Tenerife in Winter: Why It's the Best Time to Visit
Tenerife enjoys warm, sunny winters while the rest of Europe freezes. Here's what to expect from a winter holiday in Tenerife and why it's peak season for good reason.
While northern Europe bundles up in scarves and grey skies, Tenerife basks in mild sunshine. The island's position near the Tropic of Cancer and its sheltered southern coast make it one of the best winter sun destinations in the world — and it's only a 4-hour flight from the UK.
Here's everything you need to know about visiting Tenerife in winter.
Tenerife Winter Weather
The south of Tenerife (where Costa del Silencio is located) sees very little rain and plenty of sunshine year-round. In winter:
- Average daytime temperature: 20–22°C (68–72°F)
- Sea temperature: 19–20°C — cool for swimming but manageable with a wetsuit or if you're a cold-water swimmer
- Rainfall: Very rare in the south. Most rain falls in the north of the island.
- Sunshine hours: 6–7 hours per day on average, with many clear days
You can comfortably sit outside for lunch in a t-shirt in January. Evenings can be cool (15–17°C), so bring a light jacket.
Why Winter Is Peak Season in Tenerife
Tenerife's winter appeal is no secret. The island attracts huge numbers of northern European visitors from November through March, escaping the cold. This means:
- More flights and competitive prices — especially from the UK, Germany, and Scandinavia
- Full tourism infrastructure — restaurants, bars, excursions all operating at full capacity
- Festivals and events — including the famous Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife in February, one of the biggest carnivals in the world
What to Do in Tenerife in Winter
Explore Teide National Park
Mount Teide (3,718m) is often snow-capped in winter, creating a spectacular contrast with the warm coastline below. A day trip up to the park is one of the most memorable things you can do in Tenerife — the landscape is unlike anything else in Europe.
From Costa del Silencio: About 1 hour 15 minutes by car.
Beach Days
Yes, you can go to the beach in January. The southern beaches — including Playa de Montaña Amarilla right next to Costa del Silencio — are sheltered and sunny even in the depths of winter. Bring a light wetsuit if you want to swim.
Whale and Dolphin Watching
Southern Tenerife is one of the best places in Europe to see wild cetaceans. Bottlenose and pilot whales are resident year-round. Winter boat trips from Los Cristianos and Las Galletas run regularly.
Walking and Cycling
The cooler winter temperatures make walking and cycling much more enjoyable than the summer heat. The coastal paths around Costa del Silencio and the Montaña Roja nature reserve are beautiful.
Things to Pack for a Winter Trip to Tenerife
- Light summer clothes for daytime (t-shirts, shorts)
- A light jacket or cardigan for evenings
- Sunscreen — UV levels are high even in winter
- Reef shoes for volcanic beaches
- Layers if you're planning to go up to Teide
Booking a Villa for Winter
Winter is high season in southern Tenerife, so accommodation books up fast. If you're planning a January to March trip, book as early as possible.
Villa de Marcos is available year-round and is perfect for groups or families who want space, privacy, and a private pool — even in January. The pool is heated and usable throughout the winter months.
Check availability and contact us to plan your winter escape.