Weather in Lanzarote

climate and weather in LanzaroteThe warm, clement, Spanish-administered island of Lanzarote is the fourth largest of the Canary Island archipelago, situated in the Atlantic Ocean off of the coast of Africa, a mere 130 miles or so from the Sahara Desert! 

Lanzarote is certainly more pleasant to visit climate-wise though, despite experiencing very little rain and having some arid regions due to its volcanic origins. Surrounded by beautiful white beaches, like the popular Playa Blanca, the island is relatively flat and small, being just 37 miles long and 12 miles wide – but there is a great deal of pleasure and leisure packed into this small landmass, which enjoys near perfect holiday weather all year round.

The mild climate of Lanzarote – which has an average annual temperature of around 23°C – is cooler than its sub-tropical location might indicate because of the north-easterly trade winds (consistent during the summer months of June, July and August) and the cold Atlantic sea currents.

When it comes to rain, it is easy to forget that wet days exist at all when you visit Lanzarote, which has an annual rainfall of just 140mm, and most of this falls during the months of December, January, February and March. When the rain comes it is a neglible amount, largely missing the well-sited protected main beach resort towns of Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca, Puerto Calero and Puerto del Carmen.

To sum up, the island of Lanzarote offers mainly sunny days (an average of 250 hours of sunshine per month), low humidity averaging 70% across the year, and minimal precipitation. Weather-wise there is no more perfect destination on the planet!

 

Best time to visit Lanzarote                                 

Lanzarote, just a few hours flying time from Europe, is famed for offering winter sun – if you crave a beach break in the midst of the northern winter this is the place to come. November, December and January in Lanzarote offer 7-8 hours of sunshine per day, with temperatures of around 22°C and limited threat of rainy days. The sea is only a couple of degrees cooler – refreshing and invigorating.

Heat-seekers will prefer the summer months in Lanzarote, but don’t expect to sizzle  – June, July and August are still relatively mild at 24°C on average, but constant sunshine and a tan are guaranteed – at this location close the equator the UV factor is high.

 

What to pack for a holiday in Lanzarote

The temperature range during the winter months in Lanzarote sees warm, sunny days and chilly nights, so if you are visiting Lanzarote in October, November, December, January and February add a jumper or warm jacket to your beach-wear collection for after dark. 

In the height of summer (June, July, August and September) you will be very comfortable in your bikini and shorts, but and a light wrap should ward off the contrasting cooler evening temperatures, especially if you have a case of goose-pimpling sunburn.