Tenerife in Winter: Warm Sun, Events and Tips for Long Stays
Aggiornato il 3 novembre 2026 · DoTenerife
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Tenerife is Europe’s favourite winter-sun island: in the south, days are around 22–25°C from November to February, with lots of sunshine and little rain, and the nightlife carries on all winter. It’s peak season for long-stay visitors, and the calendar is packed with Christmas, New Year, Three Kings and carnival.
Winter weather by month (south)
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Sea | Sunset (mid-month) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| November | 24.8°C | 18.2°C | 21–22°C | about 6.15pm |
| December | 22.8°C | 16.5°C | 20–21°C | about 6.15pm |
| January | 21.7°C | 15.2°C | 19–20°C | about 6.35pm |
| February | 22.0°C | 15.0°C | 18–19°C | about 7pm |
Figures are AEMET averages for Tenerife South airport. Rain is unusual but can come in short, heavy bursts. Teide is often snowcapped in winter.
Where to stay for winter sun
- Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas: sunny, flat, lots of entertainment and long-stay apartments.
- Costa Adeje: smarter hotels, beaches and restaurants.
- Los Gigantes and Playa de la Arena: sheltered, sunny west coast with a quieter pace.
- Golf del Sur and Las Galletas: popular with long-stay visitors and golfers.
The north (Puerto de la Cruz, La Laguna) is greener and more Spanish, but cloudier and cooler in winter. See where to stay in Tenerife.
What’s on in winter
- November: guachinche season begins in the northern wine villages — see guachinches.
- December: Christmas in Tenerife and New Year’s Eve.
- January: Three Kings on 5–6 January; carnival contests begin.
- February: Santa Cruz carnival (19–28 February 2027) and Puerto de la Cruz carnival.
Nightlife in winter
Winter is busy in the resorts, with resident acts in most bars. Evenings are cooler, so many shows move indoors and start a little earlier. Browse resident shows, early evening shows and entertainment for over-50s.
Long-stay tips
- Check the 90/180 rule if you’re a UK visitor.
- Book long-stay apartments early — the best ones are taken by returning winter visitors.
- Bring layers: a jumper or light jacket for evenings, and warm clothes for Teide.
- Register with a local GP service or check your travel insurance; see hospitals and pharmacies.
Domande frequenti
How warm is Tenerife in winter?
In the south, average highs are about 22–23°C in December and January and 25°C in November, with lows around 15–16°C. It's warm in the sun and cool in the evenings. The north and the mountains are cooler.
Which part of Tenerife is warmest in winter?
The south and south-west — Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, Costa Adeje, Playa Paraíso and Los Gigantes — are the sunniest and warmest. Los Gigantes and Playa de la Arena are well sheltered.
Can you swim in Tenerife in winter?
Yes, though the sea is cooler at 18–21°C. Many hotel pools are heated in winter.
How long can UK visitors stay in Tenerife?
UK passport holders can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period in the Schengen area without a visa. See our 90/180 rule guide before planning a long winter stay.