La Laguna, a UNESCO heritage site, and the other cruises along the coast.
They run pretty often, every 10-15 minutes, and you’re looking at €1.35 for a single ride.
Day Trips From Tenerife in Winter
Don’t miss out on the nearby islands, as they can surely make your winter break pretty unforgettable.
Here are some awesome day trips from Tenerife:
Day Trip to La Palma
You’ve gotta try a day trip to La Palma. We really advise you to take a guided tour so you don’t have to deal with planning and hassles.
Apart from the main attraction, which is the volcanic landscapes of La Palma, there are also some other activities you can squeeze in along the way.
One of the things you’ll see in this trip is the replica of Columbus’ ship. We really loved hearing about its history.
Along the travel, you’ll also witness these rad houses with Canary-style balconies – those were some of our favorite sights on the island.
For the views of the volcano, Mirador de la Concepción is the perfect place to see the killer panoramas of the island and Caldereta volcano.
Pro tips when going to La Palma: be ready for some unpredictable weather shifts.
Toss in a mix of layers, and don’t forget a jacket, hat, and gloves, just in case it gets chilly or windy.
It is also best to strap on some solid footwear with good traction and consider snagging hiking poles for extra stability when going on trails.
> From Tenerife: Day Trip to La Palma Volcanic Landscapes
La Gomera Day Trip
La Gomera is indeed one of the best destinations in the Canary Islands.
They’ve got captivating canyons and valleys here – it’s like the island is stuck in a fascinating time bubble.
One of the best parts that we absolutely love is the Garajonay National Park. This place boasts one of the oldest forests on the entire planet.
The roads on La Gomera, while enchanting, are kind of narrow and winding.
So, if you’re the type who gets a bit queasy on twists and turns, it’s smart to have some reliable motion sickness meds in your bag.
Just a heads-up, travel times might drag on a bit longer than you’d think, given the scenic but meandering routes.
And don’t get caught off guard by the weather – dress appropriately for the ups and downs in elevation, and stay on the lookout for unexpected weather changes.
> La Gomera Day Trip with Guide
Trip to Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is an amazing island off Africa’s northwest. We highly recommend going here for a neat side trip from Tenerife.
You can hop on a ferry from spots like Los Cristianos or Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and it takes around 2 to 5 hours.
Make sure to check out the goods in Gran Canaria: there’s the sandy scene in Maspalomas, the old-school charm of Las Palmas, and the hilly heartland with cute villages.
If you’re the outdoorsy type, there’s a buffet of activities – surf, scuba diving, and golf are popular options.
And after sundown, Gran Canaria knows how to party, especially in Las Palmas and Maspalomas. The nightlife totally surpassed our expectations.
Don’t sleep on the local grub – go for papas arrugadas with mojo salsa and wash it down with Gran Canaria wine.
Just a heads up, it’s a bit cooler here in winter compared to Tenerife, so pack accordingly.
Have You Considered Discovering Tenerife, An Island Paradise That Awaits?
Tenerife is like this cool island waiting to be explored, even in winter. The weather here is chill at around 21.9°C(71.4°F) – a bit of rain but lots of sunshine.
They’ve got wild adventures like spotting whales, doing water sports, and yummy Canarian grub to dig into.
Plus, there are nature vibes at Mount Teide and some awesome parks. And you can hop over to La Gomera and La Palma for day trips.
So, if you’re done with freezing your toes off and dealing with gloomy skies, Tenerife is the warm, chill escape.
It’s the getaway you’ll wanna stick right at the top of your travel dreams list.
