When to go to Lanzarote?

Hello everyone, this time I’m offering you an article to answer a question that comes up often : when to go to Lanzarote. So, to help you decide on your dates, I’m going to give you my tips based on my stay there on this very special volcanic island. I’m telling you right away, you can go to Lanzarote all year round. There are no bad times, just moments with different advantages. This is explained by Lanzarote’s subtropical and very dry climate. Indeed, temperatures are mild and fairly stable all year, between 20 and 27 degrees. Of course, there is a bit of rain depending on the season, but it’s looking good!

For my part, I was there at the beginning of October and I had just one hour with a bit of light rain, that’s all. In any case, even if the island is small, it’s incredible to discover. Between its black or golden sand beaches, its volcanoes, its lava fields, its unique vineyards and its all-white villages, you feel like you’re in a world of your own and very peaceful. And you notice that as soon as you set foot in Lanzarote. And then, it promises some beautiful must-see sights in Lanzarote. I’ve kept very beautiful memories of landscapes you can only see on this island.

You will have understood, the goal of this article is to share with you the advantages of each period to help you choose the dates of your trip to Lanzarote. We’re going to go through everything, haha : the climate, depending on the types of stay, the season, etc. By the way, feel free to check out our guide to itineraries in Lanzarote!

Even if I’ve already told you a bit about it, I’m offering you a first part to better understand Lanzarote’s climate. We’re very far from the four very marked seasons we know. Lanzarote lives to the rhythm of a rather mild and stable summer, with very little rain, a dream! It’s precisely for this reason that the island can be visited all year round. Unlike other Canary Islands (like Tenerife), Lanzarote has far fewer microclimates. What you need to remember is that it is among the driest and windiest of the whole archipelago. The wind sometimes has its advantages, it makes the heat more bearable, for example. It’s true that, on the south coast, it blew quite a lot when I was there, but it wasn’t unpleasant. It was part of the vibe and the scenery. So, to help you see things more clearly, I’m sharing more details here about its climate and temperatures.

As I was saying, in Lanzarote you can almost forget about the seasons. Temperatures are super mild all year with a few variations between summer and winter (that’s normal too). To give you an idea, in winter it’s between 20 and 23 degrees, while in summer it’s more around 26–30 degrees, with a few episodes of calima (I’ll talk about it again further down).

As for rain, it rains on average less than 20 days a year in Lanzarote, which is still pretty incredible. I admit, I had a little light rain when I was there and a heavy shower in a specific part of the island, but it passed quickly. Just keep in mind that it can happen, but it’s super rare. And you can see it quickly : the landscapes are very arid on the island.

Another element of the climate : the wind, which blows daily over Lanzarote, especially in summer. At least it lets you breathe a bit given that there isn’t a scrap of shade. Personally, it really helped me when I was hiking in Los Volcanes Park, for example. The effort went down better, especially when the wind was pushing me in the back. To give you a little summary of all this info : it isn’t cold even in winter, there’s little rain or even none at all for several weeks, the wind blows, but it feels good when it’s hot. There you go, now you know what makes Lanzarote so pleasant to visit!

As you can imagine, Lanzarote is a very good destination for swimming, no matter the time of year. In fact, it is never neither too hot nor too cold, just the right temperature. Well, that may be a bit subjective and chilly people may say the opposite in winter. To let you make up your own mind, in winter it is around 19 degrees, while in summer and autumn it is more around 25 degrees. I was there at that time and I can confirm it was good, I went swimming there more than once!

By the way, it was super pleasant when I did my introductory scuba dive on the southeast coast of Lanzarote. During the briefing, we were hot, but as soon as we got into the water, it was a delight! In two words, you can swim at any time of year in Lanzarote. Even in winter, don’t hesitate to jump in the water, it would be a shame not to make the most of it!

I know I’m repeating myself a bit, but the wind is really part of the Lanzarote experience. It is one of the windiest islands in the whole Canary archipelago, especially between the months of June and September. This is what we call the trade winds, which come straight from the Atlantic. Honestly, it feels good, because otherwise the heat would be much harder to bear, believe me. I would even say that it’s thanks to this wind that you can move around the island, hike, sunbathe without suffering from the heat. It’s also thanks to the wind that Lanzarote is renowned for surfing (special mention to Famara Beach, in the north of the island), kitesurfing and many other water sports. I won’t hide from you that there are some days when the wind is stronger, especially on the northern beaches. You simply have to go more to the east coast.

And then there is also the calima, very typical of the Canaries. To explain it better, it’s a warm wind that comes from the Sahara and brings dust with it. This phenomenon quickly raises temperatures, with less visibility, the air becomes grey. Normally, the calima only lasts a few days, but of course you’d rather it didn’t arrive when you’re travelling on the island. For my part, the calima was there the week before I arrived on the island. I was lucky, because it had lasted longer than the others, with very high temperatures. Even if it’s part of the game, I was really happy that it was gone when I arrived, haha.

There you go, it still seemed important to me to talk to you about the wind and the calima, because they are an integral part of Lanzarote’s climate.

Right, let’s go step by step! So, after Lanzarote’s climate, here are the best times according to the style of stay you have in mind.

If you’re coming mainly to swim and enjoy Lanzarote’s beaches, you won’t be disappointed with the trip! There are some very beautiful ones to discover, some are little frequented, almost just for you. But there are still certain periods that are more suited to your holidays : sun, swimming, lazing around.

To enjoy pleasant water and sunny days, I advise you to come :

• June to October: the water is warmest (between 22 and 25 °C), the days are longer, and the beaches of Papagayo, Playa Mujeres or Famara are ideal. They are quite large and offer a truly idyllic setting.
• September and October: these are the best months (it’s no coincidence that I went at that time). The water is still good, with less wind than in summer and above all fewer people on the beaches. Let’s just say all the conditions are there for touring the island’s beaches.

If you come in winter or spring, you’ll still be able to swim. Of course, you should expect the water to be cooler : between 18 and 21 degrees. But the outside temperatures are very pleasant, so it helps you get into the water.

Little summary to remember :

• To swim without hesitation : June to October
• For quieter beaches : September and October
• For sunshine in the middle of winter : December to March

That way, it gives you clearer ideas about the period of your trip. In any case, with a destination like Lanzarote you’re not taking much of a risk, so no worries!

Before telling you more, know that Lanzarote is a superb playground for hikes in volcanic landscapes, each more impressive than the last. You’ll be spoilt for choice between lava fields, craters and lunar landscapes. You can even enter the crater of the volcano del Cuervo, I did it and it was a first for me! I really didn’t expect the inside of a volcano’s crater to look like that. There was much more vegetation and life inside than outside or around the crater. Rest assured, you can absolutely hike all year round in Lanzarote. But there are still periods that are more favourable than others, for example :

• from October to May, when temperatures are mild and the wind calmer. It’s the perfect time to explore the volcanoes without suffering from the heat. Moreover, that’s when travellers come to trek all over the island.
• February to April, which are, in my eyes, the best months : temperatures are stable, the days are bright, and walking in the black landscapes of the volcano of La Corona or La Geria is just incredible. These are also good periods to explore Timanfaya National Park. There are certain hikes within the park that can only be done with an official guide but are free. You just need to book them in advance on the official website if you’re interested. Not to mention the trails around Caldera Blanca or further north.

In summer (June to September), you can definitely go hiking. However, I advise you to start early in the morning. The wind can help you while the sun beats down with practically no shade. Even if you don’t feel the heat, remember to protect yourself properly from the sun. I can tell you that I got sunburned very quickly haha.

Even though I’ve mentioned a few nice trails to do, I recommend checking out our guide to the best hikes in Lanzarote. It will help you choose the ones you prefer and that really appeal to you. In two words, if you want to wander in the middle of the volcanoes, I advise going to Lanzarote outside of summer. It will be much easier and more comfortable for you!

(To all surfers, Lanzarote is a real little slice of paradise for you (and that’s no matter your level). The best place to go surfing is without a doubt Famara Beach. It is simply huge. As soon as you arrive, you find yourself with surfers’ vans, surf schools, powerful waves and lots of boards in the water. In itself, you can come and surf here at any time of year. But as always, some are better than others.

If you are a beginner or intermediate, it’s better to come surfing from April to October, especially between June and September, because the wind is moderate. But some periods are clearly better than others depending on the experience you’re looking for.

If you are a beginner or intermediate, I’d say the best times are :

• from April to June,
• then from September to November.

I deliberately skipped summer, because that’s when there is the most wind. But during these two periods, the sea is calmer, with still its fair share of waves to learn to master the board.)

If you are an experienced surfer and you’re looking for more powerful waves, then come rather :

• from July to September,
• or from November to February.

It’s simply during these periods that there is the most swell and wind. Moreover, many surfers come from Europe to surf in winter, because back home the water is much cooler. In any case, you’ll quickly see that Famara is the best spot, whatever the season according to your level. Personally, even without surfing, I liked the atmosphere of the place, very peaceful and very beautiful with huge cliffs and turquoise water. It was really something!

(As you know, I had the opportunity to do a diving session in Lanzarote. If that appeals to you, Lanzarote is a great destination for it, even if you stay on the surface by snorkeling. The waters around the island are home to rich biodiversity with volcanic seabeds.

The best times to dive in ideal conditions (warmer water, calmer sea) are :

• from June to October,
• with a really pleasant peak in September–October, when the water temperature can reach 23–24 °C and the sea is often calmer

If you tend to feel the cold or you want to do long snorkeling sessions, that’s clearly the best time, you’ll see.
But diving is still great in winter :

• from December to April, the water is around 18–20 °C,
• visibility remains very good (often 20 to 30 meters!),
• and some migratory fish are more present depending on the areas.

It’s also the period recommended by the island’s divers, because that’s when marine species are most active, particularly rays and moray eels. If you’re afraid of the cold, you just need to wear thicker wetsuits. It works fine! In any case, I can tell you that Lanzarote is truly an ideal destination to discover the seabed, whether you’re a beginner or experienced. Personally, I came away with my head full of images. I even saw a trumpetfish and parrotfish. I had never seen them before in their natural environment!)

For a family holiday, Lanzarote is a superb island. It’s easy to get around the island and explore it while doing activities for young and old alike. If I had to recommend the best times, they would be :

• April to June: ideal climate, not too hot, perfect for getting around with children. Maybe for the Easter school holidays.
• September to November: warm sea, pleasant temperatures and fewer people. Maybe for the All Saints’ school holidays.

In the middle of summer, even if it’s the long holidays for children, it’s hotter and there’s more wind, but it’s still doable. You’ll get more out of the beaches and the natural pools as a family. And in winter, it’s one of the best places to enjoy the sun without going very far!

As for activities, here are a few ideas to do as a family :

• the calm beaches of Los Ajaches Park, peaceful and ideal for swimming,
• Timanfaya Park and its volcanic demonstrations,
• the Cactus Garden,
• and of course La Graciosa, which is really a change of scenery with its natural side and no cars.

In summary, you can have a great family holiday in Lanzarote, even with young children. There are short distances between the must-see sites, the roads are simple, the beaches are accessible and the climate is great. You’ll find everything you need to share good times as a family, far from routine and in a very different setting (and yet not so far away).

Although the four seasons we know are not really marked in Lanzarote, they remain a good point of reference to help you decide on your departure dates. That’s why I suggest we finish with this part. You can see it as an extra helping hand to make your final choice!

With everything we’ve already said, unsurprisingly, winter is a good season to discover Lanzarote. While back home we’re freezing, you enjoy mild, sunny days on the island. More concretely, you can enjoy a good 20 or 23 degrees during the day, with sun and blue skies. It feels good and lifts your spirits to take a break during winter. It creates a nice break after the holidays!

In winter, you can do everything in Lanzarote : hiking, swimming, cycling, there’s really no limit. As for the atmosphere, there are fewer tourists, except during the Christmas and February school holidays when things get a bit livelier. Outside these dates, prices are affordable and the island returns to a relaxed pace, perfect for visiting at your own rhythm. Honestly, it’s a period I recommend to get away from the gloom and recharge your batteries without going very far.

Spring in Lanzarote is a great time to fully enjoy the island and everything it has to offer. On top of that, between the months of March and May the days get longer with beautiful light at sunrise and during golden hour. It’s the ideal season to explore Lanzarote before the crowds arrive and the heat becomes too intense.

Overall, temperatures range between 21 and 25 degrees, with lighter wind compared to summer. It’s great for strolling around, going on hikes or even going to the beach. To put it simply, you can easily string together several visits without suffering from the heat. In spring, the island moves at a gentle pace with quiet beaches, little-used roads and a generally more peaceful atmosphere. As a bonus, it’s a season when prices remain reasonable, both for plane tickets and for accommodation : it’s worth it. If you’re looking for a sunny trip without breaking the bank, spring is an option for you.

Summer in Lanzarote is a bit special… but in a good way! We’re far from the stifling heat of southern Spain. Sure, it’s hot, but thanks to the trade winds it’s really pleasant even in the middle of August. Concretely, temperatures are around 27 and 32 degrees. It only becomes unbearable in the event of calima, but that only lasts a few days. And there’s no guarantee you’ll get one during your stay on the island, so it’s worth a try.

However, it’s the season when the wind blows, especially in June, July and August. Nothing serious, but it’s better to know : on certain beaches, especially in the north, the gusts can be quite strong in the afternoon. As for visitor numbers, yes, it’s high season : there are a few more people, especially in Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise or Puerto del Carmen. But Lanzarote remains a wild island, and you can always find quiet spots to get away from the hustle and bustle. In a few words, for a sunny destination with wind so you don’t suffocate, why not consider Lanzarote?

It’s the season when I did my one-week trip to Lanzarote and I can only recommend it. It was around 25–26 degrees with rather calm wind depending on the days and the areas of the island. The water was really good, I was able to swim on several beaches without being in a hurry to get out (quite the opposite haha). I was surprised because I wasn’t expecting to have so many people and tourists. But there, it was quiet. We were able to enjoy the most famous places without being on top of each other.

On top of that, accommodation and plane ticket prices have dropped a lot compared to summer. We did well. Autumn is a lovely season on the island : everything is softer, brighter, calmer. You enjoy everything : the sea, the volcanoes, the little white villages and the sunsets without pressure. Personally, it was everything I was expecting from my holiday. If you too are looking for a destination to extend summer at more reasonable prices… you have your answer!

Right, I’ve told you everything about the best times to go to Lanzarote. You now have all the info in mind to set the dates of your trip. To go further in planning your stay, we’ve written a guide on the budget to plan for a trip to Lanzarote. That will already give you some ideas and estimates!

And if you’re planning to move around the archipelago, feel free to take a look at our article on when to go to Tenerife. It is quite different from Lanzarote with its microclimates, it will help you get to know it better!
See you soon for more planning in Lanzarote,

Written by Laura CALLES

Thanks to Mélanie and Sylvain, I had the chance to discover the Canary Islands, specifically Tenerife and Lanzarote, so that I could share these island paradises with you. Two real favorites of mine!

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